17 Best Budget Laser Engraving Machines: Laser Engravers 2023

Here is a detailed review and comparison of the best budget Laser Engraving Machines with complete details on features, technical specifications, pros, cons, and selection guide. Check it out and select the best Laser Engravers for your requirements.

Laser engravers are a thing of absolute beauty. With a great laser engraver by your side, you can add a unique touch to almost any item of your liking. In fact, they are popularly used around the world today to make customized objects.

The precision with which these laser printers cut through tools has earned them a lot of fans in the engineering and DIY community.

We first started using a laser engraver for a little DIY project and were absolutely floored by the flexibility and customization options the machine offered. However, recently while searching Amazon to look for a new laser engraver to buy, the number of options that were thrown overwhelmed us.

Too many options can make the final decision-making process confusing. However, to find the best laser engraver out of the massive catalog and after weeks of research, we have selected the top best Budget Laser Cutter Engravers you can use today to serve your needs.

Market Trends and Advice on Laser Engraving Machines

Based on their features, ease of use, and set-up, the list consists of entry-level, professional, home, and desktop laser engravers to cater to the varying types of user preferences out there.

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So, let’s explore the best Budget Laser Cutter Engravers without much further ado.

Expert Advice:

• The power output of the machine is an important factor to consider in your decision-making process. A laser cutter engraver with higher cutting power output can cut through denser material, while a machine with lower power output will have the opposite effect.
• Always buy certified equipment from companies with good reputations to avoid quality issues in the future.
• The laser engraver will heat pretty quickly. It is therefore important to buy a machine that is equipped with a decent cooling system.
• Consider the amount of room the machine will occupy in your workshop. Buy equipment that is appropriately sized.
• Software requirements are a huge factor when buying a laser engraver. Some machines come with the software installed, while others require that you buy the software separately. Make sure what the software requirements of the machine are so you don’t end up buying software that is ultimately not compatible with the machine.
• Price is another important factor that one should consider. Make sure the laser engraver you are buying is worth the price you will be spending on it.

Market Trends: Thanks to its cost-effective and reliable nature, the Laser marking technology market is increasingly being accepted across various industrial verticals. According to Grand View Research, the market size of the laser marking machine technology, which stood at USD 27.6 billion in 2020, is expected to balloon further between 2021 and 2027 at a CAGR of 8%.

FAQs About Budget Laser Engravers

Q #1) What can I engrave with a laser engraver?

Answer: A laser engraver or cutter is designed to cut through a vast variety of objects. However, it will also depend on the type of machine you are using. For instance, a laser engraver with higher power output is ideal for cutting through material that is dense. On the other hand, a laser with lower power output will cut through material that is thin.

In general, a laser engraver can engrave, mark or cut through wood, metal, plastic, textile, leather rubber, and much more.

Q #2) Is there a demand for Laser Engraving?

Answer: There is a rapidly growing market out there for laser marking technology. In the US alone, we have a laser marking tech market that is valued at over 20 billion USD. That number is expected to balloon all the way through 2028. Industries all across the board are now employing laser cutting machines to serve a wide variety of purposes.

These machines have also become cheaper, more customizable, and easier to set up, which has also boosted their demand. If current estimates are to be believed, then as per Global News Wire, the laser engraving machine market may stand at a market value of 5.3 billion USD by 2029.

Q #3) Will Laser Engraving wear off?

Answer: A major reason laser engraving is being used widely today on objects and monuments is because of the longevity of the cuts or marks they produce. A laser etched directly onto any object or monument is said to last as long as the monument or object itself.

So if the laser engraving is done on a quality surface, then you can have that laser etched on for as long as the surface lasts.

Q #4) How much does a laser machine cost?

Answer: The prices of laser engraving machines available today are highly variable. Low-end machines can cost as low as $300, and high-end units can be as expensive as $50000.

The price will depend on the quality, performance, and overall functionality of the equipment. You can expect to pay higher if all the above three mentioned factors are excellent in the machine.

Recommended Reading => Explore the Most Popular Portable Laser Printers

Q #5) Can you make money with laser engraving?

Answer: Yes, several people who’ve turned their hobby of laser engraving into a profession are making a full-time income from it. Of course, you will need a laser engraving machine and some experience using it.

