10 Best Wood Laser Cutters 【Top Picks】 2023 Updated
Who was that person who spent years crafting and woodworking without a great laser cutting solution?
Couldn’t be you!
Or if he were you because of some joke of fate, it wouldn’t be you anymore. You cannot live without getting the beauty enhancer of your woodworking projects and that’s final.
So, now if you have decided to bring your laser cutter to its new home, you’re at the right place. But before we jump to the list, here are a few important things that are vital to know in this regard.
Laser etching of a photograph: Even an inexpensive laser engraver/laser cutter can easily engrave images onto plastic, metals, and other materials. It’s possible that perfecting your talents will require some trial and error, so be prepared to put in some time and work. Overall, images with a variety of bright and dark tones are excellent for making the engraving pop.
Check our comprehensive list below to see which one fulfills the criteria of the best wood laser cutter for your woodworking needs? Each product from out of our listing below exhibits unique features and consists of majorly those that other machines of the league lack! We strive to bring in quality as well as variety.
Types of laser cutters
CO2: The CO2 laser is the most popular kind in our buyer’s guide, and with good reason. A CO2 laser is created by passing an electrical current through a glass tube packed with CO2 and other gases.
FIBER: Fiber lasers are a recent technique in the realm of laser cutting. On an industrial scale, they are frequently used to cut thin metal sheets for production components. They are quite rare and pricey in desktop form, although they do have a number of advantages.
Effectiveness of laser cutting for cutting/engraving wood
Laser cutting is the latest technique for precise cutting, marking, and engravings on flat materials, including wood, metal, and acrylic, by releasing a beam of intense light through a manageable head.
How do laser cutters work?
In order to cut a material, laser cutters generate and then channel a strong and highly focused laser beam through it. The laser is deflected off the surface of a mirror and then passes through a lens to concentrate it before it impacts the material in the workspace, depending on the technology used by the machine in question.
What else can be engraved using a laser engraver?
Hardwood, leatherette, plastics, synthetic fiber, crystal, and other substances may all be cut using a laser engraver. Powerful engravers can be used to cut metals, porcelain, and jewels. Laser engravers are well-known for their versatility, which differs depending on the type.
Consider the materials that you want to engrave on
Laser engravers can work with a variety of materials. They are most typically used with hardwood, leatherette, soft alloys, acrylics, and cards. Some of these materials are simpler to deal with than others, and each will necessitate its own strategy and procedures in order to get the greatest results. Before purchasing your machine, it is critical to understand the material you intend to cut as well as the right cutting procedures.
Let’s Dive in
Best Wood Laser Cutter 2023
Here are our picks for the top wood laser cutters available in the market.
It is a beginner-friendly product, which is ideal for professional use too.
Compatible with third-party software, unlike most other products.
The working platform is accessible from three sides at the same time making delicate tasks easy.
The precision in the beam of this machine is extraordinary.
The frame of the laser cutter is rigid & remains unaffected from impacts and fall-offs.
This is quite an affordable product considering its specs.
Pros
Cons
✅ High level of precision
❌ Needs to be assembled
✅ Sturdy and stable build
✅ Offers a large working area
✅ Rigid laser cut frame
✅ Strong hold on item
✅ Ready-to-assemble kit
✅ Very Affordable
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
BobCNC evolution 4 is better than most others in the listing as well as other such products available in the market in many terms, this is why it is also the editor’s choice. Because of the increased power, it can cut a larger variety of materials, including soft metal, leather, and, of course, wood. Some of the less proficient laser engravers like Orion motor tech 50watts have difficulty dealing with tougher woods and are completely incapable of working with metal.
In-Depth Details
BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router kit makes the best wood laser cutter for beginners. The machine is user-friendly and offers a large area to maneuver the wood. At the same time, it comes with a sturdy build and GT2 belt which enhances hold on items.
The kit includes most things that a woodworker needs to start with laser cutting. There are only a few, if any, accessories that are needed to accentuate the performance. Most beginner-level woodworkers will find a comprehensive solution to their wood cutting and engraving needs.
One cool feature of the best cheap laser cutter is its easy assembly. You get a complete manual and, even if you are a complete beginner at using a CNC laser cutting machine, you can assemble the machine without much ado. It comes with inserts so you can attach the parts in no time. You may, however, face difficulty in connecting all the applications across the devices.
The machine is compatible with G-code. So, you need a reader to connect your third-party software to this home laser cutter. The company recommends Universal G-code Sender (UGS) to send the files.
Bob CNC E4 components
However, your choices are not limited and you can choose between various options. But you have to search well before choosing the most relevant software for designing out of free open-source, paid versions available.
Another cool feature that is remarkable for a consumer laser cutter of this budget is its size. It is HUGE! With an area of 16 x 18 inches, you can be sure that every household or related item that you want to be engraved through this cutter will be tackled by it rather easily.
The kit includes every part you need to kick start your project. The items include motors, routers, electronics, and software for the controller. Because of a small lapse in precision, this machine is better suited for engraving than cutting wood. However, it can make a customized perfectionist tabletop laser engraver as well as a cuter if you add a few bits or accessories to enhance precision.
As this best laser cutter allows you to cut up to 18-inch wide wood items, you can rely on the strength of its SG20U supported rail system as well GT2 belt to hold the item and allow the speedy process. The customer service of the company is unrivaled by any of its competitors. As the assembly is done by the user, they expect questions and are ready to answer them.
Product Specifications
It has a whooping Cutting area of 610 x 610 x 85 mm.
The Machine footprint is precisely 838 x 994 x 530 mm and the unit weighs 48 lbs.
It has an Accuracy of much as 0.002 to 0.004 inches.
The frame type is Laser cut 6 mm through hard metals and beams.
The router spindle equipped in the machine is either DeWalt 611 (16k – 27k RPM) or Makita RT0701C (10k – 30k RPM).
