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.
Best Laser Engravers Under 5000 Comparison
Laser Engraver | Laser Type | Engraving Area | Engraving Speed | Check Price |
1. Monport CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter | 100W CO2 Laser | 600x1000mm/24×40″ | 500mm/s | |
2. xTool D1 Pro Laser Engraver | 20W Diode Laser | 430x400mm/17×15.4″ | 400mm/s | |
3. ComMarker B4 Fiber Laser Engraver | 30W Max Fiber Laser | 110x110mm & 200x200mm /4.3×4.3″ & 7.8×7.8″ | 12000mm/s | |
4. xTool P2 CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver | 55W CO2 Laser | 600x308mm/23.6″x12.1″ | 600mm/s | |
5. LaserPecker 4 Dual Laser Engraver | 2W Infrared + 10W Diode | 160mmx120mm/6.3×4.7″ and with extension: 160mm x 300mm/6.3×11.8″ | 2000mm/s |
Here are the 5 Best Laser Engravers under $5000
1. Monport Upgraded Fireproof Auto Focus 100W CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter
The Monport Upgraded Fireproof Auto Focus 100W CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter is a robust and versatile machine designed for both professional and hobbyist use. After testing this device extensively, here are my detailed thoughts on its performance, features, and overall value.
Performance and Precision
The 100W CO2 laser is incredibly powerful, capable of cutting through a variety of materials with ease, including wood, acrylic, leather, and even some metals. The auto-focus feature is particularly impressive, ensuring precise and consistent engraving without the need for manual adjustments. This results in sharp, clean cuts and detailed engravings, making it suitable for intricate designs and professional-quality work.
Build Quality and Safety
The build quality of the Monport laser engraver is excellent. The fireproof design adds an extra layer of safety, which is crucial when working with high-powered lasers. The sturdy construction ensures stability during operation, minimizing vibrations that could affect the quality of the engraving or cutting.
Ease of Use
One of the standout features of this engraver is its user-friendly interface. The intuitive controls and clear display make it easy to navigate through settings and adjustments. The auto-focus function significantly reduces setup time, allowing users to start their projects quickly and efficiently. Additionally, the machine is compatible with popular design software, making the transition from design to engraving seamless.
Versatility
The Monport Upgraded 100W CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter is highly versatile, accommodating a wide range of materials and thicknesses. This versatility opens up numerous possibilities for different projects, from custom signs and jewelry to intricate artwork and prototypes. The ability to switch between engraving and cutting modes effortlessly adds to the machine’s flexibility.
Customer Support and Community
Monport provides solid customer support, with helpful resources and responsive service. The online community of Monport users is also a valuable asset, offering tips, tutorials, and project ideas that can help both beginners and experienced users get the most out of their machine.
Value for Money
Given its powerful performance, advanced features, and sturdy build, the Monport Upgraded Fireproof Auto Focus 100W CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter offers excellent value for money. While it might be a significant investment, the quality and capabilities of the machine justify the cost, especially for those who need a reliable and precise laser engraver for their projects.
Also Read: Metal Engraving with a CO2 Laser
Materials The Monport 100W CO2 Laser Engraver & Cutter can work with
- Wood
- Acrylic
- Glass
- Brick
- Fabric
- Delrin
- Cloth
- Leather
- Marble
- Matte Board
- Melamine
- Paper
- Mylar
- Pressboard
- Rubber
- Wood Veneer
- Fiberglass
- Painted Metals
- Tile
- Plastic
- Cork
- Corian
- Anodized Aluminum
Technical Details
- Laser source: Glass CO2 laser
- Output power: 100W
- Engraving size: 24″x40″
- Engraving speed: 500mm/s
Pros:
- Powerful 100W CO2 laser capable of cutting and engraving a wide range of materials
- Auto-focus feature for precise and consistent results
- Fireproof design for added safety
- User-friendly interface and intuitive controls
- High versatility for various projects
- Excellent build quality ensuring stability and durability
- Responsive customer support and active user community
Cons:
- Initial cost might be high for casual hobbyists
- Learning curve for complete beginners, though mitigated by user resources and community support
2. xTool D1 Pro 20W Laser Engraver with Rotary RA2 Pro
The xTool D1 Pro 20W Laser Engraver is simple to operate and comes with detailed instructions, making it an excellent choice for novices. Although this machine requires self-assembly, it is a straightforward operation that can be completed in under an hour. This 20W Laser is ideal for use as an Acrylic and Wood laser engraver and cutter and is as powerful as an industrial Laser.
