The best laser cutters and engravers | Creative Bloq

Oct 14, 2024

Cut, score and engrave a variety of materials using the best laser cutters for ultimate precision.

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The best laser cutters and engravers let you transform your digital designs into tangible items. That means, for example, that you can create unique objects for clients, prototype your ideas in a physical format, make interesting promotional materials, or cut bespoke items to integrate with your crafting projects, perhaps in conjunction with the best Cricut machines.

I've reviewed several different laser cutters and engravers, and carefully curated this list of the very best. My guide covers options for both studios and individuals, and includes devices that can cut or engrave metal, plastic, wood and glass.

My top pick overall is the XTool P2, which stands out for its performance, power, speed and accuracy. If that's outside your budget, though, we've also included some more affordable options. If you're creating your own designs you may want to check out the best drawing tablets too.

We start with a brief overview of top picks of the best laser cutters. Scroll down to browse our full selection.

Best overall

My top pick as the best laser cutter overall, the xTool P2 offers a powerful laser and fully encased metal frame. I found it to be accurate and reliable, and it can be upgraded to include an auto feeder passthrough and base riser.Read more below

Best budget

The Glowforge Spark is the smallest and least powerful laser machine on my list. But it's also the cheapest and is ideally suited to home crafting. If you want a faster machine for a little more money, Glowforge Aura at No.5 is a good choice.Read more below

Best budget

My pick for intermediate users, this is a solid step up from entry-level laser cutters, offering a generous 498 x 319 mm work area and a powerful 20W diode laser. It's compatible with various xTool modules and accessories too.Read more below

Best for small studios

If you've got money to spend, I found the Glowforge Pro to be a well-made, easy to use and powerful laser cutter. I love the macro camera and autofocus, which make this one of the best options for a small business interested in laser cutting.Read more below

Best for beginners

A strong choice for beginners, the Glowforge Aura is a small encased engraver and cutter aimed at home use. It's powerful enough for crafting, and it features autofocus, live preview and works with Glowforge's superb design app.Read more below

Compact

The xTool F1 is smart and portable, enabling you to create engraved tags, signs, coasters and gifts with ease. While it's somewhat limited, it's fast enough for small projects, and its compact design will take up little space on your desk.Read more below

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Best for crafters

Described as the world's first 4-in-1 craft machine, the xTool M1 Ultra combines laser cutting and engraving, blade cutting, inkjet printing, and pen drawing capabilities in one device. Because it's so complex, though, there is a bit of a learning curve.Read more below

Handheld

With a similar dual-laser setup as the xTool F1, this has a larger workspace and is designed as a handheld tool as much as a desktop device. It provides excellent results, but LaserPecker's software isn't as good as xTools'.Read more below

Open-frame

Want to do a lot of engraving, fast? I found the IKIER K1 Pro Max to be significantly faster than other machines on the market, reaching up to 900mm/s. It's versatile, too, allowing you to switch between 48W cutting and 24W engraving.Read more below

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

Our expert review:

✅ You need large workspace: For an enclosed laser machine the P2 has a large work area and it can be extended.✅ You need ease of use: This is a powerful one-button plug and go laser cutter and engraver. Super easy to use.

❌ You have a small desk: This is a large and heavy laser cutter and you need the space and a solid bench to use it.❌ You're new to laser cutters: Despite being easy to use the P2 is still a pro machine with complex uses, the xTool M1 or Glowforge Aura are better beginner machines.

🔎 The xTool P2 is a large, enclosed, clean and safe laser cutter that can be upgraded with accessories extend its uses. The app isn't quite as good as Glowforge. ★★★★★

Need to know: My top pick as the best laser cutter overall is the xTool P2. It has a 55 watt CO2 laser, which makes it the most powerful laser cutter for home use available today, offering precision and speed. It also features an automated passthrough slot, two 16MP cameras for high-definition accuracy, the ability to engrave curved materials as well as rotary engraving.

I found this to be very accurate and reliable. There's always some trial and error when using a laser cutter and engraver, but the accuracy of the cameras ensured I was able to rework the same project, going over lines that may not have been cut cleanly or redoing a project with tweaked settings.

