Description
Turn your ideas into a reality with the LongMill Benchtop CNC
The LongMill helps you take your woodworking and fabrication to the next level. Its range of workable materials include: any species of wood, a variety of plastics, soft metals like aluminum and brass, and a variety of machinable foams and waxes for model making or metal casting. Make signs, engravings, mid-size furniture, stands and shelves, wooden toys and games, guitar bodies, and much more! (see more in our Gallery)
We offer our machine because CNC technology opens up a whole new world of making capabilities, especially to those who have a limited shop environment or budget. Our goal is to empower you by giving you access to both a machine that’s capable of a wide range of projects, and by assuring you of the assistance that you’ll receive from our team as well as our ever-growing community of machine owners: many of whom started off green to the world of CNC as well but are now happy to share what they’ve learned along the way. (see our Facebook group and Forum)
We designed the LongMill to be the best hobby CNC router in its class, offering rigidity, and reliability, while being easy to put together. With large extruded aluminum rails, fully supported Y-axes, 1/4″ steel gantries on all axes, and high precision MG-12 type linear guides on the Z-axis, the LongMill is the most powerful CNC router in its class and price point.
Every kit comes with all the…
- Hardware, rails, lead screws, and gantries
- Control box, wires, and motors
- Instructions (downloadable from our website)
Assembly only takes a few hours and can be done with a set of wrenches, allen keys, and a flat head screwdriver. There is absolutely no soldering. We’ve spent thousands of hours designing and testing the LongMill to ensure that this machine is easy to put together. If you can put together IKEA furniture, then putting together the LongMill will be a breeze.
What do you provide?
- Your own wasteboard/spoilboard (found at your local hardware store), this is the surface that you’ll be mounting your machine to. See the ‘Size’ tab above for more info.
- A router (purchase one from us, use one you already have, or find one at your local hardware store/online)*
For routers, we recommend the Makita RT0700/RT0701. It’s a reliable and super powerful router that we’ve been using on our CNC machines for years.
Here are some other compatible routers we recommend:
- Bosch Colt (some versions may have a slightly larger 72mm diameter which may not be compatible)
- Dewalt 611
The LongMill can accommodate bore sizes of 52, 65, 71, and 80mm, Don’t see your router listed? Let us know the diameter of your router so that we can make a router mount for you. If you do not send us a diameter we will ship you a mount for the Makita RT0700/RT0701 (65mm).
Please note that routers/spindles which are
- Over 2.7kg/6lbs
- Wider than 80mm/3″
May not be compatible (but we’ll try to make it work)
*Routers that we supply will be 110V only (North America). If you live in a country which uses a different voltage, please purchase a router in your region. LongMills will come with a power supply that supports both 110V and 220V.
The LongMill and it’s software works on any computer and connects using standard USB. We sell the Vectric VCarve software but it’s not for everyone. Our machine is software agnostic so that you can find what works for you. Everything you need is available for free.
Technical Details:
– Laser cut, steel gantry plates for high rigidity
– Standard profile, extruded aluminum rails on the X and Y axis and MGN12 linear guides on Z axis
– Delrin V wheels with variable eccentric nuts
– 4-start, 2mm pitch, 8mm diameter ACME lead screw for high torque and fast movement
– NEMA 23 stepper motors on all axis
– 3D printed and aluminum parts
– Mount for Makita RT0701C routers, or request a custom mount size
– 24V power supply
– Arduino board loaded with GRBL firmware
– 4A TB6600 drivers
Our machine uses open-source hardware and firmware, letting users build and modify their machines. Not only that, many of our components are standard and easy to source or 3D printable, making replacing parts easy.
Mohan (verified owner) –
This is my first CNC machine and excited to have the machine assembed and working now.
Assembly process was not complex, but had couple of hiccups. One of the threaded roads was out side of tolerance on one end and I had to use a trick to thread the flange bearings from the other side. The z-axis plates were not truly parallel, but was easily fixed. The initial purchase with Bosch colt router adapter didn’t work, as the adapter was made for the previous version. Customer support was great and quick and got a different adapter sent over.
All good now and I am able to do few test pieces and I am generally happy. I am still learning to do relief cuts as I need some more bits and probably slight more tuning. Hoping to work it out.
I got the 12×30 machine and happy with it for now. I am glad that I have option to move to next size by just changing the y rails, which should be pretty simple considering the assembly was not very complex to start with.
