VEVOR Laser Engraver or VEVOR 45W CO2 Laser Engraver? Which VEVOR Model to Buy
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Choosing between a vevor laser engraver vs 45w co2 laser engraver depends on your material needs. Both machines offer Class 1 safety and support LightBurn software. The main difference lies in the laser technology. One uses a 20W diode laser for wood and leather, while the other uses a 45W CO2 tube for acrylic and coated metals. Your choice should match the materials you plan to cut most often.
Key differences
| Aspect | VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver with Camera | VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Type | Diode (455 nm) | CO2 |
| Laser Power | 20W (20,000 mW) | 45W (45,000 mW) |
| Working Area | 15.7 x 15.7 in | 12 x 8 in |
| Key Features | Enclosure, Camera | Air Assist, Rotary Axis |
| Cutting Capacity | 0.3 in basswood | ≤ 3 mm wood, ≤ 5 mm acrylic |
Which one should you choose?
Choose VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver with Camera if
- You need a larger working area for bigger projects.
- You want built-in safety features like an enclosure and camera.
- You primarily engrave wood, leather, or paper.
Choose VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver if
- You need to cut thicker acrylic or coated metals.
- You want to engrave cylindrical items using the rotary axis.
- You prefer air assist for cleaner cuts and less smoke.
Verdict: The 20W diode model is better for larger, open wood projects with built-in safety. The 45W CO2 model suits users who need to cut acrylic or engrave cylinders. Pick the laser type that matches your primary materials.
VEVOR Diode vs CO2 Laser Comparison
Laser Type and Power
The VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver uses a 455 nm diode laser with 20,000 mW output. It is designed for surface engraving and light cutting on organic materials. The VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver uses a 45W CO2 tube with 45,000 mW output. CO2 lasers generally provide more consistent energy for cutting through thicker materials. The CO2 model offers nearly double the power output of the diode model, which translates to faster cutting speeds on compatible materials like wood and acrylic.
Working Area Size
Size matters for larger projects. The VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver provides a 15.7 x 15.7 inch working area. This square format is ideal for larger sheets of wood or leather. The VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver offers a smaller 12 x 8 inch area. While sufficient for small items like coasters or phone cases, it limits larger single-piece projects. If you need to engrave full sheets of material, the diode model’s larger footprint is the clear advantage for your workflow.
Compatible Materials
Material compatibility defines what you can make. The VEVOR 20W diode model works well on wood, leather, paper, and acrylic. It cannot cut metals or transparent materials without coating. The VEVOR 45W CO2 model excels at cutting wood and acrylic, specifically up to 5 mm acrylic and 3 mm wood. It also handles glass and coated metals. However, neither machine engraves bare metals. The CO2 model’s ability to cut thicker acrylic and handle coated metals gives it a slight edge for diverse material needs.
Key Features and Tools
Features change how you operate the machine. The VEVOR 20W model includes a built-in camera for auto-positioning and Wi-Fi support via the CutLabX app. This allows for remote monitoring and precise alignment. The VEVOR 45W CO2 model includes a rotary axis for cylindrical items and an air-assist system to clear smoke. The rotary axis is essential for rings or bottles, while the camera helps with flat surface accuracy. Each machine offers distinct tools for specific use cases, making this a tie based on your project type.
Software Compatibility
Software control is critical for design. The VEVOR 20W model supports LaserGRBL, LightBurn, and CutLabX. It offers offline engraving and Wi-Fi connectivity. The VEVOR 45W CO2 model supports LightBurn, GRBL, CorelDraw, and AutoCAD. It connects via USB or power cable. Both support LightBurn, which is the industry standard for advanced users. The 20W model offers more app-based flexibility with CutLabX, while the 45W model supports professional design software like CorelDraw. This is a tie for most users, as both handle essential design tasks.
Form Factor and Safety
Both machines are Class 1 safety rated, meaning they are enclosed or shielded to block laser light. The VEVOR 20W model is fully enclosed with a protective cover, emergency stop, and tilt stop. It weighs 33.7 pounds. The VEVOR 45W CO2 model is a desktop unit with a pull-out waste tray and water pump cooling. It weighs 64 pounds. The 20W model’s full enclosure offers better smoke and noise containment for indoor use. The 45W model requires more space and manual focus adjustment, making the 20W model more user-friendly for beginners.