As people like to engrave things for professional and sentimental reasons, there is quite a lucrative market for you to tap into in this domain. Plus, as someone who has indulged in the art of laser engraving, it can be a really fun way to make money on the side.

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List of the Best Laser Engraving Machines

List of Popular and Remarkable Laser Engravers:

Comparing Some of the Top Laser Engravers

Detailed reviews:

Best for hobbyists, professionals, artists, home-makers, and designers.

Makeblock’s xTool D1 Pro is our number 1 pick because it is extremely powerful. It is equipped with the world’s most powerful diode laser module of 20W that can cut up to 10mm basswood in only one pass. It does the job at an incredibly fast speed and saves you a lot of time.

The result of engraving is simply the best as the ultra-fine spot measures only 0.08 x 0.10 mm, which is suitable for fine details. Plus, you can also get the 10W and 5W modules if you want to take the minute details to the next level. Moreover, the machine is upgradeable, so you can upgrade it with the latest technology.

Most importantly, the Tool D1 Pro can do colored engraving on metals. It is capable of engraving with 340+ colors to maximize your creativity and the look of your product. Even though the machine is extra powerful, it is quite safe. Firstly, it blocks most of the harmful laser beams through the protective cover. It also has flame detection. Moreover, if the machine is moved or tipped while working, it stops instantly to prevent any accident.

The rotary attachment is exceptional as it is the world’s first 4-in-1 rotary attachment. It can work in 90% of the cylindrical and spherical engraving scenarios. You can engrave a wide range of objects and increase the variety of products.

Features:

• Industrial Grade All-Metal Structure.
• Steel pulleys and rods to increase life by up to 3 times.
• Built-in limit switches to position the laser module accurately.
• Specialized All-in-One software for engraving, cutting, and editing.
• Built-in focal length setting bar and fixed focus.

Specifications:

Laser Power5W, 10W, 20W are available

Working Area430 * 390 mm (16.93 * 15.35 inch)

Compatible MaterialsNon-metals and metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows and macOS

Pros:

• Adjustable height and large engraving area.
• Easy to use and assemble.
• Offline use via TF card
• Quick and easy focus adjustment.
• Fine laser spot

Cons:

• A bit expensive, but it is worth it.
• No mobile application has been released yet.

Price:

#2) ORTUR Laser Master 2

Best for designers, DIY enthusiasts, and small businesses.

If you are new to laser engraving, then this is the machine to try first, then this is one of the best Budget Laser Cutter Engravers. It comes in 3 different input strengths. You get to choose between machines with 7, 15, and 20 W input strength.

The setup and configuration are also very simple. It takes around 20-25 minutes to put it all together. That being said, it may take you less or more time to assemble, considering your experience using such tools. With the machine assembled, you can engrave your choice of the surface at a speed of approximately 3 meters per minute.

Another thing that is really admired is its safety feature. It comes with a G-sensor situated on its motherboard. This makes the machine stop automatically if it detects any unauthorized action.

Based on our own experience and perusing several user reviews on Amazon, we would recommend this machine to cut or engrave materials such as plastic, wood, and soft metals.

Top Features:

• Pre-assembled.
• Uses newly upgraded 1.8 firmware.
• 32-bit Motherboard.
• S-0 to S1000 laser power range.

Specifications:

Laser Power4.5 W

Work Area410 x 310 mm

Weight7.65 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetal and Non-Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows XP to 10, Linux, Mac OS.

Amazon User Ratings4.2 /5

Pros:

• Easy to assemble.
• Features 5 safety protection.
• Affordable and ideal for beginners.
• Lightweight.

Cons:

• Not ideal for detailed engraving.

Price: Available at Amazon for $299.99.

You can also find it at Walmart for $349.99

#3) Compact Laser Engravers

Best for home-makers, bakers, craftsmen, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts.

Compact laser engraver is one of the best home laser marking machines you can get for your hard-earned money. The machine is lightweight, portable, and comes with a power bank.

You can control this machine with Bluetooth on your smartphone. The companion app on your smartphone is very easy to use. Speaking of the engraving, it surprised us by how precise it was. Its laser head is of top-notch quality, which is one reason the machine exhibits the level of precision and faster engraving speed that it delivers.

