Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 vs Thunder Laser Bolt
| Laser | ||
| Type | CO2 Laser | CO2 Laser |
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 10,600 nm |
| Optical Power | 40 W | 30 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 610 × 305 mm | 508 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 90,000 mm/min | 90,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | No | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | No |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $9,995 | $5,795 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2025 |
| Weight | 63 kg | 77 kg |
Pros & Cons
Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2
What we like
- Lowest-cost entry into Epilog's professional ecosystem
- IRIS™ camera included — precise artwork placement at this price is unusual
- Wireless + Ethernet + USB connectivity standard
- US-made with strong local support network
- Upgrade path within Epilog family
Watch out for
- Slowest in Epilog lineup (60 IPS / 1.5 m/s) — stepper motors, not servo
- Air compressor not included (purchased separately)
- Smallest work area in the Epilog range
- Price is significantly above hobby CO2 desktops at similar specs
Thunder Laser Bolt
What we like
- 1,500 mm/s maximum speed — among the fastest RF CO2 machines
- RF metal tube: 10,000+ hour lifespan vs 2,000–4,000h for glass
- 0.01mm accuracy and 1,200 DPI — exceptional engraving detail
- Fan-cooled — no water chiller needed
- 5MP camera + dual-channel air assist included standard
Watch out for
- Price not published — requires contacting dealer
- Smaller 508×305mm work area than Nova series
- Not ideal for bulk cutting thick materials (30W)
- No WiFi — Ethernet or USB only
Compatible Materials
Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherPaperplasticFabricGlassStone
Thunder Laser Bolt
WoodAcrylicLeatherGlassRubberStoneAnodized Aluminumcoated metalsPaperFabric
The Thunder Laser Bolt costs $5,795 (42% less) than the Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2, which is priced at $9,995.
The Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 has 25% more optical power (40W vs 30W).
The Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 offers a 17% larger work area (610 × 305 mm vs 508 × 305 mm).
Both machines share the same maximum speed of 90,000 mm/min.
Feature-wise, Thunder Laser Bolt includes air assist, while Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 does not; Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 includes WiFi connectivity, while Thunder Laser Bolt does not.