Science and art have always stayed side-by-side in evolving each other. For instance, artists used to paint flying machines since ancient times. However, the goal was only achieved through the scientific works of the Wright brothers.
Similarly, laser engraver is another scientific invention that permanently helps artists mark objects with their creativity. In this regard, engraving designs on common objects like aluminum cans and champagne glasses are a common trend.
However, you need a special rotary laser engraver to complete this project. Therefore, in this article, I have reviewed the top 10 best rotary laser engravers and cutters to help you make an intelligent purchase this year.
Top 10 Best Rotary Laser Engravers:
Image | Product | Features | Price |
---|---|---|---|
ORTUR Laser Rotary Roller |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
Cloudray CNC Roller |
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Genmitsu CNC Router Machine |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
Makeblock xTool D1 Laser Engraver |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
ATOMSTACK R3 Laser Rotary Roller |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
OMTech 60W CO2 Laser Engraver |
| Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on OMTech | |
OMTech Rotary Axis Attachment |
| Check Price on AmazonCheck Price on OMTech | |
LaserPecker Mini Desktop Laser |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
Mophorn CNC Machine 3018 |
| Check Price on Amazon | |
Mophorn Router Rotary Axis |
| Check Price on Amazon |
1. ORTUR Laser Rotary Roller:
Product Specification
- Work Area (Diameter): 129mm length, 100mm width
- Power: 60-120W
- Dimensions: 5.08 x 7.24 x 3.19 inches
- Weight: 2.75 pounds
- Software: Grbl control, Candle (Windows + Mac + Linux)
Ortur has always stayed at the top of every best laser machine list for several reasons. Firstly, all their products are made from the best material possible. So, they are durable and last for several years. Secondly, they provide the best laser modules in their machines and even better motors in the attachment modules. In short, Ortur is a reliable brand with several useful laser accessories in its catalog.
Features:
Everyone is familiar with the wonders of the Ortur Laser Master machine. It is a CO2 laser engraver with an amplified laser beam for cutting and engraving hard materials. However, the only thing stopping it from becoming the best all-in-one laser engraver is that it isn’t compatible with cylindrical objects.
Well, worry not as Ortur provides a rotary roller attachment for such users. This attachment is very easy to install and quickly transforms any laser machine into a rotary laser engraver. The attachment uses a unique gear system to adjust the work area’s width according to the can.
In short, if you already have a plane laser engraver, I suggest that you invest in the YRR 2.0 instead of buying a whole new laser engraver.
Software:
The Ortur YRR 2.0 is a rotary module for the Laser Master 2 and several other laser machines. So, it is compatible with all software that supports your current laser machine. So, feel free to use your Windows/MAC/Linux PC and enjoy your preferred laser software.
- 7-gear width adjustment
- Durable material
- High compatibility
- Built-in length scale
- Suitable for aluminum cans
- The assembly is a bit complex without watching YouTube videos
2. Cloudray CNC Roller:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 300mm length, 70mm width
- Power: <50W
- Dimensions: 19.29 x 10.24 x 5.12 inches
- Weight: 15.85 pounds
- Software: Grbl control, Candle (Windows + Mac + Linux)
Cloudray is a Chinese manufacturer of modular laser engravers and accessories. Their products are widely used in residential projects and small businesses. The Cloudray laser machines are one of the cheapest in the market but provide several premium features. So, if you are not someone who judges the brand name, I suggest that you try out the new Cloudray CNC roller module.
Features:
People often avoid using extra third-party attachments with their laser engravers. It is because most products are unreliable or have some compatibility issues. However, this is not the case with the Cloudray CNC roller attachment.
It is an improved device that uses advanced 2-phase motors and is compatible with all laser machines in the world. The motor is brushless and thus doesn’t overheat even after several hours of use. Similarly, the closed-loops control prevents the laser from missing any spots on the target. You can even engrave complex designs on a large 70mm can in a single pass.
Software:
Cloudray CNC roller is an attachment module compatible with almost every CO2 and diode laser engraver. So, its software compatibility depends on the support of your laser device. Besides this, you won’t face any problems connecting your new roller attachment to the setup.
- Low noise
- No-overheating motor
- 5% angle accuracy
- Closed-loops control
- It doesn’t work on cups with handles
3. Genmitsu CNC Router Machine:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 300x180x45mm
- Power: 60-120W
- Weight: 15.28lbs
- Dimensions: 17.28 x 9.76 x 7.13 inches
- Software: LightBurn, Grbl, CARVECO Maker and Candle(Windows + Linux + Mac)
In most cases, you need to buy a separate laser engraver for working on straight and cylindrical material. This factor can be expensive, especially for home DIYers and small businesses. What if you can get all the features in a single laser engraver? Genmitsu has stepped up to solve your problems with their new 3018 CNC laser engraver.
