Glowforge Basic vs Plus

[@hacklabdesign]

Hi everyone! The Plus is no longer has 45 watt but is faster than the Basic , but both dropped in price. I’ll make an updated video.

[@MosaicSplash]

I appreciate the comment of “get the basic and you can grow into getting the next level”

[@visionizm]

Every comparison (including this one), says the same thing in reference to the difference between these two, (the Basic and the plus, that the Plus has 5 wats more power, and is a bit faster), I really wish you would have put that in real life terms, and does that mean that there are certain sizes of materials that the Plus can cut that the Basic can't? Come on man you have both machines, you should've run a side by side test on the same run to see how much faster. The only reason I would buy the Plus over the Basic is if the Basic actually cuts certain material that the Basic can't.....Thanks anyway for the vid :)

[@hacklabdesign]

visionizm Thank you for your feedback I was thinking about making another one of these now that I’ve Have them working together for two months I now know that they are not just different in the power but they are also different in the type of cuts because a more powerful loser can do less damage because it uses less passes and thicker woods so if you have thin material get the basic. Also you can ask me any questions you want I don’t know of any other person that has made a video that has these two machines side-by-side so I’m here if you have any questions.

[@JudeSturman]

I didn’t see an updated video on Glowforge, do you still recommend the basic versus the plus’ new specs? @hackLAB

[@hacklabdesign]

Glowforge nor any 45-60 watt laser is capable of cutting metal. It etched beautifully.

[@BritgirlTX]

LOL re: the cup and lettering side ... welcome to the left-handed world!

[@Coadman88]

Based on the GlowForge website, you're incorrect in stating that the Plus has 5 more watts of power then the basic. The basic and the plus both share the wattage of 40W. The Pro is the only one that has an up, to 45W.

[@hacklabdesign]

Cody Applegate Cody is it possible that they changed the model because I bought this a year ago if not more. I’ll look into this today but mine is a 45 W and it’s not the pro

[@Coadman88]

I'm wondering if you may have a first Gen or something? Maybe they did come 45W originally. I could be wrong as well, but the current website states that only the pro is 45W and both the basic and plus are 40.

[@hacklabdesign]

Cody Applegate, maybe? my order says 45watt about 1.5 yrs ago I’m going Pro next. Can’t wIt to do larger signs with pass thru.

[@Coadman88]

Yea, I'd love to know why the Plus apparently used to be 45w and now no longer is. I've just finished watching a live stream from them from back 11/19 and even the CEO himself described only the Pro being capable of 45w. This is interesting, and also slightly unsettling that previously the plus was 45w and no longer is.

[@hacklabdesign]

Cody Applegate I don’t know, it could be the price of laser tube went up?? Maybe After tariff policy changed. I paid 3995 for my Basic at kickoff, they are now 2500.

[@gotfaith1311]

Hello & Great Job Sir! I like the Pro but I don't need the slot for long stuff only because of cooling. "Garage Setup in Texas" Do you run your Plus all day and if so does it stop. Thanks for all the good information ☆☆☆☆☆👍👍

[@hacklabdesign]

Jesus Rock If you’re going to do this for a business you don’t want any cooling issues with one glow Forge so I would get the pro just for the extra cooling an extra laser power. You could also put an AC unit in your garage and keep your place more comfortable for you and get the plus. But if you were going to do this for a business you will need the 45 white one not the 40 Basic.

[@gotfaith1311]

@@hacklabdesign Thanks for responding! Yes I was thinking about a ceiling fan and A/C unit just to save on buying the Pro if doing this will help. So you run your Plus all day and it don't stop and does it put out a lot of heat. Good feedback sir👍

[@pinewoodguy4222]

Evening, I get the coffee in the evenings to get stuff done. Had a question, through your experience the media has to be flat, correct? I was thinking of doing etching on hat brims, any advise? Thanks and great video. Patrick

[@soundtherapy4082]

Love your video!💜💜💜 just subscribed

[@hacklabdesign]

Yay! Thank you!

[@hacklabdesign]

you bet.

[@tammyinman7519]

My husband and I might be buying the Glowforge. Which is better for small business just starting out, the plus or pro? Also I've seen a lot of video's and seems like you need to be very precise in measurements and lining it up where you want it engraved. I'm a bit worried about that and waste of material perfecting the spot you want engraved. Any advice?

[@hacklabdesign]

Tammy Inman I understand, I figured this out early on, you first cut out the outline in scrap wood, without engrave pass, then remove piece and insert engraved blank, then buy run only engrave pass. Works perfectly every time.

