Acrylic, often referred to as plexiglass or PMMA, is a versatile and visually stunning material that has become a favorite among artists, designers, and makers. Its clarity, durability, and ability to produce clean, flame-polished edges make it ideal for creating intricate art pieces, custom signage, jewelry, and functional products. Laser cutting technology has revolutionized the way creators work with acrylic, offering precision and flexibility that traditional methods can’t match. In this article, we explore the premier laser cutters for acrylic art and products in 2025, highlighting their features, capabilities, and ideal use cases to help you unlock your creative potential.
Laser cutting is the go-to method for working with acrylic due to its ability to produce smooth, polished edges and detailed engravings with minimal post-processing. There are two main types of acrylic suitable for laser processing: cast acrylic and extruded acrylic. Cast acrylic is ideal for engraving, producing a frosty white finish, while extruded acrylic is preferred for cutting, as it yields flame-polished edges. CO2 laser cutters, which emit infrared beams absorbed by acrylic, are the most effective for both cutting and engraving, especially for clear and colored acrylics. Diode lasers, while more affordable, struggle with transparent acrylic and are better suited for opaque materials.
The advantages of laser cutting acrylic include:
With the right laser cutter, artists and small businesses can transform acrylic sheets into eye-catching creations. Below, we highlight some of the top laser cutters for acrylic art and products in 2025, based on performance, ease of use, and suitability for creative projects.
The xTool P2 is widely regarded as one of the best CO2 laser cutters for acrylic in 2025, offering a perfect balance of power, precision, and user-friendly features. With a 55W CO2 laser, it can cut through 20mm acrylic in a single pass, including clear acrylic, which diode lasers cannot handle. Its large 26″ x 14″ work area and pass-through capabilities make it ideal for both small-scale art projects and larger productions.
Key Features:
Best For: Professional artists and small businesses creating large-scale acrylic signage, intricate jewelry, or batch-produced products. Its ability to handle complex projects and thick materials makes it a top choice.
Price: Approximately $4,999, a worthwhile investment for serious creators.
The Glowforge Aura is an entry-level CO2 laser cutter designed for hobbyists and small-scale creators. With a 30W laser, it can cut acrylic up to 6mm thick and engrave with crisp, frosty results. Its compact design and cloud-based software make it accessible for beginners, while its precision suits detailed acrylic art.
Key Features:
Best For: Hobbyists and educators looking for an affordable, user-friendly machine for small acrylic projects like awards or personalized gifts.
Price: Around $1,199, making it a budget-friendly option for beginners.
The OMTech AF2028-60 is a powerful choice for professionals needing high throughput. Its 60W CO2 laser can cut acrylic up to 10mm thick, delivering clean edges and precise engravings. Paired with LightBurn software, it offers advanced control for custom designs.
Key Features:
Best For: Businesses focused on producing large acrylic signs, POP displays, or industrial components. Its power and large work area make it ideal for high-volume production.
Price: Approximately $3,000-$4,000, offering excellent value for professional use.
The WeCreat Vision is a powerful diode laser with a 10W output, suitable for cutting thin acrylic (up to 5mm) and engraving. While it cannot cut clear acrylic due to its blue light wavelength, it excels with dark, opaque acrylics. Its compact size and safety features make it a great choice for schools and small studios.
Key Features:
Best For: Schools, STEM programs, and hobbyists working with thin, colored acrylics for educational or small craft projects.
Price: Around $1,059 (with discounts), a cost-effective option for entry-level users.
The Flux Beamo is a compact yet powerful CO2 laser cutter with a 30W laser, capable of cutting acrylic up to 5mm thick. Its touchscreen interface and smartphone app add convenience, making it a favorite for creators who value portability and ease of use.
Key Features:
Best For: Artists and small businesses with limited space, creating medium-sized acrylic art pieces or products.
Price: Approximately $2,000, offering a balance of power and affordability.
To achieve the best results when working with acrylic, consider these best practices:
Laser cutters open up endless possibilities for acrylic art and products. Here are some creative ideas to spark your imagination:
Laser cutters have transformed acrylic into a medium of limitless creativity, enabling artists and businesses to produce stunning, high-quality products with ease. The xTool P2 stands out for its power and versatility, making it ideal for professional-grade projects, while the Glowforge Aura and Flux Beamo cater to hobbyists and small studios. For high-volume production, the OMTech AF2028-60 delivers unmatched performance, and the WeCreat Vision is perfect for educational settings. By choosing the right laser cutter and mastering acrylic processing techniques, you can unlock your creative potential and bring your visions to life in 2025. Whether you’re crafting delicate jewelry or bold signage, these premier laser cutters will help you achieve professional results with precision and flair.
