It is still possible to find the best laser engravers under 5000. Most sophisticated laser engravers go for at least $10,000.
However, these are typically industrial engravers that may be too advanced for your home-based laser engraving business. The good news is you can still kickstart your business with laser engravers that cost between $2000 – $5000.
Table of Contents
Best Laser Engravers Under $5000 – Comparison Table
Laser Engraver | Laser Type | Power | Working Area | Best For | Key Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W | UV Laser (355nm) | 5W | ~8.7″ × 8.7″ | 3D crystal engraving, glass, plastics, PCB, micro-engraving | Cold engraving (no burns), internal crystal engraving, extreme precision, medical & optical-grade results | Not suitable for cutting thick materials or metals |
OMTech 100W CO2 Laser | CO₂ Laser | 100W | 20″ × 28″ | Wood, acrylic, leather, rubber, large-format cutting | Powerful cutting (up to ~20mm wood), large bed, LightBurn support, best value CO₂ | Cannot engrave bare metals, large footprint, water cooling required |
xTool F1 Ultra 20W | Fiber (20W) + Diode (20W) | Dual 20W | 8.7″ × 8.7″ (expandable) | Metal + wood engraving, jewelry, batch production | 10,000mm/s speed, 3D embossing, deep metal engraving, compact fiber system | Not for thick material cutting or large-format work |
xTool S1 40W + 1064nm IR Kit | Diode + IR | 40W Diode + 2W IR | 19.6″ × 12.5″ | DIY, small business, coated & bare metal marking | Large working area, modular design, safe enclosure, affordable metal marking | IR laser is limited for deep engraving |
xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA | MOPA Fiber Laser | 60W | 8.7″ × 8.7″ (expandable) | Color metal engraving, deep engraving, commercial production | 100+ metal colors, 15,000mm/s speed, 3D embossing, industrial precision | Auto conveyor sold separately, higher learning curve |
Quick Buying Tips
- Best for metal & color engraving: xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA
- Best for crystal & glass engraving: xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W
- Best for wood & acrylic cutting: OMTech 100W CO₂
- Best hybrid metal + wood engraver: xTool F1 Ultra 20W
- Best budget enclosed diode + metal marking: xTool S1 40W + IR
The 5 Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
1. xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W UV Laser Engraver
The xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W is one of the most capable and accessible UV laser engravers in its price range, delivering ultra-fine detail, cold processing, and excellent results on materials that are difficult or impossible for diode or CO₂ lasers.
It’s an outstanding choice for professionals focused on precision engraving rather than heavy cutting.
Pros
- True UV laser (355 nm): Enables ultra-fine, high-contrast engraving with minimal heat, perfect for delicate materials
- Excellent material compatibility: Works on glass, crystal, plastics, leather, coated metals, PCB boards, and more
- High precision & micro-detail: Ideal for logos, QR codes, serial numbers, and 3D crystal engraving
- Low thermal damage: “Cold engraving” prevents melting, burning, or warping
- Compact & desktop-friendly: Suitable for studios, workshops, and retail environments
- Strong value under $5,000: Professional UV performance at an entry-level price point
Cons
- Limited cutting capability: UV lasers excel at engraving, not thick cutting
- Smaller working area than CO₂ systems: Not ideal for large-format production
- Lower power (5W): Slower on dense materials compared to higher-watt fiber or CO₂ lasers
Why the xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W is one of the Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
If you need high-precision engraving on glass, plastic, crystal, or coated metals, the xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W is arguably the best UV laser engraver under $5,000.
It’s perfect for small businesses, labs, 3D crystal engravers, jewelry makers, and personalization professionals who prioritize detail, accuracy, and material versatility over raw cutting power.
2. OMTech 100 Watt Laser Cutter with LightBurn
The OMTech 100W CO₂ Laser Engraver is widely regarded as the best CO₂ laser under $5,000 for users who need serious cutting power without stepping into five-figure industrial machines. With true 100W output, LightBurn compatibility, and a large 20″ × 28″ work area, it’s a favorite among small businesses, makers, and sign shops.
Pros
- True 100W CO₂ power – Cuts thick wood (up to ~20mm), acrylic, leather, and rubber with ease
- Excellent value under $5,000 – One of the best power-to-price ratios available
- Large 20″ × 28″ working area – Ideal for signage, panels, and batch production
- LightBurn compatible – Industry-standard software with strong community support
- 4-way pass-through design – Handles oversized materials efficiently
- Industrial-grade components – Long-life laser tube and upgrade-friendly design
Cons
- Not plug-and-play – Requires setup, alignment, and routine maintenance
- Large and heavy footprint – Needs dedicated space and proper ventilation
- Industrial learning curve – Less beginner-friendly than desktop CO₂ lasers
- Noise and heat management required – External chiller and exhaust system are essential
Why the OMTech 100 Watt Laser is one of the Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
If you want maximum CO₂ cutting power on a sub-$5,000 budget, the OMTech 100W CO₂ Laser Engraver is hard to beat. It’s not the prettiest or easiest machine to set up, but for serious production capability and long-term value, it remains the top choice in its price class.
3. xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber & Diode Dual Laser Engraver
The xTool F1 Ultra is widely regarded as the best fiber + diode dual laser engraver under $5,000, offering true metal engraving power with unmatched speed and safety in a compact, desktop-friendly machine.
Designed for both professionals and small businesses, it combines a 20W fiber laser for metal with a high-performance diode laser for organic materials, eliminating the need for multiple machines.
Pros
- True 20W fiber laser engraves stainless steel, aluminum, brass, copper, titanium, gold, and silver
- Dual-laser system handles metal, wood, leather, acrylic, rubber, glass, and more
- Ultra-fast engraving up to 10,000 mm/s, ideal for batch production
- 3D embossing & deep engraving support for high-value metal projects
- Fully enclosed Class 1 safety design, suitable for home, shop, or retail use
- Built-in camera & auto positioning for precise, waste-free engraving
- Excellent software ecosystem & strong community support
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than single-laser diode machines
- Working area is smaller than large industrial galvo fiber systems
- Not designed for thick metal cutting, engraving and marking focused
Why the xTool F1 Ultra is one of the Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
If you want professional metal engraving, fast production, and the flexibility to engrave both metal and non-metal materials—all in one safe, desktop machine—the xTool F1 Ultra is the best fiber + diode dual laser engraver under $5,000.
It’s an outstanding choice for jewelry makers, personalization businesses, and anyone serious about laser engraving without stepping into full industrial systems.
4. xTool S1 40W + 1064nm IR Laser Kit
The xTool S1 40W + 2W IR Laser Kit is widely regarded as the best diode + IR laser engraver under $5,000, combining powerful cutting performance with true metal marking capability in a fully enclosed, Class 1 system. It’s an excellent choice for makers and small businesses that want versatility without stepping up to a full fiber laser.
Pros
- Dual-Laser Versatility: The 40W diode excels at cutting thick wood, leather, and black acrylic, while the 2W 1064nm IR laser delivers clean, permanent marking on stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and coated metals.
- Best-in-Class Safety: Fully enclosed Class 1 design with lid interlocks—ideal for home workshops, schools, and retail environments.
- Strong Cutting Power: Cuts up to 18–20mm wood in multiple passes, outperforming most diode-only competitors.
- Precision & Automation: Auto-focus, Pin-Point Positioning™, and camera-assisted alignment reduce setup time and material waste.
- Excellent Software Support: Works smoothly with xTool Creative Space and LightBurn, plus access to a large accessory ecosystem (RA2 Pro rotary, air assist, riser base).
- Outstanding Value: Offers diode cutting + IR metal engraving in one machine—something few systems under $5,000 can match.
Cons
- IR Laser Is for Marking, Not Cutting Metal: The 2W IR is perfect for engraving and color marking but cannot cut metal.
- Larger Footprint: The enclosed design takes up more space than open-frame diode lasers.
- Not as Fast as Fiber Lasers: While powerful for a diode system, it can’t match the speed or depth of true fiber laser engravers.
Why the xTool S1 is one of the Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
If you want powerful wood cutting, professional safety, and real metal marking in one machine, the xTool S1 40W + 2W IR Laser Kit is the best diode + IR laser engraver under $5,000. It’s an ideal upgrade for serious hobbyists and small businesses that need versatility without the cost or complexity of a fiber laser.
5. xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA Fiber Laser
The xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA Fiber Laser is the best MOPA fiber laser under $5,000, delivering true industrial-grade performance in a compact, desktop-friendly system.
With real MOPA pulse control, ultra-fast engraving speeds, and reliable color metal engraving, it’s built for professionals who want premium results without the high cost of traditional industrial machines.
Pros
- True 60W MOPA fiber laser with full pulse-width and frequency control
- 100+ consistent color engravings on stainless steel and titanium
- Excellent for 3D embossing, deep engraving, and black marking on aluminum
- Ultra-fast speeds up to 15,000mm/s for high productivity
- Dual 48MP AI cameras for precise positioning and easy setup
- Fully enclosed Class 1 safety design, suitable for shops and studios
Cons
- Higher upfront cost than entry-level fiber lasers (though still under $5K)
- Auto Conveyor not included and sold separately
- Overkill for users who only need basic metal marking
Why the xTool F2 Ultra is one of the Best Laser Engravers Under 5000
If you’re serious about color metal engraving, 3D embossing, and commercial-grade production, the xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA Fiber Laser is the most capable and widely recommended MOPA laser you can buy for under $5,000.
How to Choose the Best Laser Engraver Under $5000:
Choosing the best laser engraver under $5,000 can feel overwhelming with so many laser types, power options, and feature sets available.
The good news is that today’s sub-$5,000 laser machines are powerful enough for small businesses, makers, Etsy sellers, workshops, and even light industrial use—if you choose the right one for your needs.
