HiMill D1 and D1S: budget-friendly desktop CNC machines for makers, modders, and small workshops
If you’ve been waiting for a compact CNC that won’t blow your budget, the HiMill D1 and D1S aim to bring pro-style precision to the home shop. Both models are designed for ease of use and can handle more than just plastics, tackling wood and metals with accurate drilling, engraving, and cutting. With a working area of 280 x 200 x 80 mm, they’re sized for desk-friendly workflows while still accommodating practical, real-world projects.
The standout difference between the two is precision and tooling. The D1S is billed with higher accuracy at 0.02 mm and supports quick tool changes for faster, more flexible jobs. The standard D1 offers 0.04 mm precision, which is still tight enough for most hobby and prototyping needs.
Power comes from a 250 W brushless motor, giving the spindle consistent performance and reduced maintenance compared to brushed designs. For added versatility, the machine can be fitted with a laser module for engraving tasks. With the right accessory, you can also clamp workpieces for turning-style operations, letting the unit function much like a compact lathe.
Connectivity and setup cater to first-time CNC users and seasoned tinkerers alike. USB and Wi‑Fi are onboard, and the manufacturer suggests you can get up and running shortly after unboxing. As with any CNC workflow, expect to spend some time with CAD/CAM software to unlock its full potential.
A practical use case: repetitive tasks such as drilling dozens of perfectly spaced holes in a PC case side panel or creating precise engravings become significantly faster and more consistent. That combination of automation, accuracy, and small footprint makes the D1 series appealing for DIY projects, prototyping, education, and custom builds.
As part of an active crowdfunding campaign, the HiMill D1 starts at a contribution of $420. As always, remember that backing any crowdfunded hardware carries financial risks, and timelines or specifications can change.
In short, the HiMill D1 and D1S bring accessible CNC milling to hobbyists and creators who want reliable precision, expandable features, and wireless connectivity—without the usual price barrier.
