Acmer S1 Laser Engraver vs Genmitsu Kortek 10W Laser Engraver

The Genmitsu Kortek 10W is the stronger pick for most shoppers: five times the optical power, a Class 1 enclosure with tilt-stop and an emergency switch, and app control from a phone. The Acmer S1 is a tiny 3.5W open-frame unit with a 130x130mm work area, so it suits small, detailed jobs on wood, leather and coated metal rather than cutting. Owner feedback on the Acmer is mixed at 3.9 out of 5, and the Genmitsu's 10W diode cuts up to 8mm plywood where the S1 mostly marks and engraves.

• Choose the Acmer S1 if you want a small, light engraver for detailed marking on wood, leather, acrylic and coated metal, and you have limited bench space.
• Choose the Genmitsu Kortek 10W if you plan to cut as well as engrave, want an enclosed Class 1 machine, and want phone control.