Features:
Genmitsu 3018 is an all-in-one laser engraver that you can use on both planar and curved materials. It uses a powerful laser module that can work on soft materials like wood, plastic, paper, leather, and aluminum. Thus, it won’t be wrong to say that 3018 is the best budget desktop laser engraver with rotary attachment. Moreover, the rotary attachment is very easy to set up, and even an inexperienced person can install it in under 30-minutes.
Software:
Genmitsu is compatible with almost all paid and free laser software like Grbl, Candle, and CARVECO Maker. So, feel free to use it with your current Windows/Mac computer. In other words, you don’t need to buy a new computer for your workshop just to use with your laser engraving machine.
- Optocouplers for advanced protection
- Toshiba drivers
- Reliable performance
- Budget-friendly price
- Adjustable dimensions
- It is a budget device only suitable for small projects
4. Makeblock xTool D1 Laser Engraver:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 300mm length, 70mm width
- Power: 60W
- Dimensions: 29.13 x 9.84 x 7.87 inches
- Weight: 17.75 pounds
- Software: Lightburn, 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐞𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐱 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐒𝐨𝐟𝐭𝐰𝐚𝐫𝐞 (Windows + Mac)
The problem with most major brands is that they don’t provide all the required features in a single product. Instead, they provide separate attachments that you can purchase afterward. Though it cuts the product price, you only purchase an extra attachment that can be expensive in the long run. Therefore, if you are new to the laser engraving world, I suggest that you get a machine with a built-in rotary laser engraver for your setup.
Features:
Makeblock is home to some of the best beginner-friendly laser machines. Their products focus on safety features, ease of use, and reliable performance to help new users. The xTool D1 laser engraver is used in several technical schools to teach new students.
The device has a large engraving area that can support up to 432*406 mm material sheets. Moreover, the rotary module is easy to install and beginner-friendly as well. So, feel free to test your skills on all straight and curved objects that you can find.
Software:
Makeblock provides Laserbox basic software with their device drivers. You can also download a copy from the brand website. This software is optimized for a beginner-friendly experience. Furthermore, you can opt for a more advanced software like Lightburn as you progress with the experience. Both the software are compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems.
- Beginner-friendly
- Easy to assemble
- Industrial grade steel frame
- Rotary attachment
- Safety features
- It is not suitable for professional use
5. ATOMSTACK R3 Laser Rotary Roller:
Product Specification
- Work Area: Unlimited length, 100mm width
- Power: 24W
- Dimensions: 11.85 x 8.19 x 6.81 inches
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
- Software: Grbl control, Candle (Windows + Mac + Linux)
Atomstack is the first brand that comes to mind whenever someone mentions a premium laser engraver. It is because all their products are highly reliable and are used by residential and commercial users. The professional-grade build quality ensures a long lifespan with minimum maintenance. So, if you already have an Atomstack laser engraver in the workshop, the laser rotary attachment can be a profitable investment for the business.
Features:
The can’s length is the first thing that prevents most users from customizing it. On the contrary, the Atomstack rotary axle for laser features an unlimited length design for cans and cups. It means that you can use any cylindrical object as long as it fits the diameter.
Similarly, the 8-angle adjustments optimize the work area according to the dimension and shape of the object. You can also adjust the height of the attachment to make it suitable for your laser engraving machine. In short, if you are looking for a universal rotary attachment, this is the best one in the market.
Software:
Atomstack rotary attachment is suitable for mature laser software like Lightburn and Candle. Moreover, you can also use the Windows-based Laser Grbl software if you own such a PC. In any case, this rotary attachment has everything that you need for professional laser projects.
- Professional-grade
- Steel frame
- Sealed design
- Adjustable dimensions
- Unlimited length
- The laser attachment won’t work with XXL laser engravers
6. OMTech 60W CO2 Laser Engraver:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 711mm x 508mm
- Power: 60W
- Dimensions: 47.2 x 34.2 x 36.1 inches
- Weight: 330 pounds
- Software: Lightburn, Grbl. Candle (Windows + Mac + Linux)
Till now, I have only mentioned DIY and small business laser engravers. However, it doesn’t mean that there are no products worthy of an industrial setup. In this regard, OMTech is home to some of the latest and most powerful machines. Their products are optimized for industrial, commercial, and residential use. So, if you are looking for a commercial laser level and engraver, I suggest that you give this bad boy a shot.
Features:
Industrial laser engravers are expensive because they need to be perfect in every way. For instance, industrial laser machines have the highest laser power, premium features, and advanced protection features, making them worthy of a large business.
