The Best Laser Engraver & Cutter to Get at ANY Budget

Want to buy a laser engraver or laser cutter? Here are my top recommendations for any budget!
The Laser Comparison Chart - pages.makeorbreakshop.com/las...
My Laser Test File: pages.makeorbreakshop.com/las...
Lightburn Course - course.makeorbreakshop.com/le...
LASERS MENTIONED (Affiliate)
Diode Lasers
- Aufero Laser 2 - geni.us/auferolaser2?track=yt...
- Aufero Laser 1 - geni.us/orturaufero?track=yt-...
- OMTech B10 - geni.us/omtech-light-b10?trac...
- Atomstack x20 - geni.us/atomstack-x20?track=y...
- xTool D1 Pro - geni.us/xtool_d1_pro?track=yt...
Budget Industrial CO2 Lasers
- OMTech MF1220-50R - geni.us/omtech-55w?track=yt-1...
- OMTech MF1624-60 - geni.us/pNBZ?track=yt-1KVInFh...
- OMTech AF2028-60 - geni.us/omtech_af2028-60?trac...
Desktop CO2 Lasers
- Flux Beamo - geni.us/mwYRM?track=yt-1KVInF...
- Gweike Cloud NOX - geni.us/gweike-nox?track=yt-1...
- OMTech Polar - geni.us/omtechpolar?track=yt-...
- Gweike Cloud Pro - geni.us/gweikecloudpro?track=...
- xTool P2 - geni.us/xtoolp2?track=yt-1KVI...
- Flux HEXA - geni.us/fluxhexa?track=yt-1KV...
- Thunder Bolt - geni.us/thunder-bolt?track=yt...
High-End Industrial CO2 Lasers
- Thunder NOVA 24 - geni.us/8GLek?track=yt-1KVInF...
- Thunder NOVA 35 - geni.us/thunder-nova35?track=...
- Aeon MIRA 5 - geni.us/uYgTU?track=yt-1KVInF...
- Aeon MIRA 7 - geni.us/Uh0M?track=yt-1KVInFh...
PRO CO2 Lasers
- Epilog Fusion Maker 12 - geni.us/epilog-maker1?track=y...
- Fusion Edge - www.epiloglaser.com/laser-mac...
Desktop Fiber Lasers
- iKier K1 - geni.us/ikier-20w-fiber?track...
- Atomstack M4 - geni.us/atomstack-m4?track=yt...
- Gweike G2 - geni.us/gweike-g2?track=yt-1K...
- Monport GP20 - geni.us/monport-gp20?track=yt...
- Laserpecker 4 - geni.us/laserpecker4?track=yt...
- xTool F1 - geni.us/xtool-f1?track=yt-1KV...
Budget Industrial Fiber Lasers
- OMTech FM4343-20 - geni.us/omtech-fm4343?track=y...
- Monport 20W - shrsl.com/46ima?track=yt-1KVI...
- Cloudray QS-30 - geni.us/cloudray-qs30?track=y...
Timestamps
00:00 - Intro
00:21 - The Best Laser
01:22 - Diode Lasers
03:19 - Diode: Cons
05:15 - Diode Recommendations
07:27 - No Man's Land
08:27 - CO2 Lasers
09:11 - Budget Industrial CO2
12:51 - Desktop CO2
16:47 - High End Industrial
18:15 - Metal Intro
19:26 - Engrave Metal?
21:27 - Desktop Fiber
22:44 - Budget Industrial Fiber
23:48 - High End Industrial Fiber
24:19 - UV Laser

[@ABCRK18]

Probably one of the best laser type overview videos Ive ever seen. I did recently buy an OMTECH 20W MOPA. Learning curve is huge, but I'm enjoying it.

[@meha.founder]

The Best clip about Engravers I've ever seen on KZbin . Thanks and Best

[@torymiddlebrooks]

This is a neat little round up. I used to love working with a laser cutter at a shop I was part of and I've been missing it and this helps a lot with the state of the tech now.

[@makeorbreakshop]

thanks!