On the X and Y-axis, it has a GT2 x 6 mm belt drive. On the Z-axis, it has a Tr8 ACME rod with a Delrin nut.
The Power supply is in AC, which is 12 VDC 8 amps.
Input required is 110 v. The drive motor it is equipped with is NEMA 17 stepper motor.
The Holding torque of this laser engraver is 0.53 Nm.
Innovative smart trace software, which allows you to keep a good trace of the project.
Safe for kids’ projects, as it’s perhaps the safest laser cutter.
Works on multiple surfaces, as it has a laser beam that is versatile.
This product has a resolution as great as 1000 dpi, which is huge and plays an important role in high precision.
With 1000 dpi resolution, the precision of the beam elevates to an exponential level.
The user interface and display of the interactive screen are quite user-friendly.
Pros
Cons
✅ Versatile 30W laser
❌ Limited work area
✅ 1000 DPI resolution
✅ Affordable professional machine
✅ Beginner-friendly
✅ Professional precision
✅ Powerful UI
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
The Beamo 30w desktop laser cutter is more of a modernized engraver and is an upgraded version. Therefore, this already makes the machine better than some contemporary laser cutters like Ten High co2 laser engraver. The aesthetic vibe isn’t the only point here, it also has higher efficiency despite lesser power, which is 30 watts.
In-Depth Details
When you look at the size of this device, you can easily judge that it shouldn’t be placed in the best laser engraver reviews. But here it is being the best desktop laser engraver as well as a cutter with its surprisingly low price and even smaller footprint. You may find this best laser cutter cost higher than some other options on the list. Examples include BobsCNC Evolution 4 and Laserpecker’s compact laser engraver.
But bear in mind, Beamo lies at the boundary of mini-sized wood lasers and with some improvements in size and precision can easily be taken as industrial grade laser cutters. Let’s start with its most remarkable feature – its size. The engraver is only 24 inches long and 17 inches wide. With this size, it offers a working area of 11 by 7 inches. The cutting thickness ranges between 5 and 10 millimeters depending on the material being used as well as the speed of cutting.
Ease of use is the most emphasized quality of this laser. You don’t have to be an expert in the designing field or a software engineer to understand how to create files and transfer them to the laser interface. Even the simplest technicalities like drawing a vector or downloading and integrating patterns to manifest your imagination in soft form can be avoided using this machine.
This laser printer allows you to use paper and pencil for getting your ideas across. It is ready to hear whatever you put on paper. Just use the innovative Smart Trace software through your phone to see the magic. The software will create a DXF file to be used as a pattern by this laser cutter. If you are using software to get the image for printing, you can use most standard formats including JPG, PNG, DXF, and SVG. You can design these vectors with any vector designing software like Illustrator, CorelDraw, AutoCAD, or Silhouette Studio.
Beamo 30W working
As for the software, you have to install it on your smartphone. It is compatible with different operating systems including Windows, Linux, Mac, and Chrome OS.
For precision, Beamo offers a pretty cool deal. Its beam has the width of human hair making it one of the narrowest beams in the industry. It gives a space of 0.05mm between the lines. The best feature is its high resolution. You get 1000 DPI with this laser.
Other than being the best wood laser cutter, it is also the best choice to cut and engrave other materials. Some materials which get the precision accuracy from this cutter include acrylic, leather, stainless steel, glass, cardboard, and cement.
The quality which makes it the best wood laser cutter for kids is its safety standards. It comes with a complete enclosure thus preventing the laser beam from escaping the machine and damaging the health of people present in the room. The smart lid senses the opening of the lid and responds by shutting off the operations immediately. Another security feature is an emergency power switch so you can abruptly shut off the machine in case of an emergency.
Further ease of use that makes it suitable for beginner to pro-level users comes from a built-in ventilation system as well water cooling process.
Product Specifications
Dimensions in a total of this laser co2 engraver are 615mm x 445mm x 177 mm.
The weight of the whole unit is 22 kg.
The total Work area is 300 mm x 210 mm, while the Work area depth of this engraver is 45 mm.
Borderless work area is260 mm x 210mm.
It has a co2 laser, the Laser Type is a 30watt CO2 Laser.
Cutting thickness normal range is 0-5 mm (varies by material). Max. moving Speed that the engraving can be done on is 300 mm/s.
The max potent material height is 45 mm.
It is specific in terms of materials to engrave on.
So, it can do Engraving Only on Glass, stone, metal, stainless steel, fabric, etc. It can do Cutting and Engraving on Cardboard, paper, wood, leather, acrylic, etc.
This machine is fast & automated, it works well in various speed ranges, and is self-autonomous.
The cutter features quite an Easy setup and assembly. So, all you need is an assembling manual and the boxed-up unit.
Extremely precise due to the highly accurate laser beam. It can even cut and print up to 13,000 lines in an inch.
Safe for schools, laboratories, workshops, home, and commercial uses.
This machine is capable to use paper designs as well.
GlowForge works great with a widely spread system, that is, windows 7, windows 8, windows 9, Linux system, and Apple Mac systems.
Pros
Cons
✅ Large working area
❌ Expensive
✅ Engraves 1300 lines per inch
✅ Safe for home and school
✅ Preview mode available
✅ Can use paper designs
.
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
Glowforge 3d top view
Glowforge, unlike most others, is quite easy to set up and provides ease and comfort to the user. The Glowforge 3d plus along with being an easy product for the customers is also extremely precise. Unlike Beamo 30 watts engraver which has 1000 dpi resolution, Glowforge has 4500 dpi of resolution
In-Depth Details
If you are looking for a quality product to satiate your creativity and see your imagination in real and don’t mind if the price is a little lower than that of Dremel’s, Glowforge Plus is the laser wood cutter you are looking for.
The machine departs from a laser CNC machine technology to give faster results on a wider variety of surfaces. Here, we are talking about not only wood and paper but also glass and ceramics. You dream and let Growforge transform these dreams into reality. One of the features which make this device the best wood laser cutter is the variety of input methods we can use for setting up the project.
