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Algolaser · Diode
Algolaser Alpha MK2 · 40W
40W Premium open-frame diode focused on speed and fine engraving detail
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Last updated How we evaluate
Released June 2024
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Showing specs for: 40W
TL;DR
Algolaser Alpha MK2 40W is the 40W SKU on the Algolaser algolaser alpha mk2 line. Algolaser targets makers who want faster engraving and tighter spot control than typical budget diodes. Verify optical power on the listing: do not assume combined-watt marketing.
Best for
What makes this machine stand out
Hardware and workflow features worth understanding before you buy : not just wattage on a label.
Open-frame : plan safety first
There is no factory enclosure: you wear OD-rated glasses, control smoke, and keep kids/pets away. You trade cabinet convenience for price and access : fine in a dedicated workshop, stressful in a living room without a plan.
LightBurn compatible
LightBurn support means advanced layers, camera tools, and workflows many makers outgrow the stock app with. Confirm your exact controller board before assuming full features : some machines need a paid license separately.
Our verdict
Ideal if you
Algolaser Alpha MK2 40W targets mixed engraving and wood-cutting weeks: fewer passes on basswood and dark acrylic than weaker SKUs in the same line.
Skip if you
Wrong pick if you never engrave and only wanted the lowest price. Ultra-fine photo work can look better on an engraving-first SKU. Open-frame: safety and smoke are on you.
Pros
- Strongest cut headroom in the line: about 10 mm basswood-class stock in benchmarks
- 40W: the most cut-focused head in the Algolaser Alpha MK2 line
- Open-frame: plan laser glasses, exhaust, and workspace rules from day one
- Software on the profile: trial your workflow on scrap before production
Cons
- Clear cast acrylic and thick production cutting still favor CO₂, not diode power alone
- Confirm optical wattage on the listing before you buy
What this machine is for
Maximum cut speed and depth in the line: engraving remains strong at tuned speeds
40W module · Algolaser Alpha MK2
Laser spot size
~0.06 mm spot
Motion precision: 0.01 mm
Sample engrave job
~6–9 min
10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)
Sample cut job
~3–6 min
10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)
Reference benchmark: same job size on every machine so you can compare times fairly. Times are estimates for the reference job above; your design complexity and settings will change them.
Materials
- · Wood
- · Leather
- · Slate
- · Anodized aluminum
- · Stainless (with spray)
Accessories & add-ons
Typical inclusions and add-ons for this profile : confirm your SKU.
- Optional
Enclosure / cabinet
Third-party enclosure improves smoke control and safety
- Recommended
Laser safety glasses
~450 nm diode: OD rated for your wavelength
- Recommended
Fire extinguisher
Editorial guidance : not a live parts list. See also: Ventilation setup · Safety basics
Practical notes
Beginner notes
This profile is the 40W SKU on Algolaser Alpha MK2. Read the TL;DR and benchmarks above, then compare other power options via the chips before buying.
Pro tips
Treat engraving and cutting as separate profiles. Push cut speeds only after test squares on your material. Compare CO₂ only when clear acrylic or all-day production enters the picture.
Pro / technical specsRaw numbers for experienced users comparing machines.
- Max speed (spec)
- 400 mm/s
- Avg engrave speed
- 90–200 mm/s fill
- Avg cut speed
- 5–13 mm/s on 3–6 mm wood
Alternatives to the Algolaser Alpha MK2 40W
Machines in the same space, picked from our database by type, price, and score.
Sculpfun · Diode · $690
The 22W S30 Ultra is what Sculpfun sells today as the top open-frame Ultra config (often bundled with LightBurn). Best cut headroom in the family; do not confuse with older 10W or 20W listings.
xTool · Diode · $999 – $3,049
The 20W S1 is the value pick in xTool's enclosed diode line: same cabinet and filters as the 40W, but less cut depth on thick wood. Buy this if safety matters and you mostly engrave.
xTool · Diode · $699 – $899
The 20W D1 Pro module is xTool's most popular open-frame head: mixed engraving and light cutting on the large D1 bed. Verify optical power on the listing; swap to 40W later if cut jobs dominate.