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xTool S1 10WxTool
Work area
498 × 330 mm
Best price
$1,043.48at Amazon
Laser module
Diode(Desktop)
455 nm · 10 W
Top List
Budget Lasers Up to €1,000 – Our Top 7
The best laser engravers and cutters up to €1,000 – more power, sometimes with an enclosure, and still affordable.
Table of contents
1. Budget Lasers Up to €1,000
With a budget of up to €1,000 for a laser cutter, you can already look at some very interesting machines. Quick heads-up though: getting a fiber laser or a CO₂ laser with enclosure and proper extraction within this budget is tight.
That’s why this list mainly focuses on diode lasers with 10–40 W output, in some cases with an enclosure — which can make them suitable as “home lasers”. One of the best-known and best-selling options in this category is the xTool S1 in a 10 W configuration, which can be found with enclosure and extraction from around €800.
Alright — let’s take a look at the best lasers in this class!
- $1,084.78
- $699.99
- $479.00
- $406.52
- $922.83
- $216.30
- $216.30
2. Why we recommend lasers up to €1,000
Laser cutters in the price range up to €1,000 are an attractive option for many hobbyists, makers, and small businesses to get started with laser cutting and engraving. From very powerful diode lasers to the first CO₂ lasers (K40 lasers with a bit more tinkering) you can do quite a lot here.
The most interesting part is the wide range you’ll find in this price bracket. On the one hand, you get increasingly safe, fully enclosed diode lasers with built-in enclosures, air assist and extraction — which often still don’t exceed 10 W by much (see xTool S1). On the other hand, you can also find the first CO₂ lasers (K40) and open-frame lasers up to 40 W in this price range. They require more technical work, but offer noticeably more power and a broader range of materials.
Still, I personally wouldn’t recommend buying the highest-watt machine blindly. It’s usually smarter to stay somewhere in the middle and pick solid brands and models that have good reviews and support.
2.1 Requirements and use cases
Before you buy, it’s best to think about what you actually want to do with the laser and then research the models that match your use case. You may still have to accept some trade-offs — but you’ll know what you need and you’ll buy more intentionally.
In my opinion, 10 W to 20 W are the best lasers in this price range: with 20 W you already get high cutting speeds and can cut thicker materials; with 10 W you’re a bit slower, but often a bit more precise when engraving.
We also recommend asking for experiences with a brand or a specific laser cutter in forum groups like Reddit or Facebook. Useful subreddits include r/whichlasercutter, r/Lasercutting and r/laserengraving, where users share real experiences — away from marketing and manufacturer ads.
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We compare 200+ laser cutters neutrally & objectively. When you purchase through our links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thank you! 🙏
Big Strengths
- More power (20–40 W) and better cutting performance
- Enclosures, air assist, or camera options are often available
- Strong value for ambitious beginners and side projects
Trade-Offs
- Still mostly diode lasers; clear acrylic/metal remain limited
- Enclosed models add weight and require more space
- Support quality varies; brand choice matters
Best For
- Makers and hobbyists who engrave/cut regularly
- Small commissions, Etsy/side business within a €1,000 budget
- Anyone who wants more safety than open-frame lasers
3. Compare lasers
Now that you know the most important aspects of lasers up to €1,000, you can compare the best models directly. We created a comparison table with the best lasers in this price class. Using the plus button in the list, you can build your own comparison table and easily compare different lasers side by side.
WeCreat Vista 10WWeCreat
Work area
415 × 290 mm
Best price
$699.99at WeCreat Shop
Laser module
Diode(Desktop)
455 nm · 10 W
Connections
USBWIFI
Software
Autofocus
Camera
Air Assist
Enclosure
Release
2024
Ortur R2 10WOrtur
Work area
300 × 210 mm
Best price
$479.00at Ortur Shop
Laser module
Diode(Desktop)
455 nm · 10 W
Connections
WIFIUSB
Autofocus
Camera
Air Assist
Enclosure
Release
2025
4. Lasers in detail
If the details from the top list weren’t enough, you’ll find a more in-depth presentation of the individual lasers in this price class here. This helps you get a clearer picture of strengths and weaknesses and find the best laser for your requirements. Alternatively, you’ll find all information summarized on the product page or in the comparison view.
5. Summary
A laser cutter up to €1,000 is the ideal middle ground for many users between cheap entry-level devices and expensive professional systems. In this price range you mainly get powerful diode lasers (10–40 W), sometimes already with an enclosure, air assist, and exhaust options — meaning machines that can be operated safely indoors.
Compared to lasers under €500, you benefit primarily from more power, more comfort, and better safety. Engraving becomes faster and cleaner, cuts in plywood or MDF are more reliable, and the overall workflow is much less stressful. Models like the xTool S1 show that from around €800 you can already get real “home lasers” with a closed system.
At the same time: more watts isn’t automatically better. If you mainly engrave, 10–20 W is often more efficient and more precise. 20–40 W is worth it if you cut more often or want to produce small runs. Clear acrylic, glass, or bare metal are still the domain of CO₂ or fiber lasers — and the budget up to €1,000 usually isn’t enough for that.
Our conclusion: if you want to engrave or cut regularly, work in an apartment, and get started without constant tinkering, the €1,000 class is a very sensible sweet spot. Pay attention to brand quality, community support, and LightBurn compatibility — and you’ll get a lot of performance for your money.
💙
We compare 200+ laser cutters neutrally & objectively. When you purchase through our links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Thank you! 🙏
6. FAQ – Common questions about lasers up to €1,000
Is a diode laser up to €1,000 enough for cutting?
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Yes — for plywood, MDF, leather, felt, and acrylic (not transparent) usually without issues. Depending on power, 1–3 passes are common. For thick hardwood or clear acrylic you need CO₂-level power.
10 W, 20 W or 40 W — what makes sense?
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• 10 W: Very precise engraving, slower when cutting • 20 W: Great all-rounder for engraving + clean cutting • 40 W: Faster cutting, useful for small production runs More watts doesn’t automatically mean better engraving.
Can I use a laser up to €1,000 in an apartment?
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Yes — if the device has an enclosure or is operated with exhaust/filtration. Closed diode lasers are significantly safer and less smelly than open-frame models.
Do I need air assist?
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Highly recommended. Air assist gives cleaner cut edges, less charring, and often better engraving results. Many devices include it integrated or offer it as an option.
Which software is the best choice?
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LightBurn is the productivity standard and is supported by most good lasers. Vendor apps work for getting started but are often more limited long term.
Is a CO₂ laser (K40) worth it at this budget?
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Possible, but only for technically experienced users. K40 lasers require upgrades, better exhaust, and more maintenance. For most users, a modern diode laser is the less stressful solution.
What should I pay special attention to when buying?
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Brand, support, community feedback, spare parts availability, and honest power ratings. Prefer buying from retailers with strong buyer protection.
Is a budget laser up to €1,000 suitable for a side business?
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Yes — especially 20–40 W models work well for personalized products, small runs, and Etsy shops, as long as material choices and expectations stay realistic.