It can take any standard format of the image including JPEG, PNG, PDF, etc. Or you may simply scan the image you have drawn on paper to let the camera feed the design to the device. Once in the device, you are allowed to edit your drawing for the area, size, and other customizations. If you are designing using design software, you can use virtually any software in which you are proficient. You can also use downloaded images from paid or open-source platforms.
Glowforge is safe & beginner-friendly
Once you have fed the device with your design, you can choose to execute the design or you can choose the safer route of previewing it on the end surface. Simply, select the design and the surface on which it will be engraved and switch to the preview mode. See how your pattern will appear on the surface. Do you need any changes? What about irregularity and depth of engraving?
This is certainly one of the best laser cutters that are compatible with Windows, Mac, and iOS. Its high level of precision makes it the best engraving machine. You can define the position of the laser beam by a width of up to a thousandth of an inch. Simultaneously, its laser beam is only as wide as human hair. Combine the two widths and you get an engraving that is precise to the utmost level.
Another feature that nurtures consumers’ trust and attraction in this laser is that although its size and ease of use are marketed towards small-scale hobbyists, it can grow with your passion and activity at wood engraving. After starting engraving as a pastime, most Growforge users have graduated to entrepreneurship in personalized gifts and crafts. The machine is the best laser cutter for small businesses because of its adequate power and efficiency.
Product Specifications
The dimensions of Glowforge’s exterior are 965 x 527 x 210mm, while the Air filter exterior is 965mm x 527mm x 178mm.
Potent Maximum material depthis 455 mm, widthis 515 mm and the Cutting areais 279 mm deep / 495 mm wide.
The maximum material height you can put in is50mm while the height with tray is 13mm.
The Cutting and Engraving both can be done on Wood, fabric, leather, paper, cardboard, plexiglass, Delrin, mylar, rubber, cork, sandpaper, and food.
Engraving is only possible on glassware, limestone, rubber stamps, rock, porcelain, anodized aluminum, and platinum.
The Interface compatibility is with Mac, PC, Linux, mobile devices while the File compatibility is JPG, PNG, SVG, PDF, and more.
Extra dose of ventilation with help of the exhaust fan located sideways with the wall of the engraver avoiding over-heating issue.
The machine works at great speed and gives great and precise results.
Longer working hours due to the great ventilation because of the exhaust fan.
Safe, and user-friendly, the emergency stop ledge especially helps avoid accidents.
Its build is made of durable and robust material. Therefore, it isn’t prone to damage or susceptible to break down.
The unit comes with sample materials that you can experiment with to learn.
The software that the machine works on is really user-friendly.
Pros
Cons
✅ Durable
❌ Costly
✅ Large working area
✅ Easy-to-use software
✅ Comes with material for cutting and engraving
✅ Work on multiple surfaces
✅ Industry grade build
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
Dremel LC40-03 close up
The Dremel lc40-03 40w is a great product for commercial usage as compared to the Glowforge and Beamo which are more beginner or learner-friendly engravers and are more suitable to be used at home only. It has a ventilation system that activates upon the heating threshold, and so, can be used for longer hours.
In-Depth Details
This may have been on the top of the list as this is easily one of the best engravers ever, only if it wasn’t that expensive. But if you can afford it, there isn’t an option better! It’s worth each penny! When you want the best home laser cutter machine but want it with industrial-level durability and long hours, you can rely on this model with a booster fan.
The laser in itself is a comprehensive package. It delivers fast processing with a higher level of safety from the laser beam. The device’s customized software connects your system to the device. Get this software installed on the device and get going. You can now upload the images and vectors in this application using Wi-Fi through virtually any device on the planet. All you need is a URL that relates to the particular device you are operating. The laser cutter is compatible with Windows as well as Mac.
The device takes most of the commonly used file formats including JPG, PNG, PDF, and SVG. The best part is its software’s ability to edit in-app. You can upload any image and edit it for size position and element once it presents within the device’s memory. You can see that its software makes the core element of its success. It’s further elaborated because of its on-device installation. You don’t need to keep the device connected to your system while you are running it for cutting or engraving. It also means that you can monitor the operations in real-time. Start pause, stop and view the operations as they progress.
Dremel is compact & professional
Another great feature is its preview mode. After combining with the built-in smart camera, it gives shows you how your design will appear on the surface. Then, you can relocate the pattern according to the target area’s location, roughness, and texture.
But the software feature of this device shouldn’t take all our attention. There is more left to love in it. We are talking about the longevity of operations you get from this laser because of the booster fan exhaust. If you are working in a garage or have a longer duct, you should buy this version instead of the other LC40 which doesn’t include the fan.
The installation of the machine is easy and quick and everything you need to start working on this machine is included. All you have to do is to upload the image and start editing, positioning, and cutting or engraving.
Product Specifications
The total Engraving Area of this machine is 18.4″ x 12″, while the Machine Dimensions are 32″ x 20″ x 8.25”.
The total weight of the whole unit is 63.3 lbs, while the total Shipping Weightis 100 lbs (45 kg).
The Laser Classification is IEC 60825-1 Class 3R, while Laser Type is Sealed CO2 Laser Tube with total Laser Power of 40W.
It has Compatibility with Mac & PC, while it is compatible with Browsers of Chrome, Safari, Firefox, & IE.
It can be cut and engraved through Wood, Acrylic, Glass, Stone, Paper, Aluminum, Leather.
It also has an External water-cooling unit attached to the device.
Fast & smooth function due to highly precise and accurate laser beam.
Considerable engraving area capable of handling large projects.
Tackles multiple surface types due to highly active laser beam.
Ready to install rotary axis help you disassemble and reassemble the delicate parts of the device making it portable.
There is a safety water release valve that helps enhance safety.
It has core laser software pre-installed.
Comes with an innovative feature called a flame retardant system.
