FSL Muse 3D AF 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 | 508 × 305 mm | 600 × 399 mm |
| Max Speed | 30,000 mm/min | 60,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | No |
| Camera | Yes | No |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $4,499 | $6,180 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2015 |
| Weight | 24.5 kg | 141 kg |
Pros & Cons
FSL Muse 3D AF 40W CO2
What we like
- Intel RealSense™ 3D camera for curved/uneven surface engraving
- Motorized autofocus — no manual Z adjustment needed
- Coolbox (air + water cooling) included in bundle
- Browser-based RetinaEngrave v3 — Mac/Linux/Windows
- Removable floor for pass-through engraving
Watch out for
- Same 20×12 in work area as Core
- No published max speed
- Significantly pricier than Core for same work area
- Air assist from Coolbox, not integrated into machine head
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
FSL Muse 3D AF 40W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricRubberPaperGlasscoated metals
Thunder Laser Nova 24
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperGlassRubberStone
The FSL Muse 3D AF 40W CO2 costs $4,499 (27% less) than the Thunder Laser Nova 24, which is priced at $6,180.
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 has 33% more optical power (60W vs 40W).
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 offers a 35% larger work area (600 × 399 mm vs 508 × 305 mm).
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 has a 50% higher maximum speed (60,000 mm/min vs 30,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, FSL Muse 3D AF 40W CO2 includes a camera, while Thunder Laser Nova 24 does not; FSL Muse 3D AF 40W CO2 includes WiFi connectivity, while Thunder Laser Nova 24 does not.