This laser engraver is equipped with the water cooling system. It doesn't allow the device to warm up.
You should calibrate mirror reflectors at the first run.
This Mophorn model deftly combines great functionality and compact size. This device can become a reliable assistant for novice users and professionals alike.
CO2 Gas
40 W
300 x 200 mm
CorelDraw
Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8
Organic non-metallic materials such as bamboo, leather, wood, acrylic, plastic, etc.
38" x 26" x 19"
CO2 laser engraver, Smoke pipe, Smoke fan, Water pump, Power wire, USB cable, USB key, Accessory bag, User manual
30-day Amazon's return policy
The Sunwin model has quite a large working area which makes the engraving process faster and more convenient.
The power of the laser is rather low.
If you are looking for a solid machine to engrave on different materials, the Sunwin 500MW is the best pick for you. It's functional, simple-to-use, and fast.
Semiconductor diode laser
500mW
500 x 400 mm
Sunwin software
Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 2000
Bamboo, wood, paper, plastic, leather, etc.
22" x 17.3" x 6.3"
Laser engraving machine, Protective glasses, CD with software and instructions
30-day Amazon's return policy
This is the best cheap laser engraver! It’s the right tool for any DIY enthusiast willing to acquire a compact, fast and accurate device. Besides, it can be used with Mac.
38 x 38 mm
An absolute advantage of this laser engraver printer is that it allows for adjusting the laser beam intensity as you like.
Thanks to a pretty compact design and super simple control ( there are only two buttons: on/off and off-line control), the Meterk DK-BL is so friendly in use.
You will have to select language first before software set up.
The Meterk Laser engraves different materials with very high quality. Simple and efficient, this engraver is a gem for small business or personal use.
CO2 Gas
1500mW
42 x 42 x 78 mm
Meterk software
Windows XP, Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 10, iOS 9.0 and above, Android 4.0 and above
Wood (thick or thin), plastic, bamboo, rubber, leather, kraft paper, acrylic, metal with paint coating
7,5" х 6" х 5,6"
Engraving Machine, Laser Protective Glasses, Allen Wrench, micro USB Cable, CD, User Manual
3 months
Mophorn DC-KIII
Great for a Small Workshop
The Mophorn is one of the best models available on the consumer market nowadays. This laser engraver boasts great infusion of compact size and excellent performance. You can use it at home or in a small workshop alike without efficiency loss. With this model, you will always get a high-speed operation and very accurate engravings. Thanks to the water cooling system, the machine can run for several hours without overheating.
As for its construction, the Mophorn engraver has a metal housing with powerful stepper motors inside. Overall, this device has a thought-out design and is stuffed with the most innovative technologies. This machine comes with the CorelDraw vector editor, which is a simple and comprehensive program for any user. All you need to start engraving is to be a creative person; the machine will do the rest of the job for you.
New Generation
The manufacturer has modified this device by adding a few useful features. Firstly, the Mophorn engraver features a new laser tube with an increased operation time. The control panel has become more functional and intuitive. And for a safer operation, the manufacturer has added an emergency cut out.
A completely new power unit and a built-in blower increase the shelf life of the device drastically. Concerning the speed, this machine engraves at 350 mm per second and cuts at 35 mm per second. A built-in air pump eliminates smoky smells.
Considering all these approvements, we would like to conclude that the manufacturer has done its best to make this product more user-friendly and reliable.
All You Need Is in the Box
As we have mentioned before, the laser tube of this engraving machine can be cooled down. In order to provide proper operation of the device, you just need to immerse the water pump into the bucket with water.
Sunwin 089
Your First Engraver
The laser engraver from Sunwin combines some useful features for beginners who want a simple tool with intuitive controls and for professionals who need high efficiency.
Let's start with the package. You get the machine in a knocked-down condition, which is the great news for every DIYer, since assembling such a complex device will be a fun process. Plus, you can find out more about every part of the tool and, in future, you will be able to replace almost any detail by yourself. As for the maintenance, you will find all useful tips in the manual.
Another great feature of this model is a quite spacious working area. Since the engraving area is as large as 400 x 500 mm, you can process really huge workpieces.
The laser is equipped with 500 mW blue-glow semiconductor diode which allows you to engrave pictures on different organic and non-metal materials. Also, if you need to carve something out of thin wood, felt, or plastic, the manufacturer offers you models with 2.5 W and 5.5 W lasers.