[@thriveforbest3217]

Best review of lasers I ever seen ❤ guy is brilliant and everything summarised so good

[@IgorAnic9]

I have one from Longer, and even as an entry level laser engraver, it seems to do a great job. For a beginner its quiet a good way into the laser world.

[@shaezellejackson8839]

THANK YOUUUUU !!!! just helped me out so much

[@declutteringnewcastle7259]

You're doing important work; don't ever stop.

[@EM-Smart-Laser]

Great video! EM-Smart is also a desktop industrial Fiber Lasers.

[@davevan8864]

Good info. I have been using a ULS 25W CO2 laser for 22 years but it is in need of a new cartridge and that is much more than the hobby machines made today. I just use it for my own hobby projects so looking for a new table machine. Thanks

[@ZacBuilds]

Thanks Brandon, great summary! Have been considering getting a laser lately and having all this info broken down by a friend was great!

[@makeorbreakshop]

Any time!

[@adamcolville2057]

Hi Brandon, after watching your channel for what seems like years lol, I finally purchased the Xtool d1 pro 20w with the ra2 and the IR head as a package, really enjoy playing about with the laser , not mastered lightburn yet but I’m getting there. Not sure how good the IR head is because it’s dreadfully slow but it does allow me to mark on materials the blue diode can’t touch. Love the channel and thanks for the brilliant reviews and knowledge base.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Awesome, thats a great combo!

[@akirasouma7561]

I remember watching your videos a year ago on which route to choose C02 or Fiber, I have chosen the fiber route and bought myself a 20W Galvo Laser and my life has changed for the better ever since. Thank you for your recommendation and keep up the excellent work!

[@makeorbreakshop]

Awesome, glad the fiber is working out!

[@ryeweaver4629]

I like to know more about the 20W Galvo Laser

[@Ricks2Cents]

*Solid Honest Advice*

[@Luda1010]

Im in the market for my first engraver looking around $1000. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.

[@laurensvibe8464]

Excellent video!

[@johnk696]

I got a Xtool P2. Love it.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Awesome! It’s a great machine.

[@therealunclep]

Thanks for your videos! They are some of the best I've watched. Your ability to present info is excellent. So if I'm understanding correctly, no diode laser will ever work on clear acrylic? I

[@SvenPav]

I have had several lasers diode & co2 over the past few years and being pretty familiar with them now I wanted to commend you on what I would say is a unbiased overview for those getting into lasers for a hobby or for work… This review and chart would have been so years ago! I just ordered the new Gwieke G2 and I’m excited to be getting into the world of fiber lasers, that said, please check the speed you have listed on your chart for this one, it certainly needs updated..

[@arthurhq9487]

What laser cutting machine do you recommend to start a small business?

[@AmipazlimazJak]

Just got my hands on the ORTUR Laser Master 2! Can't wait to explore its capabilities 🤩 #laserengraving

[@dishatechno7793]

Thanks bro nice information 🎉🎉🎉

[@danthemakerman]

Nice overview! On a whim, I bought the cheapest Aufero Laser 2 for $160 and couldn't be happier with what it can do.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Hard to beat for the price!

[@ColinWatters]

Would that cut 3mm balsa wood at reasonable speed/quality? I've read 3mm balsa only needs 2.5w but ?

[@danthemakerman]

@@ColinWatters The Aufero Laser 2 has no problem cutting 3 mm plywood. That's mostly what I use it for, as far as speed well it's not as fast as a CO2 by any means but its not bad especially for the price.

[@marcusjohnson7119]

Can it engrave.... I'm trying to learn to make little fun metal cards for my friends???

[@danthemakerman]

It can engrave painted metal cards. Amazon sells some black metal business cards and my laser can engrave them. I have used it to make metal UNO game cards. However if you are trying to engrave just bare metal then you will need a fiber laser for that process.

[@UserZO5672]

Very helpful video…thank you! I’m looking for a budget buy to engrave and cut materials under 1/4” mostly wood.

[@Cnewlon781]

Great video and very informative, How does the Creality 10W CR Laser Falcon compare with the OmTech B10?

[@butterflypath6573]

Thanks for valuable sharing. Looking at the Xtool D1. From your experience, is it adequate to engrave beach stones? How well does it work on slightly uneven surfaces? 2:30 Thanks.

