Tool suite

Laser buying and business planning tools

EtchCompass tools turn purchase constraints into visible decisions. They do not invent compatibility, certify a workshop or promise business income.

Sources and limitations shownVerified: Sep 3, 2026

Best for

  • First-time machine buyers
  • Businesses documenting a purchase decision
  • Shops stress-testing a second machine

Watch for

  • Tools depend on accurate inputs
  • Model manuals override general guidance
  • Financial outputs are scenarios, not forecasts

The four-step workflow

The Finder narrows the process. Compatibility checks the exact material and operation. Workspace planning tests physical, extraction and supervision constraints. TCO/ROI separates ownership cost from a user-entered business scenario.

A failed gate is useful. It identifies whether the material, workspace, budget or evidence must change before a purchase can be defended.

  • No universal laser settings
  • No numeric safety score
  • No default income
  • No affiliate weighting

Decision criteria

01Transparent logic
02Editable assumptions
03Hard safety gates
04Source visibility
05No commission input
06Mobile usability