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Best Laser Cutters and Engravers 2025
While the best 3D printers can turn a spool of filament or a vat of resin into a working model, sometimes the best way to build something is by cutting through layers of acrylic, wood or metal to get the shapes you need. Other times, you just need to imprint an image or text on an existing surface. For these use cases, you need a laser cutter/engraver.
Laser cutters, also sometimes called laser engravers, come in all shapes and sizes, allowing you to safely work with a variety of materials, from oak to iron-on transfers. You can get one of the best low power laser cutters for as little as $220. Low-wattage lasers are cheaper and perfect for engraving images and cutting thin materials. Higher wattage machines are more expensive and can cut through thicker material in one pass. To help you choose, we’ve tested several models and listed the best laser cutters below.
Lasers are tested using both the supplied samples as well as popular project blanks, such as basswood sheets and bamboo cutting boards. We completed several test projects to evaluate how the laser performs while engraving text and images, whether it can cut acrylic or etch something more difficult like stone or metal. Finally, we put the laser to work, cutting thicker pine boards to determine if it meets the manufacturer’s stated capabilities.
Quick List
1. xTool P2 View at AmazonView at Amazon
Best CO2 Laser Cutter
This $4,999 CO2 Laser is a powerhouse machine, but it’s simple enough for a beginner to use and features numerous built-in capabilities ideal for various print projects or running a small business. Get it for $800 off its original MSRP at Amazon.
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2. Glowforge Aura View at Amazon
Best Home Crafting Laser Cutter
At $1,199, the Aura is great for beginner crafters. It comes with a low-power laser and a 39x25x10-inch footprint, designed to cut and engrave typical craft materials such as paper, thin wood, faux vinyl, and leather. Currently on sale at Amazon and Best Buy for $999.
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3. xTool F1 View at AmazonCheck Walmart
Best Portable Laser
Designed with craft vendors in mind, this diode/IR Galvo laser engraver is super portable and can easily customize jewelry or various ornaments. Its compact size also makes it ideal for smaller workspaces. Drops down to $1,399 with a $300 coupon.
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4. xTool S1 Check Amazon
Best Premium Laser Cutter for Home Business
Fully enclosed, upgradeable, and versatile, the S1 is the ideal premium laser for crafters eager to start a small business but without paying the price tag of a huge CO2 machine. Get it for $1,849 with a $550 coupon, discounted from the original MSRP of $2,399.
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5. WeCreat Vision Pro View at AmazonView at WeCreatView at WeCreatView at Amazon
Best Laser Cutter for Home Business
The WeCreat Vision Pro is an impressive and powerful 45-watt laser engraver, available for $2,399.99 for the Basic Pack and $3,749.99 for the Super Pack. Its premium features include automatic focusing, an intuitive software platform, and a range of add-ons to cater to the needs of most small businesses.
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6. SnapMaker Artisan View at AmazonView at AmazonView at MatterHackers, Inc. USCheck Walmart
Best Laser Cutter Attachment for a 3D Printer
The SnapMaker artisan is the perfect all-in-one machine that functions as a laser, printer, and CNC combo. It is not for the budget-conscious, as it will set you back $2,999. However, it is currently on sale at Amazon for $2,499.
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Best Laser Cutters and Engravers You Can Buy
Why you can trust Tom’s Hardware Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.
Best CO2 Laser Cutter
1. xTool P2
Best CO2 Laser Cutter
Our expert review:
Average Amazon review:
Specifications
Machine Footprint: 1000 x 639 x 268mm (39.4 x 25.1 x 10.6 inches)Engraving Size: 600 x 308mm (23.6 x 12.1 inches)Laser Type: CO2Laser Power: 55WLaser Wave Length: 10649 nmEngraving Accuracy: 0.15 x 0.2mmConnectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, EthernetBase Plate: Metal slats and baseplate included Enclosure: Built InToday’s Best DealsView at AmazonView at Amazon
Reasons to buy
+Easy assembly+Fully Enclosed+Positioning Camera+Large cutting area +Custom software
Reasons to avoid
–Expensive–Over 45 kg (99 pounds)
If you want to laser all the things, the xTool P2 does nearly everything with speed and accuracy. It can engrave and slice a wide assortment of materials, including 20mm thick Walnut and clear acrylic. It’s fully enclosed with a camera for remote operation, air assist, exhaust fan, and metal grill. The lid locks for extra safety and pushing the release button will automatically stop the laser.