My team and I put the best laser engravers to the test - and these are the models we recommend for home crafting, hobbyists, and professionals.
Like the best 3D printers we've reviewed, laser engraving machines are swiftly becoming more and more popular for crafters, small businesses, studios, and classrooms. And today's models are more precise than ever before, for when you need a professional-grade cut.
The xTool P2 stands out as the best laser engraver for most people overall, showing what the technology is really capable of - although alternatives like the Glowforge Pro and Two Trees TS2 may suit your needs better. Check out our full round-up below, where we compare speed, accuracy, and performance across a range of laser engraving units.
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The xTool P2 laser engraver holds the crown as our best laser engraver, and for good reason. Uniquely positioned as one of the few fully enclosed engravers at its size and price point, this machine is not just a progressive evolution from open-framed alternatives; it's a quantum leap, designed to serve both serious enthusiasts and small businesses.
What elevates the xTool P2 to a class of its own are numerous standout features. From a user-centric computer-based software interface to a wide range of supported materials and an expansive collection of accessories, this machine has you covered for nearly any engraving or cutting project. The performance is unparalleled, delivering some of the cleanest cuts we've ever seen. Plus, it boasts invaluable add-ons like the RA2 Pro and a riser for handling larger objects.
However, it's not without imperfections. The machine's sizable dimensions and hefty weight demand teamwork for mobility, two people are needed just to shift it. Moreover, while the software is competent, it could benefit from the addition of bed image tracing, a feature offered by some competitors.
Yet, these are minor gripes in the grand scheme. The P2 offers an unmatched performance-to-price ratio. The robust build quality assures that this is more than a purchase; it's a long-term investment. If you're in the market for a versatile, durable, and high-performing laser engraver, the xTool P2 is an exceptional choice.
Read our full xTool P2 review
Glowforge ticks boxes for businesses, schools, and craft enthusiasts. While it's easy to use and top-notch in quality, it does require a reliable Wi-Fi connection, and the Premium subscription isn't exactly pocket-friendly.
Unlike many self-assembly laser cutters, Glowforge is a ready-to-go workshop tool with a sleek design. It's a bit of a unit, so make sure you've got room, especially if you're adding the Air Filter—which, by the way, is a must-have for indoor use.
Temperature is another factor; this isn't a machine to stash in a cold garage. You'll also want to think about materials. Glowforge's own Proofgrade options are great but pricey, so I've often opted for more budget-friendly alternatives.
The Premium subscription is full of perks but might be a stretch for hobbyists, especially given the skimpy seven-day trial. Connectivity is Wi-Fi only, which might put some off, but it's a minor point.
In the classroom or the workshop, Glowforge consistently impresses, breezing through 3mm ply sheets like they're nothing. At home, you'll find its performance unbeatable for the price, even if you opt for the more affordable Glowforge Basic.
Read our full Glowforge Pro laser cutter review
The Two Trees TS2 Laser Engraver is a standout choice for hobbyists and small businesses alike, offering unmatched quality and performance that justifies its slightly higher price tag. However, it's not without its quirks. The initial setup can test your patience with fiddly screws and belts, especially in confined spaces—so perhaps consider moving the assembly to a spacious workshop.
Once built, you're rewarded with a robust and aesthetically pleasing machine, complete with anodised parts. Setting it up is generally straightforward, although those on iOS might find the Wi-Fi connectivity somewhat finicky. That said, the manual, while comprehensive, could be clearer on some of the nitty-gritty details. Performance-wise, the TS2 excels in both engraving and cutting tasks, offering excellent quality that sets it apart as a prime choice for serious enthusiasts.
Beyond its core capabilities, the machine is also expandable, allowing for additional attachments like an air pump for fume extraction. Still, it's worth noting that it lacks an enclosure, so make sure you have plenty of space and a well-ventilated area. The Wi-Fi connection can be troublesome on iOS devices, although it works beautifully on Android. Overall, if you're willing to overlook these minor drawbacks, the Two Trees TS2 offers professional-level laser engraving at a reasonable price and is one of the best laser engravers on the market.
Read our full Two Trees TS2 laser engraver review
Fresh to the market, the Creality Falcon2 40W is one of a family of three new laser engravers from one of the leading manufacturers of 3D printers. The Falcon2 arrives as an update to the original Falcon and is available in three different power options: a robust 40W, a more standard 22W, and a lightweight 12W. Leveraging its recent innovations in 3D printing, Creality ensures that this machine's clean cuts and engravings set it apart.
Once assembled, the design quality of this open-framed laser engraver instantly stands out, thanks to its all-metal frame and innovative tool head with integrated air assist. This feature goes a long way in explaining why the cuts and engravings from this machine are so clean.
