10 Best Small Laser Engraver For Metal 2026 in the United States

The xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter and Engraver stands out with its impressive 40W laser power, allowing it to cut through thick materials like 18mm cherry wood in a single pass and engrave at speeds up to 600mm/s. The large 23.93" x 15.16" engraving area makes it ideal for big projects, such as door signs or multiple small items like dog tags.

Its precision and resolution are enhanced by xTool's patented Pin-point Positioning technology, making it suitable for detailed 3D engravings on curved surfaces. The machine is ready to use out of the box and features user-friendly software with AI capabilities, which is perfect for beginners. Safety is a priority with a protective cover that filters 99% of laser light, built-in flame sensors, and an emergency stop button, making it safe to use around children and pets.

The durable aerospace-grade aluminum frame ensures stability and longevity, backed by extensive testing and quality assurance processes. However, potential users should note the significant weight (79.2 pounds) and ensure they have adequate space for the machine's dimensions (19.6 x 19.6 x 0.04 inches). It's a powerful and versatile tool, particularly beneficial for hobbyists and small business owners looking to work on a variety of materials, including wood, metal, and acrylic.

The xTool S1 20W Laser Cutter and Engraver is a strong option if you're looking for a small laser engraver that can handle metal along with wood and acrylic. It offers a solid laser power of 20 watts, which allows it to cut through materials like 10mm thick cherry wood in a single pass and engrave quickly at speeds up to 600mm/s. The engraving bed is quite large at nearly 24 by 15 inches, making it suitable for bigger projects such as multiple dog tags or larger signs.

This machine stands out for its precision thanks to xTool’s patented Pin-point Positioning technology, which helps achieve detailed engravings even on curved surfaces like tumblers or spoons. It also features AutoPassthrough Technology for working on longer items up to about 118 inches. Cooling and safety are well-addressed with an enclosed design that filters laser light and smoke, plus flame sensors and emergency stops to protect users and their environment.

The software, xTool Creative Space, is user-friendly and supports a wide range of materials with pre-set parameters, making it a good choice for beginners or those without design skills. AI-assisted design tools and numerous tutorials help simplify the creative process. Weighing around 81 pounds, it is not very portable and is primarily suited for hobbyists or small business users rather than heavy industrial use. Some users might find the size and setup space requirements a bit large for tight workspaces. Although the safety features are excellent, using a laser engraver still requires responsible handling. The xTool S1 delivers powerful laser performance, a generous working area, high precision, and easy-to-use software, making it a compelling choice for anyone interested in engraving metal and other materials with professional-looking results in a home or small workshop setting.

The OMTech 60W Fiber Laser Engraver is a strong contender in the small laser engraver for metal category, offering impressive features for both beginners and experienced users. One of its main strengths is the MOPA technology that allows for high contrast color marking on various materials, including metals and gemstones, which is ideal for creative projects. The 60W power and high speed of 10,000 mm/s enable efficient engraving with precision up to 0.1 mm, ensuring that intricate designs come out beautifully.

The engraving area of 7x7 inches is decent for small to medium projects, making it suitable for hobbyists and small business owners. The included EzCad2 software is user-friendly, supporting various image formats, which simplifies the engraving process. The safety features, including protective eyewear and an open design, are beneficial for users who may be new to laser engraving.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The machine is relatively heavy at 83 pounds, which might make it challenging to move or relocate. Additionally, while the working area is adequate, larger projects may require a different model with a more expansive engraving field. Some users may also find the software a bit overwhelming initially, which could lead to a learning curve.