I would say 5 stars if there were no hiccups. Probably 4.5. Overall very happy with the purchase.
-Machine ordered May 27, 2020
MARIELENA DIAZ (verified owner) –
I am so happy with my machine, I finally put it together and did my first carve, customer service is amazing and that is very important for me because I didnt know anything about carving. thanks everybody at Sienci you are amazing. Super happy with my machine. Marielena
-Machine ordered May 26, 2020
Patric Salada (verified owner) –
After a long back and forth comparing the Longmill 30×30 with the other top contenders it came down to what I was getting for the Money. I was able to actually see a couple other manufacturers machines to actually check them out and after looking into the longmill I was able to spend Half the Money and have a far better Machine.
The longmill was fairly easy to put together and I was making my first test cuts in no time. I am very glad I went with Scienci Labs, the money I saved alone on the purchase was able to go to other projects and supplies.
I have been making a few signs and experimenting with a few other things and I am seriously hooked on this new hobby.
The Guys at Scienci labs are very helpful with any questions I have had and the community in the forum and on facebook are very good at answering questions too. I am extremely satisfied with my Longmill
-Machine ordered Dec 18, 2019
Terry Downs (verified owner) –
Overall I am very pleased and impressed with the Longmill. The instruction for assembly and set up are clear and relatively easy to follow. I have been using it for about 6 weeks and found that the Easel software pairs nicely with the Longmill. Every project I do, I have challenged myself and the machine and I have not been disappointed. I have made about 8 projects and have used everything from a 22mm bit to a 30 degree 1/8″ carving bit. Although its a 30″ x 30″ machine the ends are open and you can “tile” the work so that the length is endless. I am not only a woodworking hobbiest but also an Engineer and the Longmill is well designed and the end product is accurate, reliable and strong. I would definitely recommend Longmill to anyone looking for entry to mid CNC wood carving / milling machine. The price point is exceptional especially to someone from the US who would have a 30% exchange rate to their advantage. Good job guys.
-Machine ordered Dec 12, 2019
Jay Lanzilotta (verified owner) –
Machine is very user friendly and build very strong and ridgid.
-Machine ordered Apr 22, 2020
Tristan Fodor (verified owner) –
I have worked with cnc machines for many years now. And i wanted to get one at home and start some fun projects for myself. I was looking online and from where i stood financially and from my knowledge. I found the longmill to be the best in a class of desktop machines that are mainly belt driven. The machine having the lead screw driven axis was a big selling feature. Now putting the machine together that took me about good 15 hours with my 5 year old helping me out team work makes the dream work. Assembly was pretty straight forward. And instructions are better then IKEA furniture so anyone should be fine. Customer service was during the build was good i did have a few missing and broken parts with my longmill. That sienci quickly and kindly sent me without question which is great no hassle just took responsibility and sent me the damaged or missing pieces. Today i have had my machine for quite some time and have made a few signs some boxes. Cool 3d models. The machine has not given me any issues so far since getting up and running. All and all this machine will do pretty much anything its tasked too.
-Machine ordered Nov 28, 2019
Randy Rosewell –
We love our new CNC. Has made our business run much more efficiently. Sienci team very helpful with any questions.
-Machine ordered Oct 1, 2019
Brad M. –
I’ve been fascinated with cnc machining for a long while now and have been looking for an entry level CnC for an even longer time, but everything I looked at was either tiny or way out of my price range. I happened onto the Sienci Kickstarter page about a week after it had closed and was intrigued. The fact that it was a new Canadian company was a big plus in my books as I knew that the quality of the materials would be top notch along with the workmanship.
I hummed and ha-ed for a few weeks, then decided to go for it. My Longmill arrived 3 days before Christmas 2019 and was assembled and working a couple of days later. The instructions were brilliant, easy to follow and I had no trouble putting it together. The best thing was it did everything that it was claimed to be able to do.
I’ve had a couple of problems but after contacting Andy or Chris or Ikenna with a quick email everything has been sorted out and I’ve been able to get on with production. Customer Service of the highest order, I wish all my dealings with suppliers were as pleasant and professional as those I’ve had with Sienci Labs.
The open source resources and the Sienci forums are an added bonus that can’t be denied. Posting questions and getting usable advice and techniques and problem solving suggestions, I find invaluable. Another example of the attention to details that these guys bring to the table.