Like the Glowforge Pro at number 4, it has a metal casing with a glass lid and inbuilt extractor fan, but its workspace is larger than its rival (600 x 308mm to the Glowforge Pro's 495 mm by 279 mm). It's designed to be clean and easy to use, and it's speedy too: running at 600 mm/s, it cuts 18mm basswood in one pass with ease.

On the downside, Glowforge Pro has a passthrough that works out of the box while P2 requires an add-on, the Automatic Conveyor Feeder, to really make use of its expandable size (3,000 x 500 mm). However, that's also a strength since it fits into xTool's wider ecosystem of add-ons, and you can increase the size of the workspace height using a Riser Base (see my guide to the best xTool accessories).

Overall, this laser cutter can do pretty much anything, including rotary engraving (purchased separately). After several months of use, we've found it to be reliable and adaptable. It's large, heavy and a little more complex than a Glowforge, and I find Glowforge's app easier to use, but the P2 costs less for the amount of power, so overall it just pips ahead.

Price: The xTool P2 costs $4,999 / £4,699 for the basic machine. You can usually get discounts from the xTool site of around $700 / £500. My advice would be to opt for a bundle, ideally the xTool P2 All-in-1 Bundle for $6,955 / £6,349 that includes the RA2 Pro, Automatic Conveyor Feeder, Riser Base and Smoke Purifier.

Read the full review: xTool P2

Our expert review:

✅ You need an affordable laser cutter: Glowforge make great laser machines, with a good range of materials and an excellent app – all that for a low price.✅ You want a good craft laser: The lower wattage diode laser means less smoke, making this a really nice home craft machine.

❌ You need more power: The 6W laser isn't too powerful, which means this is slower than Glowforge Aura and Pro, so opt for one of those if speed is important.❌ Size matters to you: This is one of the smaller laser machines on this list, so you won't be making large projects.

🔎 The Glowforge Spark is the ideal budget laser cutter and engraver for crafters. It's small and affordable but lacks the speed and size of others on this list. ★★★★

Need to know: The Glowforge Spark is about the size of a desktop printer and weighs just 10.8 lbs, which in laser cutter terms is lightweight. The Spark is a cheaper and less powerful version of the Aura on my list at No.5. If you're new to laser cutting and engraving, or simply want a machine for small craft projects, the Spark is ideal.

The Spark's workspace measures 8.5 x 11 inches and it can cut a maximum material size of 12 x 12 inches, and its 6W diode laser isn't as powerful as others on this list. But that lack of power really comes down to speed, so expect this to cut and engrave most materials but more slowly and in smaller sizes. The diode laser does have some limitations, though. For example it can't work with clear, white, translucent or blue acrylic materials.

On the upside, the Spark uses the same excellent design app as all Glowforge laser machines and it's compatible with the brand's range of Proofgrade materials. These have been tried and tested on Glowforge machines and in practice reduce waste. Each Proofgrade material comes with a code the machine reads, so it automatically adjusts power, speed and depth settings.

Despite the low price the Spark still comes with built-in cameras for live previews, material positioning and auto focus – for us this remains the best system. Overall the Spark is a neatly designed laser cutter that comes in sharp white and orange, features a snug lid for clean use and the usual safety features Glowforge is known for – sensors detect any errors and heat anomalies, and it shuts down automatically.

Overall the Spark is a smart laser machine for crafters and anyone who wants to try this hobby for less. It's a one-button machine, which means you simply create your design in the app and send it to 'print'. Don't be fooled by the price either: the Spark offers the same build quality and reliability as Glowforge's more expensive machines.

Price: The Glowforge Spark costs $699 / £568.63.

Read more: Glowforge Spark offers.

Our expert review:

✅ You want to upgrade from an entry-level machine: The xTool S1 offers more power and a larger work area than many beginner models. ✅ You need versatility: It's compatible with various xTool modules and accessories for different projects.

❌ You require automated batch processing: The manual positioning system can be time-consuming for large batches. ❌ You're on a tight budget: While good value, there are cheaper options for absolute beginners.

🔎 The xTool S1 isn't the most powerful or sophisticated on this list. But it does strike a good balance between power, versatility, and ease of use, making it a good option for intermediate users. ★★★½

Need to know: The xTool S1 is a solid step up from entry-level laser cutters, offering a generous 498 x 319 mm work area and a powerful 20W diode laser that's upgradable to 40W. It's designed with both home users and small businesses in mind, providing a good balance of features, safety, and performance.

