What is SmartBench, and what does it do?

We’ll give you a quick introduction to what SmartBench is, and some examples of what people have already made.

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What is SmartBench?

SmartBench is a large format CNC multitool. You can automatically process 2D and 3D designs, which SmartBench will mill, cut or draw on sheet materials (both small and large). 

Completely unique in the world of CNC, SmartBench is portable and storable, with a 3 minute assembly time. Industrial-grade 3-axis CNC control means that SmartBench can produce everything from simple profiles to complex 3D geometries.

SmartBench makes CNC technology accessible: we have designed it to be the most affordable, easy to learn, and space efficient CNC solution on the market.

What can SmartBench do?

Can SmartBench cut full size sheets? 

SmartBench is a full size CNC machine that can process 2.5m x 1.25m sheets (8x4 sheets).  

 It can hold materials as thick as 152mm/ 6 inches, and has Z axis travel of 152mm/ 6 inches.

It’s worth saying that SmartBench doesn’t have to cut full size sheets only - it can process small stock just as easily!

How accurate is SmartBench? 

We target a finished part accuracy of ±0.5mm or better.

What materials can SmartBench process? 

SmartBench is optimised to process woods and plastics; however, we have customers process a wide range of materials including some aluminiums.

Can it do anything else?

Yes! With the CNC stylus, SmartBench can also become a drawing tool and vinyl cutter.

We’re always working on new features that we can bring to SmartBench, so watch this space...

Whoa, so it can do a lot then?

Yep! Why not check out what some of our customers have already been making with SmartBench: 

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How does the price compare to other CNCs?

This article will give you a quick overview of SmartBench’s value compared to other CNC machines.

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Fundamental to making it accessible is making it affordable, so we offer our machines around the £5,000 price-point.

Our patented design and innovative mechanics allow us to manufacture SmartBench more cheaply, and as a result we are able to offer unbeatable value.

One of our users even analysed the market in terms of cost per unit of cutting area. SmartBench came out on top, by a long way:

If you’d like to learn more about this analysis, click here to read more of Stan Durlacher’s review.

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What makes SmartBench special?

SmartBench is fundamentally designed to be accessible: portable, lightweight, space-saving, with an intuitive touchscreen interface.

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SmartBench is the only CNC machine of its kind.

It’s simple to store. The whole machine packs down into a footprint of 2.7m x 0.5m x 0.5m, so it is perfect for situations where space is valuable.

And it can pack down to be transported in a van.

With its small sub assemblies and the use of light aluminium, it makes carrying the components a one person job. The weights of each item can be found below:

3 minute assembly

SmartBench is fast to deploy with a 3 minute assembly time. This means you can start cutting within a matter of minutes.

Minimal footprint

With very little dead space, SmartBench is small enough to operate in a single-space garage. 

SmartBench’s operational footprint is 2.8m x 1.7m x 1.4m 

Easy to learn, easy to use

We have done our best to flatten the steep learning curve of CNC machining. SmartBench’s intuitive touchscreen interface is packed with features such as Wi-Fi file transfer and job checking. 

The Shape Cutter tutorial app will even walk you through carrying out a job from start to finish - no computer, CAD or CAM required. 

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How do the SmartBench mechanics work?

SmartBench is different to traditional CNC machines due to its innovative mechanical design.

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Material clamping technology 

SmartBench is designed differently from other CNC machines to incorporate what we call “material clamping technology”. 

Our patented design works by clamping the material between the upper and lower beam; this intrinsic clamping force gives SmartBench the rigidity it needs to withstand forces generated by routing (without needing to be big or bulky). 

F: Clamping force

This technology is what makes SmartBench deployable, affordable and incredibly space efficient.

We have a video which explains this a little more here: 

Mechanical structure

SmartBench has industrial-grade 3-axis CNC control.

We manufacture SmartBench using an aluminium tooling plate and custom extrusions for the best combination of weight and rigidity. 

The X and Y axis move using a cammed wheel system, along with an industrial standard rack and pinion drive.

The motion along the Z axis is driven using a screw drive. 

The Standard and Precision models use a single lead screw, and the PrecisionPro uses two for extra rigidity in the Z axis. 

Reduced leverage of the tool

SmartBench does not use the conventional overhead gantry approach to support the spindle, unlike other CNC machines.

Traditional CNC

Traditional CNC machines have a longer distance between the spindle mounting and the tool, meaning they have to be more rigid to resist the extra leverage of the longer tool. 

