Choosing a laser engraving machine for either personal or professional use can be daunting. With so many options in the market, it’s easy to get confused with your choices. That’s why it’s important to know what makes the right laser engraver for you.
There are various things to consider before you buy a laser engraving machine. Below we listed some important factors to guide you in your buying journey.
Machine bed size
The materials you can cut or engrave depends on the size of your machine bed. Generally, it is better to have a bigger machine bed so you can process larger objects. Another thing to consider if the machine has an open architecture, which provides you with limitless opportunities. If you choose a bigger machine, make sure that you have plenty of space to house it.
Machine power
The machine power determines the type of materials you can cut or engrave. The higher the power, the thicker the material it can process. The machine power also determines the cutting or engraving speed of the laser engraver. If you’re using the laser engraver for multiple materials, a 100w laser tube will satisfy most of your engraving needs.
Types of materials to cut
Before you buy a laser engraver, you should also determine the types of material you are planning to cut or engrave. There is a wide range of laserable materials that you can process. There’s acrylic, wood, glass, and metal, to name a few. However, not all machines have the ability to cut every type of materials. When choosing a laser engraving machine, check if it can process the material you are intending to use.
Customer support
Learning how to operate a laser machine can be daunting. This is where customer support comes in. When buying a laser engraver, you should choose a manufacturer that offers reliable support after the purchase. Look at available resources to better understand the machine. The manufacturer should have at least detailed manuals, online videos, and an online learning center accessible anytime. Also, you should be able to reach them 24/7 in case complications arise from your machine.
Replacement parts
Like any other machines, there will come a time that laser engravers will break down and will need a repair. That’s why it’s important to choose a product from a credible manufacturer. When you purchase from a known manufacturer, it is more likely that you can get spare parts easily if you need them. This ensures that your laser engraver will still function at optimal levels because you’re using replacement parts from the same brand.
Budget
If you’re investing in quality laser engravers, you must be willing to shell out a significant amount. While the price does not necessarily dictate the quality, you should watch out for low-cost options. Cheaper machines tend to use a lot of energy and power, which can be costly in the long run.
To sum it up, the right laser engraving machine entirely depends on your needs. So before you make a purchase, be sure to identify all your needs and take them into account when choosing the right laser engraver.
