What is the Best Laser Cutter and Engraver for You?

The past few years have seen a huge explosion in laser cutters and laser engravers for the maker/DIY market. I wanted to break down the top ones I've found so far in 2020 and give you my best picks at different price points.
I just updated this video with some new machines! • The Best Laser Cutter ...
🧪 Dial in your laser with my Lightburn Test File: pages.makeorbreakshop.com/las...
Check out the full review including the comparison chart here: www.makeorbreakshop.com/laser
If you want a Full Spectrum Muse 3D or Fiber use the promo code: MAKEORBREAK for $100 off.
LASERS MENTIONED (affiliate)
Ortur Laser Master - geni.us/xhqAGyI
Ortur Laser Master 2- geni.us/yhIh
Full Spectrum Muse Core - geni.us/9AH6G
Glowforge - geni.us/pzgIi
Chinese 50W Laser - geni.us/NsQiB9Q
Orion K40 - geni.us/kYTy
Snapmaker 2.0 - geni.us/qhwLyzu
Epilog Zing - geni.us/B56Os
Boss LS 1416 - geni.us/F4Tkg
Emblaser 2 - geni.us/WcDF
Emblaser Core - geni.us/gjo2ZmA
Makeblock Laserbox - geni.us/nglIv
Flux Beambox - geni.us/RGDJj6
Flux Beam - geni.us/mwYRM
J Tech: geni.us/Yk5ZKT
CerMark Spray - geni.us/Y0WdrXr
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🤖FAVORITE ROBOTS (affiliate)
Favorite Laser Cutter - geni.us/KrbIO
Budget Diode Laser - geni.us/W5yj
Budget CO2 Laser - geni.us/kYTy
Engrave Metal - geni.us/KHK2
X-Carve CNC - geni.us/ykswx4
Favorite 3D Printer - geni.us/qHrta
Resin 3D Printer - geni.us/d8JGVEw
Vinyl Cutter - geni.us/oFWm
🛠️TOOLS (affiliate)
Table Saw - geni.us/sFzQ
Miter Saw - geni.us/h8YkN
Band Saw - geni.us/MkqUZ
Impact Drive & Drill - geni.us/mfAysU
Drill Press - geni.us/dNyI9h
Planer - geni.us/yysAwMd
Orbital Sander - geni.us/kOil
6 in Jointer - geni.us/600Mv
Welder - geni.us/PGMBqN
Kreg Jig K4 - geni.us/ApW1r1
Plunge Router - geni.us/iRGoj
Jack Handplane - geni.us/ublnoRQ
Combo Square - geni.us/BkCt5n
Woodpeckers 6 in Square - geni.us/LMYqdh
PFEIL Marking Knife - geni.us/BUcKI
Handsaw - geni.us/h9sq04K
📹 CAMERA GEAR (affiliate)
Main Camera - geni.us/9nlsv
All Around Lens - geni.us/gfEnA6K
On Camera Microphone - geni.us/O3McpqZ
Rode Wireless Kit - geni.us/NZQsVFA
Diety Lav Mic - geni.us/sHyc99Z
Tripod - geni.us/x0dRK
Video Switcher - geni.us/h5nKZN
Key Light - geni.us/fNik
🎙PODCASTING GEAR (affiliate)
Microphone - geni.us/QpeqB
Cheaper Microphone - geni.us/3HADRSA
Boom Swivel Arm -
Audio Interface/Recorder - geni.us/hE656
Cheaper Interface - geni.us/OZqa

[@allmystarz7895]

This is by far the best laser cutter video I’ve seen.. I’ve been researching for weeks and was really overwhelmed. Thank you for the comprehensive reviews and including so many options for us to further review. I especially appreciate that you included a variety of price ranges as well as ease of usage - or lack there of. This is exactly what I was looking for, thank you for taking the time to put this together!

[@vbudico]

Thank you for this short and comprehensive intro to laser cutters. Exactly what I was hoping to find on the web

[@ptwamps3682]

Great primer on the basics of laser engraving and the machines available. Thanks!

[@ThatMomWithALaser]

Great video! LightBurn is seriously the best! I love how they are constantly improving the software to make like easier for users.

[@chas717]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video! You have helped me with the decision making process in purchasing our first laser for my company!