The only limit I have found with my Longmill is my own imagination, I build bespoke furniture from locally sourced Irish hardwoods. I process, dry and utilise as much of the tree as possible. I’m really enjoying determining new ways to use my Longmill to that end.
I would highly recommend the Sienci Longmill to anyone that requires a well built and affordable cnc for their workshop.
-Machine ordered May 20, 2019
Joseph S. (verified owner) –
Great price. Quick delivery. Awesome packing. Took my time with setup. Followed online PDF file. No major issues. Started right up.
-Machine ordered Apr 24, 2020
Lawrence Linton –
I have had great success with my Longmill. Although there was a learning curve as a new user I am still learning the limits, if not of the Longmill, the ability of the tools.
I will admit that I had used the touch plate successfully for dozens of project, but for some reason I have been unable to get it to function properly for about 2 months now and just use the work piece to centre off my bit. I’ve checked connections and settings to no avail. A little disappointing as it is a very useful add on.
-Machine ordered Sep 29, 2019
Reilly –
Prior to owning this CNC, I had never used any type of CNC machine in my life. Heck, I’d never used a router.
Machine assembly was straight forward, a couple things fit pretty tight (but that’s for the required rigidity for accuracy). But time and care and with a few questions asked, it all went together without too much hassle, considering I’m totally new at this type of machine.
Customer service has been great, I just fire off a Facebook message and usually get a reply within a day or less.
It’s honestly quite amazing what you can do with the machine. Having no knowledge whatsoever, within a couple weeks I’ve been making address signs, name puzzles, motorcycle signs, phone cradles, etc. If you’re worried about the price, this might be the first machine I’ve ever bought saying “I’ll make my money back” that I will actually make my money back. Couple of Facebook posts and $500 is back in your pocket. It’s like you get paid to learn, it’s really fantastic. The only issues I have are normal learning curve things like feed rates and wood types that are the same for all CNC machines. I would make this purchase again in a heartbeat. Plus, sitting back and watching a robot do your bidding is a feeling that will never cease to amaze me!
-Machine ordered Aug 23, 2019
Anonymous (verified owner) –
Not sure how it works yet as 1 of the parts was incorrect when I finally received the kit. They were prompt to get back to me and send the (hopefully) correct part but of course now have to wait another week for the part to be delivered to finish setting it up to give it a try. Will be close to 3 weeks from time of order to finall being able to get it all assembled.
Andreas Loeber –
– value: 5 out of 5: Excellent value for money without par in that sector
– setup: 4 out of 5: could have been a bit quicker, but documentation was very well done and steps were fairly obvious. only 2 concerns: 1. couplers required forces for the screws in excess of what I felt comfortable with and 2. cable for Z axis too short on v1.
– software 5 out of 5 : all major software products supported
– support 4,5 out of 5: excellent support – 1 or 2 individuals on facebook overdo their evangelisms and enthusiasm for the product a bit.
-Machine ordered May 16, 2019
Miguel Acevedo –
I had no experience with a CNC, or the software that could be used before the purchase of this machine. I am very satisfied with the 30×30 Longmill. The quality of the materials, the size, sturdiness and simplicity of design is a plus and surprised me for a machine in this price range. The assembly was straight forward thanks to the very well presented instructions by the Siensi Labs Andy and Chris. I Had no problem at all in the assembly. A lot of other pertinent peripheral information is available covering a range of subjects. Andy, Chris and customer service have been always available to help and or guide promptly. I acquired this machine as an addition to my stringed instrument making tools. The software has been for me a slow learning curve. At this time I write this I have been able to cut some bridges for classic guitars, the Puerto rican cuatro, and multi scale stringed instruments. The precision has been very,very good. I have other projects in the pipe line. I thank these two gentilman for there creativity and the service provided by them.
-Machine ordered Sep 27, 2019
Michael Ray –
The crew at Sienci Labs are great. I am new to the CNC Hobby world however with their support and resources it makes the learning curve fairly low. The community that has been fostered around the Sienci Labs products is also a huge bonus. If you have a question just ask because someone knows the answer. It has been a great experience and I am very happy that I went with Sienci Labs. Thanks Chris and the crew at Sienci Labs.