Which VEVOR Laser Engraver Fits You
Users needing large wood projects and safety
You should choose this model for its spacious 15.7 x 15.7 inch working area. It cuts 0.3 inch basswood in a single pass at speeds up to 30,000 mm/min. The enclosed Class 1 design filters light and blocks smoke. You get auto positioning for smooth edges and camera integration for precise alignment without manual guessing.
Crafters making small acrylic or wood items
This 45W CO2 unit delivers clean, burr-free edges on materials up to 5 mm thick. Its 12 x 8 inch area suits coasters and keychains. You benefit from air-assist to clear dust and a rotary axis for cylindrical objects. The machine supports Linux and offers manual focusing with a precision knob for reliable accuracy.
Those wanting software flexibility and app control
You gain access to CutLabX, which allows Wi-Fi support and offline engraving from your phone. The machine also accepts LaserGRBL and LightBurn. You can engrave on wood, leather, and paper with a 32-bit control board. The aluminum frame ensures stability, while the camera feature helps you verify placement before starting your job.
Professionals requiring broad design software support
You can connect via USB for plug-and-play operation with CorelDraw and AutoCAD. The 45,000 mW output handles non-metal materials efficiently. You get a pull-out waste tray for easy cleanup and water pump cooling for stable operation. The Class 1 rating ensures safety while you create detailed designs on coated metals or thick wood.
The products compared
VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver with Camera
Best for: Safe indoor engraving on wood and leather
- Laser Type
- Diode (455 nm)
- Laser Power
- 20W (20000mW)
- Working Area
- 15.7 x 15.7 in
- Engraving Speed
- 30,000 mm/min
- Software Compatibility
- LaserGRBL, LightBurn, CutLabX
- Form Factor
- Enclosed (Class 1)
View on Amazon: VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver with Camera Affiliate link
This VEVOR 20W diode laser engraver features a 15.7 x 15.7 in working area and cuts 0.3 in basswood in a single pass. It operates at speeds up to 30,000 mm/min with a 0.12 x 0.15 mm spot size. The enclosed Class 1 design includes a camera and safety locks. It supports LaserGRBL, LightBurn, and CutLabX software. This model suits users needing a safe, enclosed desktop unit for wood and leather projects.
Pros
- Class 1 enclosed safety design with camera
- Cuts 0.3 in basswood in one pass
- Fast engraving speed of 30,000 mm/min
- Supports LightBurn and CutLabX apps
Cons
- Lower 20W power compared to 45W CO2 models
- Cannot cut metals or reflective materials
- Smaller working area than larger desktop units
Good fit if
- You need a Class 1 enclosed machine for indoor use
- You want software flexibility with LightBurn or CutLabX
- You primarily engrave wood, leather, or paper
Skip if
- You need to cut metals or thick materials
- You require a larger working area than 15.7 in
- You prefer a 45W CO2 laser for deeper cuts
Verdict: VEVOR 20W Diode Laser Engraver fits hobbyists who prioritize safety and software compatibility over raw cutting power. It is a solid choice for detailed engraving on wood and leather within a compact, enclosed footprint.
VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver
Best for: Small wood and acrylic projects
- Laser Type
- CO2
- Laser Power
- 45W (45,000 mW)
- Working Area
- 12 x 8 in
- Engraving Speed
- Up to 300 mm/s
- Software Compatibility
- LightBurn, GRBL, CorelDraw, AutoCAD
- Cutting Capacity
- ≤ 3 mm wood, ≤ 5 mm acrylic
View on Amazon: VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver Affiliate link
The VEVOR 45W CO2 laser engraver offers a 12 x 8 inch desktop workspace for small projects. It handles wood up to 3 mm and acrylic up to 5 mm, reaching speeds of 300 mm/s. The unit includes a rotary axis for cylindrical items and an air-assist system. It connects via USB and supports LightBurn and GRBL. This machine suits hobbyists needing precise cuts on non-metal materials.