[@pamelacaton4533]

Thanks for the review, I am glad I found out that FSL is manufacturing for Dremmel before I make my purchase.

[@alexdenboer7213]

So helpful! Starting up a STEM class at my school and I had no idea where to even start with ;aser engravers. I really apprechiate how you broke all this down and then went into more detail in the full review! My future students thank you!

[@ericprobinson]

It’s amazing I also had a glow Forge ad in the middle of this video. Never had one before

[@makeorbreakshop]

Your not the first one to say that ;).

[@FringeWizard2]

I never see ads due to uBlock Origin.

[@countryside_guy]

@@makeorbreakshop *You're

[@vanhalyn06]

@@countryside_guy omg 🙄

[@SunraysandLisalights]

This video is all I ever wanted and needed. Thank you!!

[@allmystarz7895]

Totally agree! I’ve watched so many videos the past few weeks and feel so overwhelmed.. He’s broken it down so well and mentioned all the top laser cutters. This was so unbelievably helpful!

[@BoldBooksandBones]

Very informative! Top quality content. Thx!

[@bass2meowth358]

Thanks for the great video. I needed this

[@makeorbreakshop]

You got it!

[@herbertdonovan7217]

Great Video! Great information! thanks for sharing! Really helpful!

[@RossOBrown]

Hey cool video man. Can you tell me what you would recommend if I wanted to engrave flat faced juice bottles at a high volume? Like about 300?

[@waterboyblue1]

What would I want to look at to cut 16 gauge copper sheets? Great informative video

[@DB-jx9sj]

The ink tank system appears to be much better than the cartridge system kzbin.infoUgkxciSwynMJ7PnUvvx11rewiu-yFBkZTl53 and a lot cheaper to run. The machine was easy to set up. A small point but I thought they'd be a USB cable included to help with the set up but there was none. I've been using it now for a few weeks and it seems like a good product and superior to my previous printers which were all troublesome HP machines.

[@mrbwadding]

Really great informative vid 👍 Of the machines mentioned, what would be the best for engraving on ABS plastic? Looking to etch QR codes onto power tools (drills, saws..) Thanks Barry

[@mademini24]

Thank you for sharing this! I was just wondering when you say the diode lasers are good for engraving, does that apply to all materials? Is it just a light etching of the surface or can it emboss silicone, for example ?

[@lkuhglkug]

What laser would you recommend for etching on jewelry wax? I do lost wax casting of bronze bells and want to be able to decorate them with very elaborate designs

[@sluuter]

Finally one good video about laser engraving. Strike to the point!

[@twmartel1166]

Light Burn

[@griffmade]

wow this was such an informative video. well done sir

[@makeorbreakshop]

Thanks! Glad you liked it.

[@mandolinman2006]

I'm curious. If I were to try and cut mother of pearl for guitars, about 1/16" thick, what would be best for this?

[@michaelgiles9468]

i wanna get the glowforge but hydroflask doesnt really fit in it... for engraving which one would u recommend?

[@3sotErik]

I work with very large industrial Bystronic lasers. I've kinda wanted to get into it it as a hobby. I wish I could just use the ones at work for some personal projects. We use the CO2/LN2 lasers to cut through 1/2" mild steel. The new Fiber laser is used for the same parts, but is 10x faster.

[@RenAdra]

Super useful video, probably the best one i found. I've been getting into PC Modding and looking for a Laser that I can use for etching/engraving logos into Tempered Glass. Not entirely sure what the best ones would be for this kinda work? Would a Ortur get the job done?

[@monkeyfingeryoyo]

great video!! quick question, i want to do some light cutting up to 1/4 of an inch and need some very find detail engraving on anodized surfaces. I make yoyo's so the engraving would be in the bottom of a yoyo cup. I was thinking about the machine you talked about at 3:32 mark of your video. Thanks.

[@gman9543]

Hey Brandon, great video! I'm interesting in cutting 10mm felt. How much power would I need to accomplish that, and is there anything tricky about cutting felt?

[@dianasfarmhousedecorandmor6804]

Very informative! Thank you!

[@jrbling25]

Definitely one of the better videos, i appreciate you comparing more than only kickstarter ovelty machines - I didnt catch this in the video, but any experience with Thunder Laser?

