Should you buy a laser engraver? Or is it just a waste of money

[@DIYMontreal]

►I since upgraded my laser. Watch the update video kzbin.info/www/bejne/f2GVmKqolrmIbaM ►Shop the xTool SALE bit.ly/xTool-Sale

[@kannayabujjitalli]

Hi I need to engrave on a steel tumbler I have like 80 piecies Can u pls guide me or if j can order that's fine too Pls let me know .. thankq

[@craigo9101]

OMG FINALLY someone that breaks everything down cost wise and equipment wise. Thank you for giving us all the extras with manufacturer and fails with said equipment. I am trying to set up a resin 3D printer with the exhaust fan like you have. I have now ordered 4 fans that have not done what I need to vent the smell. I think I have finally figured it out but just from your video I see your system works. So thank you for this video.

[@jens1230]

Watching this helped me know that this laser life will not work for me or for my house, neighbours and family. This was such an informative video. Thank you!!! 😊

[@pdxgigi720]

I wish I'd come across this video BEFORE I purchased my laser. This is a real review folks! Heed Marie's warnings. Hardly anyone mentions the smoke smell. I don't mind the learning curve on any of my tools but the smoke, I just can't get past. I immediately purchased the enclosure the grid followed by the inline fan. I still get a lot of smoke in my shop which is unfortunately a two car attached garage so it leaks into the house. I also noticed that the items that come out of the laser(I have the same one you do in Iron man red, because, why not) and those things smell like smoke too. I've heard many a influencer say the smell fades. I have several xmas ornaments that still smell like fire and it's dang near July. Also, it's worth mentioning, I'm not that sensitive to smoke and if it didn't cause cancer I'd be just fine with saw dust flying in my face all day. I'm sure I'll get back to it at some point, but so far it has not been the accessory tool for my woodshop I thought it would be. Expensive lesson learned. Now my $300 dollar 3d printer has been awesome. Yes, that's a hint, Marie.

[@angelw4113]

I was considering a 3D printer. what 3d printer do you have

[@pdxgigi720]

@@angelw4113 I have the Ender 3 S1 Pro. Great starter unit.

[@iconoclast1970]

This is honestly the most useful video for someone who is completely new to laser engravers. Many thanks!

[@jayo5678]

I can't say thank you enough for being so honest about what to expect after buying a laser engraver.

[@KJMarchelak]

A honest reviewer with a clear perception on lasers. Thank you.

[@michaelgibson8217]

One of the things you may want to consider is proper eyewear. Your laser is operating around 445 nm, and you need an ORANGE lens to filter that out. The goofy green or red ones they provide with these devices will not adequately protect you. I suggest you get a pair from a reputable company - they are about $100.00 a pair - and make sure it is written on the lens (normally above the left eye) OD7 190-540 NM. These should also block the light from entering the side as well. A sign posted outside the area stating ‘laser in use’ would be a good next project for you.

[@MarkMcCluney]

I agree wholeheartedly Michael. I'm not a home laser user but I had experience of them during my time as a physicist. I'm getting a little concerned about the slightly cavalier use of these tools in the home workshop and especially the possibility of stray laser reflection. I had assumed that the goggles were of decent quality and appropriate wavelength filtration but now that you mention it I doesn't surprise me that there not the greatest! Thanks for highlighting these possible risks.

[@Tommy.461]

I ran a 3000 watt co2 laser cutting steel and other metals for a short while and have three "floaters" from reflections. They happen so fast you don't even see them til later.

[@trekgod3]

You absolutely can cut clear acrylic on a diode laser, you just need to temporarily paint the surface of the acrylic. There's plenty of tutorials available on KZbin

[@ALJessica]

@@Tommy.461what is a floater?

[@Jinkypigs]

​@Tommy.461 dude more likely you already have yours floaters.....

[@bigburlymikesmswoodworking]

A lot of KZbinrs don't necessarily talk about the learning curve and the number of failures before the piece finally comes out the way they want. Thanks for sharing some of that. I think it's probably a good idea to have more time on the software and a few designs ready to go before even buying the laser. If I ever decide to purchase one, I might go that route if possible. Thanks for your incite on lasers. I hope you stick with it and share the rest of your journey with all of us.

