Choosing the Right Thunder Laser
Your Ultimate Guide
Deciding which Thunder Laser is right for you can often be the decision that causes customers to get stuck. Please read the guide below to ensure that you are checking off the boxes for your big purchase/investment.
Define Your Applications
Consider the primary applications for your laser machine. Certain machines work best with specific materials. For instance, CO2 laser machines are best for cutting and engraving wood, acrylic, leather, fabric, coated metals, and others. While, fiber lasers are most suited for engraving metals, plastics, and some leather/leatherettes. UV lasers can mark on the widest range of materials including glass, metals, and wood. Thunder Laser offers machines tailored to various industries, so understanding your applications is key.
- Nova Series: CO2
- Odin Series: CO2 (RF)
- Bolt Series: CO2 (RF)
- Aurora Series: Fiber or UV
Laser Power Matters
Laser power plays a significant role in your machine’s capabilities. The more wattage you have the faster you can cut and the thicker you can cut. In many cases, it is suggested to go for the higher wattage option so that you don’t have to overwork your laser tube. Evaluate your material and material thickness requirements to choose a laser power that aligns with your needs.
Bed Size for Flexibility
The size of the laser bed determines not only the size of the items you can work on, but also how many items you can fit into your bed at one time. For example, the Nova 24 may only be able to fit 20 coasters onto its bed while the Nova 35 may be able to fit 40 coasters. Choose a machine with a bed size that accommodates your typical projects and the projects that you want to be able to do in the future. Remember, you want to buy a machine that you can grow into instead of a machine that you will grow out of.
Speed, Accuracy, and Precision
Every laser company markets their top end speed. However, it is very unlikely that you would ever engrave at the top end speed. When talking about engraving, acceleration is what is most important if your focus is speed. Some of our lasers have 1G acceleration and others have 5G. Cutting speeds directly correlate with laser wattage. Please see below.
- Nova Series: 1,000mm/s – 1G Acceleration
- Odin Series: 2,000mm/s – 5G Acceleration
- Bolt Series: 1,000mm/s – 3G Acceleration
- Aurora Series: 2,000mm/s
Compatibility with Software
All Thunder Lasers are compatible with LightBurn Software which is widely recognized as the best laser software on the market. However, not every Thunder Laser comes with LightBurn included in the cost. So please double check with your sales rep to ensure that you are getting LightBurn.
Exceptional Support and Training
We pride ourselves on having the best support in the industry. We are quick to respond with the exact information you will need. Our technicians have years of experience troubleshooting laser machines so you are in the best hands. Be sure to use the resources that we have available for you.
- Knowledge Base: In-depth articles walking you through step-by-step troubleshooting.
- Thunder Academy: Video guides, tutorials, and how-to’s.
- Facebook Group: Great community of Thunder Laser users.
Budget Considerations
Determine your budget, including any additional accessories or features you may need. Thunder Laser offers a range of machines to suit different budgets. Find the right balance between features and cost for your specific requirements. Buy the machine that will elevate your business to the next level. Buy the machine that you have space for. Like we said earlier, you want to buy a machine that you can grow into instead of a machine that you will grow out of. The saying goes… “buy once, cry once”.
Reviews and Testimonials
Learn from others who have experienced Thunder Laser machines. Check out reviews and testimonials to gain insights into real-world performance and reliability. Make an informed decision based on the experiences of the Thunder Laser community.
Ready to Make Your Choice?
Explore our diverse range of laser cutting and engraving machines. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting, we have the perfect solution for you.
1000+ Five-Star Reviews
It’s hard to be modest when your products are this good.
Our Bolt desktop laser machine combines a compact design with super high-quality parts.
Our Nova series laser cutter offers higher wattage and larger work areas.
Ready to speak to one of our Experts?
Getting started can be the most challenging part of any project. Let us do the heavy lifting so you can focus on your designs.
Open the box; pull out your machine; get to work. Engrave on wood, leather, acrylic, metal—let us know your materials of choice, and we’ll find the machine to match.
If you’re ready to upgrade your machine, take your business to the next level, or just create, we’re here to help.
Questions? Comments? Curious about our laser system technology? Schedule a call today. We actually answer our phones.
