Fiber vs CO2 Laser Cutter - What’s the Difference?
When it comes to cutting and engraving materials, few tools match the precision and reliability of laser technology. Fibre and CO2 lasers each have their unique characteristics, but both harness controlled wavelengths of light—adjustable through specialised software—to deliver consistently accurate results. In this article, we’ll break down the key differences between CO2 and Fiber lasers, explore how they work, and help you determine which is best suited for your needs.
What is a C02 Laser Cutter?
CO2 laser cutters are an ideal solution for businesses seeking to enhance their manufacturing capabilities. Renowned for their versatility, CO2 lasers can cut or engrave a wide range of non-metallic materials with remarkable precision.
While both CO2 and fiber lasers rely on a power source to generate their beams, their internal mechanisms differ significantly. Fiber lasers use fiber optic cables to transmit higher power levels, whereas CO2 lasers utilise a gas-filled laser tube and a series of mirrors to direct the Energy.
In a CO₂ laser system, electricity excites the gas mixture inside the tube, generating a powerful laser beam. This beam passes through a focusing lens at the end of the tube and is then redirected by three strategically positioned mirrors. Finally, it enters the laser head, where a second lens concentrates the beam into a fine point—perfect for detailed cutting and engraving applications.
What is a C02 Laser Used For?
Like a fiber laser machine, a CO2 laser is used in a wide range of industries due to its ease of use, including;
Fashion houses
Hobbyist
Arts and crafts
The defence industry
Schools
Aerospace
Automotive
Marine Engineering
Construction
Medical applications
Homeware
What Materials can be cut on a C02 laser?
A CO2 laser machine can engrave, cut, and mark various materials for various applications. These materials include but are not limited to, acrylic, wood, paper, cardboard, textiles, and most non-metallic materials.
| Material Type | Examples | Cut | Engrave | Mark | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wood & Paper | Plywood, MDF, Cardboard, Veneer | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Varying burn effects; test for finish |
| Acrylic & Plastics | Cast Acrylic, ABS, Delrin | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Use cast acrylic for better engraving. |
| Textiles & Leather | Cotton, Felt, Denim, Faux Leather | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Genuine leather may have a smoke/burn smell. |
| Glass & Ceramics | Glass sheets, Wine Glasses, Ceramic mugs | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | Produces frosted surface engraving |
| Rubber | Laser-safe rubber, silicone sheets | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Avoid chlorine-based rubbers (toxic) |
| Paper Products | Cardstock, Construction Paper | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Highly flammable; use lower power/speed |
| Stone | Slate, Marble, Granite | ❌ | ✅ | ✅ | Engraving only—no cutting |
| Foams | EVA Foam, PE Foam | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Cut cleanly—ensure it’s laser-safe |
| Metals | Stainless Steel, Aluminium | ❌ | ❌ (✅*) | ✅* | *Marking only with metal marking spray |
| Glass-Fiber Materials | Fiberglass, Epoxy Boards | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Not safe for CO₂ lasers (toxic fumes) |
| PVC & Vinyl | PVC Plastic, Vinyl | ❌ | ❌ | ❌ | Highly toxic – never use with CO₂ lasers |
✅ = Compatible
❌ = Not Compatible
✅* = Requires pre-treatment (e.g. metal marking spray)
Can a CO2 laser engrave metal?
No, a CO₂ laser cannot cut through metal. However, you can still mark metal surfaces using a laser metal marking spray, such as MarkSolid 114. This spray creates a temporary coating on the metal surface that reacts with the CO2 laser’s energy to form a permanent, high-contrast mark, typically black.
If you need to engrave metal and cut non-metallic materials, consider investing in a dual-source laser system. These machines combine fiber and CO₂ laser technologies, giving you the flexibility to process a wide range of materials—from metals like stainless steel and aluminum to non-metals such as acrylic, wood, and glass—all in one system.
Pros and Cons of a CO2 Laser
Advantages of CO2 Lasers
✅ Cost-effective: Generally more affordable than fiber lasers
✅ User-friendly: Easy setup, especially for beginners and hobbyists
✅ Safe for education: Our Lightblade CO2 machines are Class 1 certified – safe for school and university use
✅ Versatile: Suitable for a wide range of non-metallic materials
Disadvantages of CO2 Lasers
⚠️ Maintenance needed: Mirrors and lenses require regular cleaning
⚠️ Cooling systems: Glass (DC) tubes need water cooling
⚠️ Laser alignment: Can be challenging for first-time users
What Is a Fiber Laser Cutter?
Fiber lasers generate a high-powered beam by transmitting light through fiber optic cables. This technology allows for higher power density and a smaller focal point, making fiber lasers ideal for precision engraving and cutting of metal.
Power levels typically range from 10W to 12kW, depending on the application.
Common Applications of Fiber Lasers
Fiber lasers are widely used in:
Aerospace and automotive manufacturing
Jewellery design and fabrication
Defence and marine engineering
Medical equipment production
Industrial fabrication and metalwork
Homeware and interior design
Materials Suitable for Fiber Laser Cutting
Fiber lasers can process:
Stainless steel
Mild steel
Aluminum
Brass and copper
Titanium
Silver and gold
Other reflective and high-density metals
Pros and Cons of a Fiber Laser
Advantages of Fiber Lasers
⚡ Faster cutting speeds: Up to 5x faster than CO2 lasers on certain materials
🧼 Low Maintenance: No mirrors, lenses, or alignment required
♻️ Energy efficient: Lower operational costs and power usage
🔍 High precision: A smaller focal point for cleaner, more detailed cuts
Disadvantages of Fiber Lasers
💸 Higher upfront cost: Due to advanced components and technology
🔒 Limited to metals: Not ideal for cutting or engraving organic or non-metallic materials like wood or acrylic
🔍 CO2 vs Fiber Laser: Key Takeaways & Quick Comparison
Both CO₂ and fiber laser cutters offer unique advantages depending on your specific material requirements, project goals, and budget. Get a quick snapshot of the main differences between CO₂ and fiber lasers—from ideal materials and cutting speed to maintenance and cost.
| Feature | CO2 Laser | Fiber Laser |
|---|---|---|
| Ideal For | Non-metals (wood, acrylic) | Metals (steel, aluminum) |
| Speed | Moderate | Up to 5x faster |
| Maintenance | Regular lens/mirror cleaning | Low |
| Material Compatibility | Wood, acrylic, glass, fabric | Stainless steel, Brass, Aluminium |
| Cost | Lower upfront | Higher upfront |
| Engraving Detail | Excellent | Excellent |
Need Help Choosing the Right Laser Machine?
We know choosing the right laser cutter or engraver can feel overwhelming. That’s why our team of laser technology experts is here to help you make the best decision for your needs – today and into the future.
📞 Call us: 01271 626 406
📧 Email us: sales@focusedlasersystems.com
Whether you're looking to invest in your first machine or upgrade your current setup, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
