Thunder Laser Nova 24 vs Trotec Speedy 50 30W CO2
| Laser | ||
| Type | CO2 Laser | CO2 Laser |
| Wavelength | 10,600 nm | 10,600 nm |
| Optical Power | 60 W | 30 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 600 × 399 mm | 457 × 305 mm |
| Max Speed | 60,000 mm/min | 90,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | No | No |
| Camera | No | No |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $6,180 | $9,995 |
| Release Year | 2015 | 2024 |
| Weight | 141 kg | 53 kg |
Pros & Cons
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
Trotec Speedy 50 30W CO2
What we like
- Professional-grade RF CO2 laser source (maintenance-free, long life)
- Fast for its class — 1.5 m/s, up to 6.5× faster than comparable desktop lasers
- Ruby® software is best-in-class for workflow automation
- CE & FDA compliant, true Class 2 safety enclosure
- Excellent Trotec global service network
Watch out for
- Price is significantly above hobbyist CO2 desktops — quote only
- Single laser power option (30W only)
- No WiFi in standard config (Ethernet only)
- Requires exhaust system (sold separately)
Compatible Materials
Thunder Laser Nova 24
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperGlassRubberStone
Trotec Speedy 50 30W CO2
WoodAcrylicLeatherPaperplasticFabricGlassStone
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 costs $6,180 (38% less) than the Trotec Speedy 50 30W CO2, which is priced at $9,995.
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 has 50% more optical power (60W vs 30W).
The Thunder Laser Nova 24 offers a 42% larger work area (600 × 399 mm vs 457 × 305 mm).
The Trotec Speedy 50 30W CO2 has a 33% higher maximum speed (90,000 mm/min vs 60,000 mm/min).