I’ve wasted more acrylic sheets than I’d like to admit. The wrong laser cutter left me with burnt edges, inaccurate cuts, and plenty of frustration. If you’re here, you’re probably looking for a machine that gets it right the first time.

Not all laser cutters handle acrylic well. Some are fast but imprecise, while others struggle with clean edges. I’ve tested several to find the ones that perform the best.

This guide is based on hands-on experience, expert insights, and real-world use. No fluff, just reliable recommendations.

By the end of this article, you’ll know:

• The top-performing laser cutters for acrylic
• Which models suit different budgets and needs
• What to look for to avoid costly mistakes

Let’s find the right machine for you.

Let’s get started!

Quick Comparison Chart

When you’re choosing the best laser cutter for acrylic, having a side-by-side comparison helps cut through the noise. Below is a snapshot of the key specs for each machine we’ve reviewed. Whether you’re running a business or scaling a creative side hustle, this table will guide you toward the right match for your needs.

This comparison gives you a quick but powerful overview of what each machine is capable of. Use it to match your project needs, workspace, and ambition with the right tool.

1. xTool P2

If you’re serious about cutting acrylic and want stunning, showroom-quality results without breaking a sweat, the xTool P2 is going to be your new best friend. This machine is an absolute powerhouse, built with a CO₂ laser that handles thick acrylic like it’s butter.

Whether you’re scaling a small creative business or working on high-end custom pieces, the xTool P2 combines performance and finesse with just the right touch of user-friendliness.

• Laser Type: CO₂ Laser (55W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 55W CO₂
• Working Area: 600 x 308 mm
• Max Cutting Thickness (Acrylic): Up to 20mm
• Resolution: 1000 DPI
• Software Compatibility: xTool Creative Space, LightBurn
• Connectivity: WiFi, USB, Ethernet

Standout Features

• Clear Acrylic Cutting Mastery: Most diode lasers can’t touch clear acrylic. But this CO₂ laser? It glides through it like magic.
• Auto-Focus and Smart Camera System: Position your material perfectly with dual 16MP cameras. You’ll love how easy it is to align complex designs.
• Batch Processing: Working on a product line? The P2 can scan and replicate designs automatically across multiple pieces, saving you time and clicks.
• Optional Rotary & Conveyor Add-ons: If you plan to scale, these upgrades make it future-proof. You’re not locked into “just flat” projects.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Cuts thick acrylic in one go—up to 20mm
• Easily handles clear, black, and colored acrylic
• Super intuitive software makes the learning curve gentle
• Smart features like auto-focus and real-time camera previews
• Sleek, professional look that fits into creative studios

Weaknesses

• 55W might be overkill if you’re only doing thin 3mm or 5mm acrylics
• Not as budget-friendly for hobbyists or casual users
• The size, while spacious, means you’ll need a dedicated workbench

2. OMTech 80W CO₂ Laser Engraver

If you’re stepping into serious acrylic work—whether it’s large signage, thick panels, or layered 3D designs—the OMTech 80W CO₂ Laser Engraver brings the industrial-grade power you’ve been looking for.

This machine doesn’t just cut. It slices through up to 1 inch of acrylic like it’s paper. If you’ve ever fought with edge melting or jagged lines using smaller lasers, this will feel like a whole new world.

When I first worked on a batch of 20 mm acrylic LED signs using an OMTech, I was honestly shocked by how clean the cuts came out—no warping, no burnt edges. It felt like cheating, in the best way.

• Laser Type: CO₂ (80W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 80W
• Working Area: 500 x 700 mm
• Max Cutting Thickness (Acrylic): Up to 25.4 mm (1 inch)
• Resolution: 1000 DPI
• Cooling System: Built-in industrial water chiller
• Software Compatibility: RDWorks, LightBurn
• Connectivity: USB, Ethernet
• Engraving Speed: Up to 600 mm/s

Standout Features

• Professional-Level Cutting Depth: Easily cuts through thick acrylic sheets in a single pass, no need for multiple slow cuts.
• Integrated Water Cooling System: Keeps the laser running cool and stable during extended jobs, which means more uptime and less worry.
• High-Performance Motion Control: Delivers razor-sharp precision even on complex vector patterns or tight curves.
• Spacious Bed for Large Projects: That 500 x 700 mm working area? It gives you freedom. You won’t need to compromise on project size or layout.
• Expandable for Business Scaling: With optional upgrades like rotary attachments, you’re not locked into flat acrylic work.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Eats through thick acrylic up to 1 inch with smooth edges
• Extremely durable and reliable for consistent performance
• Perfect for professional-grade projects and production runs
• Compatible with industry-standard software like LightBurn
• Built-in cooling means fewer hiccups on long jobs