One of the S1's standout features is its versatility. It's compatible with various xTool laser modules and accessories, allowing users to tailor the machine to their specific needs. The dynamic focus feature enables engraving on curved surfaces, while the smart air assist system helps achieve cleaner cuts.

The enclosed design with a fire-resistant shell and multiple safety features makes it suitable for use in home environments. The dual-wavelength filtering lid means you can operate it without protective eyewear, which is a nice touch for convenience and safety.

However, the S1 does have a few drawbacks. The lack of an internal camera means you'll need to manually position your materials and designs using the Pin-point Positioning System. While accurate, this can be time-consuming, especially for batch production. Some users have also reported issues with WiFi connectivity.

Price: Price-wise, the xTool S1 sits in the mid-range, offering good value for its capabilities. The xTool S1 20W Basic Kit retails for $2,293.90 / £1,799 (RRP), while the xTool S1 20W Rotary Kit is $3,351.60 / £2,629 (RRP).

Read the full review: xTool S1

Our expert review:

✅ You need the best laser crafting app: Glowforge's app is the best easiest and best I've used, with few glitches or errors. Now includes AI image generation.✅ You need a powerful laser: While technically a step below the xTool P2, you'll be able to do everything on this and its drop in power often results in cleaner cuts.

❌ You have a small desk: Glowforge Pro is smaller than the P2, but still one of the larger laser machines on this list, so you'll need a large bench.❌ Price is an issue: While Glowforge has cut the price this is still a hefty $5,999 / £ 4,807 but you get a lot of laser machine tech for your money.

🔎 The Glowforge Pro is a personal favourite of mine, and while it's always been costly the tech, build and app is unrivalled. If you can get it reduced, you won't be disappointed. ★★★★★

Need to know: Glowforge Pro is a beautifully designed 'laser printer' that removes the mess and fuss and packages with a clean and approachable device. This is the top model from Glowforge, which also has a medium Plus edition and a slightly less powerful Basic model as well as the Cricut-like Aura (no. 5) and Spark (no.2).

It does the same cutting and engraving as many of the best laser cutters on this list, but its design keeps any mess inside the machine (a filter sucks away any dust and debris into an external air filter). Designs are sent to the machine via a bespoke app, and the Glowforge machines support Windows, Mac and tablet devices.

The Glowforge Pro uses a high-spec Class 4, 45 watt laser which is one of the most powerful you can get outside an industrial device, or the xTool P2 at No.1. (The Plus and Basic use a 40 watt, Class 1 laser, which is still more powerful than most on this list.) When I tested this for my Glowforge Pro review, I was impressed with the machine's speed, ease of use and an excellent design app. It does, however, ideally need to be used with the Glowforge Air Filter accessory.

It's this ease of use and clean approach to laser cutting and engraving that makes the Glowforge Pro my premium choice. It looks like a standard printer but can engrave everything from metal to wood and tiles to paper and leather – it's perfectly suited to every task that requires accurate cutting too, from costume creation to model work. This Pro model comes with a 'passthrough' slot for large lengths of material, making it an ideal wood laser cutter – you can even make furniture.

I've found the results are always great with the Glowforge Pro, and, again, the app is easy to use. The xTool P2 is cheaper and more powerful (meaning slightly faster) and a little larger, but the ease of use of the Glowforge Pro means it's a great machine for everyone, including small studios or schools.

Price: The good news is Glowforge is cutting the price of Pro, to focus on Aura and Spark. This means you can now buy Glowforge Pro for $5,999 / £4,807, which brings it down in price considerably, via the Glowforge website.

Read the full review: Glowforge Pro

Our expert review:

✅ You're new to laser crafting: Well made, reliable and easy to use thanks to its camera positioning and app.✅ You're a home crafter: The size and versatility of the Aura makes it suitable for home use (I'd recommend buying the Personal Filter).

❌ You make larger projects: If you make large or multiples of designs then you'll need the bigger xTool P2 or Glowforge Pro.❌ You want to do it all: This doesn't have the most powerful laser, which means it can't engrave or cut as many materials as the larger laser machines.

