Glowforge Aura vs Snapmaker Ray 20W
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 450 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 6 W | 20 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 305 × 305 mm | 400 × 600 mm |
| Max Speed | 15,000 mm/min | 30,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Manual |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | No |
| Air Assist | No | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | No | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | Yes | No |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $1,199 | $1,299 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2023 |
| Weight | 8.6 kg | 14.6 kg |
Pros & Cons
Glowforge Aura
What we like
- Easiest setup and operation of any laser — 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 — requires internet for every job
- Slower than modern competitors
- Only 6W — limited cutting ability
- Ongoing subscription costs for premium designs
- Not compatible with LightBurn
Snapmaker Ray 20W
What we like
- Smart Air Assist pump included in box
- Large 400×600mm work area
- Wi-Fi + USB connectivity
- LightBurn compatible out of the box
- Strong Snapmaker community and ecosystem
Watch out for
- No autofocus (manual focus lever)
- No built-in enclosure (sold separately)
- No camera for material detection
- Lower power than 40W model
Compatible Materials
Glowforge Aura
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
Snapmaker Ray 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperAnodized Aluminum
The Glowforge Aura costs $1,199 (8% less) than the Snapmaker Ray 20W, which is priced at $1,299.
The Snapmaker Ray 20W has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The Snapmaker Ray 20W offers a 61% larger work area (400 × 600 mm vs 305 × 305 mm).
The Snapmaker Ray 20W has a 50% higher maximum speed (30,000 mm/min vs 15,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, Glowforge Aura includes an enclosure, while Snapmaker Ray 20W does not; Snapmaker Ray 20W includes air assist, while Glowforge Aura does not; Glowforge Aura includes a camera, while Snapmaker Ray 20W does not; Snapmaker Ray 20W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Aura does not.