[@thomashowell1497]

How does the plus do with metal

[@ChargeEm]

Hi Ryan, How is the sounds on the glowforge? Have seen a few reviews saying that it's very loud? Any idea on that? :) Thanx for the vids 😁👌

[@hacklabdesign]

Søren Christensen nice to meet you it sounds like a computer fan.

[@kamyanorville645]

Nice video..can i cut wood names at least 2 ft long with the basic?

[@hacklabdesign]

Kamya Norville 20”

[@kamyanorville645]

@@hacklabdesign awesome,thanks

[@CoolGuy-sp9ib]

I just got the same mug but with my name on it as a birthday gift. Small world

[@daddysam18]

Hi can glowforge etch on a pine wood?..your information is very helpful..I'm contemplating on basic vs pro

[@jaredjones6570]

It definitely can.

[@fernandagarcia-cubas6843]

Did you notice a big increase in your electric bill after getting your glow forge? We are thinking about getting one for our small business at home but we were wondering about that!

[@hacklabdesign]

fernanda garcia-cubas it actually less than a light 60 watt you accidentally left on at night. So no. The fan is a computer fan and the laser doesn’t run that long at 45 watts.

[@hacklabdesign]

fernanda garcia-cubas you could probably save that electric cost by upgrading your lights to LED

[@fernandagarcia-cubas6843]

Thanks so much :)

[@tahomyjo]

@@fernandagarcia-cubas6843 I live in a huge two story home with five bedrooms and about three years ago I switched EVERY lightbulb over to LED and I couldnt believe the reduction of my power bill because a lot of these lights are kept on 24-7

[@damiandobbs9422]

Have you ever tried to engrave or cut any material with the door open and applying a magnet to bypass the security feature? I have paddles that I need to engrave and curious to know that if a magnet would allow the system to think the door is open and engrave the wood. Thanks

[@hacklabdesign]

Yeah that’s absolutely possible you’re going to have a issue with exhaust though the door is much larger open then the pass-through on the pro but you could theoretically do this and make a an adapter of course this is do at your own risk.

[@damiandobbs9422]

@@hacklabdesign Have you actually left the door open on the plus to complete a project and did it work?

[@stevenhauser653]

Hello, how how long would it take about using the basic to engrave a name such as Steve into a piece of pine. Thank You

[@TriBunny]

Thank you so much for this review. I've been wanting to get a Glowforge, but the price was daunting and I wasn't sure what the specs truly meant. I will definitely use your referral code when I take the plunge!

[@hacklabdesign]

You can probably make all of your money back with The referral code system and making gifts for your local network of friends. I’m really excited for you that is an amazing creative power you’ll have in your house.

[@hacklabdesign]

Thank you

[@hacklabdesign]

You’ll probably make all your money back on the referral codes and making things for friends and family I’m very excited for you to have this creative power in your house

[@TriBunny]

@@hacklabdesign I bought it. Thanks again!

[@joeyphillips6597]

@@hacklabdesign How do you apply to get in the referral system

[@theymustliveco.3365]

Thanks for the video man. Me and my wife are thinking of making the purchase for our side hustle.

[@hacklabdesign]

Karmanic Music you won’t regret it, which version? What do you make?

[@theymustliveco.3365]

@@hacklabdesign currently a screen printer full time, but me and the wife are trying to start a side hustle with engraved charcuterie boards and wedding signage. (Also into woodworking and just creating in general haha)

[@duaneroy8801]

Hey dude.....both the Glowforge basic and plus are 40 watts. You don't jump to 45 watts until you go to the pro.

[@hacklabdesign]

Thanks for watching. I’ve owned my plus for 2 years , they changed the machine specs , my plus is 45 watt.

[@hacklabdesign]

My name is Ryan. Nice to meet you Duane.

[@RubiconXing]

Thanks for the video! It came at a perfect time when I'm trying to consider which is the best choice for me. Does it cut 1/8th acrylic well, with clean edges and minimal fogginess? Could you upload how that would look on basic vs. plus? Thanks so much for the vid :)

[@hacklabdesign]

RubiconXing cuts 1/8 like butter , a comparison video coming (in f I have clear acrylic in stock)

[@RubiconXing]

@@hacklabdesign Thanks so much!

[@bitcuriousmom3124]

I would actually like to see a comparison of materials used on each - like the basic can use a Max size of this kind of wood or acrylic and here’s what it looks like and the Plus can go up to this size of the same material. So we can see it. Please and thanks.

[@Tcedotal]

Hey I'm curious about the rack. I'm ordering my family one here in the next few days and I'd be interested in the rack details.