The safety measures it comes equipped with carrying out the machine are very safe to use. The machine will stop in situations where it experiences overheating. You can also lock the machine and avoid unauthorized use by setting up a password.

It should be clear by now that this isn’t a high-end machine and not suitable for advanced functions. We would recommend it to DIY enthusiasts, bakers, small businesses, carpenters, etc. as they will find this engraver very useful.

Features:

• Motion trigger equipped.
• Password lock.
• Can be controlled wirelessly via Bluetooth.

Specifications:

Laser Power1600 mW

Work Area10 x 10 cm

Weight1.1 pounds

Compatible MaterialsNon-Metals

Compatible SoftwareiOS, Android

Amazon User Ratings4/5

Pros:

• Smart app to operate the machine.
• Extremely lightweight and portable.
• Good precision accuracy.
• Automatic machine stoppage on overheating.

Cons:

• Not suitable for metal surfaces.
• Low engraving range.

Price: $299

#4) ORTUR 24v Laser Master 2 Pro-S2-LF

Best for small businesses, hobbyists, designers, and professionals.

In many ways, ORTUR Laser Master 2 Pro improves on the laser master 2. The tool is relatively more challenging to set up and use, thus it is ranked below its predecessor. The new upgrades are something we welcome. For instance, the new flame detection system is a great safety feature.

The speed is much faster, with the engraving more refined than its predecessor. While trying to push its engraving speed to find out if it meets the promises made, surprisingly a speed that touched 10000 mm/mm was recorded. To test the machine’s strength, we took plywood that was 8mm thick. The machine could cut it in a single try.

Features:

• Active position protection.
• Laser beam safety guard.
• Wide software compatibility.
• Power control system.

Specifications:

Laser Power5.5 mw

Work Area400 x 400 mm

Weight10.53 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetals and Non Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows XP to 10, Linux, Mac OS.

Amazon User Ratings4.2 /5

Pros:

• Smoother and more stable engraving.
• Upgraded safety features like the Flame Detection system.
• Can accurately engrave and cut thicker material.

Cons:

• Involves a longer learning curve. Not suitable for beginners or small businesses.

Price: $529.99

Also available at the official ORTUR site for $469.99.

Website: ORTUR 24v Laser Master 2 Pro-S2-LF

#5) NEJE Master 2 Mini Engraving

Best for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

NEJE Master is another Best Budget Laser Cutter Engravers recommended for DIY enthusiasts or designers who want to take wood engravings as a profession. As someone who indulges in DIY frequently, often use it to engrave small wooden objects as décor or as gifts to give to people close.

The machine is extremely lightweight and boasts enough output power to facilitate accurate and stable engraving.

Features:

• 360-degree engraving.
• APP control.
• Built-in gyroscope.
• Built-in MEMS roll protection.

Specifications:

Laser Power2.5 W

Work Area110 x 210 mm

Weight3.85 pounds

Compatible MaterialsNon Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS, Windows and iOS

Amazon User Ratings4.1 /5

Pros:

• Very lightweight.
• Fast engraving speed with 2.5 W output power.
• The machine supports 360-degree engraving.
• Built-in men’s sensor protection.

Cons:

• Not suitable for engraving on metal projects.

Price: $189.99

Available at the official NEJE store for $149.00

Website: NEJE Master 2 Mini Engraving

#6) SCULPFUN S6 Pro Laser Engraver

Best for craftsmen, hobbyists, and designers.

SCULPFUN is another laser engraver. It features a high-performance laser that can easily cut through a 10mm thick surface in a single try. Less effort was needed while operating, as the machine’s fixed focus laser always kept the laser power stable when engraving.

Features:

• High precision and speed.
• Fix focus.
• Easy slip.
• Long-lasting laser power.

Specifications:

Laser Power5.5 to 6 W

Work Area410 x 420 mm

Weight10.23 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetals and Non Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS

Amazon User Ratings3.9 /5

Pros:

• Facilitates engraving line as thin as 0.1 mm.
• Easily set speed to adjust engraving speed.
• Made from high-quality aluminum alloy.
• Broad software and operating system compatibility.
• Affordable high-end machine.

Cons:

• Not suitable for all users because of the long learning curve attached.
• Some users find the machine difficult to program and assemble.

