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10 Best Small Laser Engraver For Metal 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

xTool F1 2-in-1 Dual Laser Engraver, Lightning Speed Portable Laser Engraving Machine, HD Laser Engraver for Jewelry, Metal, Wood, Leather

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,360
Precision and Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
391 reviews

Precision and Resolution
The level of fidelity in the images produced is incredible, with clean sharp lines for text and detailed greyscale without dithering mode.
Software Compatibility
The software is very user-friendly, making it accessible even for beginners.

The xTool F1 2-in-1 Dual Laser Engraver is a versatile and portable engraving machine that stands out in its category due to several key strengths. With a laser power of 2W for infrared and 10W for diode lasers, it can handle a wide range of materials, including metal, wood, acrylic, and leather, making it a great choice for those needing to work with various surfaces.

Its engraving area is sufficient for small to medium tasks, and it boasts impressive precision with 0.00199mm motion accuracy and 0.000248 repetition accuracy, ensuring high-quality results for detailed designs. The built-in cooling system, with a fan and optional air purifier, helps in effectively managing smoke and odor, which is a significant advantage for indoor use and for attending craft fairs or markets without causing discomfort.

The inclusion of advanced software compatibility with XCS and Lightburn, and its user-friendly interface supporting various devices, makes it accessible for beginners and experienced users alike. For most small to medium engraving needs, especially on metal, the xTool F1 offers a compelling blend of speed, precision, and versatility.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,360
Precision and Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
391 reviews

Precision and Resolution
The level of fidelity in the images produced is incredible, with clean sharp lines for text and detailed greyscale without dithering mode.
Software Compatibility
The software is very user-friendly, making it accessible even for beginners.
#2

xTool S1 20W Laser Cutter and Laser Engraver for Tumblers, 23.93" x 15.16" Bed Size, 600mm/s Speed, Laser Engraving Machine, Laser Engraver for Wood and Metal, Acrylic, Big Project - Rotary Bundle

Rating
9.1
Engraving Area
Precision and Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
230 reviews

Engraving Area
The generous working area accommodates larger projects without compromising precision.
Precision and Resolution
The laser offers exceptional accuracy, surpassing other machines with its precise pinpoint positioning technology.
Software Compatibility
The software is intuitive and extremely helpful, simplifying the design and engraving process.

The xTool S1 20W Laser Cutter and Engraver is a strong option if you're looking for a small laser engraver that can handle metal along with wood and acrylic. It offers a solid laser power of 20 watts, which allows it to cut through materials like 10mm thick cherry wood in a single pass and engrave quickly at speeds up to 600mm/s. The engraving bed is quite large at nearly 24 by 15 inches, making it suitable for bigger projects such as multiple dog tags or larger signs.

This machine stands out for its precision thanks to xTool’s patented Pin-point Positioning technology, which helps achieve detailed engravings even on curved surfaces like tumblers or spoons. It also features AutoPassthrough Technology for working on longer items up to about 118 inches. Cooling and safety are well-addressed with an enclosed design that filters laser light and smoke, plus flame sensors and emergency stops to protect users and their environment.

The software, xTool Creative Space, is user-friendly and supports a wide range of materials with pre-set parameters, making it a good choice for beginners or those without design skills. AI-assisted design tools and numerous tutorials help simplify the creative process. Weighing around 81 pounds, it is not very portable and is primarily suited for hobbyists or small business users rather than heavy industrial use. Some users might find the size and setup space requirements a bit large for tight workspaces. Although the safety features are excellent, using a laser engraver still requires responsible handling. The xTool S1 delivers powerful laser performance, a generous working area, high precision, and easy-to-use software, making it a compelling choice for anyone interested in engraving metal and other materials with professional-looking results in a home or small workshop setting.

