This is such good advice for a beginner. There are lots of RU-vid channels encouraging folks to start with a laser costing $4,000 to $10,000 (Glowforge and Aeon influencers come to mind). Starting with a 20 or 40 watt diode laser makes so much more sense for most beginners. As you mention, the possibilities with diode lasers are almost endless. And if someone starts with a diode and later decides they need a CO2 laser, they can keep the diode as a low cost second laser in case the CO2 needs repair but they still need to get some critical work done.
I am a beginner I have everything money can buy as far as Diode Lasers (Atezr) , CNC (Foxalien), machines, 3D printers (Bambu) but my greatest purchase was the XTool P2 and boy has my acrylic cuts and making things really take off. For me its all great and learned so much but now its all CO2 P2. Just having a blast and of course working on all my equipment just to stay on top of it all. But to be truthful at this point 1 machine at a time. I cant keep up running the P2 and try to start up the Bambu. I will just keep it idle and maintain it all but need another garage now! Winter will be coming and wont have room for the snow blower! Maybe take the car out of the garage? NOT!
Yeah, I am glad I honed my skills on the diode, but I am truly having a blast with the Co2. It does take more time and maintenance, but when it is right, it is so much fun!
Your tips are very good, but you forgot to give a little reminder about the xTOOL D1 10W, 20, 40W. Of course, the focus of the video was not to mention laser brands!
That was intentional as I don't really recommend an xTool to most people for reasons I explained in this video. But they are good lasers if you know you want XCS and are willing to pay the xTool tax. Thanks for your appreciation.
Another thought provoking video. I did go with the Xtool S1 and being new to lasers and the software I struggle with it but after seeing many videos about Lightburn I can now understand why Lightburn is everyone’s software choice. Now my decision is whether or not to get Lightburn if I’m going to use other lasers.
XCS is a good software. If it is doing what you want, then I wouldn't worry about Lightburn until you change machines. S1 is a good laser (have you seen my review?). I did enjoy it quite a bit.
@@ValleyForged Yes it’s one of the reasons that I bought the machine. Also I bought your Etsy pack and made so Lord’s Prayer Crosses. Thank you so much for an awesome experience doing them. They’re fun to make. I’d send pictures if I could figure out how to.
Yeah, tough call. Unless you are sure you want to do transparent acrylic (for that extra $2k), then I would do the S1. You notice Clack Shack only uses his P2 when doing acrylic, but uses his Atomstack for everything else? He doesn't need to clean his lens every few hours with the Atomstack.
I have a longer Ray 5 20 W and love using it. Mainly bought it to learn and get some experience. I would love to upgrade to a CO2 for my next laser. Any recommendations? Im interested in doing clear acrylic and maybe thin metals, and larger wooden pieces.
Well, you can check out the Monports and get 10% with VALLEY10 (use the link in the description). But if you have the money, Thunder Laser would be my pick (but more for business). As for cutting metal, that is mostly a gimmick with most C02 lasers. I would do plasma.
I have the space for a free standing laser. What are your thoughts on Omtech 80 watt co2? I really want a larger working area, want to add to my diode I love, want to cut clear acrylic, and begin my path to learn lightburn. What are your thoughts on buying factory refurbished?
Omtech and Monport are about the same. If you decide to go with Monport you can go through my ONYX link and use VALLEY10 for 10% and it will help me out as well. Just know that either way you go it will not be as easy as your diode laser. You will have upgrades to do, mirrors to align and replace, fluid to keep clean etc...BUT, it is so freaking sweet to put a large board in and do 200 Corgi Chains in one shot. I really do miss that part. Omtech does have the Pro and the Pronto which seem cool, but cost quite a bit more. Buying refurbished should be fine, just read the fine print :). Love to hear how it all goes for you. I am a bit jealous TBH.
@@FredSchmitthammer Keep us posted on the journey. expect about a week of getting it all perfect, then it will be a dream (in my experience). I just cut a MOUND of acrylic yesterday and it was an absolute blast (and very profitable).
All of them should get 10% off with VALLEY10. Just use the link for the ONYX in the description, then look for what you want. If it does not automatically give you the discount, add the VALLEY10 as a discount code. Let me know how it all goes. :)