SmartBench

SmartBench holds the tool much closer to the work surface; this means that the leverage between the tool and the Z axis bearings is greatly reduced, and SmartBench’s application of force is far more efficient. 

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What spindle does SmartBench use?

This article will give you an overview of spindles that are compatible with SmartBench, and their features.

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SC series

The Yeti Tool SC spindle series is our first OEM spindle collection. The SC series is manufactured especially for SmartBench by Mafell AG, a high-end woodworking tool specialist. 

SC0

The SC0 is our entry level model, perfect for the user on a budget. It has manual speed control; and a standard OZ collet, which is an industry standard and commonly used for woodworking.

SC1

The SC1 has an ER16 collet system for easy tool changing, much improved clamping force, and better concentricity.

Most notably, the SC1 has integrated digital control. This unlocks some of SmartBench’s “smartest” capabilities:

• Spindle speeds can be adjusted throughout the job; either using commands in the job file, or with console controls.  

• The spindle overload feature monitors speed, temperature, and current in real time. If SmartBench determines that the motor is under too much load, it will auto-pause and save your job (Precision and PrecisionPro SmartBench models only).

Compare models

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Which SmartBench model is right for me?

This article will show you the differences between each of the SmartBench models, so that you can choose the features that are right for you.

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We offer 3 SmartBench models: Standard, Precision, and PrecisionPro. 

Standard

Our Standard model is made for those on a budget. The SC0 spindle has manual speed control and an OZ collet system. 

Precision

SmartBench Precision is our mid-range model, with digital spindle control and an ER16 collet system.

Digital spindle speed control

Adjust feeds and speeds throughout the job, using commands in the job file or console controls.

Overload detection

SmartBench will automatically detect whether the spindle is working too hard, and will auto-pause the job to prevent overload. 

PrecisionPro

This is our top-of-the-line, and most popular, SmartBench model. 

The PrecisionPro is still excellent value for money, with extra features that give it the edge when it comes to precision and ease of use.

Laser datum 

PrecisionPro comes equipped with a laser on the front of the Z Head for XY datum setting. 

it’s easy to see exactly where the centre of the laser crosshair sits over your target, making datum setting much faster - perfect for quick turnarounds.

Dual Z axis lead screws

The dual lead screws give more restraint to the Z axis, reducing deflection during plunges and retracts.

Realtime on-screen spindle monitoring

You will be able to see the load on the spindle in real time, in increments of 20%. This gives you an early indication if you need to adjust the feeds and speeds during the job. 

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How accurate is SmartBench?

SmartBench can produce accurate, high quality parts.

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Finished part accuracy: +/- 0.5mm, or better

Most CNC manufacturers will tell you how accurate their machine is, but not how this translates to the tolerance on a finished part.

We like to be honest, and we know that finished part accuracy is the thing that you care about most - especially if you want to manufacture complex joints. 

Or better?

Better part accuracy is readily achievable, but depends on many factors outside of our control.

These factors include:

• CAM strategy;

• condition of tooling;

• regular machine maintenance and calibration. 

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Can SmartBench handle my workload?

Despite its small stature and affordability, SmartBench doesn’t compromise on performance. Read on to learn how SmartBench is perfect for production environments.

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Feeds and speeds

SmartBench needs to be treated slightly differently to other CNC machines, and there are many different factors that can affect the feeds and speeds you should use. 

Click here to open our conservative guide about feeds and speeds, which should be taken as a starting point. 

An example of feed rates

For an idea of feed rates, consider this scenario: 

Quality and reliability

Each SmartBench is assembled, calibrated, put through a thorough multi-point QC procedure, and then a 6 hour test before leaving the factory.

We have two SmartBenches that are a critical part of our own SmartBench production line. They work 5 days a week, 9 hours a day. 

Check out this video to learn more: 

Continuous monitoring

SmartBench’s continuous self-monitoring helps you to keep track of and optimize its performance; key to minimising downtime!

Self-monitoring features include: 

• automatic reminders to help you to carry out important maintenance tasks at regular intervals;

• (Precision and PrecisionPro models) spindle overload protection, which auto-pauses the job whenever SmartBench detects that the stress on the spindle is too high. 

Tools to assist the operator

We know that turnaround time is important, so SmartBench is packed full of features to help the operator:

• Preventative maintenance reminders

• Job file checker

• Laser datuming

• Placement map & bounds checker

• Z axis probe plate

• Calibration wizard

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How do I operate SmartBench?

This article will show you how carrying out a job with SmartBench is easy; you don’t even have to touch a computer!

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SmartBench has a 7 inch full colour touchscreen display with intuitive controls and workflows. 