[@DIYMontreal]

Agreed! Worth learning software and having some designs before even getting one. And definitely doing a lot of research!

[@neil999ish]

Hell, i am even getting 3d prints (fiber) failures after 2 years. I am looking at getting a laser engraver and see what 'fun' i can have. Lol.

[@glenpaul3606]

you mean insight...lol

[@dz4691]

Xtool laser engraver is coool ,just it seems high price for his honeycom laser bed, we saw HogarDecor only half price compare than Xtool laser bed.

[@NicholsKT]

this makes sense; it'll be less disappointing to have the designs ready as soon as setup is complete, plus, if you can start using the laser right away, itll provide return time, if necessary

[@lucasmendez1532]

Finding honest people like you that review products in youtube is close to imposible. Thank you very much.

[@MassimoTodaro74]

so true

[@DanTuller]

Just wanted to say I watch pretty much every woodworking channel I can find and you’ve been consistently the most helpful. Love your build videos, and this one was extremely helpful for someone who’d been half considering a laser cutter without really thinking about it seriously. Appreciate the review!

[@georgekramer5262]

ditto that. Clear, real, reviews, honest useful information and not a whole bunch of swag and over-priced "must have" tools like a lot of the other channels. Marie, you're far more real and practical. Thank you!

[@jigsey.]

Maria is the best out of all... explains everything

[@DIYMontreal]

Thank you kindly, truly appreciate that!

[@larrye]

Finally, a real review that goes in-depth on a laser cutter. I want to get one but realistically, I don't have the time to invest. Thanks for the info.

[@tommysts1920]

Well, you made me think twice about getting a laser. I really don't have room for one anyhow, and I'm 71 and not Daddy War Bucks. Love watching your videos and other DIY folks out there. Much better than wasting what's left of my brain on mainstream media stations. Keep up the good work kid!

[@MrKnotWright]

I agree there is a big learning curve, but its been fun. I first bought a 10 watt diode laser, but quickly got a 60 watt CO2 laser and am really enjoying it. The focal point is the most critical part to get right, to get good clean cuts. Lightburn is definitely worth the time learning. Thanks for the review. Love your channel.

[@DIYMontreal]

Thanks, that's encouraging! Will definitely look into lightburn

[@-______-______-]

What machine(s) did you use. The same one with different laser, or 2 different machines?

[@dennisfahlstrom2515]

I sure enjoy seeing a woman who enjoys wood working as a hobby. You and Tamar are two of my favorites. No hype or unnecessary drama seen on too many of the other wood channels, just good projects delivered with a smile and some good, well thought out and upbeat speaking. I hope you can make some good income from it and keep your videos up for a long time. We love Canada too. It’s been a favorite vacation spot for us for many years. You folks have your priorities right. I hope we can see Montreal before either of us cash in our chips.

[@NicholsKT]

same

[@BGIS2000]

I notice most youtube give wrong information about the products or they dont mention cons side of the products. Thanks for being independent and honest.

[@5lipscomb]

Thank you for this very honest, detailed and helpful video. We have been thinking about a laser cutter or a CNC recently, and your video answers many of our questions. It also helps since you answer questions we wouldn't have known enough to ask before. We appreciate people like you who offer straightforward, practical information regarding your personal experiences. Well done!

[@McGehe]

Turning down seductive collab offers is probably a lot harder than what most ppl think. So props to you for doing the hard thing and staying true to yourself and your reviews.

[@matrixgunsmithing8060]

I appreciate you taking the time to bring honesty forward. I am about to purchase my first laser and was not thinking about “Smell”. Now I will reevaluate my decision and start learning about ventilation. Thank You!

[@ZOEng99]

I'm a Montrealer living in Hong Kong for more than 20 years. Watching your videos brings back memories of suburbia, garages and everyday DIY. I love what you do....so clear, honest, informative. Thank you

[@ovrskr]

Not a lot of space there in the apartment to DIY, thats for sure!