[@edgardhtito5299]

excellent content, what do you think of the LaserPecker LX1 Max. My 2 choices are -LaserPecker LX1 Max and the Atomstack A20 Max 20w Large Size Eye Protection Laser Engraver With F30 Pro Air Assist. Which one do you think is better?

[@donnacarder8468]

Hey Hi love your video's and great advice. Just a question please, sorry if it has been already asked and answered. I would love to know what you would recommend for a newbie, but good variety, for someone in Australia?

[@kenburnette1121]

Consider Roly 10w, enclosure, w exhaust fan, air assist, camera. I love mine, my frist laser. I can't imagine a better starting point for a hobbyist. Nice informative video.

[@makeorbreakshop]

First time hearing about them, looks like a pretty nice machine. Do you have one?

[@thriveforbest3217]

2 min in to it and I like this guy 🎉 let's dive in

[@boscoyu_sci]

Thank you for this great video! I wonder if a fibre laser engraver (e.g. laser pecker) at 20W can be used to cut at 0.2 mm to 0.3 mm thick aluminium alloy shim?

[@MG6Makes1776]

iKier K1 Pro Max: 48W/24W is the very best on the market for sub $2k. I just ordered one after shopping for over a year.

[@nathanjones3427]

Hi love the channel what would you say is better out the polar desktop or AF2028-60

[@Gravattack]

Do any of the metal engraving machines have an option to do curved surfaces like on a yeti type cup? Also an absolutely awesome vid. Any of the higher end models you can recommend for the Aussie market?

[@abaumheier.watches]

Hi Brandon! Very nice video! But still, I'm a little bit confused on what fits best for me. Maybe you're able to help me. What I'm looking for and want: - smaller sized laser - for engraving mostly brass (watch dials) - should be very percise, since i want to make clear numbers, lines whatsoever of a minimum of 0.6/0.8-ish mm size (as well as keeping a thinness) - schould cost 500€ at max, but rather 250€ (or less) Any recommendations? Kind regards :)

[@ProVisionColor]

Super helpful video. Where would you put the Xtool S1 in the lineup now that you've had a chance to play around with it? It's a diode, but it's enclosed, and it's pretty powerful, and it can swap with an IR head. It feels like it doesn't really fit well in any of the categories. Thanks!

[@MakerMeraki]

Great video! I just got a 60w Mopa fiber laser delivered yesterday. It's a game changer when you're used to a CO2 or diode. 😅

[@makeorbreakshop]

Oh sick, those things are awesome!

[@dangerous8333]

Only if your game requires changing.

[@KellersCustomDesigns]

@@makeorbreakshop I didn't see Haotian Fiber laser. What do you think of those? I just bought a 60w JPT MOPA with a 70, 110, and 220 lens with 2 different size of rotary attachments for $4800 on a deal after talking to them for a bit.

[@claygrigsby1280]

I’m wanting to get my first laser engraver and cutter. I am very interested in the xtool d1 20w as my first laser based on you reviews. Do you feel this is a good option for my first laser? It fits my budget and I’m not looking to do a business with it. Thanks and keep up the great videos.

[@MakerMeraki]

Also, one of the things I never understand is why laser manufacturers don't make laser beds in the common sizes of materials. When I built my 90w CO2, I did so catering to my needs to cut 2'x4'/610mm x 1220mm (actually 700x1250mm bed size) materials.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Yeh, really the Full Spectrum Muse Titan is the only one I know of in the 2x4 ft format.

[@MakerMeraki]

@makeorbreakshop yeah, my DIY 90w is far cheaper, and has top shelf components: RUIDA, 90w RECI for half of what they charge to upgrade from the 75w, camera ($1500!!! at Full Spectrum). I could build 3 for what they want. But it is cool that they are building something of that size.

[@mikkelkirketerp4884]

@@MakerMeraki What is the build cost for your machine? I¨m looking to get myself a lasercutter, and could see my self DIY'ing one :)

[@ABCRK18]

@@MakerMeraki you ever consider making and selling lasers to other people?

[@bazookagros]

What would be the best to engrave anodized aluminum and clear chromate coated aluminum? Thanks for the advices!

