Two paths to precision
Whether in model making, in woodworking, or in individual projects – anyone who wants to produce precise components sooner or later faces the question:
Laser or CNC?
Both technologies promise accuracy and creative freedom, but they work on completely different principles. While the laser cuts with light, the CNC milling machine shapes with physical force.
But when is milling really worthwhile – and where does the laser show its strengths?
The basics: How both systems work
Laser cutting – precision with light
A CO₂ or diode laser removes material contactlessly.
It works quickly, quietly, and leaves smooth edges without producing chips.
Typical application areas are wood, acrylic, leather, cardboard, glass and partially metals.
Thanks to software integration (e.g., LightBurn or xTool Creative Space), engravings, fine details, and complex shapes can be realized almost without rework.
Advantages: high speed, no tool wear, hardly any dust or noise, perfect edges.
CNC milling – powerful, mechanical, versatile
A CNC milling machine (Computerized Numerical Control) works with rotating cutters.
It removes material layer by layer and can also work in depth – ideal for 3D reliefs, aluminum, hardwood, or GFK.
The movement takes place in multiple axes, usually X, Y, and Z directions, controlled by G-code programs.
Advantages: true deep machining, precise edges on thick materials, suitable for metals and technical materials.
Material question: Where the differences matter
| Material type | Laser | CNC |
|---|---|---|
| Plywood / MDF | Very precise cuts, clean edges | Exact contours, slight fraying on thin sheets |
| Acrylic / Plexiglas | Crystal clear cut edge without polishing | Matte, post-processing required |
| Metal (soft) | Engraving possible (with CO₂ / IR laser), no cutting | Milling without problems, clean edges |
| Hardwood | Cutting up to approx. 18 mm (CO₂ laser) | Milling also possible 40 mm+ |
| 3D reliefs / deep engravings | Only possible to a limited extent | Ideal for 3D shapes and engravings |
| Noise & dust | Very quiet, hardly any dirt | Loud, requires extraction |
| Maintenance | Low (no tools) | Regular tool changes |
Conclusion: Those who produce flat, precise designs benefit from the laser.
Those who want to process volume or hard materials cannot avoid milling.
Speed, accuracy & costs
A modern laser cutter like the xTool P2S reaches cutting speeds of up to 600 mm/s – that is many times faster than typical desktop CNC machines.
In addition, clamping and tool changes are eliminated.
CNC milling, on the other hand, scores with repeat accuracy and material depth.
For large workpieces or metal processing, it remains the more robust solution.
The acquisition costs are often similar, but tool wear and running times are higher in milling.
Precision in practice
When lasers score points:
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Fine engravings and logos on wood, leather, or glass
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Acrylic displays, housings, lettering
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Light assemblies with exact fits
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Series production with repeat accuracy
When CNC is superior:
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Milling aluminum, brass, or thick wood
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Reliefs, engravings in depth, technical components
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Stability more important than surface quality
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Workpieces with complex Z-geometry
Software & Workflow
Both laser and CNC systems rely on digital preparation but differ greatly in operation.
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Laser: intuitive software (e.g., LightBurn), live camera preview, automatic focusing.
→ Ideal for designers, makers, hobby workshops. -
CNC: requires CAM programming (e.g., Fusion 360, VCarve), tool paths and material stresses must be considered.
→ More for technically savvy users or engineers.
Safety & Environment
The xTool P2S with Laser Class 1 operates fully enclosed – no safety glasses, no open beam.
Many CNC machines, on the other hand, require a separate extraction system, noise protection, and stable setup.
So anyone working in a workshop or living environment has a quieter, cleaner, and safer everyday partner with a modern CO₂ laser.
Sustainability & Maintenance
A laser requires hardly any wear parts – no cutters, no lubrication.
CNC milling machines must be regularly cleaned, lubricated, and equipped with new tools.
In the long term, this means:
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Laser: lower operating costs
-
CNC: more maintenance, but robust for continuous operation
Conclusion: Laser or CNC?
Those who implement flat designs, engravings, and creative projects are better off with a laser cutter:
precise, fast, quiet, and with low maintenance.
Those who want to mill deeply, work with metals, or produce mechanical parts still benefit from a CNC machine.
In short:
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Laser = Precision & speed
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CNC = Power & depth
In the end, the best solution is often a combination of both systems – laser for cutting and engraving, CNC for three-dimensional machining.
Recommended systems at 3DDruckBoss
For laser enthusiasts
➡ To the laser category →
Recommended models: xTool P2S, Creality Falcon 2, Toocaa L2
For CNC makers
➡ To the CNC machines →
Recommended models: Makera Carvera, TwoTrees TTC-450, Snapmaker A350T CNC module