Enjoy Its Adjustability
The Sunwin 500MW is equipped with a thick aluminum framework, so it is quite lightweight and has no linear distortions. The machine has two NEMA 17 stepper motors with a 42 mm flange adapter that ensures the perfect accuracy of the laser. The torque of these motors is 44 N/cm. At the same time, the step of the motor is only 1.8 degree, which ensures that all engravings will be extremely accurate.
The control panel is designed with ATmega 328 micro controller and features Arduino nano, two drivers of stepper motors, and a 12V laser module. Due to such good tech specs, you can modernize the whole system or reprogram it for compatibility with your OS if needed.
You Are Not Limited to One Program Only
This laser engraver comes with the software by Sunwin that allows you to engrave almost anything you want and has an intuitive interface. Thanks to GRBL firmware, you can work with such popular programs as t2laser and its analogs. For sure, with Sunwin 500MW 12V USB Laser Machine, the engraving process will be simpler, faster, and more enjoyable.
WER DK-BL
Little Hard Worker
The WER laser mini engraver is a perfect tool for any beginner. It is one of the smallest, fastest, most precise and easy-to-use laser engravers. The first thing that attracted our attention was its size. It is miniature and features such a minimalistic design that one can say it has nothing extra. Thus, this laser engraving cutting machine can be simply mounted on your working table near the laptop or placed on a workbench. Plus! You will need only a couple of minutes to assemble it and start working. Just get it connected to your computer, install the software and start engraving. The tool is not very powerful but super accurate! You can engrave even the smallest details of any image with the top precision, but note that the engraving area is not large limiting to certain ways of use. Usually, it is applied to engrave small promo gifts for commercial distribution or to make some unique presents for friends and family. Taking advantage of the high operation speed of this marvelous device, you can make multiple copies of the same engraved images in the shortest time. One more special feature of the engraver is its ability to work autonomously without the mains power. You just need to have a Power Bank to enable independent operation of the engraver for up to 3 hours. It is really incredible that such a performing tool as a laser engraver can be powered off a regular battery! In addition, the engraver features a unique cooling system; the laser tube is installed inside the cooler body for a better heat emission. Summing up this desktop laser cutter review, we would like to say that the machine is fantastic for leather laser engraving and wood laser engraving.
For Windows and Mac Users
Besides all the listed above advantages, this device boasts one more special feature that clearly differs this engraver from its competitors. The engraver is compatible with both Windows and Mac OS. The majority of laser engravers are compatible exclusively with Microsoft Windows versions. But the manufacturer of this laser wood cutting machine has done its best to satisfy Mac OS users as well. All necessary drivers and apps can be downloaded from the manufacturer’s site.
Don't Limit Your Imagination
If you're a creative person, you might be also interested in a quality drawing set.
Additional Info
SainSmart Upgrade USB Cutting machine Engraver laser
The Best Price/Quality Ratio
If you want a functional and compact laser engraver for wood and other non-metal materials, the SainSmart laser cutting engraving machine is just what you need. This device is not very powerful, though it can cover a substantial engraving area of 69 x 68 mm, which may be sufficient both for a beginner and a DIYer with certain skills of laser engraving. The superior accuracy of this device allows you to engrave images with fine details or make very small inscriptions. At the same time, the operating speed directly depends on the engraving details. The smaller they are, the longer the engraving process is, and vice versa. This desktop laser engraver itself is made of plastic, thereby, it's lightweight and mobile.
Some Facts about Technology
People say you can forever watch the fire burning and the water flowing. It may sound funny, though you can also be enchanted by a laser beam drawing a picture.
Actually, the engraving is one of the ancient decoration techniques applied on many objects like dishware or weapons. Today, engraving allows making any object special. Since our market is full of identical goods, it's not so easy to find something really unique. In fact, it is almost impossible. For example, you buy a box of common wine glasses as a gift. However, if you bring these glasses to an engraver, they may get a completely new look with names and images engraved on them. Or you can do that at home yourself, using PC or laptop.
The laser beam was discovered in 1928 but gained the market recognition much later. It is the technology with the tremendous growth potential. Lasers are currently used everywhere: in medicine, science, household and many other industries. Yet you can enjoy this know-how right at your home. Just buy a small laser engraver and begin practicing!
