JTech Laser vs. Standalone Laser Machine

[aquanub]

Hey all,

I've been looking at adding a laser to my arsenal of tools.

Initially I was set on purchasing a 7W Jtech laser ($600), but I've also come across some 40W standalone co2 laser's for around the same price if not cheaper ($500).

Is there something I'm overlooking? Seems like the standalone option is much more powerful & cheaper to boot.

Thanks!

[ttabbal]

From what I've read, those 40W lasers aren't the most accurate. Though they can be made to work well. They also take up more room, but if you have the space they probably are more capable as a laser than the solid state JTech. Using one would also free up your CNC for cutting tasks that are not laser related. However, if you wanted to cut and laser something, you might have an easier time with having a laser on the CNC. The 40W will be able to etch and cut more materials and do so faster.

Keep in mind, those cheap lasers are assembled, but are direct from China and should really be considered kits to get good performance out of them. They can do good work if you're willing to do that, but it's something to be aware of. They often also come with incompatible controller electronics, but that can be changed without too much hassle if it bothers you.

I went with the smaller JTech. I'm not sure how much laser vs router work I will want to do, and I suspect most of what I do want to do will be doable by cutting masks and such rather than cutting the material directly. IMO, they are different tools for different needs.