This guide breaks down exactly what to look for so you can invest confidently and avoid costly mistakes.
Decide What Materials You’ll Engrave or Cut
The most important factor is material compatibility. Different lasers work best on different materials.
Laser Types Explained
- CO₂ Lasers
Best for wood, acrylic, leather, rubber, glass, and fabric
Cannot engrave bare metals
Ideal for signage, acrylic cutting, and woodworking - Fiber / MOPA Fiber Lasers
Best for stainless steel, aluminum, brass, gold, silver, titanium
Deep engraving, marking, annealing, and color engraving (MOPA)
Limited on wood and acrylic - Diode Lasers
Best for wood, leather, coated metals, thin materials
Affordable and versatile
Limited depth on bare metal - IR Lasers (1064nm)
Best for dark marking on stainless steel and aluminum
Great metal marking upgrade
Not for cutting - UV Lasers
Best for 3D crystal engraving, glass, plastics, PCB, micro-detail work
Cold engraving, zero burn marks
Not for cutting thick materials
Pro Tip: If you want to engrave both metal and wood, look for a dual-laser system (fiber + diode or IR + diode)
Choose the Right Power Level
Laser power affects speed, depth, and cutting capability.
Laser Type | Recommended Power |
|---|---|
Diode Laser | 20W–40W |
CO₂ Laser | 60W–100W |
Fiber Laser | 20W–60W |
UV Laser | 5W |
- Higher wattage = faster engraving & deeper cuts
- Lower wattage = more detail and control
For business use, always choose more power than you think you need
Consider Working Area & Expandability
Ask yourself:
- Are you engraving small items (jewelry, tags, coins)?
- Or large items (signs, panels, tumblers)?
What to Look For:
- Small desktop lasers: ~8″ × 8″
- Medium machines: 12″–20″+ wide
- Expandable beds or auto conveyor systems for batch production
Larger working areas increase versatility but also require more space
Speed, Precision & Production Capability
If you plan to sell products, speed matters.
Key Metrics:
- Engraving speed: 6,000–15,000 mm/s (fiber systems are fastest)
- Camera positioning: Reduces setup time and waste
- Auto batch features: Essential for scaling production
For high-volume work, choose machines with:
- Smart cameras
- Auto-fill or batch processing
- Conveyor compatibility
Safety & Ventilation
Never overlook safety—especially for indoor use.
Look for:
- Fully enclosed Class 1 laser designs
- Lid interlocks
- Emergency stop buttons
- Compatible fume extractors or air purifiers
This is critical if you’re running a home business, shop, or retail space
Software Compatibility & Ease of Use
The best machines support:
- LightBurn
- Intuitive proprietary software
- Preset material libraries
- AI-assisted focusing & alignment
Beginner-friendly software saves hours of testing and material waste
Best Laser Engravers Under 5000 by Use Case
Best Overall Metal Engraver
xTool F2 Ultra 60W MOPA
Color engraving, deep engraving, fast production
Best for Wood & Acrylic Cutting
OMTech 100W CO₂ Laser
Large bed, powerful cutting, excellent value
Best Hybrid (Metal + Wood)
xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber + Diode
Compact, fast, professional results
Best Budget Enclosed Diode + Metal Marking
xTool S1 40W + IR Kit
Best for 3D Crystal & Glass Engraving
xTool F2 Ultra UV 5W
Total Cost of Ownership (Don’t Skip This)
Beyond the machine price, consider:
- Ventilation or fume extractor
- Rotary attachment (for tumblers)
- Replacement lenses or filters
- Software licenses (if applicable)
A slightly more expensive machine with automation and speed often pays for itself faster
Frequently Asked Questions
Are laser engravers under $5000 good enough for a small business?
Yes. Many laser engravers under $5,000 are powerful enough for commercial use, including small shops, Etsy sellers, and on-demand customization businesses. Machines like fiber, MOPA, CO₂, and dual-laser systems in this price range can handle batch production, deep engraving, and cutting when paired with proper settings and workflow.
Can a sub-$5000 laser engraver engrave stainless steel?
Yes, but only certain laser types can engrave stainless steel effectively:
Fiber and MOPA fiber lasers: best for deep, permanent engraving
IR (1064nm) lasers: excellent for dark metal marking
Diode and CO₂ lasers: limited to coated or treated stainless steel
For professional stainless steel engraving, a fiber or MOPA laser is strongly recommended.
What extra costs should I budget for besides the laser machine?
In addition to the engraver, you may need:
A fume extractor or ventilation system
Rotary attachment for tumblers and cylindrical objects
Replacement filters, lenses, or tubes
Software (if not included)
Factoring in these extras helps ensure your laser engraver under $5000 is safe, efficient, and production-ready from day one.
Final Thoughts
Investing in a laser engraver under $5000 doesn’t mean compromising on quality or functionality. Whether you’re a beginner, a small business owner, or a professional looking to upgrade, these options cater to a variety of needs. Choose the one that suits your projects, and start creating stunning engravings today!
Happy engraving!