Engraving and cutting plastics like acrylic, ABS, polycarbonate, and PETG requires the right laser technology for clean, bubble-free results. CO2 lasers are ideal for most plastics, while diode lasers work for thinner materials. Here are the best laser engravers for plastics in 2025, based on precision, speed, and safety.

1. Best Overall: OMTech 60W CO2 Laser

✅ Best for: Professional acrylic cutting & engraving
✅ Works on: Cast acrylic, extruded acrylic, ABS, PETG
✅ Why Buy?

• 60W power – Smooth cuts up to 1/2" thick

• Air assist included – Prevents melting and flare-ups

• 24" x 16" bed – Fits large plastic sheets

• LightBurn compatible – Advanced design control
  💰 Price: ~$3,500

Best for: Small businesses needing high-quality acrylic signs, awards, and displays.

2. Best Budget CO2 Laser: Monport 40W (K40-Style)

✅ Best for: Beginners & hobbyists
✅ Works on: Thin acrylic (up to 1/4"), ABS, PET
✅ Why Buy?

• Under $1,000 – Most affordable CO2 option

• Upgradable – Add air assist and better optics

• Compact size – Fits in small workshops
  ⚠ Limitations: Small bed (12" x 8"), weaker power
  💰 Price: ~$800

Best for: DIY projects like keychains, small signs, and prototypes.

3. Best for Precision: Epilog Fusion Pro 48

✅ Best for: High-end acrylic engraving
✅ Works on: Delicate plastics, frosted effects
✅ Why Buy?

• Autofocus & precision optics – Flawless details

• Advanced ventilation – Safe for indoor use

• 30W/50W options – Balances speed and quality
  💰 Price: ~$15,000+

Best for: Award shops, corporate branding, and jewelry.

4. Best Diode Laser: xTool P2 (55W Hybrid)

✅ Best for: Home crafters & mixed materials
✅ Works on: Acrylic (up to 1/4"), ABS, PETG
✅ Why Buy?

• Smart camera alignment – Perfect positioning

• Fume extraction built-in – Safer for plastics

• Faster than standard diode lasers
  💰 Price: ~$4,500

Best for: Makers who also engrave wood and leather.

5. Best Industrial Choice: Thunderbolt 100W CO2

✅ Best for: High-volume plastic cutting
✅ Works on: Thick acrylic (up to 1"), polycarbonate
✅ Why Buy?

• 100W power – Cuts fast with smooth edges

• Pass-through mode – Handles oversized sheets

• Industrial cooling system – Long lifespan
  💰 Price: ~$8,000

Best for: Factories and sign shops producing bulk orders.

Plastic Engraving Tips

🔥 For acrylic: Use cast acrylic (engraves clearer than extruded).
⚠ Avoid PVC – Releases toxic chlorine gas when lasered.
🌀 Use air assist – Reduces melting and improves edge quality.
📏 Test settings – Different plastics require different power/speed.

Final Verdict

• Best Budget Pick: Monport 40W (under $1,000)

• Best All-Around: OMTech 60W (great value)

• Best for Fine Detail: Epilog Fusion Pro (premium)

• Best for Hobbyists: xTool P2 (easy to use)

• Best for Production: Thunderbolt 100W (heavy-duty)