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 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.

The xTool S1 40W laser engraver is a strong choice for those wanting to work on metal and other materials with a compact but capable machine. Its 40W laser power is impressive for a small engraver, easily cutting through wood and handling metal with good speed. The large bed size of nearly 24" x 15" means you can work on bigger projects or multiple smaller items in one go, which is a bonus for hobbyists or small businesses.

Precision is a highlight here thanks to patented positioning tech, allowing detailed 3D engravings on curved surfaces like spoons or tumblers—something not all small engravers manage well. The safe enclosed design with flame sensors and an emergency stop button means it’s built with safety and durability in mind. The software, xTool Creative Space, is beginner-friendly and comes with AI-assisted design features, making it easy even if you’re new to engraving. It also supports a wide range of materials beyond metal, such as wood, acrylic, and leather, increasing versatility.

On the downside, while the machine has a solid aluminum frame for stability, it weighs about 20 kg (44 lbs), which might be less portable if you need to move it often. Some useful accessories like riser bases or rotary attachments are sold separately, so additional investment may be needed based on your projects. The 1-year warranty is standard but worth considering if you want longer coverage. The xTool S1 balances power, precision, and ease of use well, making it a good fit for beginners and enthusiasts who want a reliable machine that can handle metal engraving and a variety of other materials without overwhelming complexity.