Which Is Better: CO₂ or Fiber Laser Engraver?

When choosing the right laser engraver for your business or creative projects, one common question arises: Should I buy a CO₂ laser or a fiber laser? The answer depends on your material, budget, and application.

In this article, we break down the key differences between the two to help you make an informed decision.

What Is a CO₂ Laser Engraver?

A CO₂ laser uses a gas-based laser tube that emits infrared light (usually 10.6μm). It’s highly effective for non-metal materials, including:

• Wood

• Acrylic

• Leather

• Fabric

• Paper

• Glass

• Plastics

Best for: Artists, DIY crafters, sign makers, and businesses creating custom products.

✅ Advantages:

• Affordable entry price

• Large working area options

• Versatile for a wide range of materials

• Smooth and clean cuts on organic surfaces

What Is a Fiber Laser Engraver?

Fiber lasers use a fiber-optic laser source to generate a beam with a much shorter wavelength (usually 1064nm), making them ideal for metal engraving and cutting.

Best for: Industrial marking, product traceability, jewelry engraving, and metal parts.

✅ Advantages:

• Extremely precise marking on metals

• High-speed engraving

• Long lifespan (up to 100,000 hours)

• Minimal maintenance

  CO₂ vs. Fiber: A Quick Comparison

  Feature	CO₂ Laser	Fiber Laser
  Material Compatibility	Non-metals (wood, acrylic)	Metals (steel, aluminum)
  Price Range	Lower	Higher
  Maintenance	Regular (laser tube)	Low (no consumables)
  Speed	Moderate	Very Fast
  Lifespan	~10,000 hours (tube)	~100,000 hours (source)

  Which One Should You Choose?

  Go with CO₂ if your work involves wood crafts, acrylic signs, packaging, leather goods, or personalized gifts.

  Go with Fiber if you're focused on metal engraving, industrial part marking, or small, high-precision jobs.

  Still not sure?  [Contact our laser experts] – we’ll help you choose the perfect machine for your application and budget.