Top-10 Small Laser Engraver For Metal
Loved in the USA

The Glowforge Pro HD is a powerful 45-watt laser engraver that can handle a wide variety of materials, including metal, wood, leather, stone, and more. Its strong laser power allows for precise cutting and engraving up to half an inch deep, which is impressive for detailed work. The machine features a passthrough slot, enabling you to work on longer projects continuously, a handy feature if you want to create bigger designs. One standout is the live camera preview with autofocus, making it easier to see exactly where your design will be engraved, reducing errors and saving time.

The Glowforge is designed to be user-friendly and safe for home use, coming with a 12-month warranty and tested for compliance. However, it's quite large and heavy (weighing 129 pounds), so it’s better suited for a dedicated workspace rather than a small desk. While it works well on metals, keep in mind that CO2 lasers like this one often perform best on coated or anodized metals rather than raw metals, which might require more specialized lasers. Software compatibility is broad, but you’ll want to ensure your design files match what Glowforge supports. The built-in cooling system is effective for fast engraving, preventing the machine from overheating during longer sessions.

This engraver is ideal for hobbyists, small businesses, or crafters who need versatility across many materials, but if your main focus is on heavy-duty metal engraving, a fiber laser engraver might be better suited. Considering its size and power, the Glowforge Pro HD offers excellent ease of use and material flexibility.

The xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter and Engraver stands out with its impressive 40W laser power, allowing it to cut through thick materials like 18mm cherry wood in a single pass and engrave at speeds up to 600mm/s. The large 23.93" x 15.16" engraving area makes it ideal for big projects, such as door signs or multiple small items like dog tags.

Its precision and resolution are enhanced by xTool's patented Pin-point Positioning technology, making it suitable for detailed 3D engravings on curved surfaces. The machine is ready to use out of the box and features user-friendly software with AI capabilities, which is perfect for beginners. Safety is a priority with a protective cover that filters 99% of laser light, built-in flame sensors, and an emergency stop button, making it safe to use around children and pets.

The durable aerospace-grade aluminum frame ensures stability and longevity, backed by extensive testing and quality assurance processes. However, potential users should note the significant weight (79.2 pounds) and ensure they have adequate space for the machine's dimensions (19.6 x 19.6 x 0.04 inches). It's a powerful and versatile tool, particularly beneficial for hobbyists and small business owners looking to work on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and acrylic.

The OMTech 60W Fiber Laser Engraver is a strong contender in the small laser engraver for metal category, offering impressive features for both beginners and experienced users. One of its main strengths is the MOPA technology that allows for high contrast color marking on various materials, including metals and gemstones, which is ideal for creative projects. The 60W power and high speed of 10,000 mm/s enable efficient engraving with precision up to 0.1 mm, ensuring that intricate designs come out beautifully.

The engraving area of 7x7 inches is decent for small to medium projects, making it suitable for hobbyists and small business owners. The included EzCad2 software is user-friendly, supporting various image formats, which simplifies the engraving process. The safety features, including protective eyewear and an open design, are beneficial for users who may be new to laser engraving.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The machine is relatively heavy at 83 pounds, which might make it challenging to move or relocate. Additionally, while the working area is adequate, larger projects may require a different model with a more expansive engraving field. Some users may also find the software a bit overwhelming initially, which could lead to a learning curve.