🔎 The Glowforge Aura is a small and compact laser cutter aimed at crafters. It's a perfect beginner machine but can't cut or engrave every material. ★★★★½

Need to know: Glowforge Aura is one of a new breed of laser machines targeted at crafters and home users rather than studios and small businesses. The aim of the Aura is to offer a small, clean and accurate laser cutter and engraver to use in the home, which is why this is my recommendation as the best laser cutter for beginners.

While the xTool M1 below is a neat laser solution for crafters, as it uses a blade and laser which means you can use vinyl (lasers can't cut or engrave vinyl as it releases toxins), the Glowforge Aura focuses on a laser, but a low-powered 6W diode for cleaner use and less fumes, as well as offering eco-friendly vinyl alternatives.

I found that the lower powered laser does mean this is a cleaner machine to use, though it still needs regular cleaning for best results. It also makes it a safer laser cutter for the home, and the Aura is smaller squarer and shorter than the xTool S1, for example.

Another aspect of the Aura I love is its software; the Glowforge Print web app is free and incredibly stable and easy to use. It offers free guides and projects, connects to a wider community and is the closest laser app I've used to Cricut Design Space, and includes easy layers, design tools and more. It even includes generative AI now for quick image creation (these are rendered as laser-ready files not simply flat images).

The cons against the Aura can come down to personal taste and use. You may need a more powerful laser (the 6W diode here can't, for example, score or engrave transparent or reflective materials), in which case the xTool S1 would be preferable. A further caveat is that you will need the Glowforge Personal Filter, which costs extra, but this would be a recommendation for every encased laser cutter on this list.

Price: The Glowforge Aura costs $1,199 / £972, but I'd advice buying the Personal Filter for an extra $399.99 / £323.79 to extract and clean the air from inside the machine.

Read more: Glowforge Aura

Our expert review:

✅ You need a desktop laser engraver: The F1 fulfils a specific need to have a desktop laser engraver to hand but have limited workspace.✅ You want a speedy engraver: Don't let the size and 10W dual-laser setup fool you, the F1 is quick and quiet for specific, small projects.

❌ You have a larger workspace: If you have the room and want to create larger projects, there are bigger enclosed laser machines on my list.❌ Price matters: Despite the size and using diode lasers, the F1 is still a costly machine, considering you can get the excellent Glowforge Aura for less.

🔎 The xTool F1 is the ideal budget laser cutter and engraver for crafters. It's small and affordable but lacks the speed and size of others listed here. ★★★★

Need to know: The xTool F1 is a smart little laser engraver and cutter that can sit on your desk, enabling you to create engraved tags, signs and coasters or gifts with ease. This is xTool's answer to the portable laser machines pioneered by LaserPecker. The xTool F1 is a good choice for beginner engravers but it's also an excellent portable, handheld device for experienced laser engraver users who want the flexibility of a smaller desktop / handheld device.

There are some eye-catching specs, including 0.00199mm accuracy, a 4000 mm/s engraving speed (more than enough for small projects) and its 115 x 115 mm workspace can be upgraded to a 400 x 115 mm with a tray accessory (purchased separately).

In comparison to the larger xTool P2, Glowforge Pro and Gweike laser cutters the F1 is small and somewhat limited, but it is a great device for those who want a second laser engraver for small projects (I would say the xTool M1 or Glowforge Aura and Spark are the ideal starter machines).

The big advantage of the F1 for me is how little space it takes up (I have a Glowforge Pro, xTool P2 and xTool M1 and let me say, space is getting tight). The F1 can sit on your desk next to your Mac or PC and it doesn't look out of place. If you're looking to get into laser engraving and want to make small gifts for friends, to be sold on Etsy or tags for your craft products, the F1 is a handy addition to have.

Its closest rival is the LaserPecker 4 (no.8 on my list below) and it's a close call on which is the best in terms of tech. They both include dual-lasers but the F1 has a super-quick engraving speed of 4000 mm/s while the LaserPecker 4 is 2000 mm/s and it can cut to a 6mm depth as opposed to LaserPecker 4's 5mm. In practice this is marginal but the F1 does feature better, more stable design software and a fuller protective casing which makes it more of an encased but portable laser cutter.

