The Z1 desktop-level intelligent CNC device from Creation Era makes its domestic debut, bringing professional-grade tools into the mass consumer market.

As a core tool in digital manufacturing, CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machining is widely used in industrial production. However, traditional CNC systems often face challenges such as high learning curves, complex software interfaces, and cumbersome operation procedures. Every step—from modeling and design to tool path generation, parameter configuration, and equipment calibration—requires specialized expertise, which has long confined CNC technology primarily to the domain of professional engineers and manufacturing enterprises.

According to Creation Era, with the advent of the AI era, manufacturing tools should become as simple and user-friendly as smartphones. Thus, the Z1 was born.

According to official statements, the Z1 has undergone a systematic redesign focused on "lowering the barrier to entry," truly bringing CNC technology to everyday use. Users can complete the entire workflow—from concept generation and model creation to manufacturing—through Maker Era's proprietary software platform, Maker Studio. Leveraging AI assistance, users can quickly generate required patterns or models by entering simple descriptions. Additionally, Maker Era will launch the Makerables community, offering a wealth of directly manufacturable project resources that enable even beginners to complete their first creations effortlessly.

While lowering the operational threshold, the Z1 maintains professional-grade machining capabilities: an integrated die-cast body, automatic tool-setting and leveling systems, and a rapid tool-change system, achieving a maximum machining accuracy of 0.02 mm. Additionally, the equipment features the Aerodust™ intelligent dust collection system and a built-in camera, delivering a clean, safe, and visually intuitive machining experience.

Furthermore, the Z1 supports processing over 500 materials including wood, acrylic, carbon fiber panels, PCB boards, and aluminum alloys, catering to a wide range of creative needs for makers—from DIY projects and product prototyping to educational applications and small-batch custom production.

Prior to this, the z1 had already received enthusiastic acclaim across global markets. Reportedly, when launched on the international crowdfunding platform Kickstarter in late 2025, it raised over $10.24 million within its 45-day official campaign period and was honored as one of the 2026 Best Projects on Kickstarter. Additionally, the z1 won several prestigious international awards, including the 2025 IFA Innovation Award, the 2025 French Design Award Gold Medal, and the 2026 Beyond Best Innovation Award.

At this experience event, Zhang Qiuxi, CEO of ZaoWu Times, announced that the new desktop CNC machine—the ZaoWu Times Z1—will be launched domestically on the platform on June 10. For the first time, the company revealed the pre-sale price with benefits in the China market: starting from a net price of ¥7,499, accompanied by generous accessories, further lowering the barrier to entry for users in the desktop CNC sector.

In recent years, driven by rapid advancements in AI generation technologies and digital manufacturing tools, an increasing number of ordinary users have begun designing and producing personalized products independently. ZaoWu Times aims to establish a comprehensive creative ecosystem. Centered around the Z1 platform, the company has developed a suite of software and service solutions encompassing Makera Studio, the Makerables content platform, and a global maker community. The launch of the Z1 in China marks a significant step for ZaoWu Times in transitioning desktop CNC systems from professional tools to the mass consumer market.