Question Table Top Laser Cutters... Any Decent Ones?

[CizreK]

I know this might be a crazy thing to ask because most people here are operating legit cutters. I've never owned any but operated three at once back in 2016-2019. It seems there is not mid-range for cutters. You see 40W table tops for $300 and then it jumps to $4,000 for 24x36ish cut range. I can't seem to find any of these table tops with a 80W laser on them tho.

Does anyone use these 40W amazon cutters? Can you cut .25 materials with it? Do you have to do 200 passes to cut through materials with a 40W.
Or... does anyone know where I can find a cheapo one with a 80W.

Trying to get one for myself to do small projects with. I would just let it run outside since they do not properly vent at all.

 

[Smoke_Jaguar]

Most are going to be based on short wavelength diodes (blue/violet) and your options for cutting will be a bit limited. The diodes are also incredibly damaging to eyes, so safety is a must. That said, a 40W diode array will cut lots of materials up to .25" or more. Just note that clear materials are out, as they let the light right through. Ventilation is good, some diode kits come with enclosures and all that as well, and the price can be shockingly cheap.