[@hacklabdesign]

Tyler Cedotal Are you ordering a glowForge? if so that’s really cool you can find a rack at Walmart here is the link images.app.goo.gl/G6Bh2ou1TQdTVRqT7

[@gotfaith1311]

@@hacklabdesign Hello, I couldn't get a good look at your setup "Five-Shelf Heavy-Duty Steel Shelving" will you please send me some pictures so I can get some ideas on my future shop. Text or email is fine 832-541-3937 [e-mail] Thank you so much sir!

[@KimandGarrettmakeit]

This was great! Thanks! I want a Glowforge so bad.

[@hacklabdesign]

Kim and Garrett make it the referral income will pay for it, I bought mine using affirm financing, and paid for it with glowforge referrals .

[@tedbojanowski7666]

I'm thinking of getting the basic and using it to etch designs on my holsters I make. I only make 2-3 holsters a day so speed is maybe not needed. What so you think? Thanks.

[@hacklabdesign]

Ted Bojanowski I think that the basic will be fine, they just released a software update for enhanced cooling for all machines. If you have time to run the 5watts more of Plus will not be essential. I’m excited for you.

[@tedbojanowski7666]

@@hacklabdesign Thanks, good videos!

[@thamara926]

Can you print cookies.?

[@jac86347]

Hey, Do you know if the GlowForge will etch onto a curved surface? E.g. onto a teething ring?

[@willandersen3695]

They claimed they would during their kickstarter campaign, but I don't know if they actually pulled it off or not. It's a rather difficult thing to do, seeing as the laser has to be focused to the exact height it is etching at, otherwise you get a cut that's fuzzy/not well resolved.

[@scottperkins3769]

Thank you for this video trying to figure out which one to get. I have a business and I do a lot of engraving, but I also want to start making a lot of thing a as well for my business. How fast does the basic engrqve? Vs. Plus? Again thanks for this review I subscribed and hit the bell . like your videos

[@hacklabdesign]

Engraving is one of those things that it’s very critical but it moves quickly so you can get as many projects done as possible I bet you that the Plus or the pro will pay for itself quickly if you’re aggressive with your online store and networking on Facebook marketplace

[@ku6479]

Just came across you page, DUDE YOU SAVED ME $600.00 thanks for that promo code!!

[@hacklabdesign]

Great, when did you order. Let me know if need any files. Thanks

[@Gokhanbaykall]

if i just want cut and engrave felt so is the basic better for me?

[@hacklabdesign]

Plus is faster for etching hands down but Basic will do the job. If this is for a real money maker get the Plus.

[@Gokhanbaykall]

@@hacklabdesign tahank u so much its a hobby/job.my wife is cutting all the day in a different room and will save her time :)

[@hacklabdesign]

@@Gokhanbaykall Very happy for you, when are you going to go for it. make sure to use my discount link glowforge.com/hacklab

[@Gokhanbaykall]

@@hacklabdesign yeah i will but first i must travel form turkey to seattle and i will do that :) couse all the laser cutters here in turkey are from china and i dont want a lser cutter made by china.40×60 china brends are 3-4k in turkey and thry are huge.i have a son and i dont want any cutter who makes cancer.and of course i must wait 4weeks delay for the basic.

[@sartre13]

so the main differende is, that i can cut faster with the PLUS. But both machines, basic and plus, can do the same materials and thicknesses, right?

[@hacklabdesign]

sartre13 I think your right , faster with plus , But if you’re going to do this long term it’ll probably be less wear on the laser tube if it runs less it’s up to you. Regardless I’m really excited for you it’s a really fun machine I was Cutting a leather watch last night with really thick leather

[@hacklabdesign]

sartre13 this links gets you $100 off basic and $250 off plus glowforge.com/hackLAB

[@sartre13]

@@hacklabdesign can there be wear? I thought a laser is constantly always the same.

[@hacklabdesign]

sartre13 well a lot less than those cheap imported lasers but everything wears, you will not wear out this robe before you make enough money to pay for it. You’re going to love it, but you have to learn on to design a little. Basic shapes😊

[@JamesBond-py8xs]

Love this. Brand new to this idea and don't really know much about this or sure of how it can be a profitable source of income yet, but very interesting. Nothing better than having a craft or hobby that you really love doing and making a real income from

[@hacklabdesign]

So glad, it's changed my life. connected me with a lot of cool fun people.

[@erinmarie3535]

I love your channel! You're so creative yet practice. I'm using your code to order my forge! Thanks for publishing GREAT content for home creators!

[@hacklabdesign]

Thank you! When are your ordering? What model? very exciting.:] I'll share my store coupon code when you buy.

