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Laser engraving machine

Can Laser Engraver Engrave Metal?

Laser engraving is a powerful and precise method used to mark, etch, or cut various materials. However, not all laser engravers are suitable for every type of surface. The performance of a laser engraver largely depends on the type of laser source, its wavelength, and the material’s physical properties.

In this guide, we’ll explain how different types of laser engravers work on metals, coated metals, and other materials — helping you choose the right laser machine for your needs.

Understanding Different Types of Laser Engravers

Laser engravers vary mainly by wavelength and power output, which determine their interaction with different materials. Below are the four most common types of laser machines used in the market:

Diode Laser Engraver
Emits blue light (usually 450nm wavelength). Best for wood, leather, plastics, and coated metals, but not suitable for bare metals.

CO₂ Laser Engraver
Uses infrared light (10.6μm wavelength). Excellent for non-metal materials such as wood, acrylic, glass, leather, and rubber. It can engrave on coated metals but cannot mark bare metal surfaces directly.

Fiber Laser Engraver
Operates around 1064nm wavelength, which is highly absorbed by metals. Ideal for engraving stainless steel, aluminum, brass, titanium, gold, and more.

UV Laser Engraver
Works at 355nm wavelength. Perfect for fine engraving on plastics, glass, and some coated metals. It offers high precision with minimal thermal effect.

Laser Engraving Suitability by Material Type

The following table shows which laser type works best with different materials:

Material TypeDiode LaserCO₂ LaserFiber LaserUV Laser
Wood✅ Excellent✅ Excellent❌ Not suitable⚪ Moderate
Acrylic / Plastic✅ Good✅ Excellent⚪ Limited✅ Excellent
Leather✅ Excellent✅ Excellent❌ Not suitable✅ Good
Glass⚪ Limited✅ Excellent❌ Not suitable✅ Excellent
Coated Metal (Painted, Anodized)✅ Good✅ Good✅ Excellent✅ Excellent
Bare Metal (Steel, Aluminum, Brass, etc.)❌ Not suitable❌ Not suitable✅ Excellent⚪ Limited
PCB / Electronics⚪ Moderate❌ Not suitable⚪ Moderate✅ Excellent

✅ = Best suited ⚪ = Possible with adjustments ❌ = Not recommended

Can a Laser Engraver Engrave Metal?

Yes — but only certain types of lasers can engrave or mark directly on metal surfaces.
If you want to engrave bare metals like stainless steel, brass, or aluminum, a fiber laser engraver is your best choice. Its short wavelength (1064nm) allows for deep marking and high contrast.

For coated or painted metals, such as anodized aluminum or painted steel, both diode lasers and CO₂ lasers can achieve excellent results by burning off the top layer to reveal the base color.

Important Factors to Consider When Engraving Metal

Material Thickness
Thicker metals require higher power and slower engraving speeds. Fiber lasers with 20W–100W power are ideal for industrial applications.

Surface Type
Polished, brushed, or coated surfaces respond differently. Test samples are recommended before mass production.

Engraving Depth
Deep engraving takes longer and requires multiple passes; shallow marking is faster but less permanent.

Ventilation and Safety
Engraving metals may produce fumes or debris — always ensure proper exhaust systems and protective eyewear.

Beyond Metal: Creative DIY and Business Applications

Laser engraving isn’t limited to industrial use. Many creators use small diode or CO₂ engravers to:

Cut and assemble wooden models

Create custom gifts and crafts

Design personalized jewelry

Start small engraving businesses (e.g., custom signage, nameplates, or promotional products)

Whether for personal creativity or commercial use, choosing the right type of laser engraver determines both efficiency and engraving quality.

Conclusion

Not all laser engravers can engrave metal — but fiber lasers are specifically designed for this task, delivering professional-quality results on a wide range of metals.
For coated metals, wood, and acrylic, diode and CO₂ lasers are excellent choices.
Understanding the strengths of each laser type will help you select the right machine for your business, workshop, or creative studio.

Recommended Laser Machines from HoneybeeCNC

Fiber Laser Engraver – Perfect for marking and engraving on all kinds of metals.

CO₂ Laser Cutting Machine – Ideal for wood, acrylic, and leather engraving and cutting.

Mini Diode Laser Engraver – Compact, user-friendly, and suitable for beginners or DIY users.

Explore our full range at HoneybeeCNC.com to find the perfect machine for your needs.

Laser engraving machine