Weaknesses

• Larger footprint requires dedicated shop space
• Learning curve is steeper if you’re coming from hobby-level machines
• No built-in camera for real-time material alignment

3. Blue Elephant 1390 Acrylic Laser Cutter

When I first got the chance to test out the Blue Elephant 1390, I expected it to be like any other mid-sized CO₂ machine. But by the time I finished my first acrylic signage run—perfectly cut edges, zero drag lines—I realized this wasn’t just a machine, it was a workhorse with finesse. It handled both intricate designs and thick cuts without flinching.

If you’re looking for a laser cutter that doesn’t just promise precision but actually lives up to it—day in, day out—this one’s going to impress you.

• Laser Type: CO₂ (Available in 80W, 100W, or 150W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power Options: 80W / 100W / 150W
• Working Area: 1300 x 900 mm
• Cutting Thickness (Acrylic): Up to 20 mm (depends on wattage)
• Cooling System: Industrial-grade water cooling
• Software Compatibility: RDWorks, LightBurn
• Optional Add-ons: Rotary attachment, autofocus system
• Drive System: Precision stepper motors
• Safety Features: Protective enclosure with emergency stop

Standout Features

• Massive Working Area: Got a big acrylic job? The 1300 x 900 mm bed means you can handle full sheets without needing to trim things down or rearrange mid-cuts.
• Wattage Options for Flexibility: Choose your power level based on your workflow. Whether you’re doing fine engraving or slicing through thick acrylic, this machine adapts to you.
• Rotary & Autofocus Options: Want to do cylindrical engraving or save time on setup? This machine’s ready for expansion when your creativity demands it.
• Industrial Build, Smooth Operation: Unlike lighter, consumer-grade lasers, the 1390 feels rock solid. You’ll notice the difference the moment the gantry starts moving—less vibration, cleaner cuts.
• Excellent Customer Support: Blue Elephant has earned a reputation for being responsive, which means less downtime and more making.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Engineered for production, not just hobby use
• Superb cutting power for thick acrylic jobs
• Large-format cutting area with upgrade options
• Durable, industrial-grade components
• Highly customizable based on your project needs

Weaknesses

• Requires a larger footprint—you’ll need space

4. xtool S1

If you’ve ever dreamed of having a laser cutter that feels like a polished desktop tool but performs like a pro-grade machine, the xTool S1 delivers in a way that’s rare at this price point.

The first time I saw the S1 in action, what stood out wasn’t just the clean cuts on the acrylic—it was how quiet and clean the process was. No smoke billowing out. No awkward focus fiddling. Just a sleek, enclosed machine doing its thing—flawlessly.

• Laser Type: Diode (Available in 20W and 40W versions)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 20W / 40W Diode
• Working Area: 608 x 385 mm
• Max Acrylic Cutting Thickness: Up to 16 mm (with 40W)
• Enclosure: Fully enclosed with built-in ventilation
• Safety Features: Class 1 safety design, emergency stop, flame detector
• Software Compatibility: xTool Creative Space, LightBurn
• Positioning: Dual laser heads with smart autofocus

Standout Features

• Fully Enclosed Safety Design: The S1 looks and feels like a premium appliance. It’s not intimidating, it’s welcoming. And it’s safe to run even in tighter, well-used environments.
• Power That Punches Above Its Class: The 40W diode variant can be cut through 15–16 mm black acrylic cleanly. That’s rare in diode machines—and you’ll see the difference right away.
• Live Preview & Autofocus: Just drag, drop, preview. Positioning your acrylic is painless thanks to real-time camera view and smart alignment tools.
• Quiet, Low-Odor Cutting: This one surprised me. Even without high-end fume extraction, the S1 handled long cutting sessions with minimal smell and almost no noise.
• Easy Learning Curve: If you’re switching from hobby lasers or scaling from a Glowforge, this machine makes that jump feel seamless and empowering.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Beautiful, modern enclosure—perfect for studios or home workshops
• Cuts thick acrylic (up to 16 mm!) even as a diode
• Extremely safe and quiet operation
• Easy setup and beginner-friendly interface
• Powerful 40W option gives you room to grow

Weaknesses

• Diode laser can’t cut clear acrylic without special coatings
• Higher price point compared to open-frame diode lasers
• Limited to flat materials (unless upgraded with risers or rotary)

5. Boss Laser LS-1416

Don’t let the smaller footprint fool you—the Boss Laser LS-1416 is a compact beast built to deliver professional-grade performance for creators who demand precision but don’t have space to spare.