[@erinmarie3535]

@@hacklabdesign I think the Plus model is going to fit my needs. My plans are to use it as a hobby tool and step slowly into creating merchandise for our local school districts. I think it would be fun to create unique projects that can serve the schools' booster clubs in their fundraising endeavors :)

[@hacklabdesign]

@@erinmarie3535 sounds great. You could make a ton of fund raiser products with branded school logos, mascots, events, dances, science fairs, etc. let me know how I can help.

[@lisasi2490]

First comment ever on KZbin...I just used your link Ryan. I bought the Plus, so you should be getting 300.00 from my purchase. I just wanted to let you know.

[@hacklabdesign]

Lisa Si thank you. You’re going to love it!! Did you see the video I just uploaded about dust masks made on glowforge?

[@Javi-tp7cm]

Appreciate your videos & energy!

[@davep6479]

Will the basic cut 1/4 ply? I design and build model airplanes. Most of the material will be 1/8 ply and balsa, so I figure if it will do the 1/4 inch I shouldn't have a problem with smaller material. Would there be a problem with cutting balsa, say 1/16, 1/32, or does the laser have a problem cutting such thin light wood as balsa?

[@hacklabdesign]

Dave P Absolutely quarter inch plywood that’s my staple go to thickness

[@hacklabdesign]

Dave P But there is inconsistency with plywood sometimes based on the glue and the leveling so the plus definitely is more reliable for not helping to make a secondary pass

[@davep6479]

@@hacklabdesign Thank you for the quick response, you said you had a referral code, I'm still in the thinking stage, but would be glad to use it when I purchase. Thanks again.

[@hacklabdesign]

Dave P glowForge.com/hacklab will give a discount on everything you’re going to love it!

[@oldconspiracydude236]

Hi ,Have you tied this to create stencils by burning an etch resist on metals ?

[@hacklabdesign]

Old Conspiracy I have not tried this that sounds really cool do you know how to do this

[@oldconspiracydude236]

@@hacklabdesign , I just purchased a machine this week expecting delivery in three weeks. one of the first project I plan on doing is doing a brass plaque by burning a stencil and etching with ferric chloride.

[@hacklabdesign]

Old Conspiracy Dude what will stencil be made of?

[@oldconspiracydude236]

@@hacklabdesign , take a sheet of metal spray it with black acrylic paint and then burn off the areas you want to etch with ferric chloride

[@Fiestafunjumps]

Hello, I’m starting my business selling caps, belts so on , I need a machine that will laser leather , leather patches to sew on caps and gear . Which machine would be best for that ?

[@hacklabdesign]

Fiesta Fun Jumps for business , better cooling , especially for longer belts, go Pro . Sounds like a really fun business I can’t wait to see what you make.

[@sheena2350]

Thank you! Very helpful!

[@aethelred3766]

Very distractable review (plugging your coffee?) but super helpful nonetheless, super appreciate the promo code too!

[@virginiacommonwealthroaste2070]

You should be drinking Virginia Commonwealth Roasters coffee... ;)

[@edselfaunillan3188]

Great video, I’m still on search mode on how can I make money on GF

[@Boostedsyty1]

Sounds like every Fair seller pushing pots and pans

[@hacklabdesign]

Steve Doss hi Steve, I have no idea what this mans. I Hope you’re safe and healthy.

[@theburtshop]

Thanks u deserve it

[@cmacclel]

Sea Doo FIsh pro? LOL

[@hacklabdesign]

Chris Mac yes, the 1st thing I bought after my garage laser side hustle took off. Do you fish?

[@cmacclel]

@@hacklabdesign Yup me an a buddy bought 2 about 5 months ago. Both had Carbon Seal failure's at 10 hours :( Love them though!

[@hacklabdesign]

Chris Mac I love mine. Sry that happened. I have a cupholder/rod holder attachment for the front of that fish ski if you ever interested, it’s something that I cannot live without now that I’ve been out on the water more.

[@cmacclel]

@@hacklabdesign I designed a quick detach trolling motor setup that uses the LinQ setup. On and off in seconds. Any pictures of your Rod holder?

[@jaredjones6570]

Coffee is a "healthy" drink??? Since when?

[@hacklabdesign]

Jared Jones - coffee is healthier and better than beer. Coffee has a shit load of antioxidants, google it. I hope you’re enjoying your glow forge . Peace and love - Ryan

[@Klemenis]

Since always

[@jaredjones6570]

@@hacklabdesign What isn't healthier than beer?

[@jaredjones6570]

Yep. I'm loving the GF, but I'm struggling with ideas for what to make.

[@hacklabdesign]

Jared Jones I make most of my money with wedding gifts with custom names , kids name puzzles, and I etch Star Wars stuff into hound wood, people love it. My machines have paid for themselves x3.