OMTech 60W is one such laser machine that passes all of these checks and many others. For instance, the device offers a humongous work area, unlike any other laser engraver. You can fit large material sheets in this area without any problems.
Similarly, the premium features like adjustable laser power, Red dot pointer, password protection, and air assist make it the best industrial laser engraver in the market. However, you need to purchase a separate rotary attachment to use it with cylindrical objects.
Software:
Experts and professionals operate industrial units. So, they need to use the most advanced laser software that they can find. In this regard, the OMTech laser engraver is compatible with all the laser programs across multiple operating systems. Moreover, OMTech provides offline control software if you need to make last-minute adjustments.
- Industrial-grade
- Highly durable
- Relatively cheaper than most industrial products
- Advanced safety and performance features
- Adjustable laser power
- You need to buy a separate rotary attachment
7. OMTech Rotary Axis Attachment:
Product Specification
- Work Area: Unlimited length, 100mm width
- Power: <50W
- Dimensions: 14.96 x 6.1 x 3.15 inches
- Weight: 4.41 pounds
- Software: Grbl control, Lightburn (Windows + Mac + Linux)
If you are someone who loves OMTech products, you probably have one of their laser engravers in your workshop. However, the laser engraver is only suitable for flat materials and sheets. But what if you need to engrave a cylinder? In that case, it is best to get a special rotary to attach, such as the OMTech rotary axis attachment for your setup.
Features:
OMTech is known for its premium range of laser engravers and accessories. Their professional and common laser products have a durable build quality and undeniable reliability. So, if the previous product interested you in any way, it is best to get the additional rotary attachment to complete your setup.
The rotary offers unlimited length and a large 100mm adjustable width gear system. The two-phase motor uses polished parts and stainless steel drivers to draw minimum heat and maximum performance.
Software:
The OMTech rotary attachment is specifically designed for OMTech laser engravers. So, it is compatible with every Windows, MAC, and offline laser software that your engraving machine supports.
- Compatible with all OMTech machines
- Reliable two-phase motor
- Adjustable dimensions
- Unlimited length
- Durable build quality
- No cons
8. LaserPecker Mini Desktop Laser:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 100 x 100mm
- Engraving speed 3000 mm/min
- Dimensions: 9.17 x 7.76 x 5.83 inches
- Weight: 1.1 pounds
- Software: CorelDraw, Smartphone App, and LightBurn
Most laser engravers require a separate workbench in the workshop. Moreover, the assembly of most engravers can be a headache for beginners and home DIYers. In this regard, LaserPecker is a compact desktop laser engraver. The device has no limits of dimensions, shape, and size whatsoever. So, if you are new to the laser engraving world, this product is most suitable for you.
Features:
LaserPecker Compact is an advanced and intelligent laser engraving and marking machine. It offers premium features that help new users in every step of the process. For instance, the laser engraver has no casing to limit your creativity. All you need is to place the engraver on a flat tabletop and the object in front of it.
You can control the laser path, power, and operations remotely from your smartphone through a Bluetooth connection. Moreover, the laser sensor detects the laser path and triggers an emergency shut down if the laser diverts from the path.
Software:
LaserPecker is compatible with all the basic laser software for Windows computers. Moreover, you can also connect it to your Android or Apple smartphone via Bluetooth for remote connection. The app is downloadable from the Appstore and Google PlayStore, respectively.
- Powerful laser for plastic, wood, paper, and curved surfaces
- Foldable magnetic design
- Smartphone app
- Pre-assembled
- Bluetooth Connection
- It is not suitable for hard materials like metals and stone
- The work area is comparatively smaller
9. Mophorn CNC Machine 3018:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 300mm x 180mm
- Engraving Speed: 10,000 mm/min
- Dimensions: 17.3 x 10.2 x 7.5 inches
- Weight: 15 pounds
- Software: Laser Grbl, and LightBurn (Windows + MAC + Linux)
Sometimes, all you need is a budget laser engraver for the workshop. Mophorn is one such laser engraver that can replace your current primary device or act as a secondary laser engraver for the business. In any case, the high performance, versatility, and affordable price of these laser etches places them in the spotlight.
Features:
Mophorn laser engraver is a feature-rich laser machine with an affordable price tag. The device uses advanced T8 drivers with 42-steps to maximize performance and durability while minimizing the amount of generated heat.
Similarly, the 24V spindle motor ensures that every portion of the material is covered and engraved in a single pass. The powerful CO2 laser ensures compatibility with most soft materials, including wood, plastic, leather, and aluminum. However, it is a laser engraver for flat surfaces, and you need to purchase the rotary attachment separately.