Price: The xTool F1 is priced at $1,999 / £1,699 but the xTool site usually sells this for around $400 / £200 less.

Our expert review:

✅ You want an all-in-one craft solution: The M1 Ultra combines laser cutting, blade cutting, inkjet printing, and pen drawing in one machine. ✅ You need versatility: It's perfect for those who work with various materials and techniques in their projects.

❌ You only need one specific function: If you just need a laser cutter or just a vinyl cutter, a dedicated machine might be more cost-effective. ❌ You prefer simpler, single-function tools: The M1 Ultra's versatility comes with a bit of a learning curve.

🔎 The xTool M1 Ultra is a game-changer in the craft machine market, offering unprecedented versatility with its 4-in-1 functionality. It's an excellent choice for serious crafters and small businesses. ★★★★★

Need to know: The xTool M1 Ultra laser cutter is described as the world's first 4-in-1 craft machine. That's because it combines laser cutting and engraving, blade cutting, inkjet printing, and pen drawing capabilities in one device.

The laser module comes in two power options: 10W and 20W. The 20W option can cut through materials up to 10mm thick (basswood), a significant improvement over the original M1. The engraving speed has also been enhanced, reaching up to 400mm/s compared to the M1's 250mm/s.

The blade cutting module has been expanded to include multiple blade options. In addition to the fine-point blade for thin materials like vinyl and paper, the M1 Ultra introduces a tapered blade for thicker materials (up to 2.5mm), a rotary blade for fabrics, and a foil transfer tip for gold foil effects and embossing.

One of the most exciting additions is the inkjet printing module, which allows users to print designs directly onto materials before cutting or engraving them. This feature eliminates the need for a separate printer and streamlines the crafting process. The pen drawing module, meanwhile, turns the M1 Ultra into a robotic sketch artist, capable of creating intricate designs using the included set of fine liner pens or third-party pens.

While the M1 Ultra offers incredible versatility, it's worth noting that it may have a steeper learning curve compared to single-function machines. However, for crafters and small businesses looking to consolidate multiple tools into one device, the M1 Ultra presents an attractive all-in-one solution.

Price: The xTool M1 Ultra costs $1,099.99 for the 10W laser version, with the 20W option costing $1,749.99. While this is more expensive than single-function machines, the multi-functionality will justifies the cost for many.

Our expert review:

✅ You want a fast and quiet engraver: Despite its size, the tech inside the LaserPecker 4 is excellent, resulting in fast and quiet engraving.✅ You need a handheld machine: This is the only proper handheld laser engraver on this list, and it works nicely.

❌ You want an enclosed machine: while the LaserPecker 4 isn't messy, it's not as fully enclosed as others on this list, so you will get smoke and debris. ❌ You're making large projects: the LaserPecker 4 is designed for creating small signs, coasters and tags, anything larger and you'll need a different machine.

🔎 The LaserPecker 4 has some superb tech and is well made, but I found the app harder to use than other devices, so you'll need to pay for LightBurn. ★★★½

Need to know: The LaserPecker 4 is an eye-catching handheld laser engraver and cutter that has a lot of similarities to the xTool F1 (above) but differs in some ways that mean if you're considering which to get, I can help.

Fundamentally the LP4 and F1 share the same dual-laser approach, offering both a 10W Blue Diode Laser and 2W Infrared Laser for cutting and engraving. As mentioned above the LP4 is slower and cuts 1mm less deep, but for many uses you won't notice. But the LP4 also has an excellent automatic mode for raising and lowering its laser head.

In my LaserPecker 4 review this device breezed through engraving a complex illustration into wood, was clean and left little of the smoke and debris you get from larger laser machines. Importantly, the built-in extractor fan worked perfectly and the device is very quiet.

One issue I found in my review is with the LP4's design software; it can be a little unstable and hard to use, particularly on iPad and Android phones. It does work with specialist laser software LightBurn with good results, but this is a paid-for software while Glowforge and xTool offer excellent free-to-use apps.

So, those real world differences – the LaserPecker 4 has a slightly larger workspace than the F1 (16 x 12 cm as opposed to the xTool's squarer 11.5 x. 11.5 cm) and is more of a portable handheld device even with this larger size. The LP4 is designed to be used as a handheld, with protective googles included so it's easier to use.

