Looking Beyond the Carverall X1/JL9 20W Laser Engraver? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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Looking for Carverall X1 JL9 20W laser engraver alternatives? You might want to explore other options if your project needs differ from the JL9’s specific capabilities. The Carverall JL9 stands out for its Class 1 safety rating, built-in air assist, and quick 90-second assembly. Its 20W power handles 15mm plywood in a single pass, and the compact 11.8×11.8-inch workspace fits well in small home studios. The included CutLabX software and preset focus pins add convenience for beginners who value ease of use over raw power.
However, you may need a larger work area, a different form factor, or additional accessories like a rotary axis or enclosure. These 6 alternatives were selected because their published specifications overlap with the JL9, offering comparable 20W diode laser performance. Each option presents distinct trade-offs in dimensions, safety features, or included bundles. You can compare the working area size, software compatibility, and physical footprint to find a machine that better suits your specific material cutting needs or workspace constraints.
Our top pick: Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver.
How each alternative compares
Longer Laser B1 20W Engraver Cutter
The Longer B1 20W offers a significantly larger working area than the Carverall JL9’s 11.8 x 11.8-inch space. Its dimensions of 29.3 x 22.4 inches allow for cutting larger sheets of wood or acrylic in single passes. While the JL9 focuses on quick setup and Class 1 safety, the B1 prioritizes raw workspace capacity. It shares the 20W laser power and air assist feature. You lose the JL9’s built-in focus pin and compact footprint. This model suits those needing to process bigger materials without resizing designs. It is less ideal if desk space is limited or if you prefer a smaller, more portable machine for quick tasks.
ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 20W Laser Engraver
The ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 emphasizes industrial-grade stability and speed over the JL9’s ease of use. It features a robust frame designed for high-precision engraving on metal and wood. While both machines deliver 20W power and include air assist, the A20 Pro V2 targets users prioritizing accuracy and consistent airflow. You give up the JL9’s Class 1 safety rating and 90-second assembly. The A20 Pro V2 has a larger footprint at 23.6 x 19.3 inches. It is better for makers who need precise, repeatable results on detailed projects. It is less suitable for beginners seeking a plug-and-play experience with minimal setup time or complex focus adjustments.
Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen
The Longer Ray5 20W bundle includes a rotary axis and touchscreen, features the JL9 lacks. It offers a complete kit for engraving cylindrical objects like tumblers or pipes. Both machines share 20W power and air assist. The Ray5 provides a touchscreen interface for direct control, whereas the JL9 relies on software like CutLabX. You trade the JL9’s Class 1 safety and quick assembly for this expanded functionality. The Ray5 is larger and heavier. It suits users who want to engrave round items without buying separate accessories. It is not the best choice if you prioritize a compact, safe, and simple setup for flat materials only.
Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver with Enclosure
The Longer B1 20W with Enclosure adds a protective enclosure to the standard B1 model. This feature addresses safety and fume containment, which the open JL9 does not provide. Both offer 20W power and air assist. The enclosed B1 is safer for indoor use by containing laser light and smoke. You gain a large workspace but lose the JL9’s Class 1 rating and quick assembly. The enclosure adds bulk, making the machine less portable. It fits users who need to work in shared spaces or are concerned about safety around children. It is less ideal if you prefer an open design for easy access to the work area and faster material loading.
Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist
The Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist focuses on thick material cutting and large formats. It includes a rotary axis for cylindrical engraving. Both machines deliver 20W power. The Ray5 offers more raw cutting capacity and a larger workspace than the JL9. You sacrifice the JL9’s Class 1 safety, built-in air pump, and quick assembly. The Ray5 is heavier and requires more setup. It suits serious DIYers who need to cut thick wood or engrave round objects. It is not recommended for beginners or those with limited desk space. The JL9 remains better for safe, quick, and precise flat material work.
