✅ PART 1: DEFINE YOUR NEEDS FIRST

• My primary materials will be:​ (Select all that apply)
  • Wood/plywood
  • Acrylic/plastic
  • Leather/fabric
  • Glass/ceramics
  • Coated metals
  • Paper/cardboard
  • Stone/tile
• My main goal is:
  • Surface engraving (details, images, text)
  • Cutting through materials
  • Both equally
• My typical project size will be:
  • Small (under 8×8 inches)
  • Medium (8×8 to 12×20 inches)
  • Large (over 12×20 inches)
• My expected usage:
  • Occasional hobby projects
  • Regular crafting (several times per week)
  • Small business/production work
• My available space:
  • Small desk/tabletop
  • Dedicated workbench
  • Garage/workshop
• My total budget including accessories:​ $_________

✅ PART 2: LASER TYPE & POWER

• [ ] Diode Laser:​ Best for wood, leather, acrylic, coated metals. More affordable, portable, quieter. Good for most beginners.
• [ ] CO2 Laser:​ Best for wood, acrylic, glass, fabric, some plastics. More powerful, faster, versatile. Ideal for serious crafters.
• [ ] Fiber Laser:​ (Specialized) For metals, plastics, some organics. Rarely a first machine due to cost.

• [ ] Diode:​ 5-10W (light engraving) | 20-40W (good engraving & thin cutting) | 40W+ (stronger cutting)
• [ ] CO2:​ 40-60W (great for beginners) | 60-100W+ (for thicker materials & production)

✅ PART 3: MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS

• [ ] Minimum size needed: _____" × _____"
• [ ] Check actual engraving area (may be less than advertised bed size)
• [ ] Consider pass-through slots if working with longer materials

• [ ] Compatible with user-friendly software (LightBurn is highly recommended)
• [ ] Can work with common file formats (.svg, .png, .dxf, .ai)
• [ ] Connection type: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet
• [ ] Compatible with your computer (Windows, Mac, Linux)

• [ ] Autofocus capability (saves time and improves results)
• [ ] Rotary attachment compatibility (for engraving tumblers, glasses)
• [ ] Camera alignment system (helps with positioning designs)
• [ ] Air assist included or available (keeps lens clean, improves cuts)
• [ ] Honeycomb or knife bed for better material support

✅ PART 4: SAFETY & VENTILATION

• [ ] Enclosure (contains laser light and debris)
• [ ] Emergency stop button
• [ ] Door safety interlock (laser stops if opened)
• [ ] Class 1 laser safety rating (fully enclosed during operation)
• [ ] Fire safety sensor/alarm (available as add-on if not included)

• [ ] Built-in exhaust fan
• [ ] Ventilation duct included
• [ ] Fume extractor/add-on available
• [ ] I have a plan for venting outside (window adapter, etc.)
• [ ] Space for an air purifier if venting outside isn't possible

✅ PART 5: SETUP & SUPPORT

• [ ] Clear assembly instructions
• [ ] Calibration process is documented
• [ ] Test materials included
• [ ] Pre-assembled or minimal assembly required

• [ ] Manufacturer warranty (1 year minimum recommended)
• [ ] Accessible customer support
• [ ] Available replacement parts
• [ ] Active user community (forum, Facebook group)
• [ ] Online tutorials and documentation
• [ ] Local repair options (if available)

✅ PART 6: TOTAL COST OF OWNERSHIP

• [ ] Machine: $_________
• [ ] Software license (if not included): $_________
• [ ] Essential accessories (rotary, honeycomb bed, etc.): $_________

• [ ] Ventilation system/fume extractor: $_________
• [ ] Fire prevention (extinguisher, blanket, alarm): $_________
• [ ] Safety glasses: $_________
• [ ] Maintenance kit (lens cleaners, etc.): $_________

• [ ] Materials/test supplies: $_________/month
• [ ] Replacement lenses/mirrors: $_________
• [ ] Consumables (air assist filters, etc.): $_________

✅ FINAL DECISION QUESTIONS

• [ ] I've watched video reviews of this specific model
• [ ] I've seen it perform on myintended materials
• [ ] I understand the maintenance requirements
• [ ] I have adequate space with proper ventilation
• [ ] The machine fits within my total budget (including all add-ons)
• [ ] I'm comfortable with the learning curve for the software
• [ ] There's a return policy/warranty that protects me
• [ ] I've checked recent user feedback (not just promotional material)

? BONUS: FIRST 5 THINGS TO DO AFTER PURCHASE

1. Set up safely​ in a well-ventilated, fire-safe area
2. Run manufacturer tests​ before your own projects
3. Create a material settings log​ to track what works
4. Join the user community​ for tips and troubleshooting
5. Start simple—master basic operations before complex projects