Workflow: Console apps

Shape Cutter

Shape Cutter is a start-to-finish tutorial app that allows you to create simple designs on SmartBench itself.

It will walk you through: 

• designing circles, rectangles and squares;

• entering your tool parameters;

• creating your cutting strategy;

• and starting your job - without the need of any computing!

Workflow: CAD/CAM to SmartBench

If you want to process more complex geometries, you’ll need to make your designs on a computer and then transfer the job files to SmartBench.

Design your part with CAD/CAM

Parts are designed and processed on the computer, using CAD/CAM software. Post-processing converts the design into job files for SmartBench.

Send your job to SmartBench

The files are transferred to SmartBench via Wi-Fi or USB. Our computer app, SmartTransfer, makes it incredibly easy to drag and drop files straight on to the SmartBench Console. 

Load files on SmartBench

Select, load, and check files on the SmartBench Console. 

Position and start the job

Choose your datums, and let SmartBench take care of the rest!

Which CAD/CAM software can I use?

SmartBench is compatible with 99% of CAM software packages. As long as you can post-process your file with a GRBL processor, then it will work.

We recommend two CAD/CAM packages, which cater for different applications:

2.5D design

If you are drawing lines and curves, or simply want to import images then we would recommend you look at Vectric VCarve Pro which is £540 Ex Vat (one off payment). 

Vectric specialises in the application of CNC machining to sheet material. It is very popular in the woodworking community for applications such as doors, panels and nested sheets.

Click here to get VCarve Pro.

3D design

3D Design is useful for more detailed engineered work, where fittings and parts with complex features are required. 

If this is right for you, then we would recommend Autodesk Fusion 360 which is free for personal use for one year. After that, it's approximately £450 a year.

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What does job setup involve?

With SmartBench, setting up your job is easy; this is a quick overview of how you can set up your workholding and datums in a way that works for you.

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Workholding

SmartBench is a flexible platform which allows you to adapt your workholding, depending on your application and your materials. 

Spoilboards

A sacrificial sheet called a spoilboard is commonly positioned underneath the stock. This allows the cutter to safely break through the bottom surface of the stock.

Clamps

You can use speed clamps or F clamps to securely hold your sheet material in place. These can be placed at either end of the Y bench.

Woodscrews

It is possible to fix material directly to the clamp panels (A) of the Y bench or to a spoilboard under the stock material using woodscrews. Make sure that they are:

• positioned away from the cutting toolpaths to prevent damages to the tool, or

• in case of spoilboard - driven at least 1mm below the top surface of the material, so as not to disturb flatness

A: Clamp panels

Dogs

Dogs, which are normally made from stainless steel, act as a stop for you to butt your material up against. These can be used as a fast way to fix a wide range of stock sizes in place.

Tape

SmartBench can also process smaller stock. This can be fixed down using double sided tape for low to medium strength holding. 

Jigs

Jigs are ideal for the kind of repetitive work that you need in a small production environment, ensuring that stock can be referenced to SmartBench quickly. 

And of course, you can make your own jigs for SmartBench, using SmartBench!

Vac table

Some of our customers are even creating their own vacuum tables for SmartBench:

Image credit - Steven J Michels.

Datuming

It is easy to position your job on SmartBench with our easy-to-use interface and datum tools.

XY datum

The XY datum can be positioned and set using the tool on all SmartBench models, and with a laser crosshair on SmartBench PrecisionPro.

Z datum

All models come with a Z probe plate to auto-detect tool position on the job surface for fast setup.

Boundary checking

SmartBench will automatically check job boundaries prior to starting the job, to ensure it is positioned within SmartBench’s limits. 

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What else do I need to use SmartBench?

This article will give you a quick overview of what you need for the SmartBench work system. In the following articles we’ll go over each of these things in more detail.

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Spoilboard 

You will need an MDF or plywood spoilboard. It needs to be rigid and flat so that SmartBench can clamp it, and run across it easily. 

We recommend using a 6mm - 9mm melamine-faced MDF board. 

Extraction 

You will need an extraction system, which you should choose with your specific application in mind. 

Click here to see our extractors in a new window. 

Cutters

You will need good cutters and collets, and lots of them!

Click here to see our range of cutters in a new window.

CAD/CAM software

You will need a CAD/CAM software package, such as Vectric VCarve Pro or Autodesk Fusion 360.

Click here to see our software packages in a new window. 

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What can I use as a spoilboard?

If you are wondering what material you can use for a spoilboard, read this article.