[@user-ym3np6hs3z]

Great overview. I am trying to cut very basic inserts for sample boxes. The material polypropylene foam. One inch thick. We need flexibility because devices constantly change, which means our circles may have different circumferences. Any rec's?

[@ruggeddusty]

What about the best Laser Cutter Fume Extractor/Filter units? I'd like to get the OmTech Polar, but what filter unit should I get considering cost, effectiveness, and especially cost of filter replacement units?

[@XINDELONGMechanicalEquip-wb5jl]

great work

[@michaelgunter7623]

What’s my best option for a machine to cut stainless steel keychains? I can only find larger fiber laser cutters so I was thinking maybe a small CNC but I don’t know if they can get intricate enough.

[@Blkchevy98]

Wel done sir. Great job

[@makeorbreakshop]

thanks!

[@timothydecoursey7546]

What you recommend for a guy just starting out on engraving, that would like to customize cutting boards and wooden spoons, ladles, forks, and noodles (stove covers), etc.?

[@Andy.H.H.]

Why no mention of Roly LaserMatic 10? So much better than the Xtool (and I have an Xtool) but, I get it, Xtool doesn't allow you to mention the LaserMatic with all their marketing contracts. Seriously folks, do yourself a favor and look at the Roly LaserMatic 10. Sooo much better than the Xtool and others. Many accessories of the other diode lasers are included with the LaserMatic 10. All for under $1,000. I wish the Roly was available last year when I got my Xtool.

[@makeorbreakshop]

I need to check it out, looks really nice. No marketing contract with xTool

[@Sakura0754]

Just wanted to say thank you. I was 2 weeks away from buying sn xtool 10w. From the reviews and the price the roly is what xtool should have been. I'll be getting the Roly instead I'm so happy I saw this before dropping the cash on xtool

[@Andy.H.H.]

@@Sakura0754 You're very welcome.

[@michaelstein3969]

Would this cut .020 aluminum?

[@ooughris]

Is it good for beginners?

[@susanhod568]

Hello. Can you please recommend the Lazer machine for acrylic to use with resin epoxy. Example face clocks. Thank you in advance

[@brigittegousy203]

You are obviously very knowledgeable but to be honest I am absolutely not lol I am lost. I was hoping to know what I would need to invest for a machine that engrave (all materials) and cut. I’m just a crafter interested in extending my repertoire and not to have to run to the craft store to get wood cutouts or letters. TYIA

[@ToddMcDanielGolf]

Hi Brandon, Any laser you recommend for golf clubs? I am looking into getting into customizing golf clubs. Any insight would be helpful. TIA

[@andrepichardo1891]

In your opinion, what is the best budget engraving machine for laser engraving golf clubs? I build all my own golf clubs and want to start diving into engraving, hand stamping and paint fill. The hand stamping and paint are very easy. The engraving, after doing research, is much more difficult to find the right machine. Your feedback would be VERY helpful!

[@lokeise7endeuce10]

I just recently found your channel. I’ve been woodworking for a couple years. I’m looking to expand my capabilities with a laser engraver. If possible, would you give me recommendations. I’m only looking to predominantly cut wood up to 1/4”.

[@ChipLinck]

In the pro category, you missed Universal Laser Systems and Kern Laser. Universal is similar to Trotec and Epilog. Kern makes large systems that can do tombstones and other really large objects. Aand in the high end are six figures. I have a mid-sized Epilog, and I love it. Metal tube with long lifespan that can be recharged, holds its power level for a long time, air cooled, and built in the USA. Glass tubes are fine for a hobby, but if you want to get serious, look for a metal tube laser, also called an RF tube because it uses RF to produce the laser. It will outlast any import. Not just the tube, but the entire unit.

[@afakhri6750]

What would you recommend for 1mm silver cutting for name tags etc. Thank you

[@hotelbravo88]

I am looking to buy my first laser. I don't expect it to do everything. In the beginning, I'd like to do small leather cutting and engraving and possibly tumblers, etc. Would the F1 with the slide extension be a good choice? I've seen it engrave, but haven't really seen it cut. I'd probably be looking at 2mm think leather at most.

