Independent laser configuration lab

Choose the right laser.
Prove the fit.

Match the laser process to your materials, work size, ventilation, production volume and full installed cost—before you buy.

Find my laser Check a material
No pay-to-rankSources and dates shownNo income promises
FIT BRIEF · 001
PRODUCT MIXWood signs + clear acrylic
PROCESSCO₂
WORK AREA≥ 500 × 300 mm
LOCATIONWorkshop
VOLUMEBatch work
PROVISIONAL FITEnclosed CO₂ system

Confirm exact model, exhaust path and material documentation.

Start with the work

What do you need to make?

Material library
Mark metal jewelryProcess, lens and fixture fitCut wood and acrylicThickness, area and fume controlWork with acrylicClear, colored, cast and extrudedMark bare metalsFiber process and lens choice

The process comes first

CO₂, fiber, MOPA or UV?

A brand comparison cannot rescue a process mismatch. EtchCompass narrows the laser family first, then checks work area, enclosure, accessories and total cost.

Understand the process split
01CO₂Organic materials and many acrylic workflows02FiberMetal marking and selected plastics03MOPAAdjustable-pulse fiber workflows04UVSpecialized low-heat marking

Configuration tools

Test the complete setup.

Open every tool
01 · SELECT

Laser Finder

Translate materials, size, volume, location and budget into a defensible process shortlist.

Build a fit brief 02 · VERIFY

Material Compatibility

See documented, conditional, blocked and unverified combinations without invented settings.

Check compatibility 03 · PLAN

Workspace Planner

Size the machine footprint, service clearance, exhaust path and accessory zone.

Plan the space 04 · MODEL

TCO & ROI

Separate verified prices from editable operating assumptions and scenario math.

Model total cost

Small-shop buying discipline

Machine price is only one line.

  1. 1
    Prove material fitExact composition, finish and documented restrictions
  2. 2
    Prove workspace fitMachine, motion, access, exhaust and fire watch
  3. 3
    Build installed costAccessories, extraction, delivery and consumables
  4. 4
    Stress-test demandEditable scenarios—not guaranteed income
EVIDENCE DESK · VERIFIED 3 SEP 2026

Independent by design

Facts, assumptions and judgement stay separate.

Vendor documentation establishes model specifications, included equipment and published terms. Authoritative safety sources set non-negotiable boundaries. EtchCompass then explains the decision logic without pretending to test machines it has not used.

Read the methodology Affiliate disclosureMaterial safety guide