Longer RAY5 20W with Air Pump and Honeycomb Table
The Longer RAY5 20W with Air Pump and Honeycomb Table provides a honeycomb table and air pump for detailed work. Both machines offer 20W power and air assistance. The RAY5 includes a honeycomb bed for better ventilation and support of small items. You lose the JL9’s Class 1 safety, built-in focus pin, and quick assembly. The RAY5 is larger and less portable. It fits hobbyists who prioritize detailed engraving on small materials. It is less suitable for large-scale projects or users needing a compact, safe, and easy-to-assemble machine. The JL9’s modular design and safety features make it a better choice for versatile, everyday use.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver
Best for: Compact home workshops needing safe, easy setup
- Laser Power
- 20W (20.2–20.6W)
- Working Area
- 11.8" x 11.8" (300×300mm)
- Software Compatibility
- CutLabX, LightBurn, LaserGRBL
- Form Factor
- Class 1
- Cutting Capacity
- 15mm plywood, 18–20mm pine
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Glass
View on Amazon: Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver Affiliate link
The Carverall JL9 delivers 20.2–20.6W of verified laser power with a 11.8 x 11.8-inch work area. It features a built-in focus pin for three preset lengths and an integrated air pump for clean cuts. You get dual-motor stability and a Class 1 safety rating. The included CutLabX app allows mobile control. This unit suits users who need reliable performance without complex setup.
Pros
- Verified 20.2–20.6W laser power for single-pass cutting
- Built-in focus pin with 3mm, 5mm, and 7mm settings
- Integrated air pump prevents burning and charring
- Dual-motor system ensures stable and smooth operation
Cons
- 11.8 x 11.8-inch work area is smaller than larger desktop models
- No dedicated physical display for status monitoring
- Mobile app control may feel less precise than desktop software
Good fit if
- You want a Class 1 rated machine for safe home use
- You need quick setup without complex wiring or tools
- You prefer mobile app control for design and engraving
Skip if
- You require a working area larger than 11.8 x 11.8 inches
- You need to mark bare metals without an additional IR module
- You prefer a machine with a built-in touchscreen display
Verdict: The Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver is a practical choice for users who value safety and ease of use in a compact footprint. It fits hobbyists who want reliable single-pass cutting without managing complex focus adjustments.
Longer Laser B1 20W Engraver Cutter
Best for: Large DIY projects and thick material cutting
- Laser Power
- 20W (up to 24W)
- Working Area
- 450 x 440 mm (17.72 x 17.32 in)
- Engraving Speed
- Up to 600 mm/s (36,000 mm/min)
- Software Compatibility
- LightBurn
- Cutting Capacity
- 25mm basswood, 35mm acrylic
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper
View on Amazon: Longer Laser B1 20W Engraver Cutter Affiliate link
The Longer B1 is a 20W laser engraver and cutter with a large 450 x 440 mm working area. It delivers a high engraving speed of 600 mm/s and includes auto air assist for cleaner cuts. You can cut up to 25 mm basswood and 35 mm acrylic. It supports LightBurn software and features eight safety mechanisms. This machine suits users who need a spacious workspace for larger projects.
Pros
- 20W laser power outputs up to 24W for cutting thick materials
- Large 450 x 440 mm working area handles bigger projects
- Fast engraving speed up to 600 mm/s
- Auto air assist controlled by LightBurn software
- Eight built-in safety features including emergency stop
Cons
- No mention of rotary attachment support
- No mention of camera or vision system
- No mention of Wi-Fi or remote connectivity
Good fit if
- You need a large 450 x 440 mm workspace
- You prefer LightBurn software for control
- You want auto air assist for cleaner cuts
Skip if
- You require a rotary attachment for cylindrical items
- You need Wi-Fi or remote connectivity
- You want a compact machine under 20 inches wide
Verdict: The Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver offers a large workspace and fast speed for DIY users. It fits those who need to cut thick materials and prefer LightBurn software.
ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 20W Laser Engraver
Best for: High-precision metal and wood engraving
- Laser Power
- 20W
- Engraving Speed
- 400mm/s (24,000mm/min)
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Glass
- Features
- Air Assist
- Target Audience
- DIY
- Dimensions
- 23.6 × 19.3 × 7.87 inches
View on Amazon: ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 20W Laser Engraver Affiliate link
The Atomstack A20 Pro V2 delivers 20W of laser power with a 0.01mm engraving accuracy. It reaches speeds up to 400mm/s for faster processing. An integrated air pump provides 60L/min airflow to reduce charring. The aluminum frame includes linear guides and safety sensors. This unit suits DIY users who need high precision on wood, metal, and acrylic.
Pros
- 20W laser output for clean cuts
- 0.01mm engraving accuracy
- 400mm/s maximum engraving speed
- 60L/min air assist airflow
- Integrated linear guide motion system
Cons
- Smaller 19.3-inch width than some competitors
- Class 4 laser requires strict safety measures
- No app control listed in specifications
Good fit if
- You need high precision on metal and acrylic
- You want faster engraving speeds up to 400mm/s
- You prefer a durable aluminum build with safety sensors
Skip if
- You require a larger work area than 19.3 inches wide
- You need automatic app-based monitoring
- You are looking for a lower power output
Verdict: Atomstack A20 Pro V2 20W Engraver offers industrial-grade stability and speed for DIY makers. It fits users who prioritize accuracy and airflow over a larger footprint.
Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen
Best for: DIY users wanting a complete rotary bundle
- Laser Power
- 20W
- Engraving Speed
- up to 10000mm/min
- Software Compatibility
- LaserGRBL, LightBurn
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass
- Features
- Air Assist, Rotary Axis, Touchscreen
- Target Audience
- DIY
View on Amazon: Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen Affiliate link
The Longer RAY5 20W bundle offers a compressed beam laser head for high-precision work. It reaches engraving speeds up to 10000mm/min and includes a built-in 3.5-inch color touchscreen. You get air assist, a 4-in-1 rotary roller, and riser pads. It supports USB, TF, WiFi, and app connections. This setup suits DIY users who need a complete kit for wood, metal, acrylic, leather, and glass.
Pros
- Engraving speeds up to 10000mm/min
- Built-in 3.5-inch color touch screen
- Includes 4-in-1 rotary roller and 16 riser pads
- Air assist with adjustable 10-30L/min airflow
Cons
- Smaller 16-bit control board compared to competitors
- No integrated camera for preview
- Requires separate purchase of honeycomb table
Good fit if
- You want a complete bundle with rotary and risers
- You prefer a built-in touchscreen for operation
- You need app control and WiFi connectivity
Skip if
- You require a larger 15x15 inch work area
- You need a pre-assembled machine
- You want a built-in camera system
Verdict: The Longer RAY5 20W Engraver Bundle fits DIY users who want a complete kit with a rotary and touchscreen. It delivers fast speeds and precise details for various materials.
Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver with Enclosure
Best for: DIY users needing a safe, large workspace
- Laser Power
- 20000mW (up to 24W output)
- Working Area
- 450 x 440 mm
- Engraving Speed
- 36,000 mm/min
- Cutting Capacity
- 25mm basswood, 35mm acrylic
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper
- Features
- Enclosure, Air Assist
View on Amazon: Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver with Enclosure Affiliate link
The Longer B1 20W laser engraver includes a protective enclosure with ventilation. It delivers up to 24W of output power and offers a 450 x 440 mm working area. The machine reaches speeds of 36,000 mm/min. It handles materials like wood, metal, and acrylic. The included honeycomb bed and aluminum panel protect your workspace. This setup suits DIY users who need a contained environment for safer operation.
