Thunder Nova 24-60watt 1 year review

[@JoeyBPhotography]

This was very helpful. I just picked up a laser this year and I've already realized I didn't get one that's powerful enough for the direction I now want to go with it. I've heard lots of good things about Thunder, and this video just adds to the pile of reasons that I'm now considering one. Thanks for sharing!

[@computercreationz]

Glad it was helpful! I’ve owned 3 thunders now and I still say they are the best laser in that price range!

[@richvalle4343]

I ordered my Nova 35 100w several weeks ago and your videos have helped me make the choice. I am glad that after a year you are happy with your choice. I can’t wait to receive mine and begin to use it. It is my first laser and excited! Thanks for the videos

[@computercreationz]

I’m glad I had a small part in providing info that made you choice. My 24 has been a fantastic machine and I’m really looking forward to getting my 35-100 for thicker projects. Thanks for watching and your comments.

[@carlhenderson7254]

When did it come in?

[@richvalle4343]

@@carlhenderson7254 I received it in July. My wife has been using it and we both co tu he to watch your videos. I have been sick and unable to do work on it but I am hope if that within the next few weeks I will up and running. I still have to install the training and take the training. I saw that you sold your Nova 24 and only have the Nova 35/100 like I do. How are you enjoying the upgrade?

[@rickbartholomew6804]

Why did you choose the Nova 35-100 ?

[@richvalle4343]

I did lots of research and comparing the different brands like Epilog, Trotec, Aron, Boss, Laguna, Glowforge, and others this was not only the best bang for your buck but the research had revealed and it had been true that the customer service is outstanding. I did not go with the 51 due to space limitations. Thunder continues to be innovative and they have a great line of machines. It is a great company and the community is even better!

[@TetraCNC]

Your first review was the reason I purchased my Nova 24-60 I am glad to see that I was a good choice. Just can't wait for it to come in.

[@computercreationz]

You will love it, thanks for the comment

[@carlhenderson7254]

How's it been?

[@teachwithtechtminc.1751]

Great video! I learned a lot. Thank you for putting this together. You shared many things I did not realize about these machines including the air assist, finish, autofocus, cleanout tray and support.

[@computercreationz]

Glad you enjoyed it! thanks for watching

[@Painfulwhale360]

I think you just convinced me to purchase a Thunder Laser once I’m ready to upgrade from my Diode laser. Thank you, Sir! And great video!

[@computercreationz]

great news, I know when I upgraded from my diode it opened up a hole new world. thanks for the comment

[@agentfeldy3607]

Thanks Robert for another excellent video. My 24 has an arrival date on the 30th of May in Los Angeles. Hope to have it very soon after that. Like most, I am nervously excited to start creating and designing projects. Lightburn is still my biggest challenge. More tutorials on lightburn would be greatly appreciated! Everything you've created has been extremely helpful! Thank you. Keep those videos coming! :) All the best.

[@computercreationz]

Wow, it’s getting close, very excited for you. You will love it! Reach out if you need help with LightBurn. Be patient and give yourself some time to learn all the things that make these machines so fun!

[@agentfeldy3607]

@@computercreationz Actually watching one of your tutorials right now. 10 tips! Good stuff. 😁

[@BoxcarJerry]

Thanks for the 1 year update and sharing your thoughts on this cutter . It sounds like a great unit . I'm in the market for something like this and this sounds like it would fit my needs . Thanks again .

[@computercreationz]

I’ve owned 2 now and have loved them both. great laser and the company stands behind their products

[@LowVisionUKTerrysView]

Hi there. Apologies I haven't been around for a while. I will have to binge watch what I have missed. Loved your review video, and it is clear to see and hear how pleased you are with it, and for good reason. Your videos and tutorials help me immensely, and there have been so many delays getting my laser to me, and I actually still have not got it. Shipping keeps changing. Should that continue for much longer, I will absolutely be changing to a Thunder laser here in the UK, as a direct result of your amazing channel and your endorsement. I hope you and your wife are keeping well, and very much look forward to catching up on what I have missed on your channel...take care...Terry

[@computercreationz]

Thanks for your comments Terry, I alway look forward to hearing from you. It’s too bad that that shipping is such a hassle these days. It’s allot worse in the states since Covid. Stay well my friend. Here is hoping to your laser showing soon.

