Atomstack S20 Pro 20W vs Glowforge Aura
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 445 nm | 450 nm |
| Optical Power | 20 W | 6 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 400 × 400 mm | 305 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 15,000 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 | $699 | $1,199 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Weight | 16 kg | 8.6 kg |
Pros & Cons
Atomstack S20 Pro 20W
What we like
- Enclosed design for safer home operation
- WiFi and USB connectivity
- Air assist included
- 20W for cutting and engraving
- Rotary attachment compatible
Watch out for
- No built-in camera
- Moderate engraving speed
- Heavier than open-frame alternatives
- No autofocus
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
Atomstack S20 Pro 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberStoneMetal Engraving
Glowforge Aura
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
The Atomstack S20 Pro 20W costs $699 (42% less) than the Glowforge Aura, which is priced at $1,199.
The Atomstack S20 Pro 20W has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The Atomstack S20 Pro 20W offers a 42% larger work area (400 × 400 mm vs 305 × 305 mm).
Both machines share the same maximum speed of 15,000 mm/min.
Feature-wise, Atomstack S20 Pro 20W includes air assist, while Glowforge Aura does not; Glowforge Aura includes a camera, while Atomstack S20 Pro 20W does not; Atomstack S20 Pro 20W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Aura does not.