Price: $331.49

Also available at Walmart for $295.99

Website: SCULPFUN S6 Pro Laser Engraver

#7) Aufero Portable Laser Engraver

Best for hobbyists, designers, and professionals.

This is another portable and lightweight laser engraver we tried on a DIY project we’ve been working on. This is one of those rare portable laser marking machines that we would have no qualms recommending for both metal and non-metal objects, of course, if the objects in question aren’t too thick.

Features:

• Wide software compatibility.
• High engraving speed.
• Laser beam safety guard.
• Power control system.

Specifications:

Laser Power4.5 to 5.5 mW

Work Area180mm x 180mm

Weight6.64 pounds

Compatible MaterialsThin Metals and Non-Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS and Android

Amazon User Ratings4/5

Pros:

• Comes pre-assembled.
• Compatible with almost all operating software.
• The engraving speed can go as high as 5000mm/minute.
• 5 safety protection.

Cons:

• The free software isn’t great and can cause issues in operating the machine.

Price: $279.99

Available at the official store for $199.99.

Website: Aufero Portable Laser Engraver

#8) Makeblock xTool D1 Laser Engraver

Best for designers and DIY enthusiasts.

If you are a designer, DIY enthusiast, or want to launch a small business specializing in laser marking, then this is a high-end laser engraver to try with.

The machine is composed of an all-steel wheel and shaft, making it really strong. Plus, its 0.08 x 0.08mm ultra-fine compressed laser spot makes the engraving really accurate, precise, and, fun.

Features:

• Steel structure design.
• High engraving speed.
• Protective eye cover.
• 60W machine power.

Specifications:

Laser Power10 W

Work Area432 x 406mm

Weight14.37 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetals and Non-Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS, Linux, iOS and Android

Amazon User Ratings4.1 /5

Pros:

• Can easily adjust the machine’s height.
• Features an industrial-grade steel structure design, which makes the machine exceptionally tough.
• Comes with a protective cover to shield the eyes from the UV lights produced by the laser.
• Engraving speed can go as high as 10000 mm/minute.

Cons:

• Comes with rudimentary software, which is disappointing.

Price: $399.99

Available for $476 at Makeblock official site

#9) KENTOKTOOL LE400 Pro

Best for hobbyists, professionals, artists, home-makers, and designers.

KENTOKTOOL had already won over with its seamless design. A full aluminum alloy structure guaranteed high precision engraving. There is so much more to this machine than its aesthetic.

You get a laser focus spot that can be as fine as 0.08mm, this is 2 times thinner than more traditional lasers out there. The machine also comes with a knob that makes focusing with the laser really easy, and as such could indulge in more precise engraving.

Features:

• Aluminum alloy structure design.
• Laser protective cover equipped.
• Fine laser focus.
• Wide software compatibility.

Specifications:

Laser Power5-5.5 W

Work Area400 x 400mm

Weight14.27 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetals and Non-Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS, Linux

Amazon User Ratings4.1 /5

Pros:

• With a modular design, this machine is easy to assemble and therefore recommended to beginners.
• As the focal length of the laser is at a fixed value, you don’t need to go through the hassle of adjusting the focus.
• Reasonably priced.

Cons:

• The laser output isn’t as powerful for a machine of its caliber.

Price: $369.99

Also available on eBay for $458.55.

#10) Atomstack A5 pro Laser Engraver by UESUIKA

Best for artists, designers, and small businesses.

Atomstack didn’t immediately win over at first. You need to sit through a set-up process that can go above 45 minutes. For people with less experience using such machines, the set-up time could be relatively more.

With an ultra-fine laser focal area that can be reduced to 0.03mm, you can cut through wood that was 1.5 inches thick and acrylic that was about ½ inch thicker. Although wood is easier to engrave, it can take multiple rounds to engrave the acrylic. Overall, we recommend it to beginners.

Features:

• Large engraving range.
• Fixed focus compressed spot.
• Wide software compatibility.
• Intelligent security protection.

Specifications:

Laser Power5-5.5 W

Work Area410 x 400mm

Weight10.98 pounds

Compatible MaterialsMetals and Non Metals

Compatible SoftwareWindows, Mac OS, Linux

Amazon User Ratings4.6 /5

Pros:

• Big engraving area.
• High-precision measuring scale design.
• Full aluminum structure design.