[@leonardlorriman7095]

I have just read your review, thanks it was very helpful. I also hope to be able to buy one one day. I always enjoy your videos - keep up the good work. Thank you once again.

[@computercreationz]

Thank you for the comments, I’m glad my video was helpful. I have really enjoyed my Thunder lasers. I have two now, a 35-100 and the 24-60

[@doctorpd1959]

I am thinking of buying one but still thinking of which size to get. At first I was thinking of the Mini or the Nova 24-60. But now I am even thinking of getting a bigger version Nova 35. I have been using my left side of the brain as a physician but I now want to access and use more of my right side of my brain for creativity. I was at first looking at the Xtool and then upgraded to researching the GlowForge Pro. However, when I saw videos of people who bought the Thunder Laser and gave reasons why they prefer it over the GlowForge Pro, I began to watch more videos of Thunder Laser reviews. I think I will call Thunder Laser representative real soon. I now work part time as a physician and can spend some time learning and enjoying the craft of laser engraving/cutting. I actually put in an order for the Bambu Lab X1C to try out and learn 3D printing also. YOLO and FOMO. 🙂

[@doctorpd1959]

By the way, Xtool and GlowForge are having a holiday sale now and I am wondering if Thunder Laser would have any special deal for the Black Friday that is coming up. I can only wish.

[@computercreationz]

Thunder laser does not have sales. Thunder laser is several steps above a glowforge in so many ways. check on thunderlaser reviews they are top tier and you don’t need the internet to use them

[@sicantreis]

This is an excellent review! Thank you for sharing it! If Thunder isn't paying you for advertising they should be =)

[@sicantreis]

What size air compressors system would you recommend?

[@computercreationz]

it depends how much cutting you do I wouldn’t go smaller that 24 gallon tank. I have a 60 gallon that is my shop air and it will kick on a few times during a bigger cutting job. just depends on how much you want to listen to the compressor run. they help ALLOT!

[@sicantreis]

@@computercreationz Thank you :)

[@gearhed1971]

Youre really going to be happy with that 35

[@computercreationz]

I can’t wait!

[@jankristensen7884]

Thanks for all your videos, my china laser on its way, so it will ecxciting. All your videos will be very helpful, will use lightburn

[@computercreationz]

Best of luck with your new laser, thanks for the comment!

[@reytrinidad809]

Very nice video, thanks so much for share your experience, keep going

[@computercreationz]

Tha k you for your comment!

[@rationalistinanev]

Thanks that was very helpful. Did you need the 100W laser because your production was slow or were you having difficulty with thicker materials? I'm trying to decide between the 24 and the 35

[@computercreationz]

If you have the room go with a 35-100 much faster cutting 1/4” material and above but still have the detail. The 130 watt is too much if you do allot of small detail. Bigger bed space faster cutting capability. The 35 -100 is the perfect mix in my opinion

[@user-se2xg7tq5u]

Thanks for your videos its been a great help. What do you think about this unit at a similar price compared to bolt plus? It seems like the bolt is better at engraving and nova is better at cutting, but its hard to understand the threshold - Like will it be noticeably poor quality engravings compared to bolt? Will bolt's cutting ability be slower and induce more burns? Thank you!

[@computercreationz]

if your a hobbest the entry level bolt is fantastic. if your in business and time is money the bolt plus or pro series is worth the extra cost due to the additional features and speed increase you get with the upgraded models.

[@1-Nice-Guy]

GREAT VIDEO! Can you please let me know what kind of cuttings speeds you were able to achieve cutting 1/4" wood @ 1-pass?

[@computercreationz]

it really depends on the quality of wood your purchasing. if you buy top quality birch ply not from a big box store I could achieve 28-32mm /second with my 24-60. lesser or cheaper materials will be substantially less than that.

