AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed vs Glowforge Aura
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 455 nm | 450 nm |
| Optical Power | 20 W | 6 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 440 × 415 mm | 305 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 30,000 mm/min | 15,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Manual | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | No |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | No |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | No | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $929 | $1,199 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2023 |
| Weight | 6.5 kg | 8.6 kg |
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed
What we like
- Enclosure improves indoor air/fume containment and safety
- Same touchscreen smart features as the open-frame Alpha MK2
- Better suited to shared/indoor workspaces than the open-frame version
- Automatic air assist included
Watch out for
- Highest-priced 20W Alpha MK2 configuration
- Bulkier and heavier than the open-frame model
- Exact enclosure dimensions not published as text — verify before publishing
Glowforge Aura
What we like
- Easiest setup and operation of any laser — no technical knowledge needed
- Cloud app with automatic material settings
- Built-in camera for precise placement
- Fully enclosed and safe
- Large design library available
Watch out for
- Cloud-dependent — requires internet for every job
- Slower than modern competitors
- Only 6W — limited cutting ability
- Ongoing subscription costs for premium designs
- Not compatible with LightBurn
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed
Glowforge Aura
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed costs $929 (23% less) than the Glowforge Aura, which is priced at $1,199.
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed offers a 49% larger work area (440 × 415 mm vs 305 × 305 mm).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed has a 50% higher maximum speed (30,000 mm/min vs 15,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed includes air assist, while Glowforge Aura does not; Glowforge Aura includes a camera, while AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed does not; AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Smart Enclosed includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Aura does not.