Looking for a budget-friendly laser cutter for DIY projects, crafts, or a small home business? You don’t need to spend thousands—these 5 affordable laser cutters deliver great results without breaking the bank.

1. xTool P2 (55W Hybrid Laser) – Best All-Rounder

✅ Type: Diode + CO₂ (optional upgrade)
✅ Power: 55W (Infrared + Blue Diode)
✅ Works With: Wood, acrylic, leather, thin metal engraving
✅ Cutting Capacity:

• Plywood: Up to 10mm (multiple passes)

• Engraving Speed: Up to 600mm/s
  ✅ Price: ~$5,999

Why Buy?
✔ Automatic focus & material detection
✔ Closed-lid safety (kid/pet-friendly)
✔ Upgradeable to CO₂ for deeper cuts

Best For: Home crafters who want versatility & safety.

2. Glowforge Plus (45W CO₂ Laser) – Best for Beginners

✅ Type: CO₂ Laser
✅ Power: 45W
✅ Works With: Wood, acrylic, leather, fabric
✅ Cutting Capacity:

• Plywood: Up to 6mm

• Engraving: Ultra-detailed
  ✅ Price: ~$3,995

Why Buy?
✔ Easy cloud-based software (no tech skills needed)
✔ Proven reliability (great customer support)
✔ Compact & quiet (good for home offices)

Best For: First-time laser users who want a plug-and-play machine.

3. OMTech 40W (DF0812-40BG) – Best Budget CO₂ Laser

✅ Type: CO₂ Laser
✅ Power: 40W
✅ Works With: Wood, acrylic, leather, rubber
✅ Cutting Capacity:

• Plywood: Up to 8mm

• Engraving: Crisp and fast
  ✅ Price: ~$2,499

Why Buy?
✔ Cheapest real CO₂ laser on the market
✔ Built-in air assist for cleaner cuts
✔ Upgradeable with accessories

Best For: Hobbyists who want CO₂ power at a diode price.

4. xTool F1 (10W IR Diode) – Best Portable Laser

✅ Type: Diode Laser (Infrared)
✅ Power: 10W (1064nm)
✅ Works With: Wood, acrylic, coated metals (engraving only)
✅ Cutting Capacity:

• Plywood: Up to 5mm (multiple passes)

• Engraving Speed: 400mm/s
  ✅ Price: ~$1,499

Why Buy?
✔ Ultra-compact & lightweight (fits on a desk)
✔ Safe enclosed design
✔ Works on metal engraving (unlike most diodes)

Best For: Small-space crafters who need portability.

5. Sculpfun S30 Pro (10W Diode) – Best Under $1K

✅ Type: Diode Laser (Blue)
✅ Power: 10W
✅ Works With: Wood, leather, acrylic (no metal cutting)
✅ Cutting Capacity:

• Plywood: Up to 6mm (slow)

• Engraving: Good for basic projects
  ✅ Price: ~$799

Why Buy?
✔ Most affordable entry-level laser
✔ Open-frame design for larger projects
✔ Quiet operation

Best For: DIY beginners testing laser cutting.

Buying Guide: Which One Should You Choose?

Final Verdict

• Under $1K? → Sculpfun S30 Pro (basic projects)

• $1K-$3K? → xTool F1 (portable) or OMTech 40W (CO₂ power)

• $3K-$6K? → Glowforge Plus (beginner-friendly) or xTool P2 (pro-level)