CNC machining and 3D printing are both manufacturing processes that have their own advantages and disadvantages. Some benefits of CNC machining over 3D printing include:

Greater precision: CNC machining can produce parts with tighter tolerances and better surface finishes than 3D printing.

Greater material versatility: CNC machining can be used with a wide range of materials, including metals, plastics, and composites, while 3D printing is typically limited to plastics and metals.

Greater durability: CNC machined parts are generally stronger and more durable than 3D printed parts, making them suitable for use in demanding applications.

Faster production: CNC machining can produce parts faster than 3D printing, especially for high volumes.

Cost effective: CNC machining can be cost-effective for large-scale production runs.

However, 3D printing has its own advantages like ability to make complex geometries and ability to make small batch production at low cost.

There are several types of CNC machining, each with their own unique capabilities and advantages. Some of the most common types of CNC machining include:

CNC Milling: This is the process of cutting away material using a rotating cutting tool. CNC mills can be used to create a wide variety of parts, including complex shapes and geometries.

CNC Lathe: A CNC lathe uses a cutting tool to remove material from a rotating workpiece. CNC lathes are typically used to create symmetrical parts, such as shafts and cylinders.

CNC Router: A CNC router uses a rotating cutting tool to cut and shape materials, such as wood, plastic, and metal. CNC routers are commonly used in the production of signs, furniture, and architectural millwork.

CNC Grinding: A CNC grinding machine use an abrasive wheel as the cutting tool to grind, shape or finish a workpiece. CNC grinding machines are used to create precise and accurate finishes on parts, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries.

CNC EDM: CNC EDM (electrical discharge machining) uses electrical sparks to erode material from a workpiece, making it ideal for creating complex shapes and geometries in hard materials.

CNC Water Jet: CNC Water jet uses a high-pressure stream of water and abrasive particles to cut materials like metal, plastic and stone.

These are some of the most common types of CNC machining, but there are other specialized types as well, such as CNC plasma cutting, CNC laser cutting, etc.

CNC (Computer Numerical Control) machines can cut a wide variety of materials, including:

Metals: aluminum, steel, brass, copper, titanium, and various alloys

Plastics: acrylic, PVC, nylon, and polycarbonate

Woods: hardwoods, softwoods, and plywood

Composites: fiberglass and carbon fiber

Non-ferrous metals: gold, silver and brass

It's important to note that the specific materials that can be cut will depend on the type of CNC machine and the cutting tool being used.

Some machines and tools are better suited for cutting certain types of materials than others.

Additionally, some materials may require special cutting methods or additional steps to prevent damage to the machine or produce accurate cuts.