Glowforge Plus HD 40W CO2 vs Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2
| Laser | ||
| Type | CO2 Laser | CO2 Laser |
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 10,600 nm |
| Optical Power | 40 W | 45 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 495 × 279 mm | 495 × 279 mm |
| Max Speed | 7,500 mm/min | 8,500 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | No | No |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $6,999 | $7,999 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2024 |
| Weight | 22 kg | 58.5 kg |
Pros & Cons
Glowforge Plus HD 40W CO2
What we like
- 40W CO2 for clean cuts in wood, acrylic, and leather
- HD camera with Preview Mode for precise placement
- Cloud app for zero-config operation
- Full enclosure — safe for home and business
- $1,000 less than the Pro HD
Watch out for
- High price ($6,999)
- No Pro Passthrough — limited to bed depth
- Requires internet — no offline operation
- No LightBurn support
- Subscription costs for premium designs
- CO2 tube will eventually need replacing
Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2
What we like
- Pro Passthrough slot for unlimited material length
- 45W CO2 for excellent cut quality on thick materials
- HD camera with Preview Mode for precise placement
- Cloud app for zero-config operation
- Full enclosure — safe for home and business
Watch out for
- Very high price ($7,999)
- Requires internet — no offline operation
- No LightBurn support
- Subscription costs for premium designs
- CO2 tube will eventually need replacing
Compatible Materials
Glowforge Plus HD 40W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberFoamGlass
Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberFoamGlass
The Glowforge Plus HD 40W CO2 costs $6,999 (13% less) than the Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2, which is priced at $7,999.
The Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2 has 11% more optical power (45W vs 40W).
Both machines share the same work area of 495 × 279 mm.
The Glowforge Pro HD 45W CO2 has a 12% higher maximum speed (8,500 mm/min vs 7,500 mm/min).