AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W vs Glowforge Aura
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 450 nm | 450 nm |
| Optical Power | 40 W | 6 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 400 × 386 mm | 305 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 20,000 mm/min | 15,000 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 | $899 | $1,199 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2023 |
| Weight | 8.4 kg | 8.6 kg |
Pros & Cons
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W
What we like
- Cuts thicker material than the 20W Alpha MK2 in fewer passes
- Same touchscreen platform as the rest of the Alpha MK2 line
- Rotary and enclosure accessories available
- Automatic air assist included
Watch out for
- Open frame by default — enclosure sold separately
- Higher price than the 20W variant
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
Compatible Materials
AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubber
Glowforge Aura
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W costs $899 (25% less) than the Glowforge Aura, which is priced at $1,199.
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W has 85% more optical power (40W vs 6W).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W offers a 40% larger work area (400 × 386 mm vs 305 × 305 mm).
The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W has a 25% higher maximum speed (20,000 mm/min vs 15,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, Glowforge Aura includes an enclosure, while AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W does not; AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W includes air assist, while Glowforge Aura does not; Glowforge Aura includes a camera, while AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W does not; AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 40W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Aura does not.