I remember visiting a friend’s workshop who had just made the switch to the LS-1416. The difference it made was instant—tight lines, buttery smooth edges, and the kind of repeatable results that build trust with clients. This machine bridges the gap between small shop needs and industrial results.

• Laser Type: CO₂ (65W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 65W CO₂
• Working Area: 14″ x 16″ (355 mm x 406 mm)
• Cutting Thickness (Acrylic): Up to 10 mm
• Software Compatibility: RDWorks, LightBurn
• Cooling System: Water-cooled (included)
• Max Engraving Speed: 1000 mm/s
• Chassis: Industrial steel frame
• Laser Tube Life: ~7,000 hours

Standout Features

• Precision in a Compact Frame: The LS-1416’s smaller size makes it a perfect fit for tighter workspaces, without compromising on cut quality or accuracy.
• High-Speed Engraving: You’ll appreciate the blazing-fast motion system—especially if you’re engraving logos, lettering, or detailed vector art into acrylic sheets.
• Heavy-Duty Build Quality: You can feel the difference. The chassis is all-metal, solid, and built for years of dependable service—even in busy production environments.
• User-Friendly Controls: With intuitive software and real-time control panel feedback, it’s easy to manage even complex jobs.
• Upgradeable and Scalable: Start with the base model and scale as your work evolves. From air assist to rotary attachments, Boss offers room to grow.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Compact but mighty—great for small studios or work-from-home setups
• Super accurate and smooth cuts for detailed acrylic designs
• Reliable speed and power for mid-thickness acrylic sheets
• Solid, industrial-grade components
• Excellent U.S.-based support if you’re based in North America

Weaknesses

• Working area may feel limiting for larger-format projects
• Not the cheapest option in the desktop laser market
• No built-in camera system, which adds some manual positioning effort

6. Snapmaker 2.0 A350T

Let me tell you—if you’re the kind of maker who wants it all in one machine, the Snapmaker A350T is the kind of tool that feels like it was made just for you.

When I first used the A350T, I wasn’t just cutting acrylic—I was 3D printing, CNC carving, and engraving within the same workflow. This machine doesn’t lock you into one creative lane. It gives you a whole highway system.

And the best part? The acrylic cutting performance holds its own, especially for design prototypes, custom art pieces, and light signage work.

• Laser Type: Diode (10W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 10W Diode
• Working Area (Laser Module): 320 x 350 mm
• Max Acrylic Cutting Thickness: 3–5 mm (black acrylic)
• Functionality: 3-in-1 (Laser Cutter/Engraver, 3D Printer, CNC Mill)
• Body: All-metal modular frame
• Touchscreen: 5″ smart control panel
• Software Compatibility: Luban (Snapmaker’s native software)
• Noise Reduction: Upgraded linear module for quieter operation

Standout Features

• 3-in-1 Powerhouse: The Snapmaker A350T is not a single-purpose tool. You can cut, print, and carve—all from the same sleek, modular platform. For creators juggling multiple types of projects, this is a dream.
• High-Precision Diode Cutting: While it won’t slice through thick acrylic, it handles 3–5 mm beautifully, especially for prototyping and layered designs.
• Modular Magic: Everything from the toolheads to the build size can be swapped or upgraded. It’s one of the few machines that grows with you.
• Beautifully Built: You can feel engineering. From the touchscreen to the rails, this machine has a solid, polished presence.
• User-Centered Software: Snapmaker’s Luban software is clean, modern, and built for people—not just engineers.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Ultimate versatility, cut, carve, and 3D print in one machine
• High-quality construction with a sleek, professional finish
• Perfect for small studios or creators who want flexibility
• Beginner-friendly UI with touchscreen and intuitive software
• Upgradeable, modular design that adapts to your workflow

Weaknesses

• Limited to thin acrylic cuts—not ideal for anything over 5 mm
• Setup can be time-consuming when switching between functions
• Not specialized for heavy-duty acrylic jobs
• Diode laser doesn’t handle clear acrylic without workarounds

7. Ten-High CO₂ Laser Cutter

The Ten-High CO₂ Laser Cutter is one of those machines that doesn’t try to impress with flash—it just shows up, does its job, and keeps going. If you’re looking for a straightforward, dependable laser that handles acrylic reliably without all the bells and whistles, this one’s a solid choice.