[@rainbowwarpig3536]

Lady you out informed your competition. Most honest review EVER! Glad to see you’re not taking gifts from sponsors. Thanks for this honest information. 10 out of 10 review😎

[@GeorgeLoch]

This was really helpful. I see a lot of videos talking about the potential and side hustle opportunities these provide, but not much about the reality of using them. I defenitely see what they can add to a workshop, a lot of creative possiblities there, but now I see it's not printing money. Thanks for the video!

[@DIYMontreal]

Exactly! Potential is there, but may take some time to unlock it. I hope I get there eventually :)

[@Seneca84]

I have one and I think it's great and really useful, I would defend the laser engraver but, this said, I totally agree that it's important to also understand the downside and do some research before spending the money.

[@Ziplock9000]

The potential for side jobs is 99% down to being in the right place at the right time and knowing the right people who want laser engraving for their business.

[@aderitoofumane3577]

Very honest, she is not promoting, she is telling the truth. The other KZbinr guys are quite like traders....😢

[@jonaseriksson5750]

Yes, thank you very much for saying something others seem to forget. My laser was a much cheaper one - I paid $300 for it. But then I had to pay as much for the cheapest fan, bed and enclosure solution I could find.

[@anthonyraker2980]

i subscribed the second you are not sponsored. more people should start doing that

[@davidburns4143]

Thanks for sharing all the different views on owning a laser engraving machine.. I have one that sits here and I've bought it because if tye trend a the time but also I thought I'd try something different. However , ince it's been sitting here staring back at me. Lol , 've decided to learn about it and give it a try. But I am happy you've given me all the ins and outs to why I haven't builtmy machine yet. And yes , aving that burnt smell of plastics and metals throughout my house would just give me a headache. So I will either build a box with a acuum hose and fan or try and buy one pre made for the model I have. All thanks to you sharing about your experiences with one. Thank you again for all the informative information. . .

[@signptr]

Thanks so much, I watched your video the very day after placing my order for the X-TOOL D1. You bring out a lot of information that no one before you has even hinted at. Thank you. Please keep doing what you do.😊 ❤

[@Lensman64]

We have an M1 Ultra arriving today. One of the reasons we bought this unit is because of the exhaust setup and also the protective covering (plus the crazy versatility of the 3 other modular tools). For us safety came 1st for us. The deal we got was super crazy and it included every thing you can image including heat presses, air assist fire safety, materials... Thanks for your video.

[@joelcopeland3018]

One of the best and honest videos on lasers I've seen... Thanks so much...

[@michaelmckenney7214]

I love that you had the same experiences as I did, and it was very helpful that you hung in there. I’ve been able to engrave several of my shop projects, but the learning curve cuts my hourly rate down to less than a dollar an hour. I sure hope that I (we) get better and faster at this soon. I guess that’s why they call these “hobby lasers”.

[@llothar68]

So make a "How i make $24 dollar a day with a laser" video and enjoy the fame.

[@allanmarkby4177]

Thank-you. I've been wanting to add a laser engraver/cutter and your "6 things to know " definitely helps. I got distracted while I evaluated the desktop/hobbyist CNC with laser option versus dedicated laser. I've now decided on dedicated laser with honeycomb, air assist and a custom enclosure. Thanks again!

[@DIYMontreal]

Awesome, glad this was helpful in your decision!

[@hexdef6423]

As someone who is no stranger to CNC, I worked in an engraving shop and a more stereotypical style shop. I just bought my first laser and got it set up and you make some valid points that I didn't even think of, number one being exhaust. I did find ; if you know where to look, fans can be found much less expensive price point if you're willing to sacrifice an outlet for it. that does circle back to "do your research"/"know what material you're using" this little laser cuts fabric like a dream and if you cut it damp there is no ignition point. I will say that more proprietary software is light years ahead of what is out there right now open to the public in the ability of plug and play and has less of a learning curve, but the foundation is still the same so it will come with time and will almost become second nature knowing the idiosyncrasies with your machine.

[@Hotsparks66]

Last year I was really considering a laser, but like you said, the more I learned about ventilation and having to constantly watch it, I decided against it. I’ll stick to my 3D printing, which I just upgraded to a Bambu. I’m happy.

[@mikeandlucky]

Thanks for this information. Prevented me from getting myself into something that would take too much time and effort away from woodworking.

