2024 Diode Laser Comparison: Glowforge, xTool, WeCreate!

In this video, I’m comparing seven popular diode lasers to help you find the one that best fits your needs, budget, and space. Over the past few years, I’ve reviewed all seven of these lasers, and I often get asked which one is the best. Instead of just giving you a quick answer, I’m sharing an in-depth comparison based on my real-life experience with each laser!

In this video, I'll cover the following models, along with links to their original review videos:

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00.00 Intro
01.35 What is a Diode Laser?
02.29 Prices
04.03 Setup
04.06 Power
05.36 Cutting Speed
07.02 Machine Sizes
07.40 Material Capatibility
08.55 Software & User Interface
09.48 Machine Features
11.33 Safety Features
12.55 Venting
16.13 Air Assist
17.00 Tray
18.26 Unique Features
21.15 Wrap Up

[bobbilubennett]

What an awesome video. Thank you for taking the time! Wondering were we can find the comparison spreadsheet?

[gingernelson]

Thank you so much for providing this video. Helpful and timely (since the WeCreate sale is on right now).

[badassgear]

Do you have a cheat sheet that shows all the comparisons side by side for these> Great information shared, I just prefer a visual comparison.

[LisaKelly-beqv]

Thanks for all the info! I would love to see the spreadsheet you said you were going to make with the comparisons of the machines. Any idea when you’ll have that available????

[almaherrera]

Amazing review, thank you. Do you find the inability to engrave clear acrylic or glass is an issue with the diode machines? I understand CO2 lasers can but they are expensive. Any thought?

[MaryFigueroa-gb]

Hi! Thank you for this thorough video. I am a hobbyist crafter who is starting a small business. I love my Cricut machines but want to explore wood and acrylic crafts. My craft area is a small space that doubles as a guest bedroom. I am tech savvy and don't think the learning curve will be too steep. Would you recommend the Vista, Vision, or M1 Ultra? I want something that can grow with me and my business. Thank you for your thoughts!

[gingernelson]

Where can I find out the thickness of the material (wood, acrylic, leather) that the WeCreate Vista can cut. The bundled products with the machine have 0.05" acrylic and 1/8" plywood. The Houston Acrylics have 1/8" products for sale. Do you think the Houston Acrylics will work in the Vista?

[waltribeiro]

Did the M1 Ultra replace the Cricut for you?

[tinadevore]

Hey, I have been banging my head over which laser to buy. I don't sell my projects, I just enjoy making and giving to family and friends. I don't have a lot of space and want to know if all lasers have to have vent system with them.

[JonneytheKidd]

I would really like to know your thoughts on the Roly LaserMATIC Mk2. Seems to be favored far over the S1.

[Bigdogblooms]

I’m looking for a laser that will cut metal. Do any of these do that or do I need a professional machine?

[HEIDIHILL-gn]

Very informative--thank you! Are you able to use the XTool S1 indoors without venting through a window? I'm getting the Air Assist and the Air Purifier--and I want to use it in my home. Trying to figure out if I need to arrange for window ventilation also. Thanks! ~Heidi

[KellyCastonguay-koxh]

I have used the Xtool M1 (10 watt) for several years and really love it but would really like something a bit faster. I cut mainly 3mm wood. Do you think upgrading to the 40watt makes a big difference in speed? I thought I wanted a Wecreate Vision 40w but after watching your video, I am going to research the S1 some more. But I may not bother with an upgrade if the difference in wattage isn't significant. Any thoughts?

[elizabethvallely]

Thank you so much Cori for great information and advice! Hugs Liz x

[rceceli]

Do you need a honeycomb tray with the we create vista

[Jac-qr]

Thanks for the informations. Is the excel file with the comparison table anywhere check out?

[JonneytheKidd]

I am really struggling here to decide which to buy. I understand that you can get the 2W Infrared for the WeCreat Vision but you cannot change it out or add the 2W Infrared on the M1 Ultra? If that's the case, why would someone chose the M1 Ultra over the WeCreat Vision? That along with the auto leveling riser on the WeCreat Vision, seems the only choice is to get the WeCreat Vision, but am I wrong?

[gingernelson]

believe that in one of your videos on the Vista, you recommended a few suppliers for blanks and supplies. Huston Acrylic and another wood supplier. Could you please let me know the wood supplier that you use for cutting boards, etc.Thank you

[quatasmith]

Question which one will cut mdf for sublimation to make like buttons

[Refleksifdusunur]

Can 1w lasers pop a ballon from 20 meters distances?