Glowforge Pro HD Laser Cutter and Engraver Machine with 45W CO2 Laser - Ultimate Power Laser Engraver with Cooling for Fast Laser Engraving on Wood, Leather, Metal, and Stone

Upgrading to the Glowforge Pro HD was easily one of the best decisions I've made for my crafting and small business ventures. I initially started with the Aura, and while it's an excellent laser for casual crafting, I quickly realized I needed the power and flexibility of a CO2 laser, especially for cutting clear and white acrylic, thicker materials, and expanding into more diverse projects.The Pro HD setup was incredibly straightforward—just plug it in, connect to Wi-Fi, and the machine walks you through the rest. It took less than 30 minutes from unpacking to my first cut. The larger workspace and pass-through slot opened up possibilities I hadn't even considered before, such as creating oversized decor and signage.Safety and indoor usability were big concerns since I don’t have a garage, and the Pro HD exceeded my expectations. It has built-in safety sensors, sturdy construction, and feels very secure. Although it’s louder than the Aura, it's notably quieter than other professional-grade lasers I've encountered. I’ve read about adding an inline fan for further noise reduction and plan to try that next.The biggest benefit, aside from increased material versatility, is the Pro HD's speed and power. It effortlessly handles thicker materials like hardwoods, acrylics, and even leather, providing precise cuts and stunning engravings. Proofgrade materials are still my go-to for consistency and ease of use, but the Pro HD also performs impressively with other materials.After upgrading, I’ve started selling laser-cut jewelry online and at local markets. The response has been phenomenal, and I'm already on track to pay off the machine within a few months—this laser has literally transformed my side hobby into a profitable side business.Bottom line: If you're serious about crafting, considering turning your hobby into income, or just want professional-level results, the Glowforge Pro HD is absolutely worth the investment. Highly recommend!

I loved this until it quit working. I bought the pro version which should be able to be used daily. I only bought the pro so I could have the pass thru slot to cut larger items. I have only used it a handful of times this year and the laser no longer lights up. I have only had it 2 and a half years. I use it at a craft rate and not that often. For the price it should last much longer than what I got out of it. Now I have to wait for a quote to repair it or I am offered 40% off a new one if I return it. Really? I can not spend that much more on a new one. Should have known they weren’t built to last past their warranty. And they won’t tell you how many hours you’ve used it even tho they can track that. Laser does not last as long as they claim for sure especially since they won’t share the hours used information.

I made the decision to upgrade from a Cricut to the Glowforge Pro HD, and I’m blown away. The quality, speed, and detail are next-level. I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I made the switch. I was a little intimidated at first, but the software is super easy to use and made the transition way smoother than I expected. It’s opened up so many creative possibilities, and I’m having more fun than ever. Honestly, I wish I had just bought a laser to start.

Upgrading was the best decision I could have made! I originally got the Aura and it worked great, but I quickly realized I wanted to be able to use a wider variety of materials like clear acrylic and should have gotten a CO2 laser instead of the diode. I found out about the Pro HD on one of Glowforge’s Daydream to Dream Job videos and knew that’s what I needed but it was definitely more money than I intended to spend up front. I ended up using one of the manufacturer’s financing options and giving my Aura to my mom, who is having a blast with it. I’ve been having so much fun making projects with the Pro HD that I decided to start making jewelry and selling it and can already tell I’m going to pay this machine off in just a few months. (I’m making almost as much money as I make at my actual job.) It is louder than I’d like but quieter than other lasers I’ve seen and I like that I use it inside since I don’t have a garage. I’ve read a certain type of fan might help with the noise.