Laser cutting machine buyer's guide
Eight chapters, written the way an application engineer would explain them: what to decide, in which order, and which numbers to ask suppliers for. No sign-up needed.
In short: decide by the parts you cut, not by the brochure. Start from your thickness mix, choose power and gas for it, check that your site and budget fit, then compare suppliers on written service commitments.
What power fiber laser do I need? (6–40 kW)
Choose laser power by the thickness range you cut every day and the throughput you need on thin and medium sheet — not by the thickest plate you cut once a month. Extra…
Read chapter 1 →02Nitrogen vs oxygen laser cutting — and when to use air
Use oxygen for thick carbon steel when an oxidised edge is acceptable, nitrogen when you need an oxide-free edge on stainless, aluminium or parts that will be welded or…
Read chapter 2 →03Fiber laser power requirements, floor space and installation
Plan the site before you order: floor space for the machine plus loading, automation and maintenance access; a foundation suitable for the bed; an electrical supply…
Read chapter 3 →04Laser cutting cost per hour: how to calculate it
Cost per machine hour is electricity + assist gas + consumables + labour + maintenance + depreciation. Every input can be measured or quoted, so calculate it with your…
Read chapter 4 →05Is automatic loading worth it?
Automation pays when the laser regularly waits for people: high-power machines cutting thin and medium sheet, two or more shifts, frequent material changes, or labour…
Read chapter 5 →06Laser cutting machine service and support: how to compare
Compare service on written, measurable commitments — response times, spare-parts dispatch, engineer coverage in your country, remote diagnostics and the warranty terms…
Read chapter 6 →07Chinese vs European laser cutting machines: an honest comparison
European premium brands lead on process software, automation integration and dense local service networks, and are priced accordingly. Chinese-built machines offer high…
Read chapter 7 →08Fiber laser cutting machine price 2026: how much does a fiber laser cutter cost?
A new fiber laser cutting machine costs from about USD 15,000 (basic low-power import, machine only) to over USD 500,000 (high-power, fully automated systems).…
Read chapter 8 →Tools that go with the guide
About this guide
How do I choose a fiber laser cutting machine?
Decide in this order: the materials and thickness range you cut most, the laser power that cuts that range fast enough, bed size, assist gas, automation, site requirements, after-sales service and finally budget. Each chapter of this guide covers one step.
Do I need to give my email to read this guide?
No. Every chapter is open to read. Use the calculator and test-cut request only if they help you.
Questions this guide does not answer?
Send us your parts and site details; an application engineer replies with a configuration.