Rating
9.1
Engraving Area
Precision and Resolution
Software Compatibility

Most important from
230 reviews

Engraving Area
The generous working area accommodates larger projects without compromising precision.
Precision and Resolution
The laser offers exceptional accuracy, surpassing other machines with its precise pinpoint positioning technology.
Software Compatibility
The software is intuitive and extremely helpful, simplifying the design and engraving process.
#3

xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter and Laser Engraver for Tumblers, 23.93" x 15.16" Bed Size, 600mm/s Speed, Laser Engraving Machine, Laser Engraver for Wood and Metal, Acrylic, Big Project - Rotary Bundle

Rating
8.8
Software Compatibility

Most important from
230 reviews

Software Compatibility
Setting up and using the machine is incredibly easy, especially with xTool's creative space or Lightburn software.

The xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter and Engraver stands out with its impressive 40W laser power, allowing it to cut through thick materials like 18mm cherry wood in a single pass and engrave at speeds up to 600mm/s. The large 23.93" x 15.16" engraving area makes it ideal for big projects, such as door signs or multiple small items like dog tags.

Its precision and resolution are enhanced by xTool's patented Pin-point Positioning technology, making it suitable for detailed 3D engravings on curved surfaces. The machine is ready to use out of the box and features user-friendly software with AI capabilities, which is perfect for beginners. Safety is a priority with a protective cover that filters 99% of laser light, built-in flame sensors, and an emergency stop button, making it safe to use around children and pets.

The durable aerospace-grade aluminum frame ensures stability and longevity, backed by extensive testing and quality assurance processes. However, potential users should note the significant weight (79.2 pounds) and ensure they have adequate space for the machine's dimensions (19.6 x 19.6 x 0.04 inches). It's a powerful and versatile tool, particularly beneficial for hobbyists and small business owners looking to work on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and acrylic.

Rating
8.8
Software Compatibility

Most important from
230 reviews

Software Compatibility
Setting up and using the machine is incredibly easy, especially with xTool's creative space or Lightburn software.

Buying Guide for the Best Small Laser Engraver For Metal

Choosing the right small laser engraver for metal can be a rewarding experience if you know what to look for. Laser engravers are versatile tools that can create intricate designs and markings on various metal surfaces. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they align with your intended use. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a small laser engraver for metal.
Laser PowerLaser power, measured in watts, determines the strength and capability of the laser engraver. Higher power lasers can engrave deeper and faster, making them suitable for thicker or harder metals. For light engraving on softer metals, a lower power laser (20-30 watts) may suffice. For more demanding tasks or thicker metals, consider a higher power laser (40-60 watts or more). Your choice should depend on the type of metal and the depth of engraving you require.
Engraving AreaThe engraving area is the maximum size of the surface that the laser can work on at one time. This is important if you plan to engrave larger items or multiple smaller items simultaneously. Small laser engravers typically have a smaller engraving area, which is fine for small projects or detailed work. If you need to work on larger pieces, look for a machine with a larger engraving area. Consider the size of the items you plan to engrave most frequently to determine the appropriate engraving area for your needs.
Precision and ResolutionPrecision and resolution refer to the detail and accuracy of the engravings. Higher resolution means finer details and smoother edges. This is measured in dots per inch (DPI). For intricate designs and detailed artwork, a higher DPI (1000 DPI or more) is preferable. For simpler designs or text, a lower DPI (500-1000 DPI) may be sufficient. Think about the level of detail you need in your engravings to choose the right precision and resolution.
Cooling SystemThe cooling system helps to prevent the laser engraver from overheating during use. There are air-cooled and water-cooled systems. Air-cooled systems are generally simpler and require less maintenance, suitable for light to moderate use. Water-cooled systems are more efficient at dissipating heat and are better for heavy or continuous use. Consider how often and how intensively you will use the engraver to decide which cooling system is best for you.
Software CompatibilitySoftware compatibility is crucial as it determines how you can design and control your engravings. Most laser engravers come with their own software, but it's important to check if it is user-friendly and compatible with your computer's operating system. Some engravers also support third-party software, which can offer more features and flexibility. Ensure the software meets your design needs and is easy to use for your skill level.
Material CompatibilityNot all laser engravers can handle all types of metal. Some are better suited for softer metals like aluminum, while others can engrave harder metals like stainless steel or titanium. Check the specifications to ensure the engraver can handle the types of metal you plan to work with. If you work with a variety of metals, look for a versatile machine that can accommodate different materials.

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