Laser engraving used to be reserved for professionals with deep pockets—but not anymore. Thanks to advances in diode laser tech, you can now get a capable, compact engraver for well under $350. Whether you're personalizing gifts, starting a side hustle, or exploring DIY projects, there’s no need to blow your budget.

We tested dozens of sub-$350 machines and narrowed it down to five that actually deliver consistent, clean results—without hidden costs or frustrating software. Here’s our honest breakdown, including the pros, cons, and best use cases for each.

1. Atomstack A5 Pro

Price: ~$279
Laser Power: 5.5W (diode)

Pros:
✅ Sturdy all-metal frame reduces vibration
✅ Includes rotary attachment for cups, pens, and bottles
✅ Works with free software like LaserGRBL and LightBurn (with license)
✅ Good engraving detail on wood, leather, and anodized aluminum

Cons:
❌ No built-in air assist (smoke can blur fine details)
❌ Requires manual focusing—no auto-focus

Best for: Hobbyists and small Etsy sellers who want reliability without complexity. Handles most common craft materials with ease.

2. Ortur Laser Master 3 (5W)

Price: ~$329
Laser Power: 5W (diode)

Pros:
✅ Built-in safety features: motion sensor, emergency stop, flame detection
✅ Quiet operation and smooth gantry movement
✅ Excellent beginner-friendly tutorials and community support
✅ Optional enclosure available for safer indoor use

Cons:
❌ Slightly slower than competitors at similar power
❌ Enclosure sold separately (~$80 extra)

Best for: First-time users, teachers, or parents looking for a safe, educational tool. Safety-first design sets it apart.

3. Comgrow Z1

Price: ~$299
Laser Power: 5.5W (diode)

Pros:
✅ Very quiet—ideal for home offices or apartments
✅ Removable honeycomb workbed for easy cleaning
✅ Clean, modern design with intuitive controls
✅ Responsive customer service

Cons:
❌ Fixed focus limits material thickness flexibility
❌ No offline engraving (requires constant PC connection)

Best for: Urban makers and remote workers who need a discreet, low-noise machine that won’t disturb housemates.

4. Sculpfun S9

Price: ~$349 (often on sale for $329)
Laser Power: 5.5W (diode)

Pros:
✅ Industrial-grade linear rails for ultra-smooth motion
✅ High precision (0.06mm laser spot size) for fine details
✅ Strong open-source community and frequent firmware updates
✅ Compatible with LightBurn out of the box

Cons:
❌ Assembly takes 45–60 minutes (not fully pre-built)
❌ No included rotary axis (must buy separately)

Best for: Detail-oriented creators—think map engravers, jewelry designers, or model makers—who value precision over plug-and-play convenience.

5. TwoTrees TTS-5.5

Price: ~$229
Laser Power: 5.5W (diode)

Pros:
✅ Most affordable on this list
✅ Simple setup (<30 minutes)
✅ Includes basic toolkit and SD card for offline jobs
✅ Decent performance on wood, cork, and leather

Cons:
❌ Plastic components feel less durable
❌ Software interface is outdated (relies on LaserGRBL)
❌ Limited customer support outside major markets

Best for: Students, beginners, or anyone testing the waters before investing more. Great “starter laser” with minimal risk.

Quick Buying Tips

• Avoid “10W” claims from unknown brands—many inflate power ratings. Stick to reputable names like Atomstack, Ortur, or Sculpfun.
• Check software compatibility: LightBurn support = more control and better results.
• Ventilation matters: Even low-power lasers produce fumes. Use near an open window or with a basic smoke extractor.
• Start slow: Test settings on scrap material first. Speed and power vary by wood type, coating, and humidity.

Final Verdict

You don’t need to spend $500+ to get into laser engraving. All five of these machines offer real functionality under $350—and won’t leave you frustrated or disappointed.

• Best overall value: Atomstack A5 Pro
• Safest for beginners: Ortur Laser Master 3
• Most precise: Sculpfun S9
• Most budget-friendly: TwoTrees TTS-5.5

Remember: the best laser engraver isn’t the most powerful—it’s the one you’ll actually use. Keep it simple, stay safe, and don’t overspend!