Pros
Cons
✅ Safety water valve
❌ Compatible with few versions of Windows
✅ Cooling water temperature display
✅ Flame retardant system
✅ Comes with CorelLaser installed
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
The ten High co2 laser engraver is known for high precision. It is so accurate and precise that it can even engrave through the 1 mm thick surface without cutting through it. This unique feature is not seen in most other engravers, for example, the Dremel LC40-01, which can engrave through only fairly thick surfaces without cutting through it.
In-Depth Details
If you can make some adjustments to your operating system or if you are already working with Windows 7 or lower versions, you should check out the Ten-High CO2 engraving machine as one cool choice for your engraving needs. The machine is perfect for engraving. But it also caters to thin cutting if it is only 1 to 2 millimeters deep. It offers a DPI of 1000. But what is so attractive in this machine that you should consider compromising on your operating system. Well, there are more than one features that make Ten-High the best wood laser cutter.
First, it comes with a pre-installed rotary port as well as a switch. It means that you only have to install the rotary axis to start working on round or cylindrical items on this engraver. The other feature is its emphasis on safety. You get a ventilation fan that gets rid of smoke as soon as it builds up. Further help comes from the exhaust pipe that helps in the complete ventilation of toxins from the engraver.
TEN-HIGH CO2 work area
The safety water valve prevents the laser tube from getting too hot. And the exhaust adds to this cleaning effect enhancing the life of its operations. Once combined, these safety features ensure that the machine runs smoothly even after hours of use. Air assist is the most noteworthy of all these security features. It is a flame retardant system. So, the fire will be extinguished even before it darkens your wood.
Also, the safety of its users is enhanced by the automatic lid sensor that shuts down the operations as soon as you open the cover. The lifting platform is an enormous efficiency-enhancing feature. It helps with the adequate positioning of the wood to be engraved. Being a CO2 laser, this engraver maintains a high speed of engraving. Youcan adjust the speed to 500mm/s for engraving and 30mm/s for cutting.
The maximum engraving depth you can get with this best wood laser cutter is 2mm. Its cutting depth varies from material to material. For example, it stands at 2mm for hardwood and 3mm for plywood. Red light is an innovative feature that adds to the ergonomics of this laser cutter. You can view and understand the point where the laser is working in real-time. It has an engraving area of 10 by 15 inches which is neither too large nor too small for a laser of this budget.
Product Specifications
The laser Type used in this machine is CO2 Gas, which has a total Laser Power of 40W.
It has an interactive Communication Interface with a USB port.
The beam has a Wavelength of 10.64um, which engraves and cuts through the Engraving Area of 400 x 300mm.
The Automatic lifting height is 150mm which features the total Engraving Speed range of 0-500mm/s with a Cutting Speed of 0-30mm/s.
It has great Cutting/Engraving accuracy of 0.15mm with a Carving Depth of 0-2mm.
It cuts well with Cutting thickness: 0-4mm (Acrylic), 0-2mm (hardwood), 0-3mm (cork/plywood, plywood).
The compatible Software is CorelLASER & LaserDRW.
The total machine size is 810 x 610 x 410mm which has a net weight of 50kg.
Works with multiple materials since it has a laser beam that’s versatile.
Highly portable due to the compact designin spite of the large work area.
This laser cutter is made of a solid and strong material. As a result, it is not easily damaged or broken down.
The machine comes with sample materials that you may cut or engrave on to learn.
The software is very user-friendly and ideal for novice users.
Pros
Cons
✅ Built-in exhausts
❌ Not for large scale projects
✅ Red dot guide
✅ Compatible with third party vector software
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
It is a carbon dioxide laser cutter, the co2 laser beam is known for way better precision as compared to other laser cutters in the league. For instance, the Orion motor tech 60w will engrave and cut way more accurately than the Glowforge, as the latter isn’t equipped with the co2 laser cutter beam.
In-Depth Details
So, you want more precision and accuracy in your woodworking projects? Perhaps, an automated laser cutter would do the job. But the machine should be powerful enough to tackle every grain and every texture.
You want a cutter that can tackle anything between balsa and maple. Orion Motor Tech 60W CO2 Laser Engraver allows you to work on any material, not just wood, for cutting and engraving tasks. This rage includes the softer options of leather as well as the tougher materials such as ceramics and glass. You cannot use this machine on metals, however.
Let’s see the size of the surface this machine can handle. The maximum area you can use with this machine is 8 inches wide and 12 inches long. It can engrave the materials up to 5mm deep. This machine comes with its own software. But it doesn’t prevent you from using third-party software such as LaserDRW and CorelLAser. You can make use of the dongle that comes with it to connect with this software. After creating the pattern in any of these applications, you can save the file in the applicable format. The allowed formats include BMP, JPG, PLT, JPEG, TIF, WMF, and EMF.
Once you have installed the software on your device and defined the cutting project, you can connect the two machines through USB. If you are still interested in viewing the progress of your masterpiece in real-time, you can use the red dot pointer to see where it’s working right now. Once you know the position of your project, you can make changes in power and position using the control panel.
The control panel allows you to adjust power as well as current. It also enables the users to stop the machine abruptly in emergency conditions. The ergonomics and minimized sounds make it the best home laser cutter machine. This reduction in noise comes from the integrated cooling fan which not only eliminates heat from the laser cutter but also produces white noise to dissipate noise. The efficiency of the machine is further enhanced by using the water cooling system which runs the water in and out of the machine and absorbs heat.
This is the best wood laser cutter for beginners as it gives an additional level of operational stability using a clamp that keeps the irregular shapes steady during the engraving process. In case, you are using regular and symmetrical objects, you can avoid using the clamp. Instead, place the object on the level board for proper engraving.
Product Specifications
Orion Motor Tech 60W top view
The total Engraving area is 12″ x 8″ with a maximum item size that you can put in of 10.3″ x 8″ x 2.9″.
It can be cut through 2mm wood or acrylic.
The power of the beam is carbon dioxide glass 40 Watts regarded as valued as one thousand to thirteen hundred hours.
