Laser engravers that handle both metal and wood open up possibilities for DIY projects, small businesses, and workshops. This guide highlights five models offering strong performance, varied power levels, and user-friendly features. Each entry includes core specs and applications to help you compare capabilities for precise engraving and occasional cutting across common materials.
| Product | Brand | Laser Power | Engraving Area | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ACMER S1 6000mW | ACMER | 6000mW | 130×130 mm | Detailed wood, acrylic, metal, glass work |
| LONGER Ray5 2500mW | Longer | 2500mW | 130×130 mm | Beginner-friendly wood and acrylic tasks |
| ACMER S1 3500mW | ACMER | 3500mW | 130×130 mm | Versatile engraving on multiple materials |
| LONGER Ray5 20000mW | Longer | 20000mW | 400×400 mm (workspace) | Dense materials, metal and thick wood projects |
| xTool F1 | xTool | 2000mW + 10000mW (2-in-1) | Compact (varies by setup) | Metal and wood with dual-laser setup |
Note: This comparison focuses on models with strong wood engraving capabilities and meaningful metal compatibility, emphasizing safety, ease of use, and value for hobbyists and professionals alike.
ACMER S1 6000mW Laser Engraver
The ACMER S1 with 6000mW diode laser delivers high-precision engraving and cutting across wood, acrylic, metal oxide, glass, and more. Key specs include a 455±5 nm wavelength, 2 mm focal length, and a fast engraving speed up to 10,000 mm/min with repeatable positioning accuracy at 0.01 mm. This model supports a 2-in-1 engraving and cutting workflow and ships mostly preassembled for quick setup. It is positioned for hobbyists who seek detailed, vivid results with a relatively compact 130×130 mm working area.
Its versatility covers craft projects, small business tasks, and professional prototypes. Safety and usability are emphasized through straightforward installation and a design aimed at minimizing learning curves for beginners while still satisfying experienced users with dependable repeatability and accuracy.
LONGER RAY5 Laser Engraver 2500mW
The LONGER Ray5 2500mW unit emphasizes precision with a 0.04×0.04 mm spot and engraving speeds up to 12,000 mm/min. It features an upgraded 5.1″ x 5.5″ working area, compatibility with LightBurn and LaserGRBL software, and Wi-Fi connectivity for flexibility. This model ships with protective eye gear and a magnetic laser cover, prioritizing user safety and ease of transport. It’s well-suited for home crafters who want detailed results on wood, bamboo, leather, and thin plastics.
Setup is designed to be beginner-friendly, with a mostly one-piece delivery model that minimizes assembly. It’s a practical choice for those who want a compact, portable device that can deliver professional-looking engravings without a steep learning curve.
ACMER S1 3500mW Laser Engraver
The 3500mW variant from ACMER offers a balance between power and cost, with 36W machine output and the same 455±5 nm wavelength. Its 2 mm focal length supports high-precision engraving with speeds up to 10,000 mm/min and 0.01 mm repeatable positioning accuracy. The machine remains a 2-in-1 engraver and cutter suitable for wood, bamboo, leather, plastic, and ceramics. Like the 6000mW version, it arrives mostly preassembled for a quick start, appealing to hobbyists who want reliable results without extensive setup.
This model is a practical option for users who need a lower power threshold while maintaining tight tolerances and accuracy for intricate designs on a variety of common materials.
LONGER Ray5 20000mW Laser Engraver
The Ray5 20000mW model is built for heavy-duty tasks, offering a 20W laser module and a large 400×400 mm workspace. It supports multi-pass cutting for thicker materials, including pine, stainless steel, and acrylic, and features a built-in ESP32 chipset for multi-machine coordination. It also provides a 256-color palette for in-house color engraving and high-contrast results. This machine is aimed at serious makers and small shops needing higher throughput and more robust material capabilities.
With a focus on continuous operation (7×24), the Ray5 20000mW balances power, speed, and control. It’s best for projects that require deeper cutting and more aggressive material processing while preserving fine engraving quality.
xTool F1 2-in-1 Dual Laser Engraver
The xTool F1 combines 2-in-1 functionality with dual laser capabilities: a 2W infrared laser for metals and a 10W diode laser for wood and acrylic, enabling cutting through 10 mm wood and 6 mm acrylic. It is fully enclosed to minimize smoke exposure, with an integrated air purification system (air purifier sold separately) and an internal fan. Weighing about 4.6 kg, it is designed for portability and on-the-go engraving, including craft fairs and pop-up workshops. The F1 supports rapid production of metal and wooden items with a focus on clean, low-odor operation.
Ideal for users who want a compact, versatile unit capable of metal marking and wood engraving in a single setup, the F1 prioritizes safety and convenience without sacrificing capability.
Buying Guide
- Material compatibility: Consider whether you primarily engrave wood, acrylic, or metals. Higher power units (like 20000mW) handle thicker and harder materials, but lower power models can excel at detailed wood engraving.
- Engraving area vs. footprint: Larger working areas enable bigger designs but require more space. Choose a size that fits your typical project scale.
- Power and safety: Class 4 systems can cut thicker materials but demand strict safety practices, including protective eyewear and proper ventilation. For beginners, models with built-in safety features and easier setup are advantageous.
- Software compatibility: Check compatibility with LightBurn, LaserGRBL, or other common software. Wi-Fi connectivity and easy file transfer can boost productivity.
- Two-in-one versus single-laser: Dual-laser systems offer broader material versatility but may add cost and complexity. A single robust laser can be sufficient for most hobbyist projects.
- Portability and setup time: Preassembled or beginner-friendly units save setup time and reduce learning curves. Consider whether you need a portable option for events or workshops.
- Safety features: Look for protective housings, emergency stops, and eye protection accessories. A stable frame and good cooling help maintain performance over longer sessions.
- Maintenance and support: A model with accessible replacement parts, spare lenses, and responsive customer support minimizes downtime and long-term costs.