Are you looking to expand the capabilities of your small business and are considering either a CNC router or laser cutting machine? Both laser cutters and CNC machines can drastically improve the productivity of your workshop and have overlapping functionality in some instances. However, it’s important to know that each machine type offers distinct functionality that may or may not be the best option for you. When looking to compare laser cutting vs CNC, you’ll need to determine what you intend to make with your laser or CNC machine.
If you are finding it difficult to compare a CNC machine vs laser cutter and are looking for support with choosing the right machine for your workshop, the experts at Aeon Laser Canada can help. Although we are your premier source for high-quality laser cutting machines, we also know that CNC routers can be an invaluable tool for many workshops. In this post, we dive into CNC router vs laser cutter comparisons to help you make an informed decision that enhances your small business.
What Are the Main Differences Between a CNC Machine and a Laser Cutter?
When looking to compare a laser cutter vs CNC machine, it is important to understand that both machines are used to automate manufacturing processes, yet each machine does so in a different way. Both a CNC router and a laser cutter can help to improve the productivity, precision, and overall capabilities of your small business with the main differences between the two being the method the machine uses to get the job done.
When looking into a CNC router vs laser, you’ll need to know that a CNC router uses mechanical tools such as drills and lathes to remove material by cutting, drilling, or milling. With a CNC router, the machine moves over a tool along axes to achieve the desired finished product. Unlike a CNC machine, a laser cutter uses a high-powered laser to cut, engrave, or etch a material by having the laser head moved along by the machine.
For a deeper understanding of how a laser cutter works, see our post, What is a Co2 Laser Engraver, and How Does it Work?
CNC Routers vs CO2 Laser Cutters
| Feature | CNC Routers | CO2 Laser Cutters |
|---|---|---|
| Cutting Method | Mechanical tools (drills, lathes) | High-powered laser |
| Suitable for | Industrial/commercial use (e.g., automotive parts) | Custom products (e.g., signs, gifts, crafts) |
| Materials | Wood, aluminum, metal | Wood, plastic, acrylic, limited metal use |
| Precision | High precision for complex shapes | Suitable for engraving and less complex shapes |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | More affordable, especially for beginners |
| Applications | Furniture, aerospace parts, medical equipment | Engraved mugs, handmade crafts, home decorations |
What Products Can Be Made with a Laser Cutter or a CNC Laser?
When it comes to comparing a CNC vs laser cutter for wood or other materials, there are countless products that can be made. Laser cutters or engraves are often used to create products such as engraved Yeti mugs, handmade crafts, custom signs, and even laser engraved tumblers. In many cases, a laser cutter is used for custom products including gifts, home decorations, and other consumer products.
When looking at a laser vs CNC router, you’ll often find that a CNC is used in more industrial or commercial settings. Though a laser can do some of the things a CNC router can do, a router is a more specialized piece of equipment that is used for creating automotive components, aerospace parts, molds, fixtures, and even medical equipment. If you operate a more commercial-focused business, a CNC router could be more suitable for your needs.
See our post, Understanding The Capabilities of Your Laser Engraver: How Deep Can a Laser Engraver Go? For more insight into what you can do with a laser cutting machine.
What Materials Can be Used for a Laser Cutter and a CNC Router?
Both a CNC router and a laser cutter can be used for a large variety of material types. However, it is important to understand the limitations of your machine as not all materials can be used with a laser cutter. Wood, aluminum, plastic, and acrylic are popular materials that can be used with a laser.
If you want to compare a CNC vs laser cutter for metal specifically, a CNC router and a laser cutter can both be used. However, a CNC router may offer more versatility and better performance for working with metal materials. Our post, Can You Engrave Metal? Unlock More Possibilities with Your Co2 Laser Engraver offers more information on how you can use a laser cutter to work with metals.
What Type of Machine is Best CNC Milling or Laser Cutting?
When looking to compare laser cutting vs CNC milling it is important to understand that these are both distinct processes that aren’t always comparable. CNC milling is used to manufacturer complex shapes and details for commercial applications whereas laser cutting is generally more consumer focused and requires less precision.
When it comes to laser vs CNC router, there isn’t really a “best.” Instead, you’ll need to have a solid understanding of your product offerings and what you intend to make with your machine. A CNC router might be better suited to commercial workshops that make furniture. However, a laser cutter could be the perfect option for someone who does woodworking for signs, toys, or other smaller-scale projects.
Which is More Affordable a CNC Router or a Laser Cutter?
When looking into CNC cutting vs laser cutting, there are many factors to consider yet for some, price might be the most important factor. If you are just starting out, a laser cutter will generally be the more affordable option while still offering countless benefits that will have a major impact on the productivity of your business.
Though a CNC router can be a significant investment for some businesses, the capabilities of these machines can unlock more possibilities for your business. If you are certain that you could benefit from the functionality of a CNC router, finding an affordable yet high-quality machine is possible.
Comparing CNC routing vs laser cutting generally comes down to the functionality your are looking for and the requirements of your business. Both a CNC router and a laser cutter can be invaluable for your business. If you are looking for help with finding the right machine for your business, contact the experts at Aeon Laser Canada. We look forward to helping you find the laser cutter or laser engraver that is right for you business.
