Re: Choosing a laser engraver....
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- Опубліковано 7 лют 2025
- In this video we break down the most common types of laser engravers available on the market. We take a look at the 3 major considerations you will need to think about BEFORE buying your laser and how that will effect your choice!
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HEY, hi, hello! Using laser engraving and laser cutting machines comes with potential risks! This channel's content is intended solely for informational and educational purposes. JUSTIN LASER LLC cannot be held responsible for any damage or harm resulting from the recommendations, settings, activities, procedures, techniques, or practices mentioned on this UA-cam channel. By watching this video, you agree that you are solely responsible for your own safety and property in relation to the information provided. Please conduct your own research before purchasing machines, materials, or accessories. This channel is supported by viewers like you and may earn commissions from purchases made through links provided.
Do you have a laser engraver you really like and want to recommend? Please add it below!
What laser would be good to engrave metal?
@@paulywilson445 Anything fiber for true engraving capabilities. If you want to do some on a cheaper budget you can get something like the xTool D1 Pro with the IR module.
Epilog fusion edge
@@paulywilson445 If you are still looking for a machine that can cut metal, a laser cutter is for you. Maybe you can trust me.
Thunder Laser USA 35/100
Thanks!
I bought an Atom Stack 10-watt laser for $500 months ago, and so far it has made me about $10,000 in sales. I am now looking for a CO2 laser which is why I am here. Thank you for the great information.
Hello, can it cut thinner clear acrylic.
What sort of products do you mostly sell?
What do you make with your 10w ?
Which model did you get? A5, 10 … etc?? Come w/ all the software needed for a WinLaptop? Will it engrave tumblers? Anything you would do diff?
New sub. I'm thinking of getting a laser, specifically for engraving poured ingots of aluminum, brass, and copper. I'll pick through your videos, but basically, I am glad I watched this before buying a thousand dollar laser that wouldn't do what I wanted it to.
I just bought me a two trees ts2 20W laset. I saw mostly good and positive reviews and got a great deal on one.
Still waiting for it to be delivered but I'm excited to dive into laser cutting/engraving to help alongside my woodworking!
Ive heard good things about it as well. Good luck and get ready for losts of personalization requests!
Really good info, delivered concisely and without too much detail, (just enough). ❤ thanks
Appreciate t!
I have a D1 Pro with all the bits and bobs (20W diode, 2W 1064 module, 3-jaw chuck, risers, enclosure with light, etc). It's really easy to use and the stock software is good enough for the tinkering I've done so far. I tried Lightburn but feel I'm too dumb or lazy to really figure it out. I know I'll need it for the advanced stuff so maybe someday... They recently announced a 40W module and a Z-axis capability, so if you haven't started on a D1 yet, you might want to wait to get ahold of that whole thing first. As far as I know, they still haven't stated selling it yet (August 2023)
So one topic that I feel that doesn't get nearly enough coverage, especially when it comes to new users is the fumes these puppies put out. Holy moly is this stuff bad! I figured there might be a little, but no. You have to dedicate a LOT of air extraction to it or run it in a garage while you leave the space until it clears out. Any kind of plastics, leather, wood are horrendous on an open frame system. Even with an enclosure and filter, it's awful. I don't feel like any video has ever given this consideration enough time other than a passing glance. It put me in full-stop mode because I can only do metal with the 1064 in an enclosed room. There's also the vision protection and paneling you might need to protect the work areas. These definitely aren't toys and they're quite dangerous if used neglectfully. I am definitely no safety officer, but I feel like this is something that needs more emphasis for new or potential users.
I agree on the fumes part. Ive talked about it a couple times in some previous videos even did a full video on how much I spend on fume extraction filters (a lot!).
Thank you. I have not seen this mentioned.
Great video. I'm just looking into these machines. Thanks.
I have watched 3 of your videos so far. I will watch another 3 or 4. They are very well produced and informative. It’s good to find out about something, in this case laser machines, so one can make informed choices.
Waiting on my first Laser engraving machine. C24 Pro. Good reviews and seems like a great place to start this journey. Subscribed…
I have a K40, I upgraded the controller board, added air assist, cooling, etc. I have had it for a couple years and haven't had any problems with it at all. I accidentally made over $500 by word of mouth in one week following Christmas. I have about $1000 total invested.