Create a Cozy Working Place
If you like handicraft, we advise you to get a comfortable craft table to work at.
Additional Info
Meterk DK-BL
Compact, Powerful, and User-Friendly
Many will agree that the best machinery is the one that on the back of producing high-quality workpieces allows for simple operation and effortless maintenance as well. This portable laser engraver from Meterk is one of such devices. So let's find out why it is so good. Firstly, it is pretty compact, so you can locate it anywhere you'd like, and displace it effortlessly if the need be. Of course, this reduces the bed size making it smaller in comparison to other models. However, this laser engraver carves on the variety of materials starting from small wooden cutouts to wallets and mobile phone cases thus giving its user plenty of options. You aren't limited to treated materials either and can engrave wood, craft paper, acrylic, metal with paint coating, and many more.
Also, with users' convenience in mind, the manufacturer has made this powerful laser engraver easy to assemble and supplied it with a detachable frame that you can replace in the future. The packaging, by the way, is also quite full hence giving you practically everything you might need to start engraving. Suchwise, you will find in it a manual, a CD with software from Meterk, a micro USB cable to charge the machine, Allen wrench to assemble it, and laser protective glasses to protect your eyes while working. Indeed, Meterk engineers do their best to provide customers with maximally convenient and safe use.
As Simple as Possible
Not only does the Meterk DK-BL Portable Laser Engraver produce highly detailed pictures it also allows for connection with your PC, smartphone, and tablet alike. It is compatible with the majority of today's operational systems (Windows XP, iOS 9.0, Android 4.0, and above). You can link your engraver via Bluetooth and create your masterpieces anywhere and everywhere you'd like. All you need to do for that is scan the code from the manual and download the App. Handy, isn't it?
Also, the DK-BL portable laser engraver is equipped with a high power laser head with 1500 mAh full energy and quick response. It has a reliable cooling system to ensure proper operation of the laser and just a few control buttons thus making the process so enjoyable.
No Need to Worry About the Power Supply
The Meterk DK-BL is powered by a built-in 6000mAh Li-ion battery that charges via 5V USB charger. The battery working time on one charge is approximately 3 hours that is a bit longer in comparison to previous models. In order to save the charge of the battery, this model features a power saving mode that turns on after about 10 minutes of no use. In case of a battery discharge while engraving, don't worry, you won't have to start your work over. The thing is that this portable laser engraver has a power cut memory function. This means that your engraver will continue to work from that very point at which the work was interrupted. Plus, if the battery power is insufficient, you can always use the power of your smartphone or simply connect it to a 5V 1A supply; the machine will continue engraving.
All in all, the DK-BL portable laser engraver by Meterk is an excellent machine for producing high-class unique workpieces both at home and at a small workshop. It is reliable and intuitive to control which is essential especially for novice users.
Additional Info
What Is a Laser Engraver?
Nowadays, many people want to personalize certain objects or engrave some images on their surfaces. There are various possible ways to cut, carve or engrave initials and pictures. This review is dedicated to one of the most interesting options, i.e. the laser engraving, the engraving of images with the focused laser beam. In other words, if you need to engrave something really fast in a place that is hard to reach and make this accurately, it is the best choice. One more advantage of this technology is a possibility to make 2D and 3D images with a laser beam.This way the laser cutters differ from other comparable devices. In our laser engravers review, we’re going to tell you about the best laser cutting machines available for sale.
If the engraving is your hobby or profession, we recommend you to take a look at our review of engravers.
True DIY enthusiasts may also be interested in scrapbooking cutting machines review.
What Features to Compare
Type
You should first discover how to use a laser engraver and what it’s best for. You may be surprised that there are only two types of laser engravers available. The first type is gas lasers and the second one is solid-state lasers. Your choice should depend on the materials you intend to use the engraver for. If you need laser engravers for woodworking or want to make laser engraved pint glasses, you should select a gas laser. It’s great for laser engraving on wood, glass, bamboo, plastic, leather and so on. However, if you are looking for a laser engraving machine for metal and stone, you should purchase a more expensive alternative - a solid-state laser engraver.