[@1-Nice-Guy]

@@computercreationz thank you for the info.

[@coopersranch2464]

Your videos have been great and really helped me in my decision making process - thank you!!! I have a few questions I'm hoping you can answer as I can't seem to find these answers. 1) Would I be able to set a 21" diameter piece of wood that is 1.5" high into it (knowing I couldn't engrave the entire piece)? I think the answer is no but want to find out for sure. 2) Can you please explain using shop air vs air provided and how much it would help cut thru thicker material? You said you can easily cut thru 1/4" thick material but how thick do you think I could cut thru with shop air? 3) Do you believe this can fit through a standard residential interior doorway - probably have 27" clearance? Thanks in advance!

[@computercreationz]

using the pass through will limit you to .75” no more

[@fretworkpeddler]

Great video! I will need to make a stand when I get a Nova 24. I am 5' 8". Can you suggest a height for the stand? Thank you

[@computercreationz]

Make the very top surface of your stand 25-26” from the floor and it will be just right. Don’t forget to include the height of the wheels if you add those.

[@madr8b]

Great video. Thank you for the review. Are you planning on doing a review of the nova 35 100W? I hope so, I have one on order and would love to hear your thoughts on it. Thanks again, Dan

[@computercreationz]

Hi Dan, I will be doing a one year review but it will be closer to summer. I love my 35-100. it’s been a great machine. Turned the biggest profit to date with it this year. You will love yours when it gets here. learn as much about LightBurn as you can BEFORE. your laser gets here it one less thing to have to learn. thank you for watching

[@khadinemarcano6184]

Loved this review. It really convinced me to buy one. I’m wondering about buying procedure. Ive been talking to a rep and then I received a quote and void cheque to send money for purchase and it’s to a strange-ish email. Would like to know your buying procedure and who you dealt with.

[@computercreationz]

I appreciate the comments, I put down $1000 dollars to te up the order then once the laser hit the USA the balance was due. usually about 3 weeks before delivery. i would reach out to your sales rep if your seeing something your not comfortable with. I know they are changing platforms right now. congrats on your selection. you won’t be disappointed!

[@glennmartonic6376]

would like to know your thoughts on their rail system....wear and tear versus a linear...are they stainless stell wheels riding on a stainless steel guide.....im looking at a linear rail system.....kinda different design...i know wheels can be replaced, but what about the embedded guide?

[@computercreationz]

I had allot of experience with linear rail systems from Cnc that I owned and I’m not a fan. the thunder rail system uses self lubricating bearings and stainless steel rails and don’t have to be oiled. I’ve see thunders that are run everyday for 3 years and the rails don’t wear. you will change an occasional bearing.

[@Mark-oj7yt]

Have you ever looked at Pascals CO2 lasers ? And if so how do they compare to Thunder lasers ?

[@computercreationz]

I have not looked at pascals co2 lasers so I can’t comment on how they compare to Thunder Lasers.

[@BenjaminVaterlaus]

Just found this - I appreciate your review. Would you mind also sharing your setup? for example, you said a dedicated air source - what do you use? What requirements did this have to set up? You have dedicated air handling - is that powered just by the laser or do you have a a vacuum pulling air as well? I see you also have dedicated computers set up as the controller for the laser. Is that an old PC or did you need a newer system to control the laser? Thanks again and I've subscribed; this content is great!

[@computercreationz]

I use a 60 gallon North Star compressor hat feed my hole shop. Adding external air source is one of the best improvements to any laser. Less clean up and you can cut thicker materials compared to a stock compressor that comes with the machine. If your planning doing allot of cutting that is a must. You don’t need that big of a compressor just depends on how much you want to hear it run . LightBurn the software that funds the laser is ver good you don’t need much of a pc or Mac to run it. Thank you for your comments and subscribing !

[@BenjaminVaterlaus]

@@computercreationz thanks! I've been enjoying the channel. A full shop tour would be cool. Thanks for what you're contributing!!