[@Thesamscorgis]

Great video!! Helped make my final decision. The 1 thing I did not see covered is on the Chinese 50 watt, some of those models come with a pass through slot. No one seems to know how tall the pass through is. It's frustrating. Will a baseball bat fit through it? Also, Where can I find info on these sprays and powders I keep seeing?

[@rockndancenroll]

Do you think the first engraver from ortur would be able to cut this 3M adhesive into shapes for my mouse feet pad replacements? If so how would you place the 3M adhesive flat on the table?

[@DarrenMalin]

I have had great results with a K40 with no upgrades. I only use it to make war gaming terrain but I have found it to be a very useful tool. I should add a air assist when I can get around to it.

[@jennieanddavis]

Great overview!

[@makeorbreakshop]

Thanks guys!

[@slayerpianoman]

Great vid! I was hoping to make rubber stamps, usually the lasered ones go tops 2mm deep, probably 1 to 1.5 max on average. Will a Diode laser do it? Or do you think I need something bigger? Thanks!

[@controllermodzau4692]

Really great information so helpful thank you.

[@vendeconmiguel]

Thank you for your help. do you think the simply DIY can work for a small personalized iphone case covers where you put customers names ?

[@RoseKindred]

Great video, didn't quite see which one I should look into though. What would you (or anyone) recommend for burning onto chocolate or pies? Home use, something to spice up parties around here.

[@banaalani7216]

That’s amazing! However, I still didn’t get it if I want to cut mirrors let’s say I want to get letters or names out of mirrors which one should I get? Sorry I’m a beginner and still gathering info

[@alphaeuslamin6445]

Thanks for the brief description.

[@cristalperez2701]

Hi.. which laser machine do you suggest to cut sterling silver sheets for jewelry making?? I read that 50 watts is enough, but i'm torn on which laser machine is best for it. Please advise!

[@ph0nd894]

Hi, great video - really useful and informative, thanks so much! I'm interested in creating steel cliches for pad printing (for Lego minifigures). Presumably I'd only need a small desktop machine? Also, would I need a FIBER laser for engraving on steel plates or would CO2 / Diode suffice if only engraving???

[@VladtheEternal]

At the base level there's any difference between an Ortur, Alfawise, KKmoon ? Because Gearbest actually wont send me to Italy (for Ortur)but i've found KKmoon on Amazon that looks the same as the Ortur but with a different name (and specs?) on it.

[@johna.dawson709]

thanks for a great video.. I've been thinking of purchasing a laser cutter for my hobby crafting..

[@jimmyrangel6745]

Hi how are you,, thanks for share..with you recommend for graving Stone ...Gracias

[@lesley-annehamilton5855]

what would you recommend for cutting 3mm perplex acrylic?

[@williec4406]

I’m trying to figure out what to use just a cut out small things metal like for jewelry bottle openers just so you know maybe 8” x 12 x 10” whatever just something to cut smaller stuff not real big signs any advice would be helpful thank you

[@christina3n]

Reallly helpful video - thank you :)

[@DarrinSmith1]

Great videos! Can you suggest a good, reasonably priced, laser engraver capable of engraving titanium please?

[@hogofwar]

Which laser engraver would you recommend for larger pieces kn a budget. Not necessarily big pieces just taller pieces, around 30cm max height.

[@LizzieWestBathandBody]

I have 34 years in the laser Business... I have seen them come and go... the likes of Epilog and Universal.... In 1991 I laser engraved the Weatherby Lazermark for them in Santa Ana CA on a 75-watt LMI ( 145K investment) then Epilog comes along and pitches the summit a 45K Boat Anchor if it was a racehorse it would still be out there trying to finish a mile race! You have to understand what Lasers can do and do not do. I hope I can purchase something again soon now that even a 100-watt cutter and engraver are less than 25K! Our Laser Shop also did acrylic we had a local shop that had at the time a 600-watt flatbed Mitsubishi and it would cut 1/2 inch acrylic like butter! Miss those days!

[@stephentrenta3514]

This video is super informative and helpful! Thanks!

[@makeorbreakshop]

You got it!