[@lodeys]

Hi, thank you for the review. What about just a unit for engraving custom logos on any type of shape or surface? The type of unit that I can position over any type of big or small object or shape. I need to engrave custom logos, 3x3 inch maximum. Need to engrave on around and flat surfaces. The materials that I use l are glass, wood, plastic and metal. Thanks again!

[@rcdinamo6272]

Hi! So what would be a good machine to cut gold and silver? Maybe at least 1mm of thickness.

[@kevin.lotsberg]

If you're looking for a lower-power diode laser (10W or less), and you already own a 3D printer, some companies (such as Creality) offer a bolt-on laser module for your specific model. This way, you utilize the motorized axis control of the printer you've already spent your bucks on, and can get the laser unit for MUCH cheaper than a stand-alone laser cutter/engraver.

[@gregmiller1663]

Best budget laser for mainly doing leather patches for hats? I saw a video using the Gweike Cloud Pro but can't afford that right now.

[@al_vin007]

Thank you and Congratulations 🎉for your great videos. Cheers! Sir, May I ask your opinion... Now that you have quite an experience with different laser machines and using them for your business, would it be wise for me to already buy the more relatively expensive machines (xtool) to start my cutting & engraving business? Or should I start with cheap ones and upgrade later on? Would this come more expensive in the long run buying these cheap laser machine and upgrade to Xtool? Should I just master my skill sets with the cheaper machine and relearn the more expensive machine in the future? If you were to start over, what would you do? I have a starting capital of $10k. What machines will you recommend? I'd like to learn from champagne glass engraving to large multilayer plywood art cutting like Mandala arts. Being now a retiree, I have all the time to focus and learn the trade. I would appreciate if you can help me decide. Many thanks, Alvin

[@DiamondBFarm1994]

THANK YOU!!

[@GabrielsGalaxy]

What machine would you recommend for LARGE acrylic panels? I’m talking like 40” x 100”. Simple tile pattern

[@erikdouglas9970]

What type of eye protection do you use? I didn't see any links to eyewear gear.

[@5borogolfco]

hello! what would you recommend for the budget 200mm work area fiber play? i want do engrave golf clubs!! any guidance appreciated!

[@kyled159]

What’s best for engraving serial numbers on powder coated aluminum?

[@LadHusbandDad]

Hi Brandon, What combo (CO2+Fiber) do you recommend for someone who wants to engrave metal and other materials in addition to cut wood materials for business?

[@davidnyeste7282]

Would the low budget diode lasers be good enough for cutting 3mm kydex?

[@smirkingLurker]

What are your thoughts on GlowForge products?

[@thedoctor1342]

@makeorbreakshop Thank you for such an informative video but could you please touch on fibre lasers that actually cut metal like brass 1-2mm , preferably desktop. Thanks 🙏

[@karljolley8346]

does Lightburn charge for the program and then more for each different brand device?

[@HeisNetpoc]

Which one would be recommended to do custom engraving on pistol slides ?

[@SoundMasters-by2wc]

What would you recommend to engraver only letters onto shot glasses

[@EliteMinerZMC]

Was looking for 10w saw xtool with there reasonable priced d1. However sprang for the M1 instead simply for the enclosure, and it was on a big sale. Even cutting 3mm ply on this is fairly slow 5mm/s 100% power etc. If i look to upgrade in the future im coming back to this video. But for me the Xtool P2 is a very atractive option. Additional the Xtool software has come a long way since i first started using it, expecially with setting test grids.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Yeh xTool has come leaps and bounds on the software front in the last few years.

[@Irvine00116]

Hii. I just want to ask if you encountered or tested or known "Daja?" particularly its budget ones which is dj7 or dj6. I am just curious if its good as it is more available in my country but it is more portable with less powerful than the budget ones in the list. It is more for hobby and engraving, not much of cutting thick stuffs. Thanks

[@willchandler100]

I noticed you didn't mention Boss Laser. Do you not recommend them?

[@thedorklylionchannel415]

Which UV laser would you recommend?

[@msmorrissey]

Please help, can you suggest a laser engraving machine to do watch dials for a hobbiest. I'm trying to make a custom dial for a watch for my dad. Would really appreciate your recommendation.

