I'd say the Shapeoko is actually a bit easier to use than a 3D printer (a makerspace staple)- you don't have to do any of the more complicated CNC/CAM things li

I'd say the Shapeoko is actually a bit easier to use than a 3D printer (a makerspace staple)- you don't have to do any of the more complicated CNC/CAM things like creating toolpaths or calculating feedrates if you just want to carve an SVG, the software does it all automatically. The machines are a bit more dangerous so you need to take more safety precautions, but the overall process is less fiddly than a 3D printer or more advanced CNC jobs (though the Shapeoko can also do that). I mean I get it, the Shaper is neat and I do see the appeal. I just can't help but thinking the price is too high for what you're getting considering that the alternatives are pretty good too, as well as far more capable for a lot of uses. If they had hit the $1500 mark I'd probably be considering one myself but man $2400 is pretty steep for a router with autopilot.