It has great compatibility, the compatible operating systems are Windows 2000, XP, 7, 10, and 8; it is NOT compatible with the iOS system.
The Software it can work with is Shenzhouyi (included) / Laser Draw Software / CorelDRAW Software (not included).
The Resolution is as high as Up to 1000 dpi, with the Motor of Stepper type.
It operates on AC 110V power.
The average Working temperature lies in the normal range of 40 – 104°F.
It can engrave on and cut through the Wood, Stone, Glass, Leather, Crystal, Paper, Film, Rubber, Bamboo, etc.
Works on multiple surfaces since it has a laser beam that’s versatile.
The safety of the machine operator is a primary concern in this device.
Tried and tested for runtime and longer working hours due to improved ventilation by the exhaust fan.
The precision of this machine’s beam is astounding.
The laser cutter’s frame is sturdy & resistant to collisions and fall-offs.
The budget bracket within which this engraver is available is quite reasonable.
Pros
Cons
✅ Multiple functions
❌ Costly
✅ Tested for durability
❌ Not for business purposes
✅ Large working area
✅ Honeycomb work platform
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
Dremel lc 40-01 is not for beginners and is more of a pro-oriented engraving machine. Therefore, unlike the Bob CNC which is only 48lbs heavy, the Dremel lc40-01 is way heavier and durable. For the individual who is passionate about laser engraving, the best choice will be this product.
In-Depth Details
If you are passionate about spending some extra bucks to ensure safety at your home and office, this machine will work wonders to tame your concerns. With five sensors to ensure proper, risk-free operations, you can be sure about the safety as well as automaticity of operations. The machine is bulky and, combining the size with its price, we can safely say that it is not meant for hobbyists who are not much keen on their passion.
However, if you are an entry-level wood engraver dreaming about becoming a professional craftsman someday, this is the best wood laser cutter to get started. Not only will it use the sensors to teach you the details that need vigilance during the engraving process. It will also keep you safe and efficient in learning the skill. One cool feature is that, despite its bulky size, you can store the machine anywhere at your home or office because of the safety that comes with it.
Dremel LC40-01 work area
The machine arrives with a built-in water pump. This pump helps with maintaining the temperature within the device. The instruction manual that accompanies the device details all the steps you need to set up and maintain the machine.
In the package, you also get the software. This software installs on the device and can be accessed through the device’s interface. If you want remote access, you can use the software from any device having a browser setting. Once you have uploaded the design into the app, you can use in-app tools to edit it. Note that the software can work with most file types including .jpg, .png, .pdf, and .svg.
The only issue with this machine is that you cannot simply connect your design software with the device. Instead, you have to save the file in the given formats and upload it to the application for maneuvering. Preview mode is another commendable feature. It allows this fast machine to reproduce an image of the intended end result before you even start engraving. Don’t forget to use this feature when you want to cut or engrave irregular shapes.
The device also comes with presets for different materials adding even more automation to the process. The presets are available for acrylic, wood, and paper surfaces. Did I mention that the work area of this machine is considerable? Frankly, I would’ve been happy with a huge work area considering the high price it charges. But the provided area of up to 20 by 12 inches is also acceptable to some extent. Note that the engraving area is smaller than the cutting area I mentioned above. Engraving can be done on an 18.4 by 12-inch area. The maximum engraving depth you can attain with the best wood laser cutter of Dremel is 1.25 inches.
Product Specifications
Dremel LC40-01 top view
The working size is 20″ x 28″.
Up and down work plate dimension is 8″. Systems that it can work on are Windows 2000/7/8/XP/10.
It has a high Carving speed of 1000 mm/s.
The maximum cutting depth ability of this engraver is 5mm for acrylic, wood; 4mm for stiffer materials.
The possible depth of the engravement is 3-4mm for acrylic, wood; 2-3mm for a harder material.
It has great Positioning Accuracy of 0.01 mm.
Supporting Figure Format is considerably great in number which are HPGL, BMP, GIF, JPG, JPEG, DXF, DST, AI while the
Supporting Software is CorelDraw or AutoCAD. Item Size is 3.8’x3.2’x2.8′, while the Item weight in total is 276 lbs.
A large working area allows you to utilize this laser cutter for huge materials.
Works on a multitude of surfaces thanks to its active laser beam.
The machine works at fast speeds, producing great and accurate results.
This laser cutter is constructed of sturdy and durable material making it hard to damage or break down.
The machine comes with sample materials to experiment with if you’re a beginner.
Pros
Cons
✅ Powerful laser
❌ Not Beginner-friendly
✅ Built-in ventilation
❌ Expensive
✅ Safe
✅ RUIDA Display
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
Orion Motor Tech 50W work bed
Orion motor tech 50 watts laser engraver is the kind of device that goes equally well for beginners as well as professionals. It is because the engraving speed is quite high, much as up to 19 inches per second. The only problem is lesser compatibility with multiple software, as compared to the BobCNC which is compatible with almost all relevant software.
In-Depth Details
So, your need is a powerful laser with compatible precision on a budget. You can conclude your search here. Orion Motor Tech Laser Cutter has everything you need to get the utmost quality in your project. The best part is that it comes with a complete enclosure.
Considering this safety factor it remains comparable to high-end devices like Dremel and Glowforge. Only if it had better software compatibility and AI, it could compete well against these home laser cutting machines. Here are the details of its operations and offers. As you can see that the power of the laser is more than most of Orion’s models. Because of Co2 technology, all the laser cutters from Orion offer a high-speed level. This speed is especially prominent in the 50W model with up to 19 inches per second when you are engraving.
However, for cutting purposes, the highest speed is a little lower at 3 inches per second. But speed matters a lot less than precision in the woodcutting industry. The cutter and engraver combo gives a pretty reasonable value for this feature also. At 450 DPI, the machine is compatible with most competitors marketed towards hobbyists or small business owners.
