Laser Directory

Diode lasers are affordable and great for beginners or engraving wood, leather and cardboard. CO₂ lasers cut faster, handle thicker wood and acrylic and suit small workshops. Fiber lasers are the go-to for metal marking and industrial workflows.

For engraving only, 5–10 W of optical power on a diode laser is enough. To cut 4–8 mm wood or acrylic, plan for at least 20 W (diode) or 40–60 W (CO₂). If you cut thick material regularly or run production jobs, look at 60 W+ CO₂ machines or hybrid systems.

CO₂ lasers cut and engrave wood, MDF, acrylic, leather, paper, cork and many plastics (avoid PVC). You can also engrave glass, ceramics and coated metals – always ensure proper fume extraction.

Diode lasers engrave wood, leather, slate and can mark stainless steel with spray. They cut thin wood, cardboard and some plastics, but clear or white acrylic is difficult because the wavelength passes through. Air assist helps produce cleaner edges.

An enclosure keeps smoke and stray laser light contained and makes fume extraction easier – essential for indoor use. Air assist blows smoke away, cools the workpiece and leaves cleaner edges on wood and acrylic. Both upgrades improve safety and quality.

Many machines work with LightBurn (feature-rich, paid) or LaserGRBL (free for diode lasers). Vendor apps often provide quick presets but are less flexible. Check software compatibility and supported file formats before you buy.