[@FatlighterWC]

Can't tell you how many woodworkers that hate on CNC and lasers think they are push and play. I have my first laser being delivered soon and thanks to my CNC work pretty much knew what to expect. Great video covering it all.

[@DIYMontreal]

Yeah I figure CNCs have a similar leaning curve. Is that accurate?

[@FatlighterWC]

@@DIYMontreal I would say so

[@Erik_The_Viking]

Great overview of the reality of laser cutters, and appreciate your honesty. I always found it amusing that other YT channels are cutting all sorts of materials wide open in a shop without any venting. As you mentioned, burning plastic, wood and other materials makes a very nasty smell and not good for your health. I'd rather spend the money on tools that I would actually use.

[@dtork47]

Really appreciate your honest and candid appraisal of the laser. Jury is still out for me!

[@AmateurTechno]

As a user of larger CO2 lasers, I found your Vlog interesting, I get a lot of people asking about the small desktop lasers and your comments were instructive. It is worth mentioning that there are a lot of materials you should not try to engrave or cut as they produce dangerous fumes, you should only buy special sheets of wood that are for laser cutting and some plastics are very toxic.

[@a.j.simmonds6324]

As a professional woodworker I'm curious about these special sheets of wood that are for laser cutters, I mill my own lumber and use over 30 species of wood in my laser, this is the 1st time I've heard of special sheets of wood for laser cutting.

[@xXEvilReaperXx]

I bought one and have enjoyed using it. I also have a CNC, which is the centre of my workflow. The laser, for me, is simply an accessory tool. I've seen others that have the laser as their main tool and it works well for them.

[@Blake-gh8xl]

None sponsored, none donated review.... thank u!!!

[@NWGR]

I appreciate your honesty here Marie. Imust have watched a dozen or more laser videos to see if a laser is right for my shop and few, if any, mention the things you have in this video, but then again, those were all "product provided for review but my opinions are my own", so not very reliable source material. And this is from some pretty big and popular woodworking channels too. I'll eventually get a laser for the shop, but right now, the focus is strictly saving for a CNC. Thanks again. edit: I love the pineapple shirt. 🙂

[@stretch3736]

Great video..I learned on a 5 watt Ortur that I bought on Aliexpress 3 years ago for $400 and I just upgraded to the Xtool 20 watt. I use it in my garage and as I am also in Canada I will set up a ventilation system for when winter hits. I love using the laser to engrave my logo and with the 20 watt it’s opened up the possibilities of making more signs. Lightburn is very user friendly and there are lots of KZbin tutorials on it. But if you already have a CNC then the design principles are very similar. I agree with all your points and I think that some planning and forethought should go into it before making a purchase. This applies to any tool you’re thinking about purchasing.

[@kz.irudimen]

Thank you for the unbiased review. I'm sure most of the creators who receive free tools are well intentioned and do not lie to their audience on purpose, but when you receive a tool for free it's not the same thing as buying it. I've bought tools that I thought were not great but usable, if I got them for free I would have been happier about them for sure. It's just normal/human.

[@sarehbagherichimeh9750]

I really appreciate the detailed list of the cost, including everything you actually need to use it! Thank you

[@soulhuntress]

I'm so glad I found your video by chance. Black Friday is here and I was just about to buy a laser. You saved me from a lot of frustration

[@stevencournoyer4191]

I’ve been researching lasers for the last month. I love your video and your approach. Your video gives a clear picture of the investment needed to be competent.

[@simonflr]

A no holds barred review... I don't think I want to have to attend to all the points you visited... Thanks, I believe you saved me a lot of money...

[@chrisjessee9789]

I bought my first laser in 2006 and subsequently 5 more. Built a multi- million dollar business using lasers. Best investment I ever made.

[@Psycho-Facts]

Which one do you suggest with 700-800 dollars ?

[@chrisjessee9789]

@@Psycho-Facts I wouldn't recommend any laser in that price range.

[@Psycho-Facts]

@@chrisjessee9789 my budget is max 1000 dollars. Any in that price range?

[@FreestyleGGD]

What’s your business? If you don’t me asking of course.

[@citadelmedia8553]

Encouraging thanks.

[@Blazelaserengraving]

Wow thank you for such an honest review- Haven’t been able to find anybody honest as you!

