Sculpfun states 3,000 mW, then says the C1 cannot engrave bare metal directly and that cutting is not recommended. Few listings at this price are this frank.
Software
Sculpfun Space and LaserGRBL are free. LightBurn is listed as a paid option.
The real cost
A cheap open laser still needs the same protection as a large one. Add eyewear marked for its wavelength and plan where the smoke goes.
Where it earns its place, and where it falls short
Strengths
Lowest price of the lasers here
Tells you what it cannot do
Portable at 2.3 lb
Compromises
Open frame with no enclosure
Only 6 ratings at our reading
Engraving only, in practice
Specifications
Laser output
3,000 mW, stated
Work area
150 × 130 mm (5.9 × 5.1 in)
Safety feature
X and Y limit switches
Software
Sculpfun Space, LaserGRBL, LightBurn (paid)
Limits
No direct engraving of bare metal; cutting not recommended
Weight
2.3 lb
Amazon ASIN
B0FBWSLN5P
Questions makers ask before buying
Can it cut wood?
The listing says cutting is not recommended because of its limited power.
Does it need eyewear?
It is an open laser. This is a laser product. Read the class on the label and the maker’s instructions on eyewear, enclosure and ventilation. This site does not call any setup safe.
Our score
7.8/ 10
A cheap trial, nothing more. It still needs eyewear and fresh air, whatever the price.
This one against the other workshop machines
workshop machines from the same category, at nearby prices. Only what all of them publish is shown: a column with holes compares nothing.
Highest Weight in the table: BlazeX M3 (14.97 lb).
What use this one answers, among workshop machines
A curious beginner who wants to try engraving small items for little money.
Sources
Specifications: the manufacturer sheet for maker machines and tools and the matching Amazon product page. Prices and availability: Keepa. Every figure on this page names its source.
A price quoted in the text of a MakerVerdict page dates from the day that page was written; the live figure beside each product is fetched while you read and replaces it.