Software:
Mophorn provides an offline Laser Grbl software integrated into its motherboard. You can print different logos and designs even if you don’t have a computer in the workshop. All you need is to import the design in a USB flash and attach it to the machine. Similarly, you can connect it with most MAC and Windows laser software for advanced features.
- Versatile design
- Power laser module
- User-friendly Grbl
- USB flash included
- Pre-assembled
- Large work area
- It doesn’t offer a built-in rotary attachment, and you need to purchase it separately
- The laser is not suitable for long sessions
10. Mophorn Router Rotary Axis:
Product Specification
- Work Area: 549mm length, 80mm width
- Power: <20W
- Dimensions: 24 x 10 x 9.5 inches
- Weight: 22.4 pounds
- Software: Grbl control, Lightburn (Windows + Mac + Linux)
As mentioned earlier, Mophorn is among the best budget laser brands in the world. Their products are highly reliable and offer features that you can only find in high-end premium devices. Similarly, Mophorn maintains its reliability in the rotary and other accessories as well. If you purchased the Mophorn laser engraver, you only need to buy this rotary attachment instead of investing in a new rotary laser engraver.
Features:
Mophorn rotary attachment is a universal accessory that you can use with most small and large laser engravers. So, even if you don’t own a Mophorn laser, you can still benefit from this product’s affordable price and premium features. The attachment offers a large work area with up to 80mm adjustable width.
So, it is compatible with all aluminum cans, PVC pipes, and handleless cups that you can find. The device has a steel frame structure that prevents it from impact damage and potential hazards of the laser. Similarly, you can adjust the dimensions of the work area to fit the object perfectly.
Software:
The laser attachment is compatible with all laser software that supports your laser engraver. Moreover, it also supports the offline Grbl software that comes built-in with some laser engraver motherboards. Otherwise, you can use Windows/MAC/Linux PCs with the attachment.
- Universal rotary attachment
- Versatile design
- Durable build quality
- Affordable price
- Steel frame
- Adjustable dimensions
- Chuck calibration requires professional help
Buying Guide:
The market is full of laser engravers with various features. Each device has at least one feature that makes it suitable for the users. Therefore, it is compulsory to have adequate knowledge about laser engravers and your requirements before choosing a product. In this regard, rotary laser engravers are the hardest to pick as you have to consider several additional requirements such as:
- Laser power: The laser power of your laser engraver determines which material you can use with it. For instance, a diode laser is suitable for marking soft materials like leather and wood. Similarly, you need at least 20W laser power to engrave these materials. In order to cut them, you need a laser module with at least 40W power.
- Work area: The work area of the laser engraver is directly proportional to the dimensions of material you can use with it. The larger workspaces can fit large material sheets, cans, and cups. While the smaller work areas won’t fit any larger material.
- Rotary: Most laser engravers require an additional rotary attachment to engrave cylindrical objects. Otherwise, the rotary attachment is provided in the package. In any case, you need to attach the accessory to your laser engraver when working with cylindrical objects. The dimensions of the rotary attachment should be at least 100mm x 80mm L x W to fit typical aluminum cans and handleless cups.
- Build quality: The build quality of the laser engraver determines the lifespan of the device. High-quality build material includes steel, aluminum, and heavy-duty plastic. Your laser engraver should have one of these frames to withstand the powerful laser beam of the devices. Otherwise, the machine’s work area will start to melt over time and require replacement.
- Software support: Laser engravers are already very expensive. So, if you have to buy a new computer station to use the laser engraver, it will only add to the budget. In this regard, always choose a laser engraver that supports your current operating system and the preferred laser software.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How to make a rotary laser engraver fixture?
It is best to buy a separate rotary attachment from your laser engraver brand in most cases. Once you purchase the attachment, all you need is to detach the plane laser and replace it with the rotary attachment. Connect the wires to the laser machine, and you are good to go.
How to use the rotary tool on a laser engraver?
Attach the rotary tool with the laser engraver by replacing the flat work area. Connect the wires to the laser machine. The laser software should automatically detect the new hardware. Otherwise, you can toggle the rotary mode by selecting the settings in the laser software. Import the design, place the can or cup in the work area, and start laser engraving.
What is a laser engraver vs. a rotary engraver?
A laser engraver is a machine that can etch, mark, engrave, and cut several materials using a powerful laser beam. On the contrary, a rotary engraver is simply an attachment for your laser engraver to work with cylindrical objects like aluminum cans and cups.
Conclusion:
The rotary laser engraver is a must-have if you want to work with cylindrical objects like aluminum cans, bottles, and handleless cups. Usually, you need to buy a separate laser machine for the job.
However, some brands provide a rotary attachment for their laser engravers, or they come in the package. Therefore, this article provides an unbiased review of the top 10 best rotary laser engravers for 2022; I hope it helps you choose the right product.