One the best videos on laser intros
Thanks for uploading these videos. Very well explained and filmed
I have a $300 K40 that's been running like a beast (with the original tube) since 2019. It's made me thousands of dollars, and I've never had a single issue with it. First thing I did was remove the stock gantry and enlarge the cutting area, which was not as difficult as it sounds.
Got a pointer to tutorials/resources about how to do that?
@@GeekRedux I guess UA-cam doesn't allow links in comments anymore. I replied several times with a link, but my comments were all deleted instantly. They don't even appear in my comment history. If you "try to find" (that's right, couldn't even use that word that starts with the letter S) "openbuilds k40 12x24 rebuild in original case" it should be the first result.
@@matchstickdesignco Got it, thanks.
Is the Monport the same as k40? I see it's light burn ready
@@venomvette84 K40 is a general "model number" used to describe any number of small 40 watt CO2 lasers with a certain size footprint. When I bought mine, there were two variations: red & white, and blue & white. Aside from the colors, they were all exactly the same. Nowadays, a K40 still has the same basic specs (40 watt, 12x8 inch bed, same cabinet design), but they can range drastically in price, according to which company makes it and what "upgrades" are included. The Monport K40 has many of the "aftermarket" upgrades already installed, including a different controller board that's compatible with Lightburn. If you're okay with the small engraving/cutting area, it's a great machine for the price.
Thank you for this video and loved the comedy in the editing.
Another one from Germany 😊
Just found your review, because I have an eye on the xtool d1 pro. Thank you for this easy to follow explanations.
I have an GCC Laserpro Spirit 40w CO2 Laser since 2008 and I can highly recommend it
Awesome thanks for the recommendation!
Thank you Justin laser. This is a fantastic sharing and explanation ❤
Thanks for watching!
This video was so helpful!! Do you recommend any laser engraver for painted glass candle vessels?
The thing about the K40 is, that you get a powerful laser with a huge community and a ton of guides for upgrades for a very low price.
I even build a trolly for mine which houses a small compressor for the air assist, a drawer for materials and a water tank for the cooling.
Also I built a height adjustable laser bed and improved the exhaust by priting an adapter to attach a big inline fan.
You'll have a steep learning curve doing all these little upgrades and adjustments and end up with a great machine for small scale projects.
I’m curious, what do you make with your laser?
I agree 100% If you have a knack for tinkering or mechanical aptitude, the value is off the charts for what you can do with them.
It’s for tinkerers. Some of us just want to throw money at the problem and get something that works out the box. I am some people.
I have almost all of the XTOOL lasers and love them all. Started with the D1 Pro and then got the M1. Loved both so much that I decided to upgrade when they came out with the P2. I have had it for about 1 1/2 months and I am loving it. I did buy the riser and conveyer but have not added them yet (need help lifting the P2 as it weighs over 100lbs.) Then I just got the F1 portable dual laser that I can take to shows and customize items for sale on the spot. Just got it yesterday so, still working to learn it but, so far, I love it. It has a 10 watt blue laser and a 2 watt red laser. super fast. I did order the slider so you can do larger projects and the rotary but, they have not arrived yet. All of these machines work with Lightburn or their own Creative Space software (which has tons of new features). Thanks for all of your information in all of your video's... very helpful.
Yesss I want that F1
Can you use a diode laser to engrave brass plated items - not solid brass?
That was Fun ,,,thank you .I'm a Bay Bridge Painter and were kind of hunting around looking for the one that will replace Sand Blast ,you mentioned Universal Lazar at the end ,but where would ya point me in the Industrial Blast Removal World I understand your Skill set and i love it that's why i watched the whole piece interesting and fun to watch ya man
Acmer P1 is also a very good laser engraver. I think it's worth recommending.
I just ordered the Aterz V35 for my first laser, can’t wait for it to come in
Awesome! Nice power for a diode laser.
Just started looking into a laser business in Canada. Love your content. Thanks. Please make a video on what these kind of machines can be used for.
Well I need to buy a laser, good information glad I found your channel
This was very informative.
