Relatively easy assembly

The PROVer comes semi-assembled and there is documentation – including assembly videos and a dedicated Facebook page for owners – to help you out with the process, though some users have said they aren’t foolproof and could use extra details throughout. And, though it’s advertised as having a 15-minute build-time, the PROVer will likely take considerably longer. The machine also comes with most of the tools you’ll need to put it together (some users said you’ll need to have wirecutters on hand – not included).

Improved drivers

The PROVer improves upon its predecessor with quieter, powerful Toshiba TB6S109 drivers, plus optocouplers which will protect the machine from damage from hard stops. These should also help reduce noise.

Stable frame

An all-aluminum frame should make the router more robust and stable than its predecessors and their mix of aluminum and plastic. The PROVer also has an acrylic panel on the right and left for a smidge of safety and to somewhat keep dust and other flying bits contained.

Improved safety

As mentioned, there are a few safety features in the PROVer worth noting including hard stops, limit switches, an emergency stop control that will shut the machine down immediately, and the acrylic panels on either side of the machine.

Offline controller

The PROVer comes with a 1.8” touchscreen display that gives you direct offline control of the router, as well as live readouts. You can also home the tool head using this offline controller, and eliminate the need to be tethered to your computer when setting up a job.

Emergency Stop

Things go wrong sometimes. The ability to smash a big red button to stop the machine dead in its tracks is not to be underestimated, and is a common safety feature on professional power tools, so its presence here on the 3018-PROVer is a welcome upgrade.

Optional laser module

If you’re looking to add a laser engraver to your machine you’re in luck. The PROVer comes with an optional upgrade for roughly $150.