40W vs. 55W CO2 Laser: Which Desktop CO2 Laser is Right for Your Business?

Power and Cutting Capability

One of the most significant differences between the 40W and 55W CO2 laser engravers is their cutting power. The Monport ONYX 55W CO2 laser cutter offers higher power, enabling it to cut through 10mm plywood or 10mm acrylic in a single pass, making it an excellent choice for businesses needing to handle thicker materials efficiently.

In contrast, the Monport 40W Pro CO2 laser engraver is more suited for lighter tasks. With a maximum engraving depth of 10mm, it’s perfect for small businesses focused on intricate engraving rather than deep cutting.

Engraving Speed and Precision

Speed is another essential factor when selecting a desktop laser engraver. The ONYX 55W model operates at speeds up to 500mm/s with an engraving precision of 0.001”, making it a high-performance machine for professional-grade projects. This means faster turnaround times, especially for bulk orders.

The 40W Pro CO2 laser cutter, while slightly slower at 350mm/s, still provides impressive accuracy with 0.01” precision, making it suitable for fine-detailed engraving on wood, acrylic, and leather.

Auto-Focus vs. Manual Adjustments

The Monport ONYX 55W CO2 laser engraver features a one-touch auto-focus system, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. This built-in limit switch ensures the perfect focal distance for optimal engraving results.

On the other hand, the 40W Pro model requires manual focus adjustments, which can be time-consuming but offers more control for experienced users who prefer hands-on settings.

Work Area and Material Versatility

If you need more workspace, the 55W ONYX laser cutter provides a larger 19" x 11.5" working area, accommodating a broader range of projects. It also supports a rotary axis, expanding engraving possibilities for cylindrical objects like tumblers and glasses.

The 40W Pro CO2 laser engraver has a 12” x 8” working area, making it more compact and ideal for smaller projects. While it still handles a variety of materials like wood, acrylic, leather, and glass, it lacks the larger cutting capacity of the 55W model.

Advanced Features & Software Compatibility

Both models support Lightburn software, a top-tier tool for laser engraving and cutting. However, the ONYX 55W has a built-in 5MP camera, allowing you to preview designs before engraving, a feature that streamlines precision alignment and reduces material waste.

The 40W Pro CO2 laser cutter does not include a camera but comes with Red Dot Guidance, helping users accurately align their materials before engraving.

Safety and Ventilation

Safety is a priority when working with a CO2 laser cutter. The 55W ONYX laser engraver features an enclosed design with cover opening protection, an emergency stop button, and an indicator light alert system. Additionally, its powerful exhaust fan efficiently removes smoke and debris, maintaining a clean working environment.

The 40W Pro desktop laser cutter model also includes built-in air assist to prevent wood discoloration and enhance cutting clarity. However, it lacks the same level of advanced safety features found in the ONYX 55W.