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A good spoilboard is rigid and flat. Many different materials can be used as spoilboards; MDF and plywood are particularly popular choices.

We recommend using a 6mm (1/4’’) or 9mm (3/8’’) double-melamine-faced MDF board.

The most important thing is that SmartBench can move easily across the spoilboard, and clamp it together with the stock. 

Where can I get a spoilboard?

We recommend sourcing spoilboard materials from your local timber merchant.

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What are the extraction requirements?

SmartBench requires good, efficient chip and dust extraction to ensure your job completes without any interruption from waste.

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Minimum flow rate

You will need a MINIMUM flow rate of 70 l/sec.

Power specifications

If the extractor meets the power specifications of SmartBench then the extractor can be automatically started and stopped from the console.

Extractors with higher power requirements will need to be powered externally. 

Click here if you are using SmartBench v1.2 to learn more about extractor power configuration. 

Click here if you are using SmartBench v1.3 to learn more about extractor power configuration. 

Where can I get an extractor? 

Click here to see our standard extraction system, available on our website. 

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What are the cutter requirements?

This article gives you an idea of what you will need to think about when choosing cutters for your SmartBench.

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Cutters are one of the most important factors when using SmartBench; after all, it’s the cutter that sees the most action!

Cutters come in a wide range of sizes and types for different applications. 

Unfortunately, there isn't one cutter to rule them all, so if you are making the most out of SmartBench then you will need to consider having a range of cutters.

Keep your cutters sharp!

Cutters do not last forever, and a blunt cutter can lead to job failure. It’s important to inspect and replace your cutters regularly. 

Where can I get cutters from? 

We stock a wide range of cutters on our website. 

Click here to see our cutter range in a new window.

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What are the site power requirements for SmartBench?

Read this if you are wondering what the site requirements are for SmartBench.

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SmartBench operates using a single phase 230v or 120v power supply. 

It is important that your power supply is earthed.

We will ship SmartBench with the correct cables for your region.

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What do I need to know about operational safety?

It is critical that you understand how to use SmartBench safely.

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Certification

SmartBench is fully CE certified. Click here to see our certificate.

Safety features

SmartBench has a number of built-in safety features. These include:

• Internal fusing

• Emergency stop switch

• Spindle overload monitoring with auto-pause 

• Stop bars

• Guarding around pinch points and the cutter

Never leave SmartBench unattended

When SmartBench is in operation you should not leave it unattended, just in case something unexpected happens. 

Ensure that you can always:

See it

Have a clear line of sight to the machine.

Hear it

If you cannot see the machine, ensure you can hear it.

Stop it

If something goes wrong, can you quickly stop the machine?

Downloadable Safety Poster

You can save and print out the following image for your jobsite: 

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What maintenance is required?

As with any CNC machine, SmartBench requires regular maintenance.

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SmartBench is designed to be maintained by the operator, and has built-in automatic reminders to help you out. The level of maintenance required is fairly low, but necessary. 

Our manuals, online CNC Academy, and even the Console apps will show you how to carry out all of these maintenance tasks yourself. 

Interval maintenance tasks

Reminders

The SmartBench Console has automatic built-in reminders for calibration, brush replacement, and Z axis lubrication. This will ensure your SmartBench performs as it should, giving you maximum uptime.

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Will any parts wear out over time?

SmartBench has few ongoing costs, but you should be aware that some parts will unavoidably wear out with use.

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Wheels 

Over time, the wheels (which are part of each axis) may need replacing. 

If you need to replace the wheels, contact us at sales@yetitool.com, or click here.

Spindle brushes

Brushes typically last between 120-500 hours, depending on the brushes you are using and your application. 

Click here to find replacement brushes on our website.

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How do I learn how to use SmartBench?

If you are new to SmartBench or even the world of CNC, we’re here to help.

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We know that a lot of people who buy SmartBench are new to CNC.

That’s why we have created the YetiTool CNC Academy, a free online resource to help you get the most out of your SmartBench.

The academy consists of:

• Step-by-step video tutorials to get you started

• Projects to help you gain experience

• Masterclasses to further your knowledge

You’ll be up and running in no time. 

Click here to visit the CNC Academy.

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What else can SmartBench do?

We’ll show you how SmartBench can be more than just a routing tool.

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SmartBench is compatible with our Multitool accessory, CNC Stylus. 

CNC Stylus lets you turn SmartBench into a drawing and plotting tool, or a vinyl cutter. It will hold a wide range of different pens and vinyl cutting blades. 

This gives you the ability to expand your offering to your customers.

Click here to open the CNC Stylus range in a new window.

