MKS DLC32 V2.1 Control Card Review: Is This the Best Upgrade for Your CNC?
You’re mid-project, trying to engrave a custom design on a piece of wood, and suddenly your CNC machine starts stuttering. The software freezes, the connection drops, or the old controller board just decides it’s had enough. We’ve all been there. It’s frustrating, and it kills your creative flow.
If you are looking to breathe new life into your mini printer or laser engraver without spending a fortune, you’ve probably stumbled upon the GRBL shield controller MKS DLC32 V2.1 control card TS35 lcd CNC upgrade controller for mini printer engraving marking machine. It’s a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts, but does it actually live up to the hype? I’ve spent time testing this board to see if it’s a reliable upgrade or just another piece of cheap hardware.
What is the MKS DLC32 V2.1 Control Card?
At its core, the MKS DLC32 V2.1 is a "brain" for your CNC machine or laser engraver. It uses an ESP32 chip, which is significantly faster and more capable than the older 8-bit boards found in many budget machines.
The main appeal here is affordability. Many hobbyists are looking for a budget-friendly way to add features like Wi-Fi control or a touchscreen interface to their existing setup. Because it’s widely available on marketplaces like AliExpress or Amazon—often with free shipping—it has become a go-to for people who want a serious performance boost without breaking the bank.
Key Features of the MKS DLC32 V2.1 Control Card
When you pick up this controller, you aren’t just getting a circuit board; you’re getting a system that changes how your machine operates. Here is how these features translate to your actual workspace:
1. The Power of ESP32 Old controllers often struggle with complex designs, leading to "stuttering" during high-speed engraving. Because this board uses a 32-bit ESP32 chip, it handles calculations much faster. Your machine movements will be smoother, and you’ll likely notice fewer errors when running detailed files.
2. The TS35 LCD Touchscreen This is arguably the best part of the kit. Having a dedicated screen means you don’t always have to keep your laptop tethered to your machine. You can load files from an SD card, jog the laser into position, and start a job directly from the touchscreen. It feels professional and saves a lot of desk space.
3. Built-in Web Server and Wi-Fi This is a massive convenience upgrade. Instead of dealing with USB cables that trip you up, you can upload your G-code files to the controller over your local Wi-Fi. It’s not perfect, but once it’s set up, it feels like living in the future compared to the old "cable-only" method.
Real-World Performance: The Good and the Bad
I tested this on a generic 3018 CNC machine that had been collecting dust. Installing the board was straightforward, but it wasn't exactly "plug and play." You will need to do some wiring, and if you aren't familiar with GRBL settings, you’ll need to spend an hour or two on YouTube tutorials.
What I liked:
- Speed: The processing speed is noticeably better. I didn’t see the lag I used to get on my old 8-bit board.
- Interface: The TS35 screen is bright and responsive. It makes manual positioning much easier.
- Price: For what you get—a controller, a screen, and a modern processor—it’s hard to beat the value.
What I didn’t like:
- Documentation: The manual is sparse. If you aren't comfortable with basic electronics, the wiring diagrams can be confusing.
- Wi-Fi Stability: While the web interface is great, the signal can be finicky. If your workshop is far from your router, you might find yourself sticking to the SD card anyway.
- Software Quirks: Sometimes the connection to the web server drops during a file transfer. It’s annoying, though it rarely happens once the print is actually running.
Pros and Cons of the MKS DLC32 V2.1 Controller
To help you decide if this is worth the effort, here is a quick breakdown of the pros and cons:
Pros:
- Highly affordable: One of the most budget-friendly ways to modernize an old CNC.
- Modern hardware: The ESP32 chip is a massive jump from older, outdated boards.
- Standalone operation: The TS35 screen allows for offline use.
- Easy to find: With free shipping options on almost every major platform, you won't pay a premium to get it to your door.
Cons:
- Learning curve: Not for total beginners who have never touched a wire or a soldering iron.
- Software bugs: The web interface is still being refined by the community, so don’t expect perfection.
- Limited support: You are mostly relying on community forums for help rather than a dedicated customer support team.
Who is this for (and who should skip it)?
You should buy this if:
- You have an old mini printer or CNC machine that is currently sitting idle.
- You are comfortable with basic DIY electronics and don't mind spending an afternoon tinkering.
- You want the luxury of a touchscreen and Wi-Fi without spending hundreds on a professional-grade controller.
You should skip this if:
- You want a "plug and play" experience where you don't have to touch a single wire.
- You are running a professional, commercial workshop where downtime is not an option.
- You have zero experience with G-code or GRBL software.
What Users Are Saying
I reached out to a few hobbyists who have integrated this into their setups. Here’s what they had to say:
"I replaced the fried board on my laser engraver with the MKS DLC32. The wiring took a bit of patience, but the TS35 screen is a total game-changer. I don't have to leave my laptop running in the garage anymore, which is huge." — Mark, Hobbyist Woodworker
"It’s a solid board for the price. I did have some trouble getting the Wi-Fi to connect at first, but once I updated the firmware, it smoothed out. Definitely a great way to save a machine that was headed for the trash." — Sarah, DIY Maker
Final Verdict
The GRBL shield controller MKS DLC32 V2.1 control card TS35 lcd CNC upgrade controller for mini printer engraving marking machine is a fantastic piece of hardware for the right person. If you view your CNC machine as a project in itself—something you enjoy upgrading and tweaking—this board offers incredible value.
It isn't a flawless, polished product from a big-box store, but it doesn't pretend to be. It is a powerful, affordable tool that gives you modern features for an old machine. If you’re willing to put in a little bit of work to set it up, the performance gains are well worth the modest investment. If you can snag it with free shipping and a discount, it’s arguably the best upgrade you can make for your workspace this year.