[@FougarouBe]

Hello :) What about the Emblaser 2 ? It's a diode laser costing around 3600€ (so more or less 3900$)? Thanks.

[@deanmerkel77]

Do you anything about the latitool laser? Thank you so much

[@angelmorales6687]

Can you please let me know if with any of those machines you can Cut posterboard

[@John-gm8ty]

I want to cut glass for stained glass project, are their any viable options for that yet?

[@nogardniwt]

Very good comparison. Are you planning to review the Xtool F1?

[@makeorbreakshop]

Yep!

[@joeguilfoyle1922]

Is there a budget machine that will engrave both metal and wood? I know nothing about laser machines right now, but want to learn. Thank You.

[@user-qs5mo7ck1b]

I am wanting to purchase a laser cutter to engrave yeti mugs/tumblers/glasses, etc. Not wanting to spend a fortune, any advice on what brand I should purchase?

[@lorneh6232]

Will a 10w diode laser cut g10 garolite sheet? Thanks for any info.

[@Jenny-wq4lp]

Your videos are super helpful! I’m looking to create rubber stamps using laser engraving. I will be making a lot of stamps so I know a larger bed is one important factor and probably good ventilation is another. A lot of the machines don’t indicate use with rubber. Should I assume if I don’t see rubber listed on the materials that I cannot use rubber in that machine? Do you have any suggestions for a good model for what I’m trying to do? I was thinking of the Omtech 40W O2 but that is kind of pricey for me just starting out.

[@albaprieto3588]

Also interested on this! I'm trying to figure out if rubber is something doable and with which one

[@VoeltnerWoodworking]

The XTool comes with sample rubber to make a stamp. I’ve used my 40w module to run rubber. It stinks though so be prepared for needing good exhaust.

[@DonJuravin]

Thanks!

[@makeorbreakshop]

thanks so much!

[@protozee]

Help please explain how to set up and use the xTool P2 CO2 Laser with light burn, no one explains this very good

[@johnnyllooddte3415]

i just want to cut out crosses and charms for charm bracelets and necklaces,, with the circle tab on top,,, out of silver and gold plate and 14k.. 100 at a time.. out of a sheet of the material.. any suggestions

[@stephenross9883]

I build American flags-19x 37 inches and would like to burn quotes onto them on the stipes....which machines have work area that would cover that?

[@terrydavenport7018]

I know nothing about these but I’m thinking of getting one. A lot of the advertising stays they can do so much in one pass. I’m not in a hurry with anything . Can, let’s say a 5w laser cut through 1/8 ss with multiple passes with delays in between as to not burn any thing up

[@sheenaburton6588]

Do you have anything specifically for Sculpfun, I’ve got a S30 ultra 33w

[@ericdepangher7547]

I’m needing to engrave glass with data coming out of a database. So CO2 and less talked about it needs to show up as a printer so a database can address it without going into something like lightburn. Do you have any recommendations?

[@gustavoadolfobasto]

Peachtree Road Race!!! great!

[@jvirg]

is it good for branding, like if I wanted to make a tattoo on myself

[@sculptureflame68]

My company is a newbie to lasers. Our priority will be engraving and cutting wood. We are on a budget in the range of $4000 to around $6500. How do you feel about the Omtech 2028 100 watt CO2 machine. I’m hoping to end up with a unit within the above budget that will produce a sellable product. Your advice would be greatly appreciated!

[@anarpearls9785]

Hey dude, could you recommend something to cut upto 5mm Copper or Aluminum

[@annperz4132]

Do you have any thoughts on the fox alien resier 20w?

[@mavisdevere2673]

What’s the cheapest laser that will cut acrylic for making earrings?

[@scottmorris4914]

The Desktop CO2, are they 110v? Or do they jump to 220v?

[@tracymiller2300]

Love your videos, I am looking to purchase a laser to simply do engraving boards. Really don't plan on doing anything else with it. What would you suggest for your lower price range units?

[@tracymiller2300]

Cutting boards

[@ghostpoop2349]

Have you done a video on lasers that will cut thin metal? If not, will you? ❤