[@chrismalone3233]

Great video and very informative. I backed the Elegoo Phecda 20w Laser without really knowing what I was doing.. fortunately I bought all the extras with the Kickstarter promotion. First thing I had to do was get an enclosure and exhaust system. Thank you for making this video, everyone buying a Laser or new to Lasers should watch!

[@keithlevkoff8579]

Excellent summary... and I absolutely agree that people should do a LOT of research before "taking the step"... Your video offers an excellent overview of what's REALLY involved in using a diode LASER to DO stuff... I just purchased XTool's new F1 unit - the one with the desktop air filter and the dual diodes. Now, to be fair, the company where I work has a big CO2 LASER, so I'm quite familiar with the limitations, as well as the benefits. And I've also got a lot of experience with graphic arts software... so that won't be a problem either. I absolutely agree that the ads, as well as most of the FIY videos, tend to ignore quite a few really significant issues... Like smoke and smell, and the experimentation required to choose settings, and even the materials themselves... And most seem to sort of gloss over the fact that, when you "cut" with a LASER, you are basically burning through the material... (It's not like in the sci-fi movies where the material just disappears when the beam hits it.) I think it's also worth mentioning that a lot of the limitations CAN be overcome... but even that can be complicated. For example, you CAN engrave on glass or clear acrylic with a diode LASER, but it's really complicated... And it takes lots of extra steps... And, if you watch the various videos, you'll see that many of the methods don't actually work especially well anyway... (At this point a lot of this is still "experimental"... ) I think I would add one piece of advice... specifically for people who want to engrave photos and images... Watch A LOT of videos about setting up your images... and how halftones work... and raster vs vector... and line vs fill... There's a lot to learn there... and you need to get it right if you want to produce good looking artwork on a LASER... If you just "import a a picture into LightBurn and hit print" you're probably NOT going to be happy with the results... I would equate it to the person who "sets up a custom wood shop"... but neglects to consider sawdust... or tool maintenance. Or the person who buys a computer... but has no idea how to use it or what good software costs... or of the learning curve involved. Obviously "everyone" is NOT going to "come up with a LASER side hustle that will pay for the device in a week"... (But is sure does seem like a lot of people want you to THINK it's that easy... 🤨) And an awful lot of LASERs will end up on the shelf collecting dust...

[@SteveRayUK]

Hi Marie, great and honest video. 👍 if you want to learn lightburn I found a guy called Rich - the Louisiana hobby guy on KZbin and he has a LOT of videos / tutorials explaining how to do a ton of things with lightburn and laser engravers / cutters in general… I’ve learnt loads on how to use my atomstack a5 pro. Also, don’t quote me, but I think you may be able to cut clear acrylic (if it’s not too thick) if you paint the acrylic black first (so the light from the laser can be absorbed into it instead of reflected off it), then when it’s cut, just remove the black paint again with spirits etc I hope that helps. 👍

[@Sebastopolmark]

Thanks Marie for the video. What has been holding me back mostly is the software learning curve. I have enough problems working with Sketch-Up. You see all the things the engravers can do but there is a HUGE time commitment to achieve the end result. Your videos are always "spot on"! !! !!!

[@Chequr_Prostate]

The software is easy to use, if you can use sketch up I’d think you’d get the hang of light burn etc. But if you getting a laser to make money, then think hard about it. But for a hobby, why not.

[@colemine7008]

This is the best laser cutter video. I am sooo glad you addressed all the elephants in the room.

[@876Abb]

I'm not too fussy about how much time I will spend learning this piece of tool, the question for me is to find the right engraver. I know for a fact that Xtool and others source from China and then slap their logos on products selling them twice the price. No pun intended, it's all about business! (Even iPhones are made in China). I found an engraver from the manufacturer going to $450 and it's 20W with a 160 output power! it's a promo, and the shipping to Vancouver is $170, They seem to have over 1k reviews from international buyers. I own 2 other printing devices and looking for an additional tool. Your video answered all of my questions. My basement is already insulated and I could easily tackle the smell and smokey side of things, so thank you!