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Case studies and customer projects

Loads of people are already using SmartBench to create amazing things, and we would love to share them with you.

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Click here to see some of our customer case studies on our website. 

Keep an eye out for customer site visits. We like to keep in touch with our customers, and create videos showing how SmartBench has transformed their business - and how it might transform yours too!

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Distribution partners and shipping information

SmartBench is available across the globe.

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As we use global distribution partners, you may be able to purchase locally which can save on shipping costs. For the areas we do not cover, you can calculate shipping on our website before checkout. 

Click here to find your nearest distributor.

How is SmartBench shipped?

We ship SmartBench through the parcel service, so you can expect 3 boxes which are carefully packed along with a large wooden crate (this contains your Y bench).

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Customer support

You will always have access to customer support, either from us or from your local distributor.

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If you purchase SmartBench from one of our partners, they will be able to offer you full technical support. 

We also offer first class customer support from our UK office, which you can access by submitting a support ticket. 

We respond to all issues within 24 hours and are happy to speak to you on the phone or via video call.

Support is always available, even if your machine is out of warranty.

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Warranty information

SmartBench comes with a 12 month warranty.

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SmartBench has a 12 month warranty which covers all items except for consumables (wheels and brushes).

If we find a fault with a sub assembly, we will ship the replacement item within two working days*.

*Stock dependant 

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Free, regular, unlimited software updates

SmartBench will keep getting smarter with regular Console updates.

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SmartBench comes with free, regular, and unlimited software updates. Even after you have purchased SmartBench, you will always have access to new features and improvements. 

The SmartBench Console is easy to update through Wi-Fi, or USB, and will auto-alert when a new update is available.

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What do our customers say?

If you are still not sure if SmartBench is right for you, take a look at what other people are saying.

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Yeti Tool Talk Group

We have the Yeti Tool Talk Group on Facebook, with over 600 active members.

See first-hand how we have helped people transform the way they work and provide the missing link to their business.

Members frequently share their own projects and how-tos as well - it’s a fantastic community to be a part of. 

Click here to join the Yeti Tool Talk Group.

Customer quotes

We have over 800 SmartBench users, and this is just some of their feedback: 

Nick Vasko

"I love my Yeti SmartBench and wouldn't trade it for anything. It is the primary reason I have been able to make a career change in the past year. It easily sets me apart from other designers/remodelers who need to rely on other expensive subcontractors who charge a high premium for customer work. Now I am able to do nearly anything a customer can think of for little cost and with a quick turnaround."

Wood by JAH

"SmartBench has improved all aspects of my joinery and projects, and to be frank allowed me to create things that I don't have the raw talent to create by hand. It is fast, accurate and super easy to use. Having never used CNC previously, the software was the biggest learning curve but once mastered, your own creativeness is the limit. SmartBench is my go-to machine and the hub of my workshop; I don't know what I'd do without it."

Coolsign Media

"It's so fantastic to do such things with your 'little' Smartbench and when you see the result - there is no difference to a much more expensive machine."

Jaimy

"I love the fact it can handle full sheets and is really accurate and easy to store (I keep mine stored at the ceiling of my garage). The controls are simple and easy to use, a lot easier than some of the other machines where you need an engineering degree to get them even moving."

And there’s more…

Click here to read more customer quotes and see their fantastic projects on our news page. 

Review: Tool Box Buzz

Stan Durlacher took the time to write an incredibly in depth review of SmartBench for Tool Box Buzz. This review has not been endorsed by Yeti Tool, and is a completely honest assessment of SmartBench.

Stan’s article focuses on everything from unboxing and setup to using SmartBench to create projects. It even has a great breakdown of how SmartBench is mechanically different from traditional CNC machines. 

Here are Stan's closing comments; 

“I close this review by restating that the YetiTools SmartBench is a Seed Change in the CNC marketplace.

SmartBench is designed and manufactured by an exceptionally talented, innovative, dedicated, and responsive set of personnel in the UK. In addition, the SmartBench is distributed by a uniquely responsive and caring company that sells and services a series of the highest quality and innovative tools in the US – Timberwolf Tools.

I look forward to seeing SmartBench’s progress in the marketplace, and I give Yeti Tool the highest marks for creating a revolutionary machine. It has been a pure pleasure to use and review the YetiTools SmartBench.”

Click here to read Stan’s review in full.

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Talk to us!

If you have a question or need more information, you can get in touch with us or request a demo.

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Click here to contact our sales team via our website, or click here to request a personalised demonstration.

You can contact us via email at sales@yetitool.com.

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