Still in the market for a laser and I really like the look and features of the XRF. For those of you who’ve already purchased a laser, what are the key things I should consider before buying? Also, how steep is the learning curve with LightBurn?
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The XRF has excellent build quality for a desktop machine, solid and smooth in operation. LightBurn is easy to pick up, with plenty of guides and courses available. The machine runs quietly, the stock air assist works fine, and you’ll just need risers if you plan to use a rotary. And if you need to justify it—show your wife all the décor projects you can make for her!
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I started with a diode laser a few years ago and made a lot of wood items. I wanted to expand my capability to the full range of acrylic colors, so I researched CO2 lasers for the past year. I wanted a small table top unit as I am still primarily a hobbyist. The X series offers the either a glass tube (XT) of a radio frequency (XRF). The XT requires the use of coolant whereas the XRF has cooling fins which was more appealing though slightly more expensive. The glass tubes have a shorter lifespan, so I opted for the XRF. The added bonus is that the XRF has a smaller laser dot size and should be more capable at fine photo etching. I take delivery in November. Also added the riser base as an option.
US support will be nice. Most diode laser have little support and you tend to have to send an email and wait a day for a response, due to the time change from China to USA.
You will need the Pro version of Lightburn for the 1Laser as it has a Ruida controller which mainly is due to the control capability on the unit itself.
The Louisiana Hobby Guy is my recommendation to learn various Lightburn tips and tricks. Also, for less than $10, you can buy digital designs pretty much ready to go. Primarily you will need to learn the speed and power to engrave or cut for your unique laser. Valley Forged is also on youtube and sells designs on Etsy too. He gives a lot of common sense education on lasers.
Best of luck!
Don
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Thanks, Don! Really helpful insights. I’m actually considering the XRF myself, but it’s sold out right now so I’ll have to wait until they’re back in stock.
I actually just got shipping notice today that my unit is ready to be shipped from China. I am designing the bench for the unit now.
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