The table below summarizes the differences between the operations and functionalities of a CNC router vs a CNC mill.
| Information | CNC Router | CNC Mill |
| Operation | Cutting relatively soft material | Precision machining of hard materials and complex geometries |
| Software | User friendly | Advanced and more sophisticated |
| Tooling | Router bits | Drills, end mills, ball mills, etc. |
| Material Options | Plastics, wood and softer metals | Plastics, polymers, metals, alloys, etc |
| Cutting Speed and Feed Rates | High cutting speed and feed rates, ensuring rapid material removal | Slower cutting speed and feed rates to get more controlled and precise cutting |
| Cost | Less expensive than CNC mills | Expensive |