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Diode Lasers at a Glance

Maker & Kreative

Compact diode lasers are ideal for hobbyists, makers and small businesses: low entry cost, easy maintenance and versatile materials.

Open‑frame lasers (from ~€200) are affordable and flexible, but due to the open design should only be used in well‑ventilated areas.

Desktop diode lasers offer an enclosure, higher safety and in some cases reach the performance of CO₂ lasers – without coolant or a CO₂ tube.

For metals, diode lasers reach their limits; fiber lasers are the better choice here, while only special IR modules can mark metal to a limited extent.

Great for beginners

Easy to use, modular upgrades and reliable engraving on wood, leather, plastics and coated metals.

Open ecosystem

Many models are modular – add Air Assist, enclosure or stronger modules as your projects grow.

Find the right diode laser

Power & modules

Modern diode lasers offer 5–40 W optical modules. For engraving, 5–10 W is often enough; for faster cutting, 20 W or more is worth it.

5 W – great for simple engraving & fine details→10 W – balanced for engraving & thin cuts (perfect for starters)→20 W – thicker materials and faster cuts→40 W – high‑end module for thicker cuts & small series→

Pros & limits

  • Pros
  • Affordable entry with modular upgrades
  • Precise engraving on wood, leather and coated metals
  • Low maintenance and compact form factor
  • Limitations
  • Slower when cutting thicker materials
  • Clear acrylic and bare metal are difficult
  • Open systems require extra safety measures

Material overview

Suitable materials

  • Wood
  • Cardboard & paper
  • Dark acrylic
  • Thin leather
  • Textiles
  • Rubber

Better avoid

  • Clear acrylic
  • Solid wood (>6 mm)
  • Bare metal

Verwendungszwecke & Stimmen

Etsy seller

“We personalize 50+ cutting boards per week – the 10W diode runs reliably with low maintenance.”

— Wood Workshop Rau, Frankfurt

Makerspace

“With swappable modules we cover engraving workshops and small series – perfect for our community.”

— FabLab Cologne

Start‑up branding

“Laser‑engraved wooden and leather give‑aways stand out from printed merch.”

— Brandcraft Studio

Subcategories

Diode lasers by build

Diode lasers can also be divided into the following types.

Open frame

Open frames – light, modular, ideal for maker benches.

View all lasers in this subcategory

Desktop

Enclosed units with filtration – safe and home‑friendly.

View all lasers in this subcategory

Portable

Mobile units (cube or stand) – flexible for large objects.

View all lasers in this subcategory
Find the right diode laser

Diode laser FAQ

Key questions on operation, power, safety and software.

What is a diode laser and how does it work?
💡
Multiple 450‑nm emitters are combined and focused through lenses to a small spot. No gas tube needed – ready to use in open or enclosed systems.
Which materials can be engraved or cut?
💡
Wood, plywood, MDF, leather, felt, cork, card, rubber, anodized aluminum and coated steel engrave well. With 20–40 W you can cut 3–6 mm plywood. Clear acrylic, PVC and bare metal are not suitable.
How much optical power do I need?
💡
For engraving and fine details 5–10 W is sufficient. For frequent 3–4 mm plywood cuts, 20 W is helpful. 30–40 W adds speed or thicker cuts – ensure proper ventilation/filtration.
Which safety measures matter?
💡
Certified goggles for blue light, an enclosure or hood and an extractor with filter are essential. Air Assist reduces smoke, improves edges and lowers fire risk.
Which software and formats are supported?
💡
Popular: LightBurn, LaserGRBL or vendor apps. Vector: SVG, DXF, AI; raster: PNG/JPG. Output is usually G‑code or proprietary.