I'm a contractor who builds screen porches and decks. I have a ton of scrap material and drops from cuts like PVC, wood, vinyl, and aluminum. I am currently building a wood shop and have been thinking of adding either/both CNC and/or Laser cutter/engraver. One product I have in abundance is vinyl sleeves that are 6" square. The material is usually White in color. These are used for fence posts or to cover wood posts. The sleeve wall thickness is generally 1/8-3/16 thick. I want to cut designs through the sleeve wall. What laser would you recommend for cutting this type of product at that height? ( 6" x 6" ) varied length but mostly less than 12-14". I also have a ton of Decking scraps I want to make things with. These products can be PVC or Composite plastics.
***One last thing this is supposed to be a semi-retirement side hustle and crafting fun not a full-time business alternative. Oh yeah, I also do Oil painting like Bob Ross so I want to make customer wood frames and that leads to who knows maybe some engraving picture frames. My mind spins constantly LOL
I don't think you paint like Bob Ross.
He did it quietly, with an awesome head of hair.
And you LOL too loud. 😄
Hello, like your video on laser engravers. I'm in the market for one to do some engraving on Charcuterie boards. From last names to business card size engraving with phone numbers. Can you recommend one you think would accommodate them? The sizes of wood would be from 8" - 9" wide, 17" - 18" long and 3/4" - 1" thick. No cutting, just engraving. Any info would be much appreciated. Thanks
If just doing wood engraving like that youll have a fair amount of options. If you are looking to make a business out of this you should go straight to a co2 laser. If you need a desktop size laser check out the xTool P2 or the Thunder Bolt. Make sure the bed size is large enough to fit your longest pieces though. If you have room you can get something like an OMtech 80w mid range industrial.
Hi Justin! With a lot of new tech and machines out this year, maybe it's time for a new video like this till present day of 2024? Me myself are a small time laser business owner, and are looking into getting my second laser. Sure there is more people in my situation also looking for the "next step". Cheers!
Very informative. Just what I was looking for before my first purchase. Thank you! PS: A thumbs up from a new subscriber.
Good luck with the purchase and thanks for the sub!
Which one did you pick?
K40s are great if you do a little research. There is alternative software and they cut very accurately when set up properly. Its a great first laser if your into DIY. Not everybody can afford a $3000+ laser
I also own a k40. I have a special project that needs a 8x10 cutting area. After removing the original cutting surface and upgrading the exhaust fan. It's got to be a hundred times better than any crappy diode laser.
What software do you use? Lightburn?
K40’s are garbage. People justify at money spent because they can’t return it.
@@Rishy223 Lightburn
@@dueymiller5795 What exhaust fan did you upgrade to?
Got the Skulpfun S30 Pro 10 watt laser along with the expansion kit for a larger cutting area on the way. Can't wait to get to work on it, I wish I'd gotten into laser cutting a long time ago- better late than never!
edit: right after this comment it came- time to put it together. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day learning how to use it!
Very cool! I have the same one but havent gotten a chance to use it much yet. Takes up A LOT of table space haha. Good luck!
Great video, straight forward information. Thank you. I'm looking into a mid CO2 and trying to compare companies and machines; so many options! It can get confusing. Thanks for the brand info at the end.
The Raycus 50W can cut metal right? You would have to get the smaller lens
Wonderful video! Just what I was looking for. Thank you!
Nice video Justin,Thank you And good luck
thanks, very good video. Would you know if we could do large scale engraving outdoors? any such machine? we are thinking of laser etching black markings on a bare aluminum helideck. Painting is laborious work and needs to be redone every few years. Each letter is about 4ft in size. Appreciate your wisdom, thanks
Funny thing with modern industrial fiber lasers is that they're so fast in lighter gauge applications that the bottleneck has become the loading/unloading process. Our new fiber laser has an automated loading/unloading system that's twice the size and ~30% the cost of the entire setup.
Hi from Hawaii!! Im in the market for a laser...but just to cut leather and thick vinyl...so basically simple, easy...not in large quantity. Any recommendations? Cuz shipping to paradise is absolutely CRAZY!! Mahalo in advance!! U are one informative and entertaining tuber...love it! Aloha!!
Hey Kevin! Leather is no problem but you dont want to laser cut vinyl as it will release chlorine gas which destroys your machine and your health. Im not exactly sure what people use to cut thick vinyl I assume its a drag knife CNC.
