Choosing between a 50W and 60W CO₂ laser can be tricky—both are popular for hobbyists and small businesses, but is that extra 10W of power worth the investment? In this 2025 comparison guide, we’ll break down:
✔ Key differences in cutting & engraving performance
✔ Real-world material thickness comparisons
✔ Price differences & value analysis
✔ Who should upgrade (and who shouldn’t)
✔ Best 50W & 60W laser recommendations
| Feature | 50W CO₂ Laser | 60W CO₂ Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Max Cutting Depth (Wood) | 5–6mm | 6–8mm |
| Max Cutting Depth (Acrylic) | 4–5mm | 5–6mm |
| Engraving Speed | Good (400–500mm/s) | Faster (500–600mm/s) |
| Best For | Light hobbyist use | Small business production |
| Material | 50W Performance | 60W Performance |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood | 5–6mm (slow) | 6–8mm (faster) |
| Acrylic | 4–5mm clean cuts | 5–6mm smoother edges |
| Leather | 3–4mm | 4–5mm |
| MDF | 4–5mm (more charring) | 5–6mm (cleaner) |
| Engraving | Good detail | Slightly faster |
💡 Verdict:
| Model | 50W Price | 60W Price | Price Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| OMTech | ~$2,500 | ~$3,200 | +$700 |
| Boss Laser | ~$5,000 | ~$6,500 | +$1,500 |
| G.Weike | ~$3,800 | ~$4,500 | +$700 |
💡 Upgrade Worth It If:
✔ You cut 6mm+ materials weekly
✔ You run a small business (faster = more profit)
✔ You want longer tube life (less strain at 60W vs. maxing out a 50W)
❌ Stick with 50W If:
✔ You only engrave or cut thin materials
✔ You’re a casual hobbyist
✔ Your budget is tight
Q: Can a 60W laser engrave better than a 50W?
A: Marginally—both can achieve fine detail, but 60W is slightly faster.
Q: Does a 60W use more electricity?
A: Minimal difference (~10% more than 50W).
Q: Can I upgrade my 50W to 60W later?
A: No—laser tubes are not interchangeable. You’d need a new machine.
Still unsure? Comment below with your use case & budget for personalized advice!