Laser Power
Which laser power to choose will depend not only on the type of materials you plan to use it with but also on the speed you'd like the engraver to work. Suchwise, if you mainly engrave on wood, the power of a laser beam should not exceed 10W; the Plexiglas, in turn, requires minimum 40W of a laser beam; while the metal can be carved only with the laser that has the power of 500W power and more.
Software and Compatibility
You should also consider the original laser engraving supplies included in the set. For instance, the software allows you to get the maximum benefit from using your device. It determines the ease of use and efficiency of the device. In case an engraver is supplied with the software, make sure to check whether it's compatible with the operating system of your PC. Most laser engravers come with software tailored towards Windows users, although there are a few of those that have been designed for Mac OS computers as well.
Bed size
Evidently, the bigger area a laser engraver can work with, the larger workpieces you will be able to produce at a time. The dimensions of the engraving area will totally depend on the type and size of materials you usually process. Trust us, it won’t be a waste to check this parameter since once you buy a laser engraver, you won’t be able to expand the bed size. You will have to buy a new machine.
Ventilation
It is no news that any machinery warms up while in service thus causing faster component wear. Therefore, in order to provide proper and longer operation, laser engravers are equipped with cooling or ventilating systems. They can be divided into types:
- Air cooling system works with a few blowers that establish natural air circulation and turn on along with your engraver.
- Closed water cooling system is a water skirt installed under the heating details. Such a system includes a tank with cooling distilled water, a pump to move water through the system, and a cooling radiator. This system requires a liquid change at least once a month.
- Flowing water cooling system works on the same principle as the previous one with the exception that it doesn’t have a tank and a radiator. Such a system uses the central water-supply system for the circulation of cooling water. As a rule, industrial laser engravers are equipped with this type of cooling system.
Ease of use
Such things as rotary tools for engraving round objects, a ventilation system to extract odors while engraving, auto shut-off after some time of no use - all of these things add to the usability of a laser engraver. So if you’d like to have one, or a few of these features, you should better check on them while searching for your best laser engraver.
FAQ:
Q: How can I choose the best machine for my needs?
A: If you are looking for your first laser engraving machine and want to get your money’s worth, you should ask yourself a few questions. Firstly, you need to decide what you are going to apply it for. Cutting or engraving? What materials do you want to engrave? In any case, you should pay attention to all characteristics of the machine you have selected.
Q: How long does it take to get the hang of using the laser?
A: Well, if you are already familiar with graphic design software, it won’t take you much time. The only holdback that might occur is learning what speed and power settings should be applied to different materials. However, almost every laser engraving machine comes with detailed instructions on how to assemble and use the device. If you are new to engraving, the learning process will take you just a bit longer.
Q: What is the difference between laser cutting and laser engraving?
A: Actually, these are two completely different processes. Laser engraving is a procedure of reproducing logos, photos, and pictures on various materials such as wood, acrylic, and textile. Laser cutting, on the other hand, is a thermal separation of predetermined geometries with the laser beam. The cutting is good for producing letters, numbers, or figures.
Q: What materials can be engraved?
A: Most laser engraving machines are not limited to just wood or plastic, they can make engravings on bamboo, leather, organic non-metal materials, and even paper.
Q: What materials cannot be cut and engraved?
A: Take note that you shouldn’t laser cut or engrave such materials as carbon, polyvinyl chloride, Teflon, polyvinyl butyral, beryllium oxide, and any material that contains halogens, epoxy, or phenolic resins. The engraving on these materials may be dangerous for your health since they might emit chemicals and dust. So, in order to prevent health problems, we highly recommend you to select workpieces carefully.
Sources:
1. Laser engraving, Wikipedia. September 11, 2016.
2. Bubba StressBall WHY DOES LASER ENGRAVING LOOK THE COLOR IT DOES? Quality Logo Products.
3. Geordie 10 Tips and Tricks for Laser Engraving and Cutting, Instructables.
4. Matthew Hughes What’s a Laser Engraver, and What Can You Do with One? MakeUseOf. May 25, 2016.
5. Jordan Weagly What Is Laser Engraving? wiseGEEK. August 27, 2016.
6. Sarah L. Harrer Laser Vs. Diamond Cutter Engraver, eHow.
7. Using a Laser Engraver in Your Shop, WoodWorkers Guild of America.
8. Mamta Mule Laser Engraving Tips, Buzzle. September 19, 2011.
