I tested and compared the controller boards for various factors such as ease of use, compatibility with other CNC parts, documentation and support, raw power, and overall quality. This lets you control it using a laptop as well.Īs a maker who's obsessed with CNCs, I tested and examined a number of GRBL-compatible CNC controllers to help build my own custom CNCs for various applications. One really good thing about GRBL is that it eliminates the need for a parallel port on your computer. GRBL, in combination with a CNC controller such as Arduino, is what many hobbyists use. GRBL is one of the most popular CNC controller firmware out there. If you are looking to replace the GRBL controller in your existing CNC/Laser Engraver or if you're looking to build a CNC on your own, then this guide will help you pick the controller you need.