Michael Ray
-Machine ordered Sep 24, 2019
Kevin Waddell (verified owner) –
I am more than impressed and very grateful. In January I lost my job to downsizing. Before I could start a new position with a new company, Covid-19 hit and postponed that indefinitely. In the time off a couple hand carved creations lead to numerous orders for various signs. With no way to accomplish this all by hand, I began to research CNC options and my research lead to our Canadian made Sienci Labs. Since it’s arrival in late April, my Longmill 30 has rarely had a break. It’s robust and sturdy and aside from regular tightening maintenance, I’ve had zero issues. Thank you for creating such an affordable machine that can do so much. It gave me an income and the beginning of my own small business. For this, I’m grateful and cannot thank you enough.
-Machine ordered Apr 26, 2020
Troy M. (verified owner) –
The unit is very solid and sturdy. I took 2 days to put it together, couple hours here and there. I wanted to make sure I had everything 100% correct. I have no experience with a CNC as of yet but found the tutorial videos on the website and the information in the community forums very helpful. Customer service is awesome, I get answers within the day when I have any issues. Now I just need to learn the programs, So far have only done simple sample signs. The first few are firewood as I was having trouble with multiple bit changes. Turns out I was doing it wrong, Nothing wrong with the unit. Very glad I spent the money on a quality unit. Soon I will be making signs, 3D items and other cool goodies. Might even make some money.
Thanks everyone at Sienci.
-Machine ordered Nov 22, 2019
Alan McKeown –
Lots of great help when required. Robust machine, easy to assemble from printed instructions. Customer service is fantastic. making signs mostly at the moment.
-Machine ordered Sep 16, 2019
Daniel Piperato (verified owner) –
Wasn’t able to build my machine due to the fact that I did not receive all of the proper hardware to build it. Very disappointing considering the cost and what should be a simple packaging and shipping process on their part. Would like to update when I receive the proper parts and am able to run the machine.
Christopher S. –
Easy to assemble with good written instructions and a video guide available. Chris and Andy provide excellent support after the sale. Unbeatable price. Only negative I can find is that there are no written instructions included with the machine. They must be found online.
-Machine ordered Jun 5, 2019
Tim Bauman –
You really can’t beat the value for this machine. It is a fantastic entry level machine and gets you into the world of cnc. We have used it for general hobby work and have even utilized it for small scale production. You really can’t go wrong. We may upgrade to a larger machine in the future but we still see the long mill having a place in our shop.
-Machine ordered Aug 18, 2019
siencilabs (store manager) –
Shawn, thanks for the feedback. We sell the LongMill as a hobbyist machine, so we hope that we weren’t setting your expectations on it being more than that. I wouldn’t recommend the LongMill for dedicated metal cutting, or as a dedicated production machine simply because it was designed to be a reasonably capable machine at a good price-point so that Woodworkers and other home shop owners could get started with CNC without breaking the bank. For example, though the feet are 3D printed we’ve been printing these parts in-house for more than 4 years now, tuning our part output so they are as strong as can be. It also helps that our design has a total of 8 feet to fully support the rails. That said, there are little things that we’re still working to improve so I appreciate your critical comments.
Shawn Green (verified owner) –
Mostly Well designed and built, but very clearly from a hobbyist perspective. I cant stand plastic so am replacing all the feet with proper aluminum. 3D printing is not a robust manufacturing process . I’ve also added front and back rails in an attempt to increase rigidity. I feel like the machine is 85% ready to work out of the box.
Basically, it needs to be more rigid. I have mounted mine to a 1/2 aluminum plate. but the design of the feet is so poor and makes use of a “toe-nailed” screw its impossible to mount it properly to anything. Hence i spent last night milling aluminum feet.
little things that bother me to no end are the horribly inadequate length of the motor wiring. it traps the control box in a stupid place and there is just no reason to save money on that.
the horrible cable trays all broke on installation, again, why cheap out?
The wheels are not long for this world, but I will run them to failure out of curiosity.
The whole dust shoe is a joke and feels like an after thought. its horrible to adjust and doesn’t really sit nice no matter what.
the lead screws need support, as someone used to machining i cant stand watching them bounce around.
I fully understand trying to keep the price point down, but there are better ways to save money.
Anyway, Glad i bought it, but have defiently spent more time redesigning than i have making actual use of the machine.
-Machine ordered Jan 16, 2020
Travis B. (verified owner) –
Its been great! Software alot if learning but has nothing to do with the machine. Tried vertical operation a few slips on the one side but im assuming just needs some adjustment! All in all been great and have had no issues with the machine! And to boot been very busy making things for people non stop! Woukd highly recommened to a new buywr as the pruce is very affordable compared to others.
-Machine ordered Mar 3, 2020