AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W vs Glowforge Spark
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 450 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 20 W | 6 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 400 × 410 mm | 203 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 30,000 mm/min | 8,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Manual | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | No | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | No |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | No |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | No | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $629 | $899 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Weight | 6.5 kg | 4.9 kg |
Pros & Cons
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W
What we like
- Touchscreen + app control, no PC required for basic jobs
- Automatic air assist included standard
- Rotary and enclosure accessories available
- LightBurn compatible
Watch out for
- Open frame by default — enclosure sold as a separate SKU
- 20W limits cutting depth vs the 40W variant
Glowforge Spark
What we like
- Easiest laser to get started with — ~30-minute setup
- Free Glowforge Print software works on any device (Mac, PC, tablet, phone)
- Built-in camera with live preview for material placement
- Class 1 enclosed — safe for home and classroom use
- Wide material library with auto-detected settings
Watch out for
- Cloud-dependent — requires internet for every job
- Small 203×305mm cutting area for the price
- Only 6W — limited cut depth and no thick stock
- Subscription costs for premium design catalogue
- Not compatible with LightBurn
Compatible Materials
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubber
Glowforge Spark
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W costs $629 (30% less) than the Glowforge Spark, which is priced at $899.
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W offers a 62% larger work area (400 × 410 mm vs 203 × 305 mm).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W has a 73% higher maximum speed (30,000 mm/min vs 8,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, Glowforge Spark includes an enclosure, while AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W does not; AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W includes air assist, while Glowforge Spark does not; Glowforge Spark includes a camera, while AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W does not; AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Spark does not.