If you're looking for a handheld the LaserPecker 4 is the best device on this list, and your choice is really between this and and the older but cheaper LaserPecker 2, as in my view xTool F1 is best used as a compact desktop device.

Price: The LaserPecker 4 costs $1,999 / £1,799 but you can find deals that bring it in around $1,799 / £1,583 – head to the official LaserPecker website for the latest discounts.

Read the full review: LaserPecker 4

Our expert review:

✅ You want a open frame laser: Closed laser cutters are new, and some still prefer the older open-frame style for versatility.✅ You want total control: This is best used with LightBurn and offers a more manual level of control that newer enclosed laser machines like the P2 and Aura.

❌ You need a one-button and go machine: This takes time to setup and there's a lot of trial and error, even if the results are excellent. ❌ You want a good free design app: The IKIER app isn't very good, so unlike Glowforge and xTool you'll need to pay for LightBurn.

🔎 The IKIER K1 Pro is a large open-frame cutter and engraver with a powerful, fast laser but lacks the ease-of-use of Glowforge and xTool, making it a good pro machine. ★★★½

Need to know: If you're looking to do a lot of engraving in a short space of time, the IKIER K1 Pro Max has much to offer. The engraving speed of IKIER K1 Pro Max can reach up to 900mm/s, which is significantly faster than other machines on the market.

It's versatile, too, thanks to the 48W to 24W Gear Switching Module. When you need to cut, you can use the 48W gear, and the laser power is fully turned on. This allows you to cut 25mm wood, 19mm black acrylic, and 0.3mm stainless steel sheet with one pass. When you need to engrave, switch to the 24W laser gear, and the engraving is more precise. It can directly carve coloured patterns on mirror stainless steel, ceramics and opaque glass.

Usefully, IKIER’s intelligent Z-axis features helps you achieve autofocus by automatically measuring the distance to the object and adjusting the focus. An automatic sinking feature helps you to cut thicker materials. And the K1 Pro Max also boasts an advanced automatic power failure recovery system that remembers the engraving position. When the power comes back on, it uses an algorithm to quickly continue engraving from where it left off.

Being an open-frame laser device has its advantages, as you can get more manual with setup and position items for engraving in a large, open space. It's an older fashioned approach, but the air assist diminishes scorching and mess, but it's not a device to use in the home like the Glowforge Aura or Spark.

When I reviewed the IKIER K1 Pro Max I found the brand's own app to be fairly useless so had to use LightBurn, which comes with a subscription cost. Unlike Glowforge and xTool models that use bespoke apps, the IKIER needs more experience to get the best from it – this is not a laser engraver for beginners.

Price: The IKIER K1 Pro Max costs $1,999 / but it's currently reduced to $1,199.

Read the full review: IKIER K1 Pro Max

The best laser cutter for you will depend on what you want to use it for. You'll need to decide if you want a diode or CO2 laser, as both of these types of laser cutters work on different materials to different degrees. Diode lasers are more affordable, but the cheapest can only engrave organic material like wood and paper. CO2 lasers can etch any organic material and all acrylics, including clear acrylic, but they're more costly.

As a rule CO2 laser machines like the xTool P2 and Glowforge Pro are designed for large, often complex or multiple projects and are aimed at professionals and studios, while diode laser machines like the Glowforge Aura or xTool M1 are smaller, cleaner and good for the home, making them excellent for crafters.

Another thing to consider is speed and accuracy, especially if your aim is to mass produce a product to sell within a limited time. And you'll need to consider how much physical space you have for a machine. Open-frame laser cutters can often be placed on top of large items, while fully enclosed lasers usually demand a dedicated space. You'll also need to consider if the enclosed laser you opt for has a pass through door for working on larger projects.

Also bear safety in mind. A laser that can burn wood can burn your skin and damage your sight. Open-frame laser cutters can be cheaper, but an encased machine is safer. Often safety devices, such as ventilation, are sold as optional extras to keep prices down. There are some accessories that can be shared between tools and some can be picked up at hardware store or solved with DIY.

