Glowforge Aura vs Glowforge Spark
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 450 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 6 W | 6 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 305 ร 305 mm | 203 ร 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 15,000 mm/min | 8,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | No | No |
| Rotary Compatible | No | No |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $1,199 | $899 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2024 |
| Weight | 8.6 kg | 4.9 kg |
Pros & Cons
Glowforge Aura
What we like
- Easiest setup and operation of any laser โ 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 โ requires internet for every job
- Slower than modern competitors
- Only 6W โ limited cutting ability
- Ongoing subscription costs for premium designs
- Not compatible with LightBurn
Glowforge Spark
What we like
- Easiest laser to get started with โ ~30-minute setup
- Free Glowforge Print software works on any device (Mac, PC, tablet, phone)
- Built-in camera with live preview for material placement
- Class 1 enclosed โ safe for home and classroom use
- Wide material library with auto-detected settings
Watch out for
- Cloud-dependent โ requires internet for every job
- Small 203ร305mm cutting area for the price
- Only 6W โ limited cut depth and no thick stock
- Subscription costs for premium design catalogue
- Not compatible with LightBurn
Compatible Materials
Glowforge Aura
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
Glowforge Spark
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
The Glowforge Spark costs $899 (25% less) than the Glowforge Aura, which is priced at $1,199.
Both machines share the same 6W optical power rating.
The Glowforge Aura offers a 33% larger work area (305 ร 305 mm vs 203 ร 305 mm).
The Glowforge Aura has a 47% higher maximum speed (15,000 mm/min vs 8,000 mm/min).