Laser!? I hardly know her!
Not All Lasers Are Created Equal: Diode vs. CO2 vs. Fiber vs. IR
Welcome to The Burn Book If you thought a laser was just a fancy light saber for cutting wood, buckle up—because the laser world is blindingly complex (but don’t stare directly at it). Here’s your no-fluff guide to the 4 major types of lasers, so you can sound smart at your next craft show—or at least not accidentally buy the wrong machine.
🔵 Diode Lasers
Best For: Wood, leather, acrylic, some coated metals
Pros: Affordable, compact, beginner-friendly
Cons: Slower than others, can't cut thick materials easily, struggles with clear acrylic
Vibe: "The Swiss Army knife of lasers—small but scrappy."
These little workhorses are perfect for hobbyists and small business starters. If you're looking to get your feet warm (but not incinerated), a diode laser might be your jam.
🔶 CO₂ Lasers
Best For: Wood, acrylic, leather, glass, and fabrics
Pros: Fast, powerful, great at both cutting and engraving
Cons: Bulky machines, more maintenance, higher initial cost
Vibe: "The muscle car of lasers—flashy, powerful, and a bit high-maintenance."
CO₂ lasers are the go-to for creators who want to scale up. Expect crisp lines, faster production, and way more burn for your buck.
⚙️ Fiber Lasers
Best For: Metal engraving (aluminum, brass, stainless), industrial use
Pros: Extremely fast, durable engravings, top-tier resolution
Cons: Pricey, not meant for wood or acrylic
Vibe: "The industrial robot arm of lasers—built for business, not play."
If your goal is to permanently brand metal gear or dive into commercial work, fiber lasers are the gold standard. Just be ready to open your wallet.
☁️ Infrared (IR) Lasers
Best For: Plastics, metals, and specialty materials
Pros: Ultra-precise, marks materials others can’t touch
Cons: Expensive, niche, not as beginner-friendly
Vibe: "The secret agent of lasers—quiet, specialized, and deadly accurate."
IR lasers are often overlooked, but they excel where others fail. Think of them as the precision tools in your arsenal—not for everyday tasks, but game-changers when needed.
Final Burn Thoughts: Choosing the right laser is like picking your first tattoo artist. You don’t want to go cheap, and you definitely don’t want to wing it. Whether you're just getting your toes singed or planning to scorch your way into the industry, knowing your laser type is the first step toward success. And hey, if you’re still unsure, remember—a little burn goes a long way.
Stay crispy, The One Foot Engrave Team