Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 vs Thunder Laser Nova 35
| Laser | ||
| Type | CO2 Laser | CO2 Laser |
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 10,600 nm |
| Optical Power | 40 W | 80 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 610 × 305 mm | 900 × 600 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 | $9,230 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2015 |
| Weight | 63 kg | 311 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 35
What we like
- Large 35" × 23" work area handles big production jobs
- 80W–100W power cuts thick wood and acrylic efficiently
- 1,000 mm/s servo speed for fast batch production
- Pass-through door for unlimited-length material
- Includes LightBurn and lifetime US support
Watch out for
- Very heavy at 311 kg — requires freight delivery and forklift
- No built-in camera (optional ThunderCam)
- Price not listed online — requires dealer quote
- Glass CO2 tube needs replacement every 2,000–4,000 hours
Compatible Materials
Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherPaperplasticFabricGlassStone
Thunder Laser Nova 35
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperGlassRubberStone
The Thunder Laser Nova 35 costs $9,230 (8% less) than the Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2, which is priced at $9,995.
The Thunder Laser Nova 35 has 50% more optical power (80W vs 40W).
The Thunder Laser Nova 35 offers a 66% larger work area (900 × 600 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 35 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 35 does not; Epilog Fusion Maker 12 40W CO2 includes WiFi connectivity, while Thunder Laser Nova 35 does not.