Lunyee 3018 Pro Ultra CNC Machine Review: A Rigid Desktop CNC That Pushes Past Typical 3018 Limits

Written by Evan Whitmore

I’ll be upfront—before spending time with the Lunyee 3018 Pro Ultra CNC machine, I had almost stopped reviewing 3018 CNC routers altogether. Most desktop CNC machines in this category feel nearly identical, offering only cosmetic changes and the same familiar limitations.

On paper, the 3018 Pro Ultra looked different enough to reconsider. After spending several days actually using the machine, that initial impression turned out to be accurate.

Even though it falls into the 3018 size class in terms of working area, the way it’s built and powered puts it a step above what most people expect from an entry-level desktop CNC.

 

 

Desktop CNC Overview and Assembly Experience

At first glance, the gold-colored aluminum frame immediately stands out, but the real differences become clear once you look beyond appearance. This desktop CNC machine prioritizes rigidity, pre-assembly, and practical usability rather than cutting corners on materials.

Unlike many hobby CNC routers that arrive as a box of loose components, the 3018 Pro Ultra ships largely pre-assembled. The X-axis and Z-axis gantry arrive pre-installed as a single unit, leaving only final mounting to the Y-axis base and installation of the limit switches.

From unboxing to first power-on, the entire setup process took roughly 20 minutes. Even users with limited assembly experience should find the process straightforward and stress-free.

 

 

Build Quality and Frame Design of the Lunyee 3018 Pro Ultra

The frame is constructed entirely from aluminum, using thick plates and solid extrusion profiles. The structure combines 40×40 mm and 40×20 mm aluminum sections with linear guide rails across all axes.  

In actual use, especially during longer engraving runs, the axes move smoothly and stay well controlled, with no obvious flex or chatter. For a 3018-class desktop CNC, the rigidity stands out more than I expected.

The worktable consists of a single flat aluminum plate. I checked it with a straightedge in multiple directions and found no visible gaps. Reference markings and threaded holes make positioning and clamping workpieces straightforward, which is essential for repeatable CNC engraving and cutting tasks.

Compared to most budget 3018 CNC machines I’ve tested, this machine requires far less mechanical adjustment before producing usable results.

 

 

500W Spindle Performance and Motion System

The spindle motor is rated at 500W and uses an R11 collet system. Out of the box, it supports standard 1/8-inch (3.18 mm) tools, which I used throughout testing. Larger collets may be supported in theory, but I did not test alternative sizes.

Axis motion is driven by NEMA 17 stepper motors, all pre-installed and properly aligned from the factory. One particularly practical feature is the inclusion of manual handwheels on each axis. These make tool setup, zeroing, and work positioning significantly easier compared to relying entirely on software or an offline controller.

Cooling, wiring, and cable routing are handled cleanly. All cables are labeled, connectors are color-coded, and nylon sleeves keep everything organized. This attention to detail reduces setup errors and long-term maintenance issues.

 

 

Offline Controller and GRBL-Based Control System

The included offline controller allows full machine operation without a connected computer. Axis movement, step size selection, file access, and spindle control are all handled directly from the controller.

 

During operation, the machine runs quietly with minimal vibration compared to many desktop CNC routers in this category.

One important detail to note is that when the offline controller is connected, PC-based control is disabled. To operate the machine via CNC software on a computer, the controller must be disconnected.

The control board is GRBL-based, making the machine compatible with common CNC software and optional accessories such as a laser module (sold separately).

 

 

Limit Switches and Safety Features on This Desktop CNC Router

The machine includes six limit switches—two per axis. This is a meaningful upgrade over many entry-level CNC routers and helps prevent axes from crashing into hard stops during homing or manual movement.

An emergency stop button is also included. Pressing it immediately halts all motion, and a simple twist resets the system. Installation was straightforward, and all fasteners arrived properly tightened from the factory.

For users familiar with budget CNC machines, these safety features significantly improve reliability and peace of mind.

 

 

CNC Engraving Results on Wood and Acrylic

I began testing with wood engraving using a sample design. On soft wood, engraving results were clean and consistent. Minor chipping appeared in a few areas, but this was due to the material rather than any instability from the machine itself.

 

I also engraved acrylic after removing the protective film and correcting for mirrored output. The results were sharp and well-defined, with clean edges and consistent depth. For signage, decorative panels, and backlit acrylic projects, this desktop CNC machine performs very well.

 

 

Aluminum Engraving and Cutting Capability on a 3018 CNC

One of the most common questions surrounding any 3018 CNC machine is whether it can handle aluminum. Based on my testing, it can handle aluminum—as long as you approach it with realistic expectations for a machine this size.

I engraved aluminum plates using a V-bit and achieved clean lines with consistent depth. More impressively, I was also able to cut aluminum successfully. Wood cutting tests showed smooth edges and stable motion, even during deeper passes.

 

For a compact desktop CNC router, these results exceeded what I typically expect from a standard 3018 CNC platform.

 

 

Who the 3018 Pro Ultra Is Best For

This desktop CNC machine is well suited for makers, hobbyists, and small workshops that need a compact CNC router capable of engraving and cutting wood, acrylic, and aluminum without constant tuning or mechanical compromises.

It will not replace a full-size industrial CNC, but within the desktop category, it offers a level of rigidity and predictability that many entry-level CNC machines lack.

 

 

Final Verdict: Is the 3018 Pro Ultra Worth Buying?

From hands-on use, the Lunyee 3018 Pro Ultra feels noticeably different from most other machines in the 3018 category. It delivers stronger rigidity, easier assembly, and more serious material capability than what people typically associate with a hobby CNC router.

If you are limited on space but want a desktop CNC machine that feels solid, predictable, and genuinely capable of handling real engraving and cutting work—including aluminum—this is absolutely one worth considering.