Pros
- Includes protective enclosure with ventilation
- 24W output power for thick materials
- 450 x 440 mm large working area
- 36,000 mm/min engraving speed
- Honeycomb bed with aluminum panel
Cons
- Heavier build due to enclosure kit
- Larger footprint requires more desk space
- No mention of software integration
Good fit if
- You need a contained workspace for safety
- You require a large area for big projects
- You want to engrave on mirrored stainless steel
Skip if
- You have limited desk space
- You need a compact portable unit
- You only engrave small items
Verdict: The Longer B1 20W with Enclosure is ideal for DIY users who prioritize safety and a large working area. It fits those who need to contain fumes and dust while working on substantial projects.
Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist
Best for: Thick material cutting and large format projects
- Laser Power
- 20000mW
- Working Area
- 400 * 400 mm
- Software Compatibility
- LaserGRBL, LightBurn
- Cutting Capacity
- 25mm wood, 35mm acrylic
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Glass
- Features
- Air Assist, Rotary Axis
View on Amazon: Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist Affiliate link
The Longer Ray5 20W laser engraver offers a 400 x 400 mm working area and a 20000mW laser module. It cuts up to 25mm wood and 35mm acrylic in a single pass. The unit includes a 3.5-inch touchscreen and supports LightBurn software. It comes with an air pump and rotary attachment. This setup suits users needing high power and a large build space for DIY projects.
Pros
- 20000mW laser module cuts up to 25mm wood
- 400 x 400 mm spacious working area
- Built-in 3.5-inch touchscreen for offline operation
- Includes rotary attachment and adjustable air pump
Cons
- Requires assembly before first use
- No dedicated mobile app mentioned in data
- Heavier build due to robust frame
Good fit if
- You need to cut thick wood or acrylic in one pass
- You prefer a large 400 x 400 mm workspace
- You want to engrave cylindrical items with the rotary axis
Skip if
- You require a compact desktop unit under 14 inches wide
- You need to engrave materials thinner than 0.05mm stainless steel
- You prefer a machine with a built-in display that requires no assembly
Verdict: The Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver delivers high cutting power and a large workspace for serious DIYers. It fits users who prioritize raw cutting capacity and offline control over compact portability.
Longer RAY5 20W with Air Pump and Honeycomb Table
Best for: Small detailed DIY projects
- Laser Power
- 20W
- Cutting Capacity
- up to 25mm wood and 35mm acrylic
- Compatible Material
- Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper
- Target Audience
- DIY
- Dimensions
- 29.3 × 5.31 × 22.4 inches
View on Amazon: Longer RAY5 20W with Air Pump and Honeycomb Table Affiliate link
The Longer RAY5 is a 20W diode laser engraver designed for DIY users. It features a 17.3-inch by 17.3-inch honeycomb worktable and an integrated air pump. The machine offers a 0.08 by 0.1mm focus and 256-bit color scale for detailed engraving. It cuts up to 15mm pine or 8mm acrylic in one pass. Safety includes motion and thermal detection systems.
