10 Best Small Laser Engraver For Metal 2025 in the United States

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 LONGER RAY5 laser engraver is a powerful tool designed for small-scale metal engraving and cutting, featuring a strong 20,000mW laser that can handle thin stainless steel up to 0.05mm thick and cut various other materials like wood and acrylic. Its 400x400mm work area offers enough space for most small projects. One standout feature is its high precision, with ultra-fine laser points capable of engraving details as small as 0.01mm, allowing for intricate and colorful designs thanks to a built-in 256-color palette. The machine's upgraded 240MHz chipset supports continuous operation and can control multiple units simultaneously, which is great for increasing productivity.

A convenient 3.5-inch touchscreen and compatibility with popular software like LaserGRBL and LightBurn make it user-friendly, offering multiple connection options including USB and WiFi. Safety is also well addressed with features like a protective cover that blocks over 95% of laser emissions, safety glasses, and an active cooling system to prevent overheating and extend machine life. The engraver supports a wide range of materials beyond metal, including glass, leather, and fabric, making it versatile for various creative projects.

The maximum metal thickness it can engrave is quite thin, so it is not suited for heavy-duty metal cutting. While it supports continuous use, long-term durability depends on proper handling and maintenance. Installation is straightforward with good support and guides available. This makes the LONGER RAY5 an excellent choice for hobbyists and small businesses focused on fine, detailed metal engraving and other materials, combining power, precision, and safety features in an accessible package.

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.