It operates quickly and with exceptional accuracy and is designed for those who have high production requirements. The xTool D1 Pro 20W laser cutting and engraver machine is powered by a 20 Watt Laser Module that is more powerful and precise, with a speed of up to 24000mm/min and a compacted 0.8mm spot.
It has some excellent built-in safety features that include a hood for eye protection, a flame alarm function that can prevent wood burning as well, and auto-stop should the machine be moved or tilted during processing. It also has a large built-in SD card that will support offline processing and has a USB connection and Wifi connection.
The xTool RA2 Pro laser rotary attachment includes a Roller Rotary, a Chuck Rotary, a Sphere-Engraving Module, and a Ring-Engraving Stud. Changing the attachments, such as a wine glass, Yeti tumbler, baseball bat, ring, ball, or mug with handle, allows you to unleash your imagination on practically all cylinders. You can engrave more items and create more possibilities by including the riser column.
Materials The xTool D1 Pro 20W Laser Engraver with Rotary RA2 Pro Can Cut and Engrave
Cut: Paper, Wood, Leather, MDF, some dark opaque acrylic, and felt
Engrave: Paper, Wood, Leather, MDF, Some dark opaque acrylic, Bamboo, Fabric, Ceramic, Jade, Marble, Cement, Brick, and Dark Glass
Mark: Anodized Aluminum, Electroplated Metals, and Coated Metals. With the 10W and 20W Versions of the xTool D1 Pro, you can directly mark 304 Mirror Stainless Steel Engrave With The xTool 2W 1064nm Infrared Laser Module (Not included available as an accessory): All metals including gold, silver, platinum, copper, aluminum, zinc, titanium, iron, stainless steel, metal oxides, and alloy. Check the Price On Amazon for the 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for xTool D1 Pro Laser Engraver - Paid Link Check Price Direct on xTool for the 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for xTool D1 Pro Laser Engraver - Paid Link
Technical Details
- Laser Module: Diode Laser
- Output Power: 20W
- Power Consumption: 84W
- Engraving Speed: 400 mm/s
- Engraving Size: 430 x 400mm (17 x 15.4″)
- Max. Workpiece Height: 50 mm (2 inches)
- Max. Workpiece Height with X Risers: 50 mm + X*45 mm (each set riser height column)
Pros
- Simple to operate and assembly is straightforward.
- Its most notable feature is its ability to engrave a wide range of materials, including metals such as stainless steel and anodized aluminum, wood, and plastic. This means you can be as creative as you want with your materials without having to buy another engraver.
- Professional Rotary which includes a Roller Rotary, a Chuck Rotary, a Sphere-Engraving Module, and a Ring-Engraving Stud.
- Can be used with over one hundred materials, including paper, bamboo, wood, leather PCB board, aluminum oxide, metal, and glass
Cons
- Some people complained that the software in not very user friendly. We had no issues though.
3. ComMarker B4 30W Fiber Laser Engraver
The ComMarker B4 30W Fiber Laser Engraver, which is also a portable hand-held laser engraver, is a very cost-effective fiber laser engraver on this list. As a result, it is light, easy to work with, and requires less power.
Two lenses are included with the ComMarker B4 Fiber Laser Engraver. The 110mm x 110mm laser spot is very small and powerful, making it ideal for smaller and more precise engravings. You also get a larger lens – 200 x 200mm – so you can engrave large objects. A large laser marking field like this at this price point is extremely rare.
The ComMarker B4 Fiber Laser Engraver comes with EzCad 2 software on a USB stick. It is powerful software that allows you to get the most out of your fiber laser. It is also Lightburn compatible. It weighs only 14.5 kg (9.92 pounds), making it the ideal portable fiber laser engraver. It includes an 80mm rotary device that is ideal for jewelry engraving.