[@parker1ray]

I have two diode lasers, one co2 laser, three FDM printers and two resin printers. I print and sell all types of things. and no the lasers do not stink if you use an enclosure. I make several hundred dollars a week extra without even looking for work. This is like any other hobby that requires time in in order to learn the hobby. Many people are not willing to invest the time!

[@siphamandlamthwesi8399]

You are doing exactly what I want to do.

[@johnbarbuto5387]

What a fabulous service you provide! A truly insightful look at what needs to be considered in a laser engraver tool. Thank you! Definitely subscribed!

[@fehons]

Just like you I did not do enough research before buying my laser cutter and 6 months later it sits on a shelf, having only done a couple of test engravings. Thanks for the video.

[@zzzzzz4147]

Thank you for being so honest. I too almost went for the laser engraver but decided not to get one. There is quite a learning curve as far as the software is concerned. I will continue with my woodworking projects and making sawdust........... Love the smell of freshly sawed cedar. You're the best.

[@skeetarus]

This was by far the most informative video on laser cutters I've seen yet. I have a Cricut maker, a Creality Ender 3 3D printer and was considering getting the Creality Falcon 10W laser cutter so I can cut and engrave wood, leather, acrylic etc, to try to really round out my creative game. You've given me so much to think about. I never knew about the smell! I've seen in a lot of videos so far a lot of smoke and fumes coming up but as you say, the other KZbinrs don't mention that at all and make it seem like you can have it on the bench in your office with a window open for ventilation, which is clearly not the case. I'd be particulary concerned about cutting things like MDF which can give off formaldehyde. It's a shame really as I'm not sure I have anywhere suitable to put it now. Your DIY enclosure is excellent. I also really appreciate you showing the fails while trying to get the cut right, I'm sure there's a lot of wasted material in the early stages while on the learning curve. Great video, very helpful!

[@gm_fatboy]

Very helpful video. I was looking for a laser station for leather engraving and cutting, but I didn't think about additional accessories at all. Thank you for the right direction.

[@davidwilliams1060]

As well as the previously mentioned periodic tube replacement, co2 lasers seem to require expensive exhaust and cooling systems (add-on of course). I’m using $40 fire extinguishing balls above fire potential equipment (3D printers for now) but I still stay in the area. I probably have a laser in my future, so thanks for the information.

[@a.j.simmonds6324]

even Diode lasers need a ventilation system, I made a 30" Cube to put our 2 lasers inside, then ran 6"Inline fan with ducting out a window with a plywood flange.

[@jerrypritchard9605]

First I really enjoy your teaching methods. You are descriptive and concise something missing in a number of u-tube videos.

[@rubymaedelacruz6372]

i like how you provide detailed and honest review based on your experience. More to go

[@homecinemaman]

What an excellent video. Your presentation and no nonsense matter of fact demeanor is a breath of fresh air. I own a Xtool D1 pro and I am setting it up. Your explanation of items needed and how and why they are needed is spot on. Thank You

[@neilpountney9414]

What an awesome video Marie. I loved your sign it looked great. Thank you for your detailed description of what a laser owner will have to go through as we used to say "Forewarned is forearmed"

[@boydstongrove]

I've been wanting to invest in a laser for some time now and this vid was super helpful! Thank you for the open honesty, it's much appreciated!

[@sigh_of_the_times]

Lady Your a genius. That's a nice box you have there that's got to suck out a lot of the smoke and fumes.

[@thomasverga469]

Anything worth doing is going to take time to be good at. I got my laser about 6 months ago and did my first show about a week ago. Some things sold well others not so well. there is a learning curve to that as well. The great thing about the laser is that once you create a file you have it permanently and just have to open. it up and place your material. The other thing I like is that I can use the exact same file on different size material. It is easy to go between 8 x 11 down to 5 x 7. Don't give up Get the light burn software and go for it.

[@DIYMontreal]

Thanks for the encouragement. I'm definitely hoping this video will give me the kick I need to take this to the next level.

[@jraglob5924]

I have the same laser. When I am going to do something I am not sure of, I do a test on cardboard, change the setting for what I am going to use for the final and have good luck that way. Play with it, it gets easier.