Can you do a review on the Vevor 20w laser. Or can someone chime in & say if their even worth trying?
The best comprehensive video ive seen on this topic. Thanks for explaining this in a clear way. Sub'd.
Thank you for the review Justin! very informative! Do you have thoughts on X-tool laser engravers?
Cooles Video danke für den Einblick
Hi i i am looking to purchase a Lase machine to Engrave Granite tombstones Can you suggest what kind of machine will is suitable for it and its Brand Name please
I got an Omtech 28" bed... love it. No space though 😂
Hi Justin, Clear and concise! Your style is very easy to watch, and the content comes across as knowledgeable and unbiased.
I clicked on the link for the fiber. While it shows a cart, there doesn’t appear to be a way to build a config. Any insight?
Thanks for the great info.
Thank you appreciate it! Im not exactly sure if OMG online ordering works yet. If you email the company (Richard Zhang) he will set you up.
Great advice thanks for sharing. Diode lasers are now approaching 40w ikier has a 48w switchable to 24w they also do a 20w fiber for metal engraving interesting
Yeah they are getting crazy powerful for the size. Not sure how long people will tolerate the extra cost and still not be able to do certain common materials (clear acrylic). The Fibers are a good direction for them to go though.
The Keyence MD-X series is pretty nice
Can i ask all the knowledgeable people here a quick question?
If you wanted to cut stencils from 300gsm card or posterboard that was 28"x 22" inches for spray painting. what machine would one use?
Thanks.😉😉
Great video ! - Very informative - I'm currently saving up for a good fiber laser to etch Anodized aluminum to make nameplates for some of my machine tool projects so was just watching some of the videos online when I came across your very cool video. Wish me luck in finding an affordable fiber laser with a fine focus to etch nameplates from black Anodized aluminum clearly...
Good luck! Lucky for you fiber lasers have an insane DPI capability so your results will be crispy.
Great video with lots of great information. Having lived with your Boss for a long time now, would you be buy from them again or would you go for an AEON or Thunder Laser next time? Sorry to put you on the spot, but I've heard a lot about all of these, and I am presently making this decision.
I would shop around. Not because I dont like Boss, they have been good to me. Im intrigued by the "all-in-one" aspects with the chiller and exhaust inside the machine. All 3 are good companies. If Thunder or Aeon want to send me a little something, they...uh...know where to find me lol.
Very useful breakdown for a newbie like me. I tried reading articles on the manufacturers' websites but they're all SEO optimized AI generated bullshit that doesn't actually tell me anything and barely even shows examples. Thanks for picking up their slack, youtubers!
What laser is good for 1/2 inch Acrylic block? Your video is really goods.
The K40 is a great system and more customizable then any other desktop. My buddy pulled the trigger on a glowforge and my k40 is so much more capable. So many aftermarket parts and software and still a fraction of the price
K40 ust with few mods it's very capable machine. But there are some heavy mods that I would kinda question if it would not be worth it to DIY whole laser from scratch, for example expanding K40 cutting area seem not to be worth it to be since it requires to replace so many parts.
The frame left over after cutting those keychain blanks would make an awesome stencil for painting with. What do you do to recycle acrylic leftovers?
I usually have a more left over acrylic than I can use so I take it back to my supplier and they send it back to the manufacturer for processing.
Can you maybe do a super beginner video for those of us who can't pull off $1000 to start off with. Something to just even see if we like laser engraving enough to get into it?
If you had $10k to purchase laser engraving equipment… what would you buy? Right now I’m looking into the xTool P2 55w bundle with an F1 ultra. Thoughts?
What do you recommend for mainly cutting 1/4 inch plywood or mdf wood shapes?? Don’t have a business now but… i cut everything by hand 😊
Mid range co2 would do that no problem. 60-100w co2 machine youll be cranking those shapes out in no time.
I have a question, if anyone can help me. If I were to paint steel sheet with a say a black primer could I then use a diode laser system to etch the paint away and then do a salt water electro etch to achieve some depth on the steel? I have a project coming up and if this is possible it may be the thing that pushes me to get a laser system of my own.
