which co2 laser is best

Co2 lasers have been around for decades, but with advancements in technology, there are now even more options on the market. With so many choices, it can be difficult to determine which Co2 laser is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we will explore the most important factors to consider when choosing a Co2 laser and provide you with our top picks for the best Co2 lasers on the market.

What is a CO2 laser?

Before diving into the best Co2 lasers available, let's get a better understanding of what a Co2 laser is. A Co2 laser is a type of gas laser that uses Carbon Dioxide gas to emit a high-powered laser beam. It operates by exciting the CO2 molecules using an electrical current, which produces a powerful laser light. Due to their high power output, Co2 lasers are commonly used for industrial cutting and engraving applications.

Factors to consider when selecting a Co2 laser:

Power Output:

The power output of a Co2 laser is a crucial factor to consider when selecting the best one for you. The power output of a Co2 laser determines its strength and ability to cut through different materials. Higher powered lasers are more efficient and faster than lower-powered lasers. However, higher-powered lasers also come at a greater expense, so it is essential to balance your budget with your application's needs.

Engraving Depth:

Similar to power output, engraving depth is also an important factor to consider when selecting a Co2 laser. Laser engravers with a more substantial engraving depth are capable of engraving thicker materials compared to laser engravers with a shallower depth. If you plan on engraving a variety of materials, selecting a Co2 laser with adjustable engraving depth will be the best option.

Engraving Speed:

Engraving speed is another essential factor to consider when selecting a Co2 laser. Every laser engraving machine will have different engraving speeds. Faster engraving speed can significantly increase productivity, although the quality of the engraving may decrease. The speed of the laser will depend on the power output and engraving depth.

Ease of Use:

The Co2 laser is relatively easy to use, but the complexity of the software may make a difference. As you know, the software programs used in laser engraving can be quite complicated. Ensure that the laser engraving software is user-friendly.

Top Picks for the best Co2 lasers:

1. Trotec Speedy 360 Co2 Laser Engraver

The Trotec Speedy 360 Co2 Laser Engraver is our pick for the best laser engraver overall. It has a powerful laser that provides high-speed engraving and cutting capabilities. The engraving depth is adjustable, and the machine is user-friendly, which makes it perfect for beginners and experts alike.

2. Orion Motor Tech 40W Co2 Laser Engraver

The Orion Motor Tech 40W Co2 Laser Engraver is an excellent option for those looking for a budget-friendly laser engraver. The 40W laser has a solid amount of power for light-duty engraving and cutting applications. The software is user-friendly, and the machine is lightweight, making it an ideal solution for hobbyists and beginners.

3. Glowforge Plus Co2 laser Engraver

The Glowforge Plus Co2 laser Engraver is perfect for those looking for an all-in-one laser engraver. It has a built-in camera and software that uses vision recognition to create precise cuts and engravings. The 45 W laser has a high-powered output and adjustable engraving depth to accommodate a variety of materials.

4. Dremel Digilab LC40 Co2 Laser Engraver and Cutter

The Dremel Digilab LC40 Co2 Laser Engraver and Cutter is an ideal option for those looking for a versatile machine. The 40W laser has adjustable engraving depth and high-speed engraving capabilities. It comes with a variety of safety features, making it perfect for both home and small business use.

5. Boss LS-1416 Co2 Laser Cutter and Engraver

The Boss LS-1416 Co2 Laser Cutter and Engraver is an industrial-grade machine with a speedy cutting and engraving process. The 45W laser has a high-power output, making it perfect for thicker materials. The machine comes with software and safety features perfect for high-volume and industrial use.

So there you have it, the top factors to consider when selecting a Co2 laser engraver, and our top picks for the best Co2 lasers available on the market. Consider your needs, budget, and materials to make the best choice for your application.