[@Lutzboater]

Have no desire to buy a laser but if I did, I would rewatch your video. You are a breath of fresh air in the YT build community because of your not accepting free stuff. Way too many builder "Info-mercials" and songs of praise for the free stuff they received. Thanks for your frankness and interesting channel.

[@DIYMontreal]

Lol good to know I'm your laser envie killer 😄

[@HariniPada]

I'm so grateful for your insights! Really made me think twice about buying a laser engraver. Thanks for keeping it real! 💡

[@hawaii50cowboy]

Thank you for the Honesty and the whole shebang it takes to startup such and endeavour. It was straight forward and completely understandable. Great job!

[@vitoripca6181]

Best honest opinion about diode laser congratulations.

[@unexpectedjourney9900]

I have been thinking about getting a laser engraver here lately. Thought it would be a really nice addition to my shop. Thank you so much for passing along the information that was very helpful. And that sign turned out nice. 👍. Thanks again.

[@DIYMontreal]

Thanks! Hope this helps you in your thought process.

[@kevinvitale8980]

So glad I ran across your video… I was on the fence considering one of these. Too many negatives to dabble with the thing.

[@HandyChick]

Thank you so much for your video, I've been thinking of starting my own business, I have several options and one was this, but now I'll cross this one off my list, it's too much trouble, great honest video, thank you

[@gregoryjoslin9052]

Your one of the few that I look forward to seeing a video as a beginner . I've looked at lasers and working out of a 12x31 shed I've decided from your video this isnt for me. At 59 I have other things I need to learn or brush up on . Lol I took wood shop at school late 70s and worked in a Pattern and Model shop in the late 80s . So thanks for all you do ! Your Awesome!

[@CallipygianMoose]

For anyone thinking of getting a laser cutter and put off by the prices of the unit in this video it's good to consider the Longer RAY5 10W With HoneyComb Panel, Vented Enclosure, Air assist pump, roller, extension kit etc. 689 USD. It's the best place to start in my opinion. Only has focus of 0.06...I say ONLY like that matters to 99% of people who want an engraver (0.06 is still very, very good quality). Might have lower output wattage than the XTool D1 you have but honestly 10W is more than enough for most people's needs and you can always upgrade to 20W and still have it cheap. Doesn't need to be that costly for a good bit of kit.

[@KSFWG]

When I retired I had 16 years with large IBM main frame computers and 18 years with Personal Computers and Networks. I have absolutely no interest in laser cutters / engravers, 3D printers, CNC's, etc. I enjoy working with wood much more than sitting down to a computer. lol I'm not one that thinks that it is not wood working, it's just another tool, the same as a Fesstool domino. I just have no interest in the Domino, equally so with lasers and 3D printers. But it never hurts to watch an occasional video of them. Thanks for the video!

[@chipturner495]

Great informative and honest review. Thank you for not just trying to tell us all the great things about owning a laser engraver. I'll be watching more of your videos just based on your honesty!

[@albertapeet]

Had a K40 laser a buddy talked me into buying from him. It sat in my basement for over a year and I never touched it. Finally sat down and figured out how to run it enough to demo it and sell it. Now I am looking at getting one again. I think this video reminded me that it’s likley going to be a waste of money … again 😅

[@zangzang1268]

Probably the biggest thing I learned is to do testing. Test using test coupons to get settings optimal before doing the actual work piece. My next project will be a electronics test equipment rack that will be 14" tall and 13" wide x 11.5" deep. Material will be 1/4" birch plywood held together with 1/2" wood dowels. To get the correct hole size to fit the dowels will require some testing as will the best speed setting. Will use the xtool 40W blue laser, probably start at 50% power setting then adjust speed for optimal results on some scrap wood.

[@markbryan9989]

Thanks for this video! A laser is a big investment for a hobby shop. I have been vacillating on the idea of purchasing one. At least now I will be better prepared. The logo looked great!

[@CommercialForest]

Thanks for posting. This is the video I needed to see. My gut said laser cutters = an expensive & time-consuming learning curve. A feed full of (sponsored?) videos glossing over the tedium/frustrations/necessary add-ons & skipping to the fun almost got me.😄 I'm putting this on the backburner.

[@ghost_of_m403]

I really appreciate all the thought you put into pointing out things that are easy to take for granted. Thanks for taking the time and thanks for sharing.