Software is another selling point. Cheaper laser cutters often require free or paid third-party software like LaserGRBL, which is quite basic, or LightBurn, which is excellent and is the standard software but costs $60 for an annual licence. Brands like xTool and Glowforge have their own software for free, and from my experience Glowforge has the best app of all the laser machine brands I've tried.

Another consideration should be the tech used to position and focus on materials. The easiest to use are enclosed machines that use built-in cameras for auto-focusing as well as positioning. If you're using an open-frame laser cutter you can attach a camera and link this to LightBurn. Some new machines, like the xTool S1, use new software algorithms for positioning and focusing, but it's not quite as good as using cameras.

You'll also need to consider you budget. If you're going to be monetising this skill, then pushing your budget as high as possible makes sense to get the best end product in the fastest time, and with the lowest usage costs. It is vital to consider the cost of replacement parts – you don't want to find yourself unable to keep the machine running.

To choose my picks of the best laser cutters and engravers, I tested and reviewed the products just like you'd use them. First I surveyed the market and the specs of the various laser cutters available from reputable brands. I then brought in the best machines for hands-on testing, creating projects as well as using the same designs across all machines for engraving and cutting – in my case it's the Creative Bloq logo as well as complex Christmas decorations (which everyone makes).

For my tests, I used the machines to cut, engrave and score a variety of materials over a number of days, testing out all of the capabilities promised by manufacturers to make sure there were no false promises. We evaluated the machines for accuracy, speed and support for materials.

I also considered ease of use, size and value for money in order to provide options for different needs, including more economical laser cutters and options that can fit on a desk.

When I ask a freelance writer to review for us they are tasked with reviewing using the same criteria so we have a standard across all reviews. If we've not directly reviewed a laser machine, because it's new and we're waiting on a model to rate, then we turn to our sister sites like TechRadar for guidance.

For more details of our processes, see our guide to how we test and review at Creative Bloq.

A laser cutter is a device that creates patterns, shapes and designs in materials such as wood, glass, paper, metal and plastic, by cutting into them with a high-power laser. The precision of a laser makes for a clean cut and smooth finish. Laser cutting has been used for many decades in large-scale manufacturing, but more recently laser cutters have become more affordable and are increasingly used by hobbyists, schools and small businesses.

The same laser in the device can be used to engrave imagery onto various materials such as card, wood, leather, various metals, some acrylics, glass and sometimes stone and concrete. The more powerful the laser, the thicker the material it can cut. If you only want to engrave, a less powerful and therefore cheaper laser might fit the bill.

There are three main types of laser cutter. CO2 laser cutters use electrically-stimulated CO2, and are typically used for cutting, boring and engraving. This is the most common laser cutter to be used by hobbyists and makers. Crystal laser cutters use nd:YVO and nd:YAG, and are high powered, so they can cut through thicker materials. Fibre Laser Cutters use fibreglass and can work with both metal and non-metal materials.

Not so much any more. The new Glowforge Aura is regularly below $1,000 on the Glowforge website; while the rival, xTool M1 is also often around $999. Both are excellent machines, aimed at home crafters.

One thing of note too, is xTool has a new machine trade-in system so you can replace your old xTool laser cutter and engraver and upgrade to a new one for up to $500 / £500 less. You needn't send back your old diode laser machine either, just proof of ownership.

There are certain materials that you should never cut with a laser cutter. These include PVC vinyl, pleather or faux leather, and ABS polymer, which is commonly used in 3D pens and 3D printers and can emit chlorine gas when cut. Never cut laser-cut polystyrene foam, polypropylene foam or HDPE (a plastic used to make milk bottles), as these will all catch fire. There are many other materials that should not be laser-cut, so always read the instructions carefully. You might also want to see our pick of the best vinyl cutter machines.

Daily design news, reviews, how-tos and more, as picked by the editors.

Ian Dean is Editor, Digital Arts & 3D at Creative Bloq, and the former editor of many leading magazines. These titles included ImagineFX, 3D World and video game titles Play and Official PlayStation Magazine. Ian launched Xbox magazine X360 and edited PlayStation World. For Creative Bloq, Ian combines his experiences to bring the latest news on digital art, VFX and video games and tech, and in his spare time he doodles in Procreate, ArtRage, and Rebelle while finding time to play Xbox and PS5.