As we're increasingly seeing with these machines, the basic model is just the starting point. Creality has created a whole ecosystem of accessories to complement the use of the machine. These include a roller for cylindrical engraving, an extremely well-priced full enclosure—which is an absolute essential—and a good selection of materials. This machine is an ideal first step for both enthusiasts looking to invest and professionals entering the market.
A relative newcomer to the laser engraver market, this new machine elevates build quality and ecosystem to another level. That's hardly surprising, given that the company behind this new entrant is Atomstack, a name well-known for its innovations in both 3D printing and laser engraving. The IKier brand showcases their premium range of powerful laser engravers, featuring all-metal construction and a broad array of accessories.
As with nearly all the laser engravers in this buyer's guide, a certain level of assembly is required to get the IKier K1 Ultra 36W up and running. Fortunately, the instructions are straightforward, and so are the calibration and setup processes. What truly distinguishes this engraver is the wealth of features and accessories available to expand the machine's potential. While many of the best laser engravers have accessories available, we were really impressed with IKier K1 Ultra’s offerings.
One crucial accessory for any open-frame design is a reliable enclosure, and IKier offers a sound option at a reasonable price. Notably, among the myriad accessory choices is the IKier C1 LightBurn Camera, which enables precise positioning of materials for laser engraving. As the name suggests, it's fully compatible with the LightBurn software, significantly enhancing the overall laser engraving workflow and ease of use. This camera feature provides a material preview through the software, allowing for more accurate placement of your designs.
The Ortur Laser Master 3 (LM3) is a versatile machine, brimming with features that will captivate both newcomers and those in search of an affordable yet high-quality laser engraver and cutter. The basic LM3 package comes with a 10W laser that's more than adequate for beginners and leaves you some budget to invest in quality materials. However, the machine's potential scales seamlessly as your passion for laser engraving blossoms.
Arriving in multiple boxes, the LM3 requires some time and patience to assemble. While the wiring and frame assembly can be a bit fiddly, the process offers an invaluable opportunity to become intimately familiar with the machine's inner workings. As you become more proficient with the Ortur LM3, this initial hands-on experience will empower you to upgrade from the 10W to the 20W laser with relative ease.
Once assembled, the machine performs impressively straight out of the box. However, its range of optional accessories widens the scope of applications, making it versatile enough to accommodate your growing skillset. It's a robust choice for anyone venturing into laser engraving and cutting. Moreover, it boasts excellent compatibility with existing software options, ensuring a seamless transition for those looking to expand their creative horizons.
Choosing the best laser engraver for your needs involves a few critical considerations. First, ask yourself what materials you'll primarily be working with. Different lasers have varying capabilities when it comes to engraving and cutting materials, from softwoods to metals.
Size is another factor. If you're focusing on small, intricate designs, a compact unit may suffice. However, for larger projects or commercial applications, a more extensive engraving area would be beneficial.
Resolution is vital for detail work. Higher resolution engravers will offer you finer details but usually come at a higher cost and may take longer to complete a project. On the flip side, lower resolution machines are faster and less expensive but compromise on intricate detailing.
Connectivity and software are crucial, too. While some engravers come with standalone software, others might require third-party programs for design and operation. Depending on your technical comfort level, consider how easy it is to connect the engraver to your devices. Some are plug-and-play with USB, while others might require a more complex Wi-Fi setup.
Also, think about add-ons and expandability. Some laser engravers offer slots for additional modules like air pumps for fume extraction or rotary attachments for engraving cylindrical objects. These can extend the functionality of your machine and might be worth the extra investment if you anticipate diverse projects.
Finally, don't ignore safety features. Since you're working with lasers, eye protection and fume extraction are essential. Some units offer enclosures and built-in safety measures, but these often come at a higher price point.
Take the time to weigh these factors carefully, keeping in mind both your immediate needs and future applications, to make the most informed decision.
Our testing process begins with the initial assembly and set-up of each laser engraver. We scrutinise how straightforward or intricate this phase is and how long it takes for calibration, setting the groundwork for the expertise level required for operation.
Next, we evaluate connectivity options, investigating how effortlessly the laser engraver synchronises with various software platforms. This ensures that you won't get bogged down by cumbersome tech hitches.
Features and accessories come under the spotlight next. We dive into what each machine offers, from advanced engraving options to additional attachments like air pumps for fume extraction or specialized lenses for intricate details.
The heart of our testing lies in assessing the quality of both engraving and cutting. We examine depth, clarity, and uniformity in engravings and measure the speed and precision of cuts. This gives us a rounded view of the machine's capabilities.
Some laser engravers come equipped with additional features such as internal cameras. These get special attention, as they often add considerable value and functionality.
By the end of this extensive evaluation, we have a clear picture of how each laser engraver performs on multiple fronts—from ease of use and versatility to engraving and cutting prowess. This allows us to deliver balanced, in-depth reviews that cater to both amateur enthusiasts and professionals, helping you make an educated choice for your engraving ventures.^ Back to top