[@jzar8806]

Love your amazing work ( projects and video content). Something else I found to consider is the cost of LightBurn license . Last I checked was about $200. I did my research and finally opted not to invest in a laser. I’m old school so I will continue with hand carving. Thank you for your great advice.

[@finnm.2582]

I own a (now) cheap 40 Watt China CO2 laser engraver which I have upgraded almost immediately. The base model was 200€ used on eBay and I‘ve changed the DSA first and upgraded the laser tube to a 40 Watt shortly after. It came already with a case and hood when I‘ve bought it. My exhaust system is almost the same as yours with one difference: I have a separate exhaust funnel that connects to my SLA Resin 3D Printer. If you think that a laser engraver smells you have never smelled a resin 3D Printer at work.

[@inquisitive1911]

Superb video. Honest and straight to the point without as you said in other words, feeling obliged to positively review a product that is free, when you did not get yours for free. Well done!!! Much love from Scotland, ❤ X ...

[@markrugby]

Trial and error a cut with a tiny circle till you get the settings right.. You could use a coaster 50 times to make sure settings is right instead of wasting material

[@bcmprgraphics6378]

This vid is awesome. I'm a designer and have been thinking of different which platforms (stickers, laser, DTG, etc.) to make some extra income. I keep circling back to laser but haven't felt I had enough info in regards to cost and supplies. I also never thought of the fume factor. I used to weld and know the risks of burning galvanized steel. Thanks for providing all the info I didn't consider.

[@chuckcrooks8816]

I consider your type and size laser a "Hobby" laser. The cost is low enough to get you interested and make projects that are simple. They are not going to pay your bills or make you a fortune. They are not that user friendly money makers that the advertisements rave about. I started out with a commercial laser that cost $16,000 dollars not counting a vent blower and software, but that was all I needed. The water cooled lasers from China are several steps below an American made commercial laser. They are problematic, short on parts and have little to no seller support. I applaud your enthusiasm and DIY attitude. I think you will do fine at whatever you attempt. You did a great job explaining your laser, its good and bad qualities.

[@IriezonaSunshine]

Wow! Thank you so much for this video. I didn’t know many things you’ve explained. Not many people break things down and honestly explain lasers 😮definitely a no go now that I watched this. My daughter and I wanted to purchase one to make some extra money to pay some medical expenses but we both have health issues and can’t risk anything more going wrong with us ❤

[@prius9253]

Perfect and thanks! Just what I needed to see! An honest assessment of owning such a device. I was ready to order the same Laser and really needed this reality check...not just for this brand, but any Laser. I expect a learning curve, the question for me is: do I have the TIME considering other things I do. Thank you again!!!

[@DIYMontreal]

THAT is exactly my issue. Lack of time for this machine considering everything else. Hope to carve out some time to make this purchase worthwhile!

[@lawrencekeating5571]

First off - great video! I’ve just started investigating a laser engraver for the love spoons I make. Didn’t take long after watching your video to nix that idea. Given the expense, space, peripherals , learning curve, headaches, etc. it just didn’t make sense. And the return on investment would take forever. Thank you for supplying the information I needed to make my decision 👍👍

[@Starman3539]

Thanks for a comprehensive coverage of the plus/minus regarding your laser setup. You have covered everything one should be aware of.

[@heidihein8662]

Thanks so much for this! I can use that kind of money for a more useful tool - and that cool DeWalt stool!

[@JimE6243]

Thank you so much. You just saved me $1,887.95 US. I really appreciate that you elected to purchase and not receive as a "test tool". That is the only reason I made it to the end. I have not faith in folks that say, "They gave me this buy you know me, I will give an honest review". Not if you want more free stuff. Have been a sub since I found your hexagon cutting jig and truly enjoy your content and style. Keep 'um comin'. Thanks. JimE

[@DIYMontreal]

Thanks Jim, will do!

[@ytbillybob]

I absolutely LOVE the lid holder opener thingy. KISS right? You make me smile!

[@victoriajohnson3034]

Please don't give up on this and post videos as you learn and do projects.

[@olisfer1]

Thank you for saving me from jumping in without thinking .