[@user-sm5qz3oc6l]

Hello boss .I have some viedo in my homepage .maybe you will finding that viedo

[@gotfaith1311]

Great job sir!! Want to use: "Acrylic cuts & engrave , wood cuts & engraving also on coffee mugs engrave" Hello, I want to do Laser work and I was looking at the Glowforge but it cost so much for me at start-up and I'm new to using Lasers. You talked about Ortur and Snapmaker 2 as low cost. I must say I don't know anything about running graphic programs so that's why I was looking at Glowforge push and cut type of system. I was to make my own Christian product line. Please help me Thx

[@brodybestluck]

Thank you for this channel I feel like I instantly came to the right place! I'm interested in buying a quality laser cutter /engraver that can do 2mm possibly up to 4mm metal what are my options? I know it could be pricy but don't want to buy something I'll outgrow right away

[@jerrywhidby.]

Where can you test your material with a laser cutter? I have some plastic pieces

[@Watchdog_McCoy_5.7x28]

Will the glowforge stipple glock frames, pmags, etc?? My wife wants to make crafts, and i agreed to it so long as it will do the work i wanna do occasionally also. Any suggestions for what would be best for this situation? Thanks everyone.

[@timothysherhcf7015]

Is there a way to cut thru a plexi box, but only thru the laser side and not thru the other? Something you can put inside the box? I would assume just put a block of wood that is thick enough to stop the laser from going all the way thru? What is it for? Making vents for an enclosure.

[@ousaa]

I am trying to get into jewelry cut engraving, I am confused about which brand, or what kind of capabilities. Could you please recommend a good machine to accommodate my request?

[@WCephei77HD]

Can you leave this machine doing its work while away from home unsupervised? Like, any risk it might cause a fire?

[@kmauj1]

Hi, can you recommend me a laser engraver for urns that are mode of brass metal. What we will be engraving is just the names or may be picture of a pet. Thanks

[@scarlettohara7862]

I'm searching for a laser cutter for my sewing room. I would like to cut thick leather (both natural and synthetic) what is the most affordable laser cutter that will do the job?

[@joeperez1493]

Hello and thanks for your time. Witch one you can recommend me to cut 1/4 and 1/8 acrylic in a clean and smooth way?. Thanks for the advise.

[@junewoods1815]

Great video, thanks. I just want a basic laser which will engrave fonts onto aluminium (doesnt need to cut) I’m in the UK. Can anyone in the know advise please. I know a couple of people have asked the same sort of question. Many thanks.👍🏼

[@DigitalHeadShots]

In very new to the concept of laser printing, cutting/engraving. I got into the idea when searching for new ideas in diorama building. Do you have a recommendation of something that could cut or etch into styrene (enough for it to snap cleanly)?

[@johnchan6191]

Wow, gr8 vdo on the various laser cutters. Thx 4 sharing on Utube.

[@kikianastasia]

Thank you.. so informative.. 😃

[@videosmas3206]

I need something that can cut between 4mm-6mm clear acrylic sheet. Looking for something that can cut 18”x11” sheet. Any recommendations?

[@coolerkater1991]

Hey so i got a question what kind of Machine would i need if i want to cut fabrics like felt insert with adhesive, fusible web and satin? it needs to be precise and not burn the material.

[@cybersechs1368]

What laser would you recommend for someone who'd like to start out laser etching as a side business?

[@rickspro1271]

In my research, on paper the muse 3d seemed better than glowforge, especially with the rotary height extender. But the fine print only offers 30 day warranty vs glowforge 1 year. I contacted sales to confirm this. They didn't respond back. Big red flag that lead me to other complaints about service and power supplies blow often. 30 day warranty on new gear for that cash is awful.

[@deycrew1458]

can the ortur engrave stainless steel? like jewelry. and would you recommend it business-wise on a budget?

[@GoodChuteX2]

Hi. Which Laser would you recommend to cut fabric (cotton, poly, corduroy, fleece) for applique shapes?

[@salmanslim]

Thank you for this informative video. I am looking to cut kaizen foam only for tool box organization, will ortur do the trick?

[@BrandonVezaYT]

Do you know a good CNC machine, bit or laser engraver that would be good to engrave smaller pieces of acrylic?

[@micro963]

Thank you for sharing 👍👍👍very helpful information

[@guymontana5338]

Would the Oturo diode laser cut cotton fabric? Or even other fabrics? We have a quilt store and would like to use it to cut out the shapes of fabric needed for kits.

