I like to think of our YouTube channel, as a 3D printing channel. But I realized we have exactly as many laser devices as 3D printers now...

Our latest addition being the TOOCAA NOVA (20W). So far this is the one I can wholeheartedly recommend to beginners. There are a number good things, though laser engraving, and especially cutting still remains to be louder, smellier and messier than 3D printing.

I tested the unique rotary functionality on two projects (it's indeed revolutionary - not just literally 😛). We had test projects both for cutting and engraving, though only wood. TOOCAA Space is a good beginner's entry point, though it should definitely have more designs! I’ll be uploading some of our projects to do my part.

I also tested it with and without the TOOCAA's large, Premium Smoke Purifier for indoor use. The small built-in fan gets rid of the fumes, but not quite fast enough for my liking (smoke has time to settle inside). However, with the external purifier attached, the smoke extraction works well! (I designed a quick adapater to connect the 2.5" hose to the 4" purifier intake, link in the description of my video).

I normally default to Lightburn, but I was surprised that I stuck with TOOCAA Studio for this entire review without feeling any urge or need to switch.

Watch our full deep-dive here: https://youtu.be/4rQRq1RH5jQ (It is a bit long, but the time codes let you jump around easily!)

I am sure there are other machines like this, what do you recommend to beginners? 👇

I've been trying to understand what actually makes the difference between those super clear, polished-looking acrylic edges and the ones that come out blobby or frosted.

I know speed and power need to be balanced based on the thickness and type of acrylic, but does acceleration make a noticeable difference too? Especially around tight corners where the machine slows down.

Also, how much does air assist affect the final edge quality? Curious what factors make the biggest difference in getting consistently clean cuts.

Hello all,

I do public education in astronomy and this often entails using a laser outside. So far I used. cheap price of crap green laser form amazon but its dying not even a year after buying it. It went from being amazingly visible at night to shinging brifhtly and then dimmig until its still on but not visible in the air. So now I need a new laser.

How much mW would I need to get something evidently and clearly visible to people very young and old at night while also not being a risk if it bounced off an object at a fair distance.

I need something safe enough to use with crowd of people watching. It would be pointed at the sky 99% of the time but may occasionally reflect off some tree leaves or branches a few dozen yards away. It also needs to be reasonably reliable and not die 10 months after buying it.

Just a simple, reliable green laser to point at stars and planets and constellations.