Standing at a length of 40 inches and a width of 26 inches, you wouldn’t find this best laser cutter to be a perfect solution for home or high traffic areas in your office. The only place where it belongs is your workshop, whether at home or at the office.
Other than the efficiency and accuracy, you can rely on its size and build to extend continuous, non-stop services to your business. The thing is durable. And more than durability, it offers a compatible working area. You get a 20 by 12 inches work area that caters to most of your wood cutting and engraving needs.
You can work on the machine for hours without worrying about its mirrors catching dust or its laser getting heated up. The built-in ventilation system that includes an air compressor lifts the heavy load for you. Further ease comes from its water lines supported cooling system to keep the laser at the right temperature for a long.
If you are looking for a low-cost solution to see your dreams coming to life, this model is for you. And if your needs are about getting the right industrial laser cutter for your small craft business, this will help you with those needs also. Let’s talk about software. The company uses RUIDA digital control which is compatible with Windows only. You have to get LightBurn software to make it work with Mac. You can use CorelDraw and AutoCAD with its software. The file formats supported by this device include GIF, AI PNG, JPG, JPEG, PDF, DSB, DST, BMP, SVG, and DXT.
Did we mention that one of the core strengths of this best laser cutter is its safety? This compact machine is safe to use in any setting. It comes with an enclosure and has an auto-shutdown sensor that keeps the laser beam from reaching you if you accidentally open its lids during operation.
Product Specifications
The Software that is compatible with the machine is RD works/ Corelaser software (included).
This laser engraver is compatible with the following computer systems: Windows XP /Vista 7, 8, 2000, 10; it is NOT compatible with the iOS system.
It has a mediocre Resolution of up to 4500 dpi, with a great Engraving Speed range of 0-500 mm/s.
The spindle velocity ranges from 0 to 80 mm/s.
(Huge kudos to Raster/Vector Colour Imaging techniques, cutting rates may be changed.)
The machine works at great speed and gives great and precise results.
A large working area, including a large engraving area, allows you to use this laser cutter to engrave or cut large items.
Tackles most non-metal products, which is a quite unique feature as most of such machines are only good for metal products.
If your object is larger or uneven, you may fit it by using front and back pass-through tunnels.
The finest laser cutter also has a pass-through operating bed, so the user is not confined to working in tiny dimensions.
It has an engraving speed of 300mm per second and a cutting speed of 80mm/s, but speed isn’t the only way it improves efficiency.
For a certain assignment, you can pick between two separate working platforms.
Pros
Cons
✅ Reasonable precision
❌ Only works with Windows
✅ Safety features and full enclosure
✅ Built-in ventilation
✅ Heavy-duty build
Comparison with other Laser Cutters
Orion Motor Tech 80W operating
The Orion motor tech 80 watts is already better than most other such products available in the market due to its high-resolution power of up to a whopping 4500 dpi, which is amazing. Though the compatibility is questionable as it doesn’t connect well with Linux, Mac, or systems other than the Windows systems. Comparatively, the BobCNC, Beamo, and Glowforge connect equally great with all mentioned systems.
In-Depth Details
When you consider the laser wood cutting industry, you would find Orion dominating most segments of it. The reason is simple. Its model cut out excess costs without compromising on quality. So, you get the best cheap laser engraver that caters to all your needs.
Orion Motor Tech laser cutter adheres to similar standards. You can get more power and more efficiency but the price remains somewhat similar across products. This particular model, for example, offers the largest working area any small-business-oriented laser woodcutter can offer. It gives a 20 by 12-inch area to work on surfaces. As well as this operating bed, the best laser cutter also offers pass-through so the user doesn’t feel limited to working in small dimensions.
If your item is larger or it is irregular, you can use front and rear pass-through passages to fit the excessive size. The laser gives a cutting depth of up to 10mm. Note that this depth varies depending on the material you are using. The resolution stands at 4500 DPI which is quite commendable considering the size and laser wattage. After enhancing your scope of work and allowing you to work on larger projects, the machine also makes sure you do this with efficiency. It offers a speed of 300mm per second for engraving and its cutting speed stands at 80mm/s. but speed is not the only way it enhances efficiency.
Another indirect and ergonomic factor of this wood laser cutter is its noiselessness. I must say that with all the noise-reducing features and qualities, Orion Motor tech 80W hasn’t transformed into a mute and charming home laser engraver. Yet, the noise has become lost more bearable now because of innovative working platforms.
There are two different working platforms for you to choose from for a particular task. If you want ergonomics and only have to maneuver smaller items, you can use the beehive pattern cutting platform. The second work bed – aluminum knife cutting platform – works best for large objects which require height adjustments and hold on them.
Ergonomics is further enhanced because of the partnership between its intuitive control panel – RUIDA control panel – and its red dot pointer that allows you to know the laser location in real-time. using this partnership, you can not only understand how your project is progressing, but you can also make amendments to the plan.
The digital control connects with PC only and you can use USB, Flash Drive, or Ethernet for connection. The panel is compatible with Windows only. However, like in other models of Orion, you can connect the device with Mac also using LightBurn software. Some features of safety that come with this best wood laser cutter include a complete enclosure-sensitive lid and a transparent viewing window. Also, you don’t have to worry about wear and tear in your machine because of long hours of operations because of in-built ventilation and water cooling system. The laser delivers continuous power even after hours of use.
Product Specifications
The Orion motor tech 80 watts co2 laser engraver cutter offers the largest cutting surface at 20 x 28 inches, which is approximately 4 square feet of working space to fit your bigger projects!
It engraves at a high speedof0-500 mm/s and cuts at 0-80 mm/s, making it a quick machine.
The machine has a resolution that may be adjusted up to 4500 dpi.
We enlisted the top 10 markets competent best wood laser cutter models. Some customers may sound confused about which one to choose yet!
Don’t worry! We are here to help you. Before your final decision for a particular CNC laser cutting machine, just follow these guidelines for a better way to analyze a model.
