Re: Looking for a benchtop CNC for 12"x12"+
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As to your request. 5K for a CNC mill with 12x12 might be a bit on the lean side. Charter Oak has mill for more than twice that that can overtravel in X & Y to get that. Technically its a benchtop, but not really. LOL.
I don't know what you are looking to do, but for a small footprint, modestly rigid machine with close to your required envelope you might look at importing a cast iron fixed gantry machine, and then retrofitting the controls if the cheap Chinese controls don't work for you. It depends on what you are planning to cut of course also. Those high speed spindles aren't worth much for low speed high torque cutting.
So why don't you tell us what you want to do and somebody can guide you a little more effectively.
Bob La Londe
http://www.YumaBassMan.com