Hi Nerostjames,

I've only looked at a few commercial cnc routers, mainly with a view to borrowing ideas because I prefer to build my own. I don't remember seeing anything TurnKey for less than £1000, but maybe someone has.

Marchant Dice sells machines, as does RoutOut CNC.
http://www.worldofcnc.com/
http://www.routoutcnc.com/

Next step down would be to build from plans.
http://www.rockcliffmachine.com/index.php?cPath=3

If you decided to build your own, or if you what to review the spec of anything fully built, here are a few pointers for cnc machine features:

>>>'better' >>>
Rails: angle iron < unsupported round rail < supported round rail < profile rail

Bearings: skate bearings < bushes < pillow blocks < carraiges

Movement: threaded rod < trapezoidal < belt or rack&pinion or ballscrews (pros and cons of each)

Motors: steppers < servo

Construction: wood < aluminium < steel

Cutting tool: Dremel type < Router < Spindle (water or air cooled)

The words in bold might make a good system spec for what I think you want to do.

The term 'better' depends on the application and requirements, and I'm sure I'll get shot down for the order I've put these in, but at least there are a few words up there which you can start to get to grips with. The word 'better' could also be replaced with the words 'more expensive' !

In general, machines with more features to the right of these lists will be better and more accurate. One weak area can bring down the performance of the whole machine.

Hope others can chip in and give further advice, especially those who have purchased ready made systems.