Thanks for the detailed explanations- now just need to figure out which one ! 😂
thanks bro very informative really well done
Appreciate it!
Ein sehr informatives Video, ich danke dir von Herzen. Welchen Laser würdest du empfehlen für eine kleine Lederwerkstatt - Leder bis 3mm ausschneiden und Acryl Schablonen für mich fertigen. Ein Budget von ca 2000€ Ich danke Dir SEHR!
Can you suggest a laser to mark branding plastic and metal at the lowest possible Budget .... i need at max 3 x 3 inch area
For branding plastic is most important
Finally!!!!! A very well explained and open minded review(s). This video really helped me. Thank you!
One question though…. Can you use the CO2 to etch Challenge Coins and then the Fiber Lasers to give it more of a 3D effect?
Thank you again.
Hey Henry. So with the co2 you could mark the surface of those coins using a spray like Cermark. You might be able to get a little depth if you used a high power laser and steel coins but something like brass is not going to happen. Challenge coins are a perfect product for fiber laser exclusively. You can do surface marking OR deep engraving depending on what style you need.
@@justinlaser Thank you, I was looking at the XTool F1, but the more I search, it's best (to me) for portability and doing work at craft shows. Thanks again for the video.
I work in the Point of Sale industry, I was hoping someone can help me when it comes to engraving opal acrylic ice buckets. I would like to learn how to engrave through a coating through to opal to be able to create illuminated logos ect.
I live in a house built in 1902.... i know this may be a silly and or stupid question, but should I have an electrician come out and make sure my outlets are safe and capable of running a small or mid range laser? I have a bit of an irrational fear of electrical fires 😅
What is the best for 3d engraving crystal?
Excuse the ignorance; however, how does the product go from acrylic to leather? Thanks for the video.
You say diode laser is no good for acrylic, yet you showed an acrylic keychain pattern. Did you cut it on your ortur diode laser? Please clarify.
Thank you so much for the awesome info!
Great review Thank you so much.
Thanks for watching!
which machine is the best to cut and engrave chrome tanned leather ?
Any of them would work depends on price. CO2 laser would be the best overall for cutting/engraving size and speed.
Could you please let us know your plastic supplier? Also is acrylic the same thing as plexiglass?
I use Everything Plastic but they are local to me. You can buy from many places online. Yes, plexiglass is acrylic. Get cast acrylic though it is nicer.
@@justinlaser thanks. Until recently I had never known there were 2 diff kinds. Who says you can’t teach an old dog new tricks?
@@justinlaser thanks
I would like to engrave on stainless steel and silver for women Nd kids jewerly such necklace abd bracelet .. which lazer machine do you recommend if i am.on budget or mid range ?
You can get something like the xTool F1 or any laser with an IR (infrared) laser source. True fiber laser might be out of your price range for the time being. The next video Im putting out with be discussing the IR module for xTool and I etch a silver necklace pendant.
what unit should i be looking at for engraving smooth concrete slabs? hobbyist but want a quality unit that will last
I used a Trotec 300 Laser, at work for a few months, with just the Fibre Laser, for marking & engraving Tools for the Program, tool ID for the tool crib tracking & Serial Number for Calibration Tools.
It was, if I recall correctly, a 30 Watt Laser head, so it took quite a few passes to cut through an Aluminum Pop Can... It wasn't intended for any "Cutting!"
It can also have a CO2 Laser as a "Flex" Model, giving you a full choice of materials, but my employer didn't see the benefits, so missed out on some cases for tools, as the "Z" Distance (Vertical) was insufficient as well!
The 400 & higher models have more Z depth available! I have seen the "Galvin" lasers in video but never used one!
I started on a rented Trotec 300 and MAN do I miss that machine!
Hello Justin. Great info. Could suggest a good and comprehensive online training program to learn EZCAD 3 in English? Thank you
what machine did you use for the acrylic keychains?
Boss LS-1630
Cool channel, subbed!
I got a TroTec Speedy 100, it awesome. Worth every penny.
I was looking at their fiber marker, entry level Speed Marker 1300 is 50K, the little OMG might be what I'm looking for to get my feet wet.
Thanks! I started on rented Trotec's and miss them so much.
I would like to start a new business and what about xtool p2
What about 40 watt diode lasers?