Materials The ComMarker B4 30W Fiber Laser Engraver Can Engrave
All metals including gold, silver, platinum, copper, aluminum, zinc, titanium, iron, stainless steel, metal oxides, Anodized Aluminum, Electroplated Metals and Coated Metals. Leather, stone, PCB and Plastics such as PLT, PS, ABS, PBT, Silicon, PS, and others.
Technical Details
- Laser Source: Max Fiber laser
- Laser Power: 30W
- Marking Area: 110x110mm + 200x200mm
- Engraving Depth:≤0.3mm
- Marking Speed: Up To 12m/s
- Graphic formats: PLT, PCX, DXF, BMP, etc supported.
Pros
- It is the most cost-effective option on the market, as well as the most efficient for the price point.
- The engraver’s light weight is a huge plus!
- It can be used on all metals as well as some nonmetal materials such as leather, industrial plastics, and others.
- It is supplied complete with an 80mm Rotary Device.
- Two focus lenses supplied: 100x100mm & 200x200mm Marking Area
- 2 Year Warranty for peace of mind
Cons
- It may not be suitable for heavy-duty projects.
4. xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
If you want to start a small laser engraving business, the xTool P2 is the only machine you’ll need. It can engrave and cut a wide variety of materials at speeds and quality that a diode laser simply cannot match. The P2 is a deluxe machine with high-end features. It comes with a powerful 55-watt CO2 laser, a remote positioning camera, an air assist, and an exhaust fan.
The lid locks for added security, and pressing the release button turns off the laser automatically. You’ll need a large area where you can set up the laser on a stand or table. You can engrave signs up to 9 feet long and 23 inches wide with the optional Automatic Conveyor Feeder, which requires material to be fed through the machine from front to back. A riser base (also available as an optional extra) enables you to work on items thicker than 8 inches.
The machine is enclosed, and the lid has an automatic lock that prevents the lid from opening during machine operation. It is safe to use without eye protection goggles because it is impossible to open the lid while the machine is operating, and the window on the lid has a protection filter to protect your eyes. The smoke exhaust port on the back of the machine should be directed out the window, or you can use the xTool smoke purifier, which removes the majority of the smoke and smell.
It has an integrated air assist to prevent charring and smoke from coating the laser lens. The finished product is a clean engraving with minimal discoloration. You can also change the air assist in the xTool Creative Space software. The air flow for the engraving and cutting processes can be adjusted individually. The air assist range is adjustable from 15 to 150Kpa.
The P2 has two 16MP cameras. One is attached to the inside of the case and offers a wide-angle view of the entire work area. Detail positioning is handled by a second camera mounted on the tool head. Both of these cameras only display still images and are used to precisely position designs with 0.3mm accuracy.
The P2 has a slat bed to improve smoke extraction. The ability to remove and adjust the slats as needed is another great feature of the xTool P2. The slat bed is ideal for cutting thicker materials but not for cutting thinner ones. For your thinner materials, we recommend purchasing a honeycomb bed, which is available as an add-on.
The xTool P2 has a large working area:
Dimensions of the bed: 26.7″ x 14.1″ (680 x 360mm). With a 23.6″ x 12.1″ (600 x 308mm) Processing Area
The maximum workpiece height with tray is 2.5′′(64mm), without tray it is 2.7′′(71mm), and with riser base it is 8.5′′(215mm)
Spring retainers are also included in the machine, which are useful for holding down plywood boards and improving engraving quality. The small bits that fall down are collected in a steel tray under the bed. The tray can be easily removed for cleaning.
Materials the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Can Cut and Engrave
Cut: Wood Up 20mm Thick (This depends on the density of the wood) 18mm black walnut 20mm acrylic of any color in only one pass 3mm basswood can be cut at the speed of 35mm/s, which is 6 times faster than a 20W diode laser Paper & Cardboard EVA Foam Cork Fabrics, Cloth, and other textiles Leather Rubber Engrave: All types of wood Stone All color acrylics and plastics that are safe for laser engraving EVA Foam Leather Glass Rubber Fabrics and Textiles Mark: Anodized Aluminum Anodized Titanium Coated Metals Coated Stainless Steel
Technical Details
- Laser source: Glass CO2 laser
- Output power: 55W
- Engraving size: 26″×14″ large bed size and 2.7” maximum engraving height
- Engraving speed: 600mm/s
Pros
- Outstanding cutting and engraving performance, particularly for thick woods and acrylics.