Pros
- 20W laser power with advanced beam compression
- 17.3-inch by 17.3-inch honeycomb worktable
- Built-in adjustable air assist pump
- Motion and thermal safety detection systems
Cons
- Smaller 17.3-inch by 17.3-inch work area compared to competitors
- No mention of rotary attachment compatibility
- Requires manual assembly
Good fit if
- You need precise engraving on smaller projects
- You want built-in safety sensors
- You prefer a honeycomb worktable
Skip if
- You require a large work area
- You need to engrave rotary items
- You want a fully assembled unit
Verdict: The Longer RAY5 20W Laser Engraver fits hobbyists who prioritize safety features and detailed work on smaller materials. It is less suitable for large-scale production or rotary engraving.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver | Longer Laser B1 20W Engraver Cutter | ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 20W Laser Engraver | Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen | Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver with Enclosure | Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist | Longer RAY5 20W with Air Pump and Honeycomb Table |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Power | 20W (20.2–20.6W) | 20W (up to 24W) | 20W | 20W | 20000mW (up to 24W output) | 20000mW | 20W |
| Working Area | 11.8" x 11.8" (300×300mm) | 450 x 440 mm (17.72 x 17.32 in) | not stated | not stated | 450 x 440 mm | 400 * 400 mm | not stated |
| Engraving Speed | not stated | Up to 600 mm/s (36,000 mm/min) | 400mm/s (24,000mm/min) | up to 10000mm/min | 36,000 mm/min | not stated | not stated |
| Software Compatibility | CutLabX, LightBurn, LaserGRBL | LightBurn | not stated | LaserGRBL, LightBurn | not stated | LaserGRBL, LightBurn | not stated |
| Form Factor | Class 1 | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Cutting Capacity | 15mm plywood, 18–20mm pine | 25mm basswood, 35mm acrylic | not stated | not stated | 25mm basswood, 35mm acrylic | 25mm wood, 35mm acrylic | up to 25mm wood and 35mm acrylic |
| Compatible Material | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Glass | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Glass | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper | Wood, Metal, Glass | Wood, Metal, Acrylic, Leather, Glass, Paper |
| Features | Air Assist | Air Assist | Air Assist | Air Assist, Rotary Axis, Touchscreen | Enclosure, Air Assist | Air Assist, Rotary Axis | not stated |
| Target Audience | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY | DIY |
| Size | 22W | 20W | A20 Pro V2&F80 | 20W Bundle Basic Edition | B1 Protection Kit（20W) | not stated | 20W |
| Dimensions | 6.61 × 20.8 × 6.61 inches | 29.3 × 5.31 × 22.4 inches | 23.6 × 19.3 × 7.87 inches | 24 × 12.5 × 5.9 inches | 20 × 15 × 9 inches | 24.5 × 14 × 5.51 inches | 29.3 × 5.31 × 22.4 inches |
| Color | Silver | Basic（blue） | A20 Pro V2&F80 | black | BLUE | 20w Deluxet Bundle | Black |
| Model | JL9 | 1-B1 | MH-A20 Pro V2&F80 | 202406024 | B1 | RAY5 Pro 20W | RAY5 |
For a related comparison, read aspire x1 alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Which alternative offers the largest working area for big projects?
The Longer B1 20W provides the most extensive workspace among the listed options. Its dimensions reach 29.3 inches in length and 22.4 inches in width. This large format allows you to cut thick materials and handle substantial sheets of wood or acrylic in a single pass without size constraints.
Does any model include a rotary axis for cylindrical engraving?
Yes, the Longer Ray5 20W with Rotary and Air Assist includes a rotary axis. The Longer RAY5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen also features a rotary axis in its bundle. These additions allow you to engrave items like tumblers or pipes, expanding your creative possibilities beyond flat surfaces.
Which engraver is best for precise metal and wood work?
The ATOMSTACK A20 Pro V2 20W is designed for high-precision engraving on both metal and wood. It offers industrial-grade stability and speed. While it has a slightly smaller footprint than some competitors, it prioritizes accuracy and airflow, making it ideal for users who demand detailed results on various materials.
Is there a safe option with an enclosed workspace?
The Longer B1 20W Laser Engraver with Enclosure is the best choice for safety. It includes a protective enclosure to contain fumes and dust during operation. This feature is essential for DIY users who prioritize a safe environment while working on large projects or cutting materials that produce significant smoke.
Which model is the most compact for small home workshops?
The Carverall JL9 20W Laser Engraver is the most compact option. It measures 20.8 inches in width and 6.61 inches in both height and length. Its small footprint fits easily into tight spaces, making it practical for hobbyists who need a reliable machine without requiring a large dedicated workspace.
Can I control the laser without a computer?
The Longer Ray5 20W Laser Engraver with Touchscreen allows for offline control. It features a built-in touchscreen interface that lets you operate the device without connecting to a computer. This is useful for running pre-loaded designs or making quick adjustments directly on the machine during your workflow.