[@bginn3448]

Thanks for the video. I had a question about room size as someone had mentioned the air intake can be up to 350cfm which depending on a number of factors, the room size would be a consideration. The reason is that I want to put this in my small office area in my home. Room size is about 120 sq ft. My wife heard this and asked me if she would need her jacket on in the house during the winter (-: It's hard to figure this one out. Just curious what you might think. --Thanks!

[@computercreationz]

it will move some air but without it the smell will be inside instead of outside.

[@bginn3448]

Hi again and thanks for the video! Was wondering if anyone reading this question could chime in? Ordered the 24 (not arrived yet) and was curious about the built in air assist. It's pros and cons. Some say it works well others have said get something different. Your comments are appreciated. -- Bob

[@computercreationz]

the stock air assist is ok but if your planing on cutting 1/4” wood or thicker I highly recommend going with an external air setup. much cleaner cuts, no start cut marks, cleaner edges. lots of info on this on thunderlaserusa.com under knowledge base.

[@macrumpton]

The ease of cleaning is a huge deal. I have a Glowforge, and in general the fit and finish is fine, but it is obvious they did not give much thought to how you would clean it. It is so tight inside and there is no easy way to open it up to be able to clean inside. To clean the exhaust fan You have to reach way inside the machine and take out screws without being able to see them. I seriously considered cutting the exhaust fan out from the outside.

[@computercreationz]

I’ve heard they are not each to maintain. thank for watching!

[@ishagandhi-parekh6859]

Thank you!! This helps a lot!!

[@computercreationz]

glad it helped, thank you for your comment

[@Mark-oj7yt]

Can you explain what the differences are between something like this and a diode laser? I currently own a diode laser and am considering something like this…don’t they essentially do the same thing except the co2 is just faster. And cuts all colors of acrylic?

[@computercreationz]

Co2 will cut an engrave many more things and do it ten times faster. If your making product for profit the co2 is the way to go!

[@mikehummell2146]

Great Review. What is the height of your table / Bench top surface that the machine sits on? Do you think it is to high. I built mine off yours in video review 2 and is at abou 28 inches. It feels really high but still setting up.

[@computercreationz]

the table I made was 20” high that put the honeycomb of the 24 at 37”

[@adked1841]

I enjoy doing tumblers...Does the Thunder have a rotaty kit that assist with that and does this machine do vinal?

[@computercreationz]

yes Sells the Rotoboss with there lasers. you can order all of it from Thunderlaserusa

[@adked1841]

@@computercreationz Thank you! Have had my Glowforge Pro for a couple months and I am having a ton of fun...Already can see that Ill be upgrading within the next year...

[@Walsfeo]

Thanks for the video! What kind of foams do you cut in your laser?

[@computercreationz]

it’s a medium density laser safe foam I purchase from a local fabric store. look up flame testing foam to make sure it laser safe.

[@wilmercb]

The inline fan they provide is the one seeing on the wall? ...great reviews, for people like me looking into getting a laser cutter. Thanks.

[@computercreationz]

Yes they provide a real nice line fan for the 24. Very quiet.

[@TheMerchCo]

how can i fix my design to just engrave the letters and not everything. It shows all red.

[@computercreationz]

its best to put all on action like engraving (fill mode ) on one layer. use your colors in lightburn as a function not a setting. black as the frame layer, red as the cut layer etc. then assign your setting from the material library. makes for a very fast and efficient work flow

[@videohawaii7689]

Do you have a video for the bench you built?

[@computercreationz]

no but there are dimensions on the global thunder Facebook page under files

[@videohawaii7689]

@@computercreationz could I get the dimensions of your table. I see it is a little bigger then the machine.

[@rickallenphoto]

Thanks for the review. I am curious, I haven't seen a power spec on the machine. Can you tell me what wattage the machine is specified for -- including the exhaust fan and factory chiller??

[@computercreationz]

if you goto Thunderlaserusa.com you can see all the specs including electrical. it’s a great machine

[@rickallenphoto]

@@computercreationz That was my first attempt. There re no electrical specs in their spec sheet.

