UV, fiber, diode, and CO2 laser engravers offer differing functionality, each with its own pros and cons. If you are looking for a versatile and powerful laser that can support continued growth in your business, a CO2 laser engraver is often your best choice, offering greater power and speed than a diode laser. Fiber and UV lasers are more specialized and are best suited to working with specific material types.

Laser engravers and laser cutting machines are not all created equally. There are several types of laser engravers, each with its own pros and cons. Whether you already own a diode laser and are looking to make the move to a more advanced machine or are a complete beginner looking to get started, you’ll want to have an understanding of each laser’s function.

At Aeon Laser Canada, we bring you high-quality CO2 laser engraver machines paired with the support you need to use them effectively. We know that figuring out which laser type is right for your shop can feel a bit uncertain. In this post, we break down the basics of what each type of laser has to offer and help you identify which is right for your needs.

Understanding Laser Engraver Types

The primary difference between diode, fiber, UV, and CO2 lasers is their light source and wavelength. These characteristics impact a machine’s power and speed, but also the type of materials that each can be used with. Discover a brief overview of each laser type to determine which laser type would be best suited to your needs.

Diode Lasers – A diode laser will typically be the most affordable laser and is often the starting point for anyone interested in laser engraving as a hobby. This type of laser is best for working on small jobs with smaller material sizes. Diode lasers work slowly and are typically limited to 30 watts, meaning they won’t be suitable for large-scale production. Though diode lasers are cost-effective, they can’t cut through thick materials and are best suited to uncomplicated jobs. Hobbyists find that these lasers are quickly outgrown as the variety of materials they can work with, and the complexity of work they can handle is quite limited.

UV Lasers – a UV laser is the perfect option when working with materials where heat damage is a concern. A more specialized laser type, these machines can be invaluable for specific applications where cold marking is needed, such as when working on delicate products or heat-sensitive materials. Most hobbyists will not find a UV laser to be an ideal choice, as the materials it can effectively work with, and the depth of engraving is limited. UV lasers are typically used for specific applications rather than as a versatile option for hobbyists and creatives.

CO2 Lasers – a CO2 laser engraver is the ideal laser type when you are ready to grow as a maker. Desktop CO2 lasers offer increased speed, the ability to work on multiple projects or material sizes, provide more precise cuts and better results, and overall, have less limitations than other laser types. A CO2 laser can work on a wider range of materials and is a truly versatile option capable of not only engraving but also cutting. The primary drawback of a CO2 laser is that it is not ideal for metal cutting. However, working with coated metal products such as coated tumblers, is possible with a CO2 laser.

Our post, Can Your Laser Engrave Metal? Unlock More Possibilities with Your Co2 Laser Engraver provides additional insight into how a CO2 laser can be used with metal materials.

Fiber Lasers – If you intend to work with metal a fiber laser is your best option. Fiber lasers provide fast, efficient, and precise cutting and etching for metal materials. These laser typers are more specialized and come at a higher cost that may not be necessary for woodworking shops or small-scale operations. However, there is no doubt that a fiber laser is the best option when working primarily with metal.

How Can I Know Which Laser Engraver is Right for Me?

Unless you have specific needs that require a fiber laser or UV laser, a CO2 laser is often the most versatile and efficient choice. Though diode lasers seem appealing for those new to working with a laser, many find that they quickly grow beyond the limitations of such machines. Whether you operate a home-based business or own a small shop, a CO2 laser engraver machine can be an invaluable tool. In fact, many businesses report wishing they had purchased a small business CO2 laser from the start.

Contact Aeon Laser Canada today to learn more about our Mira Series and Elite Nova Series laser engravers. We can help you be ready for success with a versatile and powerful laser that supports growth and expansion for your business.