[@wendystewart1970]

What type laser printer would you recommend to do the cups with powder coating and etch it?

[@johnparks4724]

Love your videos! Can you tell me what laser brand and size to start a business solely engraving large wine bottles? Size range from 3” to 8” in diameter and 12” to 24” tall. I’m assuming a rotary attachment is necessary.. Much appreciated JP

[@bryanchristensen5097]

I need to engrave a bunch of plastic key fobs with sequential numbering. I would like to line the bed alright a bunch and fobs and have it jump from one to another engraving the numbers. I am thinking this might be a good time to get a laser. Can you recommend software and a laser that would be good to consider?

[@marcoss6212]

Very informative and well explained about choices, but the the best detail of all is the engraving of the second amendment on a Picatiny rail accessory, NICE!

[@naktinetoja]

Hi, please help, I'm looking for a laser to be able to engrave cloth (cotton, polyester). I've encoutered that not all lasers are able to even leave a mark on the cloth, so your expertise would be MUCH appreciated!!!

[@Halftimee93]

Which pick would you recommend for fire arm polymer stippling?

[@paulvanwagoner7273]

In your opinion what would be a good laser cutter that handles a decent size piece of wood or acrylic. Most of these co2 lasers seem to handle 20x8 . I read your reviews on glowforge and muse.

[@Q8Patriot]

Great Video, thanks alot I watched several of your videos and noticed that you didn't mentioned Laser Pecker , any issues on their products ? should I avoid them and consider one from the list you mentioned I'm totally new to laser engraving, appreciate your help :)

[@dmoneyg3007]

I'm trying to engrave gun slides / pistols. What machine would you recommend? Any Link to purchase one?

[@orooro2116]

Which one you recommend to engrave on solid gold and 925 silver? We receive lots of requests to engrave names on bracelets and rings.

[@shareecridland9883]

I need some guidance. I love the information given. But I now reside in the Caribbean and would like to order a laser engraver for hobby, but one that is sure to work as it will be challenging to return. Which machine would you recommend at a budget at $500?

[@lacameradeisogni2784]

is there any laser engraver that works on cylindrical metal objects covered by acrylic or epoxy resin?

[@JohnCarver3]

Can you cover galvo lasers? For actual production/speed they are king for marking and thin material cutting (exponentially faster than other systems).

[@anegrobler2]

Hi. I am looking for a Lazer engraver that can work on plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, iron, surgical steel. How hygienic is an item after it has been engraved and sterilized?

[@corey8399]

Great vid mate

[@makeorbreakshop]

Thanks

[@ramendra6285]

What is the best laser cutter to vector cut aluminum foils?

[@johnfernau6657]

Maybe you can guide me a little. I am looking for something that can do designs on polymer pistols (think heavy duty plastic). I would be looking at cutting in maybe 2 to 3 mm in depth max with an average of 1 to 2mm. It would be to adding custom design texture for enhanced grip. Any advice would be appriciated.

[@COLALIEN]

Can other lasers such as OMtech Co2 lasers and Ortur Diode Lasers engrave on apple products such as Iphones, Ipads, Macbook Pros ect. without damaging the internals of those products?

[@almansoori2020]

Hi it’s really great to see comparisons of laser and engraving printer but am not in to these things so I really need advice to buy one which I’ll use for cutting and engraving but am confused and i want to start learning so what do advice me bro

[@joshintheflesh848]

You should see the stuff I make with my 6kw bystar fiber lol. Well I wish it was mine. Great video.

[@bjpasco]

Great information. So are you saying the budget Atomstack, Ortur, Fox Alien lasers won't effectively cut wood?

[@Light-313]

Can the CO2 ones engrave rocks like agate? How deep? and if you go over the same thing again does it engrave deeper?

[@lakeeciaposey5379]

Which one is the best to make for custom necklaces . ? 😭😭

[@tomthumb8347]

Hi Could you recommend a budget laser engraver that will engrave in to metal without any issues.

[@xR56x]

I'm confused about the price tag on the dremel laser cutter. It's more expensive than the glowforge plus and I'm not sure why. O know the glowforge plus at least has a pass through slot. Is there something I'm missing, are the specs better than the glowforge?

[@82zena]

This was incredibly helpful. Have you done a comparison video of the FS 3D Muse vs the Make Box laserbox?