Pros
- 45W CO2 laser tube for efficient cutting
- 12 x 8 inch working area
- Includes rotary axis for cylindrical objects
- Built-in air-assist system reduces smoke
- Compatible with LightBurn and GRBL
Cons
- Limited to non-metal materials only
- Smaller 12 x 8 inch work area
- Manual focus adjustment required
Good fit if
- You need to cut wood or acrylic up to 5 mm
- You want to engrave cylindrical items like tumblers
- You prefer desktop-sized machines for small projects
Skip if
- You plan to engrave bare metals
- You require a large work area over 12 inches
- You need automated focusing capabilities
Verdict: The VEVOR 45W CO2 Laser Engraver fits hobbyists who need reliable cuts on wood and acrylic in a compact desktop form. It is ideal for small-scale projects requiring a rotary axis.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver with Camera | VEVOR 45W Desktop CO2 Laser Engraver |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Type | Diode (455 nm) | CO2 |
| Laser Power | 20W (20000mW) | 45W (45,000 mW) |
| Working Area | 15.7 x 15.7 in | 12 x 8 in |
| Engraving Speed | 30,000 mm/min | Up to 300 mm/s |
| Software Compatibility | LaserGRBL, LightBurn, CutLabX | LightBurn, GRBL, CorelDraw, AutoCAD |
| Form Factor | Enclosed (Class 1) | not stated |
| Cutting Capacity | 0.3 in basswood | ≤ 3 mm wood, ≤ 5 mm acrylic |
| Compatible Material | Wood, Metal, Leather, Glass, Paper | Wood, Acrylic, Glass |
| Features | Enclosure, Camera | Air Assist, Rotary Axis |
| Dimensions | 24.1 × 25 × 9.84 inches | 31.9 × 20.5 × 10.2 inches |
| Weight | 33.7 pounds | 64 pounds |
| Color | Grey | Orange+black |
| Model | L8 | SH-3020 |
Frequently asked questions
Can the VEVOR 20W laser cut metal?
No, this diode laser cannot cut metal. The published compatible materials list wood, leather, glass, paper, and metal for engraving only. You can mark metal surfaces, but you cannot cut through them. For cutting metal, you would need a fiber laser. This model is best for organic materials like wood and leather.
Does the VEVOR 45W CO2 laser support rotary engraving?
Yes, it includes a rotary axis. This feature allows you to engrave on cylindrical objects like tumblers or pens. The machine is designed for small wood and acrylic projects. The rotary axis expands your creative options beyond flat surfaces. It fits hobbyists who need reliable cuts and versatile engraving capabilities.
Which VEVOR laser is safer for home use?
The VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver is safer for indoor use. It features a full enclosure that contains laser light and fumes. This design protects you during operation. The 45W CO2 model is a desktop unit without a mentioned full enclosure. If safety is your priority, the enclosed 20W model is the better choice.
What is the working area of the VEVOR 20W laser?
The VEVOR 20W laser has a working area of 15.7 by 15.7 inches. This size fits within its 25-inch width footprint. It is compact enough for small desks. The 45W CO2 model offers a 11.8 by 15.7 inch area. Choose the 20W model if you need a slightly larger flat engraving space.
Can I use LightBurn with both VEVOR models?
Yes, both machines support LightBurn software. This compatibility allows you to use advanced design tools for both diode and CO2 lasers. You can create detailed vector files and control power settings easily. This shared software support makes switching between models or using them for different projects straightforward.
Which VEVOR laser is lighter and easier to move?
The VEVOR 20W Enclosed Laser Engraver is lighter. It weighs 33.7 pounds. The 45W CO2 model weighs 64 pounds. If you need to move your laser frequently, the 20W model is more manageable. The 45W model is heavier due to its CO2 tube and air assist system.
Does the VEVOR 45W laser have air assist?
Yes, the VEVOR 45W CO2 Laser Engraver includes air assist. This feature blows air onto the cut line to clear debris and cool the material. It helps achieve cleaner cuts on wood and acrylic. The 20W diode model does not list air assist as a feature. Air assist is useful for precision cutting.