The best laser engraver should fit your situation, purpose and budget. Options will vary for beginners, small businesses, and professional businesses. Here are the 5 best laser cutters and engravers I have come across!
If you're thinking of turning your hobby of laser cutting and engraving into a business venture, do it.
I did it and it's one of the most fulfilling endeavors I've ever done!
But first, you have to invest in a great laser engraver that can handle high-volume workloads and produce the best possible quality.
I want to share my research with you and help simplify your decision-making process. These are my top 10 recommendations and definitely worth the money!
It's no surprise that the Atomstack S20 Pro remains one of the best laser engravers around. It provides clear and high-quality output comparable to professional machines.
Although the S20 Pro is already considered expensive, its performance can keep up with business operations, and you'll see the payoff in no time.
In addition to cutting wood and metal, the Atomstack S20 Pro has cut my labor hours in half so I can produce more output in less time.
The increase in efficiency and quality has helped my business tremendously!
The only downside to the Atomstack S20 Pro is the steep learning curve. Beginners unfamiliar with setup and technical details may not be able to maximize the machine's full potential and find it faulty.
I recommend doing thorough research before purchasing the Atomstack S20 to maximize its benefits. If not, their customer service is commendable and willing to help.
Also, if you have some spare budget, I recommend getting some S20 Pro accessories. Air assist is my favorite because it helps control smoke and protects the laser head lens.
Most laser engravers cannot cut non-metallic materials. While the Sculpfun S30 can only do that, the 0.05mm is an advantage I appreciate since not all machines can do it.
For the price, this laser cutter has great features and a powerful engraving process that rivals other expensive machines. Overall a good deal.
An example is the air assist feature that already comes with the machine, while other brands sell it separately. This tool produces better output, you'll love it.
The S30 Pro Max is also compatible with several types of software, some of which are free. However, I still find LightBurn to be the best option for an extra $60 - well worth it though!
In any case, only LightBurn can control the automatic air assist function. Unfortunately, it is not compatible with LaserGRBL.
The Ortur Laser Master 3 is somewhere between a "hobbyist's toy" and a "professional laser cutter". Surprisingly, it has many advanced features at a reasonable price.
I would say that the target market for this engraving machine is very specific. It's perfect for anyone at an intermediate level.
You know when you're ready to take your hobby to the next step, but haven't yet gone into serious business - maybe custom jewelry for your circle (yes, some engravers work on jewelry) or something else or sell to some acquaintances!
But one thing's for sure - it's not for beginners. The assembly is more complicated, and the instructions of ORTUR are not very clear.
However, once you get the hang of it, you'll love the variety of projects you can accomplish with this laser engraver.
It's also a "true 10W" laser engraver, most are 20W if you notice. This demonstrates a higher power. It can easily cut 10mm pine boards and 30mm thick black acrylic.
The best thing about this LaserPecker 2 Pro laser engraver is its simplicity. Beginners shouldn't be dealing with complex parts and assemblies, and LaserPecker seems to understand.
This is one of the most effortless machines I have ever set up. If you run into issues, their technical and customer support is very approachable and responsive.
I can say that it is still considered a compact and handy tool. It's not a professional's laser cutter or engraver, but it delivers the basic output with precision!
This is a friendly option if you want to upgrade from laser cutting and engraving soft materials to harder materials. It's still not scary, but it's a world of difference.
Ortur Laser Master 2 Pro
This product from Ortur is one of the best laser engravers and cutters for me in terms of output and construction. You can tell it's been thoughtfully designed, and the hardware reflects that.
It's not the fastest, but it's a step up from the standard laser cutters and engravers on the market.
But the standout feature of the Ortur Laser Master 2 Pro is the laser cutter. It's powerful and precise, something not all laser machines can produce.
This laser cutter and engraver is powerful enough for more serious home workshop projects. You can also start a small business and take some orders with this machine!