[@computercreationz]

goto support in the web site it’s all right there. support.thunderlaserusa.com/support/solutions/articles/65000132722-thunder-laser-main-power-requirements

[@catechops1970]

Hi Robert! I've seen the review vids plus this one, and I wanted to know that when you were shopping for a Laser, did you look at AP Lazer? If so, what ere your thoughts?

[@computercreationz]

I shopped most all of the larger brands. Thunder, Aeon, Ap laser. I know of three people that have the Ap laser and are not too impressed more expensive, less support they fell off the list pretty fast. Compare the knowledge base on the laser company’s web site your considering. This is going to tell you allot when you will come accross and issue and how it’s dealt with. That’s what I love about thunder they knowledge base is extensive from replacing a power supply to leveling your honeycomb. Support with them comes in minutes not hours or days

[@catechops1970]

@@computercreationz Robert... Thank you for the reply... I also messaged another Thunder customer and they had stated the same sentiments.... As far as the AP Open Structure, I guess it would depend if I was going to specifically engrave/cut huuuuge items....but it seems that it would be a rare instance... That pretty much makes my mind up regarding AP... I truly appreciate you and your page here. VERY helpful!!

[@catechops1970]

@@computercreationz Another question..... I see you had the Nova 24 and then or now you have the Nova 35. Was there an immediate need to upgrade? My problem is that I do not have any space other than in interior home office room and a single front door entry way to get a machine in the house.... I know, pretty sad, eh? lol...... I am speaking with Thunder on 9.23.22. I feel good about it.

[@computercreationz]

@@catechops1970 first off all thunder nova lasers will fit through a standard 36” doorway. So keep that in mind. I had a buddy off er to buy my 24 and I sold my Cnc to get enough room for my 35. So I was in the same boat as you. Glad I upgraded.

[@catechops1970]

@@computercreationz .... I had my discussion with Thunder....Went VERY well.... 🙂....

[@prescriptionoatmeal7970]

Can a Thunder Nova 24 be delivered to a residential townhouse? Or is the shipping crate too large?

[@computercreationz]

They do curb side delivery all the time it’s up to you to get it in rated and put in place. This issue you might have with any laser and townhouses is the smoke and smell lasers generate. You have to install a 6” hole to the outside for venting

[@teardrops7841]

@@computercreationz Can you vent out a window? Also can you tell me where you got the pegs you used to hold down your roller please?

[@Golfexpertbelieveme]

How often do you clean your machine?

[@computercreationz]

during this time of year it’s weekly. My honeycomb once every 3 weeks.. They are easy to clean!

[@VeeMurphy]

By any chance...Can you tell me if ThunderLaser USA is different than the ThunderLaser China? I have been following the ThunderLaser for awhile now and I definitely would like to get one but when I 1st seen it, it said USA. I didn't know they had a China one until I started watching videos like yours. It doesn't seem like they have a price difference in between the 2.

[@computercreationz]

Yes, Thunerlaserusa.com is the united states rep for Thunder Laser China. I If you goto Thunderlaserusa.com you will get all your needed info. They are a great company with top notch customer service.

[@Bren39]

Same company.. Same product... At 2x the price. Better chance of getting the product in good shape though.

[@rickbartholomew6804]

Will Nova 24-80 cut 3/8 inch High Grade US Birch Plywood ?

[@computercreationz]

The 24 only comes in 60 watt you have to step up to 35 to get the 80 watt. I have cut 3/8” but with external air and it was very slow! I would go 35-100 watt for that and even at that cutting 3/8 is a slower process

[@rickbartholomew6804]

Thank You for your honest reply Medicine Man/Woodshop Man Rick

[@jrbling25]

Nice video and thanks for sharing the review. Curious, how much were you able to resale your Nova 24 for?