Cons:

• Set up is easy but takes too long.
• Laser power isn’t strong and you may need to go multiple rounds on a surface for the perfect cut.

Price: $379.99

Also available at the official Atomstack website for $299.99

Website: Atomstack A5 pro Laser Engraver by UESUIKA

#11) Twotrees TT 2.5 Laser Engraver

2.5 W laser power may not seem much. However, after using it to complete a very essential DIY task on a wooden slate, it is all a hobbyist needs to get the job done. For a lightweight laser cutter, the large engraving area this machine offers also impressed us. You can easily adjust the power and engraving speed of Twotree as per your liking.

Although we had a seamless engraving experience with it on my wooden surface, the machine will also be great for carving on leather, plastic, bamboo, lacquered metal, and aluminum oxide boards.

Price: $199.98

#12) ORTUR Laser Master 2 ProS2-SF

This is another one from ORTUR’s long line of home laser engraving machines that I really like. The machine’s laser beam can be controlled with such precision that you can easily draw a picture on a piece of paper with it. You can expect its engraving speed to go as high as 3000mm/min.

Similar to other versions of this machine, the Pro S3-SF also comes with a G-sensor on its motherboard. This is a really good safety feature that more home laser cutters should adopt.

Price: $569.99

#13) TEN-HIGH 3020

With an engraving area of 12 x 8 inches, TEN-HIGH 3020 is a decent laser marking machine for non-metal materials. Its engraving accuracy can reach up to 0.01mm while its engraving speed can easily touch 600mm/s. Its structure is made of aluminum, which makes the machine tough and durable.

Its price, however, is on the higher side, especially when you consider the prices of other non-metal engraving machines in the market.

Price: $1945

#14) OMTech Laser Engraver

OMTech is a laser engraver best suited for carving wood. Those who want a machine to cut metal will, of course, be disappointed. However, the machine more than makes up for it by being easy to assemble and set up.

The machine also earns major brownie points by coming equipped with a red dot guidance system, which can identify position sizing while engraving. The machine is also ideal for engraving non-flat objects, thanks to its stability clamps.

Price: Appox $1299

#15) Glowforge

Glowforge more than makes up for its high price by offering 3D laser printing capabilities without compromising on precision and quality. The machine comes pre-assembled so you can get it started as soon as it is unpacked. You also get a ton of free apps with your purchase, thus making the machine simpler to operate.

Glowforge can cut both metal and non-metal surfaces, provided the objects underneath its laser are flat.

Price: $5995

Suggested Reading =>> Comparison of Top 3D Printers

#16) Boss Laser

Boss is a respected name in the laser marking tech industry and the LS-1416 model has to be the best high-end laser machine you can buy for your DIY projects. You have the option to choose between 50 and 70 W of cutting power.

The machine also delivers with regard to its engraving speed. The machine could engrave with a speed of up to 1300 mm/second, which is simply remarkable.

Price: $4497

Website: Boss Laser

#17) Flux Beamo Laser Engraver

Flux’s Beamo Laser Engraver is a compact CO2 laser cutter that can engrave and cut a wide variety of materials effortlessly. Its minimalistic design and the fact that it is very easy to set up are attractive. Configuring the machine is especially useful, thanks to the touch screen interface it comes with.

That being said, the machine is expensive and might not be everybody’s cup of tea.

Price: $1500

Conclusion

This article walks you through the best Budget Laser Engraving Machines available in the market and how to select the best Laser Engravers.

The laser marking technology market today is massive with tons of brands, types, and models of laser engravers being sold both online and offline. With so many options at your disposal, no wonder it has become difficult to make the right decision. Explore a good laser cutter that spells value for money.

Also, Read =>> Review the best 11×17 Printers available

So based on our hands-on experience with each machine above, we can confidently claim that these are some of the best laser cutting machines you can lay your hands on today.

Start with the xTool Laser Engravers if you are a total beginner. For a good laser engraving machine for metal, give Makeblock’s xTool D1 Laser Engraver with Rotary a try.

Research Process:

• We spent 25 hours researching and writing this article so you can have summarized and insightful information on which Budget Laser Engraver machine you should try.
• Total Engravers Researched: 30
• Total Laser Engravers Shortlisted: 17

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