- Two 16MP cameras for exceptional precision
- Auto Focus on the Z Axis
- Excellent safety features
- xTool Creative Space Software is included and can be used offline
- Compatible with Lightburn
- Air assist pump built-in with adjustable airflow
Cons
- Large and heavy – It weighs 99 pounds (45 kilograms) and takes up 39 inches (990mm) of counter space
- Lightburn does not support the cameras or auto-focusing functions
- The Slat Bed is not suitable for thin materials, but a honeycomb table is available as an optional extra.
5. LaserPecker 4 Dual Laser Engraver
The LaserPecker 4 Dual Laser Engraver, which features a 10W 450 nm Blue Diode Laser and a 2W 1064 nm Infrared Laser, is simple to set up and operate. The LaserPecker 4 has dual laser heads built in that can be easily swapped out using the on-machine LED touchscreen. They can also be linked automatically in the LaserPecker app when designing projects and assigning material types.
Because of its small size and flexibility, the LaserPecker 4 is a compact laser engraver that specializes in laser engraving. This also means that it is less expensive than some of the more expensive all-in-one laser machines. This model is available with the rotary and slide extensions that we recommend.
The LaserPecker 4’s work area is limited to 160mm x 120mm because it is designed as a desktop engraver and cutter, but the Slide Extension more than doubles the length to 160mm x 300mm, which is more than enough for most projects. You will also receive some sample materials for your first projects, such as a piece of wood, metal tags, and several gloss acrylic cards.
The LaserPecker 4 is very simple to assemble and can be done in about 10 minutes without any instructions. After that, you’ll need to download the LaserPecker Design Space app. I recommend that you visit the LaserPecker website and download the most recent version there. The app will connect to the LaserPecker 4 via Bluetooth or USB, allowing you to begin engraving and cutting.
The 2W infrared laser, for example, is best for engraving on metal and plastic, whereas the 10W diode laser is best for engraving on wood, leather, ceramics, and glass. You can do almost anything with this dual laser engraver, including engraving and cutting on the same material. Because the head does not move, mirrors within the LaserPecker 4 adjust to move the laser beam, accuracy is also high.
Materials The LaserPecker 4 Dual Laser Engraver Can Cut and Engrave
Cut: Paper, Wood, Leather, MDF, some dark opaque acrylic, and felt
Engrave: Paper, Wood, Leather, MDF, Some dark opaque acrylic, Bamboo, Fabric, Ceramic, Jade, Marble, Cement, Brick, and Dark Glass
Metals the LaserPecker 4 Dual Laser Engraver can engrave with the 2W Infrared Module: All metals including gold, silver, platinum, copper, aluminum, zinc, titanium, iron, stainless steel, metal oxides, Anodized Aluminum, Electroplated Metals, and Coated Metals
Technical Details
- Laser Source: Infrared Laser and Blue Diode Laser Module
- Output Power: 2W Infrared and 10W Diode
- Engraving Area: 160mm x 120mm and with extension: 160mm x 300mm
- Engraving Speed: 2000 mm/s
Pros
- Simple to use and assemble
- Can be used on a variety of materials
- A high engraving speed of up to 2000mm/s is possible
- Long lifespan and durability
Cons
- The software is difficult to use
- The infrared laser has a power output of only 2W, which is far less than that of traditional fiber lasers
Final Thoughts
So there you have it – the top 5 best laser engravers under $5000. Before you settle on one, take time to determine which material you will be engraving or cutting. Most laser engravers cannot be used on all kinds of materials. If you are not sure of the finer details of the intended use, you are better off buying an engraver that works on both organic and inorganic materials.
Read this article for more information on the different types of laser engravers and how to choose the best one for your application: Different Types of Laser Engravers
Happy engraving!