I recommend this machine to a friend who was just starting out cutting acrylic for her handmade lighting business. She wasn’t looking for the fanciest gear—just something that worked. And it did. A year later, she’s still running it strong, fulfilling orders from her garage without a hiccup.

• Laser Type: CO₂ (60W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 60W CO₂
• Working Area: 400 x 600 mm
• Max Acrylic Cutting Thickness: Up to 10 mm
• Cooling System: Water-cooled (external system required)
• Control System: DSP digital control
• Software Compatibility: CorelLaser, RDWorks (LightBurn with upgrade)
• Machine Frame: Steel with optional stand
• Ventilation: Manual exhaust setup required

Standout Features

• Reliable Acrylic Cutting: It handles black and colored acrylic well up to 10 mm. You get clean edges and consistent results, especially with the right air assist and speed settings.
• Straightforward Interface: It doesn’t overcomplicate things. The control panel is clear, direct, and doesn’t bury you in tech for the sake of it.
• Customizable Setup: Because it’s not fully enclosed or overly integrated, you can configure it the way that works best for your space—especially useful if you’re building out a budget-conscious workshop.
• Accessible Price Point: For a CO₂ machine with this level of cutting power, the Ten-High hits a sweet spot for price and performance.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Solid cutting performance for everyday acrylic work
• Affordable and accessible—great for beginners and side hustles
• Compatible with common design software
• Durable steel build holds up over time
• Simple, no-fluff controls make it easy to use

Weaknesses

• Not fully enclosed, so safety and fume extraction require extra attention
• Lacks modern features like autofocus or camera alignment
• Basic UI—you’ll be doing more manual setup than with newer machines
• Limited support outside of forums if you’re not tech-savvy

8. Gweike Cloud Pro II Laser Cutter

There’s something incredibly satisfying about watching a machine just work—smoothly, powerfully, and without needing you to constantly tweak and troubleshoot. That’s exactly the kind of experience the Gweike Cloud Pro II delivers.

I had the chance to demo this machine in a shared maker space, and it instantly stood out. It cut through 10mm acrylic like it was tracing paper, no charring, no melt-back. And for a compact machine? It felt surprisingly high-end.

• Laser Type: CO₂ (50W)

Technical Specs

• Laser Power: 50W CO₂
• Working Area: 510 x 300 mm
• Max Cutting Thickness (Acrylic): Up to 10 mm in a single pass
• Enclosure: Fully enclosed Class 1 laser design
• Camera: Built-in high-res positioning camera
• Cooling System: Built-in water cooling
• Software Compatibility: Gweike Cloud, LightBurn
• Connectivity: USB, WiFi, Cloud platform
• Optional Upgrades: Rotary attachment, air purifier, conveyor passthrough

Standout Features

• Professional Power in a Small Frame: The 50W CO₂ laser delivers serious cutting capability, more than enough for most acrylic signage, decor, and product work.
• Camera Alignment & Smart Preview: Say goodbye to awkward repositioning. You can visually drag your design into place using the live-view camera system.
• Built-in Water Cooling & Ventilation: It’s all self-contained. No external chillers or duct-rigging. Just plug in, power up, and go.
• Cloud-Based Workflow: The ability to upload, prep, and cut right from a browser makes this machine a breeze to use in both solo and team workflows.
• Optional Pass-Through Slot: Need to handle long acrylic pieces? Just open up the passthrough for oversized cuts without resizing your design.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths

• Cutting performance rivals bigger machines in a smaller footprint
• Beginner-friendly but pro-capable—ideal for side hustles and creative businesses
• All-in-one build with cooling, camera, and ventilation integrated
• Smart UI and cloud platform make setup and workflow fast and smooth
• Clean, enclosed design perfect for home or studio environments

Weaknesses

• Limited bed size for very large or complex multi-piece projects
• Higher price tag compared to some DIY or hobby-level machines
• Cloud features depend on stable internet for full functionality
• Can struggle with very thick acrylic (above 10 mm)

Conclusion

Remember my first failed attempt at cutting acrylic? That’s a mistake you won’t have to make. With the right laser cutter, you’ll get clean cuts, smooth edges, and perfect results every time.

This guide gives you the best options, expert insights, and key buying tips. Now, it’s your turn to choose the perfect machine for your needs.

Ready to take your projects to the next level?

Contact us today! We’re here to help you make the right choice.