Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 vs Thunder Laser Nova 24
| Laser | ||
| Type | CO2 Laser | CO2 Laser |
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 10,600 nm |
| Optical Power | 40 W | 60 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 610 × 305 mm | 600 × 399 mm |
| Max Speed | 90,000 mm/min | 60,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | No | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | No |
| Camera | Yes | No |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $9,995 | $6,180 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2015 |
| Weight | 63 kg | 141 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 Nova 24
What we like
- Fast 1,000 mm/s hybrid servo motors — outpaces many competitors
- Includes LightBurn software (2 licenses) and CW5000 chiller
- Excellent US-based support from Thunder Laser USA
- Pass-through door for oversized material
- Strong community and extensive knowledge base
Watch out for
- Requires water chiller (adds setup complexity)
- No built-in camera (ThunderCam sold separately)
- Heavy at 141 kg — needs permanent placement
- Glass CO2 tube lifespan 2,000–4,000 hours vs RF metal tubes
Compatible Materials
Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherPaperplasticFabricGlassStone
Thunder Laser Nova 24
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperGlassRubberStone
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 costs $6,180 (38% less) than the Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2, which is priced at $9,995.
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 has 33% more optical power (60W vs 40W).
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 offers a 22% larger work area (600 × 399 mm vs 610 × 305 mm).
The Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 has a 33% higher maximum speed (90,000 mm/min vs 60,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, Thunder Laser Nova 24 includes air assist, while Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 does not; Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 includes a camera, while Thunder Laser Nova 24 does not; Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 includes WiFi connectivity, while Thunder Laser Nova 24 does not.