Laser engravers under $1000 have become increasingly popular among hobbyists, makers, and small businesses, offering a cost-effective way to create personalized gifts and craft small projects. Below is a comparison of portable and desktop laser engravers, along with recommendations for models within this price range:
Portable Laser Engravers
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, typically weighing 2-10 lbs, with handheld options available. They are easy to carry and set up, making them ideal for on-the-go engraving tasks such as craft fairs or events. They are also suitable for users with limited workspace, like apartments or dormitories. Most portable laser engravers use diode or infrared lasers with power ranges of 5W-20W, capable of engraving materials like wood, leather, and coated metals. Prices generally fall between $300-$2,500.
- Cons: Engraving speeds are relatively slow, usually between 100-300 mm/min, and cutting depth is limited to less than 3mm, making them unsuitable for thick materials. Workspace size is small, typically under 12″x12″.
- Recommended Models:
- xTool F1: Priced at approximately $949, it combines a 20W diode laser and a 2W IR laser in an ultra-compact, fully enclosed desktop unit. It can engrave/cut organics like wood and leather with the diode laser and directly mark metals/plastics with the IR laser. Features include an integrated camera, touchscreen, filtration fan, and safety sensors, making it beginner-friendly. However, its workspace is relatively small at 180x180mm.
- Atomstack A5 Pro: Priced at around $699, it is a budget-friendly option with dual 5W lasers delivering 10W power. It boasts high precision, can engrave wood, leather, acrylic, and other materials, and its IPG laser ensures stable performance. The machine is compact and portable, making it suitable for small crafts and light personalization tasks.
Desktop Laser Engravers
- Pros: Larger in size and weight, typically ranging from 20-100+ lbs, with a fixed setup. They offer higher power, usually 10W-150W, and some models feature CO2 or fiber lasers. They can engrave and cut a wider range of materials, including wood, acrylic, glass, and certain metals. Workspace sizes are medium to large, up to 24″x36″, enabling more complex and detailed projects. Engraving speeds are faster, ranging from 500-3000 mm/min, with cutting depths reaching up to 10mm for materials like wood and acrylic. Prices start at around $1,500 and can exceed $15,000.
- Cons: Require a dedicated workspace and ventilation setup. Higher upfront costs and less portability necessitate a stable surface for operation.
- Recommended Models:
- Ortur Laser Master 3: With 20W optical power and an enhanced 55W version, it offers a workspace of 400 x 430mm. The 55W model can easily cut through 0.4-inch acrylic in a single pass. Features include an integrated camera for precise framing (LU2-4 model), automatic focus, and robust aluminum construction. It is supported by a large community, widely compatible with LightBurn/LaserGRBL software, and offers abundant accessories. It is ideal for users prioritizing cutting power and speed for thicker materials but requires careful safety precautions due to its open frame design, with air assist highly recommended for cutting.
- Sculpfun S30 Ultra: Offering 16W optical power, it is designed for ultra-high-speed engraving (up to 40,000 mm/min) without compromising detail. Equipped with a high-quality 3-element lens, it delivers a super-fine beam spot (0.08×0.1mm), perfect for intricate designs. Its solid aluminum alloy frame minimizes vibration and noise during operation, with excellent cable management. It is well-suited for detail-focused engraving, high-volume projects, and users who value a quiet workshop environment. However, its cutting depth may be slightly less than the Ortur LM3 on very thick materials.
- OMTech 40W CO2 Laser Engraver: Priced at $999, it features a 40W laser and an 8″ x 12″ workspace, capable of cutting 1/8″ acrylic. It offers broad material compatibility, including wood, acrylic, paper, fabric, leather, and more. However, it is not beginner-friendly and requires some technical knowledge and experience to operate effectively. It is not compatible with LightBurn out of the box but can be upgraded to a 24V system with a rotary attachment. It is suitable for users with some laser engraving experience who need a versatile and powerful tool for various materials.
How to Choose
Choose a portable laser engraver if you need mobility for events or client visits, work in small spaces, and primarily engrave thin materials like wood, leather, and anodized metals. Opt for a desktop laser engraver if you require deep cutting and high-speed engraving, work with thick/dense materials like acrylic and hardwood, or run a business that demands volume production.