I need a laser engraver to personalize guitar picks. Any advice?
Great video!
Thank you!
Would you mind sharing your supplier for acrylic?
Great video, thanks!
I'm interested in adding a laser head to the CNC machine I designed. Can you do a review on just the laser source needed for this? I think many people are interested in this.
Hi! I’d like to engrave small metal pieces and I am so overwhelmed by options. Does anyone have advice on what’s reasonable cost wise and the safety/set up? It’s all new to me!
Thanks
If doing metal you need a fiber laser. They are designed for metal. Unless you are trying to do crazy deep engravings you can get away with a 20w fiber. Some of them even have an enclosure so you will be good on safety. Check out Monport Laser or OMtech they have 20w fibers. They will run a couple grand but thats just the price for entry for metal.
I want to start business doing bottle, pen, cup, belt etc. What lesser should I buy
Many choices based off price. Need to make sure it has a rotary attachment.
What is the best and fastest laser for plastics?
Probably something from Trotec.
@@justinlaser thank you
Great video! But I'd like to have an opinion about InfraRed Laser. Regards.
Doing a review of the xTool IR module next video. So it should have at leas some insight there.
Hello, great content, thank you!
I want to engrave on metals and wood to mainly create memorabilia. Is X1 tools f1 model a good choice?
Maybe you could try a UV 5W laser marking machine
Do you like your Boss Laser mote than the Trotec you used back in 2015? I used a Speedy 200 for acrylic at a previous employer.
What do you think about OMTech CO2 midrange lasers? Thanks!
Oh god not even comparable to the Trotec. But they arent even remotely in the same price range so its like comparing a Ford to a Porsche when all I can afford is the Ford lol. Ive heard decent things from OMtech I would consider getting one if I ever replaced my current. I mainly keep an ear out for how people talk about customer service with these companies.
@justinlaser performance and warranty are key. Epilog claims to have bumper to bumper 2Y and I've asked for an itemized list from trotec. The main thing is the detail provided by the RF type laser tube on the small signage I need to produce. I only have experience with a trotec speedy 300, sorry about last post a 200 doest exist lol
Justin! thanks for the tips, man! looking to expand my sources of income and put my money to work. This was a great way to dip my toes in and learn about what technology is available.
A question for you... What is the benefit of using a laser cutter over something like a cnc router? (for cutting not engraving)
Thanks for the kind words! I'm not well versed in CNC routers so someone can correct me but I think the laser is quicker and more precise if just doing cuts. If you are looking to create trays or something with variable depths in the design then the CNC would be the way to go. But if just cutting repeatable flat designs Id imagine the laser is a better option.
Sweet! thanks for the response@@justinlaser That makes sense, a CNC router would have to take multiple passes and require either hold downs or a vacuum table to keep the material stable with such high rpms.
I'm in the market for a new laser, previously owned 40w co2 laser similar to your boss laser. I'm trying to understand the difference between 60w and 100w. Based on google searches it seems like they have the same cutting/engraving abilities. Is speed/time the only benefit from the 100w?
Hi there, I need a laser engraver machine for leather. Do u have any suggestions?
Thanks a lot
For leather laser engraving, and engraving depth needs, the use of a CO2 laser machine is better, and the RF tube than glass tube service life is longer.😄😄
A great review, well done.
Thank you!
How about hybrid lasers: Fiber + C02 in one machine?
7:31 🦀 MOAR 🦀
I am looking to do mags, and need to make 500 a day, what is the best machine that can do it.?
I will be purchasing a business that currently outsources their engraving. I am looking to bring that in house. Majority of work will be on cylindrical surfaces. Mostly faux leather. Some metal. For a budget around $5K (or lower), what setup would you recommend?
Just engravings? If so I would look at a galvo system since they engrave way faster than the standard gantry machines. I would see if you could find out how well a fiber laser performs on faux leather because if its good enough, that covers the metal as well.
@@justinlaser Thank you very much for the advice. I was aware of fiber lasers but had not heard of a galvo system. Your recommendation makes a lot of sense.
Hey there! Is there a laser engraver you would recommend for leather and metal for under $500?
You would need a fiber to do metal and leather. There are many under $500 that can do leather but not metal.