This extensive article will definitely help you with choosing your best laser cutter without incurring lots of research. But if you are not sure what you are looking for and how to evaluate a potential laser cutter for your workstation, you should read this complete buying guide.
This buying guide answers all the questions which you want to be answered about the best choice available in the market and the best fit for the type of wood engraving you do.
Compatibility with multiple software and their supply
The software will be supplied with certain laser engravers. This is the situation with Full Spectrum Laser, which includes RetinaEngrave v3.0 browser-based control software with its unit. Because this program was created by the firm, it should perform flawlessly with its own equipment. Some equipment will necessitate the acquisition (and payment for) of your own laser software. You may use free ones, such as the famous LaserGRBL control software, but many users think that investing in quality software is essential for getting decent results from your laser cutter.
Adobe Photoshop: This program has features that will appeal to both experienced and inexperienced developers. It also has a mobile version that has less functionality than the PC version but can still produce high-quality photographs.
GIMP: GIMP is an abbreviation for GNU Image Manipulation Program. This software is free, but there is no question that it is a dependable raster software solution. GIMP comes with image editing capabilities such as transformation, selection, masking, filters, and brushes. It is simple to use and works with all operating systems.
LaserGRBL: is another free software that may be downloaded from the internet. It swiftly converts your ideas into GCode and is ideal for hobbyists.
Availability & parts replacements
A laser engraver is available to the consumer hardware store or retail chain. Nevertheless, you must check online if you want to see a wide choice of units and make sure you pick the one that best meets your needs. There are several possibilities available on Amazon.
What exactly is a CNC router?
A CNC router, like a laser cutter/engraver, has a separate tool head. Instead of a laser, it carves and slices into materials with a drilling bit.
What should I look for when buying a laser engraver?
First of all, understand your craft’s needs. As a woodworker, you should look for an engraving and cutting machine which works on wood and related materials like cardboard and paper. If the choice of material is wider in your engraver, it will prove to be a better choice for you. However, the bare minimum of wood cutting and engraving should be present before you decide on the best fit.
Don’t forget about the budget. The prices of laser cutting machines for home use vary greatly. You can expect to spend between two hundred to ten thousand dollars on a single device. Before starting your research, decide on the budget you have for your machine and stick to it.
Understand the type of work. Most laser cutters also engrave on wood. However, you would want to be sure about this type of activity before you make the purchase.
Safety is a paramount issue especially if you are working at the beginner level or if you want to keep the device in a high traffic area of your home or office. See if the laser comes with a complete enclosure and lid. The best laser cutter for safety is one that can sense a lack of input from the user to automatically shut down.
Precision is the key measure if your projects require lots of details. This quality of engraving depends on various factors including beam width and spacing between lines it can engrave.
You should also consider the maintenance and repair of your device. It should be easy to clean. Inquire about the frequency of maintenance as well the whole process before investing. Know that some lasers have so much intense maintenance process that users are forced to call for a technician. Plus, you should be able to find its parts easily in the market.
Carefully analyze the technical aspect and compare them with other models as well. Technical aspects include the specialized software the machine uses to communicate with the overall cutter’s hardware, structure, and design, the engraving area for designs, compatible software, and operating system.
Moreover, some advanced laser cutters can connect via Bluetooth and mobile apps. While others can connect with a USB port and computer. Choose the one that provides the best fit for your requirements in terms of technical aspects.
Warranty is a plus when you buy an expensive wood laser cutter! Every machine that costs hundreds to million dollars will need some maintenance after a couple of years. A machine part may break.
During maintenance or breakage, it matters how much it costs locally or internationally. If the company is offering an easy warranty policy and guarantee policy, it will cost you less and save your time. Hence, choose a model where you can claim and get refunded!
Before buying the laser cutter, consider the power capacity needed for your task. In the market, some laser cutting machines are light and consume less power. Less power capacity machines are mostly used at home.
Some cutting machines consume full wattage of power, and these machines are used commercially.
Exposure to laser light can damage the human eye retina and burn skin. Handle the laser cutting machines with extra care! Almost all laser machines have sealed Co2 lasers that emit invisible intense laser radiations.
These radiations have a wavelength of 10.5 microns and are invisible to the human eye. So, all companies that manufacture laser cutters provide special goggles so that you can operate easily. I hope these guidelines would help you get your best wood laser cutter for making your most creative and personalized designs.
However, if you want to cut more than 20 mm wood, it requires multiple laser beam passes.
The laser cutting has exceptional results on Cork, Balsa, Baltic Birch Plywood, Cherry, White Pine, Alder, and Basswood. Softwoods are preferred for laser cutting as they have less distorted and hard grain patterns.
How long do laser engravers last?
The laser engraving system is best for craft jewelry. The working mechanism utilizes laser beam passes in short pulses needed to create quality artwork. These engravings last long up to 35,000 hours of life.
How thick can a laser cutter cut wood?
Most of the laser cutters work well with 0.5-12 mm thick material. Whereas there are many laser cutters cut 20 mm thick material too.
Any wooden material more than 20 mm should be cut through the CNC router for better performance.
Is plywood safe to laser cut?
Wood-like plywood or composite wood that contains glue is not a good option to cut with a laser cutter. These wood materials like plywood are ¼ inches thick that is not suitable for laser cutting.
MDF has the same thickness of ¼ inches, but that also has to bear a higher amount of charring while cutting.
What are the advantages of cutting with a laser?
The best wood laser cutter can offer more than one advantage in cutting wood.
Control: Laser cutters deliver good control over the beam. You can use its intensity, heat, and length to get the desired results.
Low power consumption: in comparison to other tools, laser cutters consume low power. They utilize 10kw, whereas others can go to 50kw.
Versatile usage: Laser cutters can go well with multiple materials.
Low maintenance: all laser cutters are easy to use and easy to maintain thus;, low cost as well.