[@computercreationz]

Just what I paid for it. Demand is very high on these lasers

[@jrbling25]

@@computercreationz Impressive - have recently ordered a Nova 24, and some of your videos have been useful in making that decision. Also good to know that worst case scenario, a well taken care of machine won't leave me out all of my $

[@dupescraftingdesign7872]

how do you use the passthrough with the exhaust there in the video

[@computercreationz]

I roll the laser forward to use the pass through, anybody that has there laser up against the wall will have to do that. thunders have a very nice wheel system. this one is on a cart with wheels. thanks for watching.

[@jacobgampe4421]

@@computercreationzGood day, Where did you get the cart with wheels?

[@BIGMASTERJ]

How long did it take for you to learn LightBurn

[@computercreationz]

I started to learn lightburn 2.5 years ago. There was little content at that time one reason I started my channel but I would say 2-3 week before I felt comfortable. Today with all the KZbin content 1 week or so

[@waltw918]

Which is a better laser, the Nova 24 or the mini 60?

[@computercreationz]

it depends on what you want to do with it. in my opinion the Nova 24 is much more flexible and has some features that you can’t get on the mini.

[@ClownWhisper]

How in the name of God would it even get dirty inside that enclosure? I'm talking about the focus lens? Also is it a coated lens? What do you clean it with?

[@computercreationz]

you would be surprised, when you engrave you want just a whisper of air and sometimes it’s not enough. once that lens gets a little bit Smokey it goes from bad to worse very fast. I fried a lens once and it only took one short engrave! thanks for watching!

[@computercreationz]

Alcohol and a q tip.

[@mp6814]

How do you clean the lens? How often? Thx!

[@computercreationz]

I’ve got a video on my channel that show you how . I check my lens every morning before I start my day. A dirty lens can have dramatic performance effects on your laser

[@mp6814]

@@computercreationz Thank you!

[@turboflush]

Is the support us based or a almost english china based?

[@computercreationz]

100% support based in USA, but also have the China factory to back them up. There main office is in Quitmam Texas. I’ve owned two of there lasers now the 35-100 watt and the 24-60watt and they both have been fantastic.

[@sz72909]

While you had the door open, I noticed that they do not use LINEAR RAILS for the x and y axes. They appear to use rollers riding on round steel rods. This might be good for speed, but it's not very good for precision. For $6900, I would expect better mechanicals. Otherwise, the machine looks good, so I don't know why they skimped in this area.

[@computercreationz]

I’ve owned and operated Cnc machines with hi quality linear rails in the past. just because they don’t have linear rails doesn’t mean they are not accurate. I would put this machine against any other laser including the models in the 30k range. One reason I went with Thunder was because they didn’t have linear rails that you constantly had to clean and grease. grease and the projects that you do in a laser usually don’t go together.

[@avcomth]

Design-wise I think my Aeon Mira 7 is better than your Thunder. It replicated all the key features of a Trotec: all around enclosed linear parts, hot swap lens fixture, RF tube, and sleek self contained design.

[@computercreationz]

I respect your opinion but I will point out I looked at Aeon before I went with Thunder. here are the reasons I have a different opinion. Aeon is more expensive to your door for less value. no dual air assist control which can be critical for engraving many different materials. Aeon is completely rebuilt once it gets to the states which indicates it wasn’t up to standard to begin with. Thunder in manufactured in China once. with required tolerances twice what Aeon has. Aeon has linear bearing with grease. I’ve owned Cnc machines (no thanks) Thunder uses all sealed bearing in all moving parts, much easier to clean and maintain. Aeon is has self contained blower and chiller which takes less space but can be problematic when failure occurs. Thunder you can get the parts you need from Amazon in 3 days. Thunder has a smart board that Aeon doesn’t have this is critical if a problem arises. Aeon does not have a pass through door in the back. this was a deal breaker for me. I use the pass through doors from and back on the Thunder allot! I know quite a few people that own a Aeon they seem to be happy with there purchase. I’m just pointing out the reasons I went with Thunder. thanks for watching and I appreciate your comment.

[@MiklGorges]

Is a bigger, 100 watt, better?

[@computercreationz]

I always recommend to buy as big as you can afftord! I’m very happy with my 35-100 watt laser