Time-saving: These cutters allow to work efficiently, set up easily, and allow smooth finish and precise cutting in less time.
How does a wood laser cutter work?
Laser cutters with their powerful beam directed to the material that cut it by melting, burning, or vaporizing it. Finally, it leaves a smooth cut with a high-quality finish.
Can a laser cut a human?
The laser cutters need to be used carefully. Laser cutter machines are powerful and made with high-density energy that can harm human organs. They can damage sensitive human tissues. A powerful laser beam can burn through any brain tissue of retina tissue.
Are there different types of laser cutting?
Yes, laser cutters are available in different types that allow a variety of techniques for cutting. Three main types are well known for their performance, C02, fiber, and crystal.
What is the best laser cutting machine?
According to our criteria of accuracy and ease of use, the best wood laser cutter includes the best affordable laser cutter and home laser cutting machines.
Beamo Laser Cutter & Engraver 30W Desktop
BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit
Orion Motor Tech CO2 Laser Engraver Cutter
Can you cut with a laser engraver?
Yes. Laser cutters and laser engravers are the same terms used interchangeably on the basis of your main aim. Mostly, CO2 flatbed laser machines include the features of cutting as well as engraving.
What can I do with a laser engraver?
You can engrave to create artistic wooden keychain holders, bottle openers, wine glasses, woodcut puzzles, wood rolling pin, glass spice jars, beer cap shadow boxes, coasters, crafts on ornaments, and many others.
Are laser cutters dangerous?
Yes, they can damage the skin and eyes of users. The other hazards include the possibility of catching fire or can produce irritating combustion effects. Therefore, place it in the cutter safely. Typically, it contains CO2 carbon dioxide lasers that produce radiations at the wavelength of 10600 nm.
How do I choose a laser cutter?
The process includes planning, researching the brand, and researching the machine you want to buy. Plan. You need to know your needs. Precision, material, budget, and ease of use are some factors you should plan out in this phase.
Know the supplier. The search for the best laser cutter doesn’t start with the best product. Rather, it starts with the best manufacturer who makes this product. Look for a trustable brand. A laser cutter is a long-term asset and you would see yourself contacting the support more than once in coming years. Know if the brand is responsive to your needs. See if it’s popular enough to have spare parts easily available.
Talk about the machine. Learn the essentials. If you want faster operations, go for advanced CO2 technology. You may also get some help from the power of the laser. Know how much the working area caters to what size of the engraving project.
Should I buy a laser engraver?
This question’s answer varies according to your needs and capabilities. If you see yourself using your laser cutter frequently, you get a positive answer. Otherwise, you can always rely on the services of laser engraving businesses and professionals to lend you a helping hand. Or you may consider leasing the best laser engraver for wood without future commitments.
If you are a newbie in wood pattern designing and engraving, you can skip the worries. Most laser cutters are easy to use and learn.
Another factor that should influence your choice is whether you want an engraver or a cutter. Ask yourself if your projects focus more on cutting the wood or engraving it. If your work requires an emphasis on both tasks, you should buy the best laser engraver for wood separately from a cutter. Not only will this separation mean an increase in the turnaround but you will also get professional results for both needs.
How much does a laser cutter cost?
Well, the answer is a range between 200 and 10,000 dollars. If you only want your feet wet, you should go for the best affordable laser cutter available in the market. If you want more accuracy and detail and you are more passionate about your craft than a newbie, intermediate-level products will help you most. In the end, the laser engravers lying at the higher end of this range are meant for those hobbyists and DIY-enthusiasts who are venturing into their empire around craft-building.
Another factor that decides the price of these lasers is the safety measures it considers. The best home engraving machine which doesn’t require a dedicated space in a workshop comes with complete enclosures so the laser beam doesn’t escape the machine. Other lasers are more technical and less safe.
Speed and efficiency, thickness, and cutting and engraving areas also influence the price of the best mini laser engraver.
Which laser cutter should I buy?
The answer depends on your needs.
Safety is enhanced in Dremel, Growforge, and Beamo cutters. This excessive safety makes these lasers great choices for homes and offices. For the automated experience, Dremel and Glowforge make perfect choices. And you get the most power on a reasonable budget with most models of Orion.
What is the best wood for laser cutting?
Go for maple, basswood, alder, cherry, and poplar if you are serious about cutting and engraving crafts.
The quality of wood you are using for your wood cutting and engraving determines the quality finish you get for your craft. If you are using harder wood, you should expect a deterioration of the quality you get in the end. Also, the grain has to be smoother to help with cutting.
Another option that is widely used among woodworkers is plywood. The best quality of this engineered wood is that some of its qualities are specifically manufactured and marketed for laser work. Search for the thickness your machine can handle and forget all worries about the finished quality of your masterpiece.
What can a 100-watt laser cut?
A 100-watt laser can cut acrylic with a thickness of 1mm to 19mm, Balsawood with a thickness of (3.2mm to 6.5mm), Birch (0.9mm to 4.8mm), Cardboard (4mm to 6.5mm), and Plywood (5.6mm to 12mm) polyethylene foam, Silicon sheet, and transparency sheet.
Final Verdict
To save your time and energy, you must think about adding the best wood laser cutter to your tools. No matter if you need a consumer laser cutter for your home or small business; they can allow a smooth and perfect finish to your material.
Save your material from damage and choose the best wood laser cutter from our selection to speed up your performance with a reliable tool.
Though Beamo 30W Desktop Laser Cutter is our Editor’s choice yet if you are looking for the best laser engraver along with your cutting needs, I would recommend you to get your hands on BobsCNC Evolution 4 CNC Router Kit the two in one champ.
Doug is a master woodworker with over 15 years of experience in the craft. Doug's passion for woodworking began at a young age, watching his father build furniture and learning from him the skills and techniques that have made him the expert he is today.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, Doug's blog is a must-read for anyone looking to improve their skills and knowledge in the craft.
Who was that person who spent years crafting and woodworking without a great laser cutting solution? 
