This Laser Engraver Also Cuts! The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W Review for Beginners

If you're even remotely interested in digital fabrication, chances are you've stumbled across the growing world of laser engravers. These machines are no longer just industrial giants locked away in factories—they've become accessible, affordable, and powerful tools for hobbyists, makers, small businesses, and even complete beginners. One of the most talked-about desktop models right now is the AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W laser engraver, and for good reason: it doesn't just engrave, it also cuts.

I'll walk you through the highlights of the Alpha MK2, based on firsthand testing and what we've seen from real user reviews, including a detailed look at assembly, ease of use, engraving performance, cutting capabilities, safety features, software integration, and overall value. Whether you're brand new to engraving or considering upgrading from a smaller diode laser like the AlgoLaser Pixi, the MK2 deserves your attention.

When the Alpha MK2 20W laser engraverarrives, don't let the number of parts inside the box intimidate you. Yes, it requires assembly, but it's surprisingly straightforward. With the included manual and AlgoLaser's own YouTube assembly videos, even someone who admits they're "not much of a DIY person" can assemble the Alpha MK2 laser engraver quickly and confidently.

The frame is sturdy, the design is clean, and the workspace is generous: 400mm x 400mm. That's a big jump from smaller beginner-friendly engravers like the Pixi, giving you plenty of space to work on larger designs, signage, or multi-piece projects.

The heart of the Alpha MK2 is its 20-watt diode laser module, which puts it in the upper tier of diode engravers. While entry-level 5W or 10W machines are fine for engraving and light cutting, the MK2's 20W laser power means you can engrave faster, cut thicker materials, and achieve higher efficiency.

· Speed: Up to 20,000 mm/min, which is fast for a diode engraver.

· Precision: Multiple motion modes including high pr

· Cutting power: Can cut through 5mm plywood in just

For beginners, this extra headroom is a huge plus. You won't quickly outgrow the machine's capabilities, and you'll have the freedom to experiment with both engraving and cutting.

One feature that sets the Alpha MK2 laser engraver apart at this price point is the inclusion of an air assist pump. Air assist is often reserved for more expensive models, but here it comes standard. It works by blowing a steady stream of air at the engraving or cutting point, which:

· Prevents smoke buildup.

· Keeps cuts cleaner and sharper.

· Reduces the risk of flare-ups.

· Improves cutting efficiency.

The air pump power can be controlled both manually and through the machine's touchscreen interface. For anyone serious about cutting, air assist is practically essential, and the fact that it’s integrated here makes the MK2 a standout.

The Alpha MK2 doesn't use automatic focusing, but it provides a simple focal gauge tool. Place your material, unlock the laser head, insert the gauge, lower the head until it rests on the tool, lock it back, and you're perfectly focused. It's a two-step process that takes seconds, and it's beginner-friendly while still ensuring professional accuracy.

Using a laser engraversafely should be a top prior

· Key lock: Physically locks the machine so no one else can use it.

· Emergency stop button: Instantly kills power if something goes wrong.

· Tilt and vibration sensors: Automatically halt the laser if the machine is bumped or tilted.

· Protective eyewear included: Essential for any diode laser use.

Still, like the reviewer stressed, you should operate this engraver in a ventilated space or, ideally, inside a proper enclosure with fume extraction. Cutting materials like plywood or acrylic produces smoke that you don't want to breathe in.

Turn the machine on, and you're greeted with AlgoOS, AlgoLaser's proprietary operating system. It's refreshingly simple, with clear menus and big icons. Features include:

· Material presets: Just select wood, acrylic, leather, cardboard, rubber, or dozens of other materials, and the engraver sets speed and power automatically.

· Project library: Load files directly from the built-in SD card, a USB stick, or over Wi-Fi.

· Interruption recovery: If power is lost mid-job, the engraver can resume where it left off.

· Multi-language support: Including English, French, and more.

· Wireless updates: Keep your machine's firmware up-to-date.

For a beginner, this means less time fumbling with settings and more time creating.

So, how does it perform? In real-world testing, the Alpha MK2 laser engraver handled engraving on a variety of materials with ease:

· Wood: Plywood, MDF, cherry, birch—clean engravings and smooth cuts.

· Leather: Crisp logos and text, perfect for wallets or custom straps.

· Acrylic: Sharp edges, though opaque or dark-colored acrylic works best.

· Metal (coated or anodized): Great for custom tags or business cards.

· Fabric and denim: Decorative etching for fashion or accessories.

Engraving text, logos, or drawings is straightforward thanks to AlgoOS's built-in design tools, but the real magic comes with importing your own designs. The reviewer showed how easy it was to engrave a custom logo on coated metal or cut through 5mm plywood using LightBurn software.

While AlgoOS is fantastic for beginners, most makers eventually want to level up. That's where LightBurn, the industry-standard engraving software, comes in. The Alpha MK2 connects via USB-C and is fully compatible.

With LightBurn, you gain access to advanced features like:

· Layered cuts and engravings.

· Custom power and speed profiles.

· Node editing for detailed vector designs.

· Image tracing and grayscale engraving.

· Batch job automation.

Even as a beginner, knowing you can grow into LightBurn makes the MK2 a smart long-term investment.

The standout feature here is that the AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 isn't just a laser engraver—it's a cutter too. That means you can move beyond surface decoration into functional fabrication.

Some examples:

· Wooden puzzles or ornaments.

· Acrylic signage or keychains.

· Leather patches or bookmarks.

· Custom enclosures or parts for DIY projects.

In the test video, the reviewer cut through 5mm plywood cleanly with only 3–4 passes at 40% power. At 100% power and with multiple passes, the machine can handle even thicker stock. The key is that you're not limited to engraving surface graphics—you can create finished, usable products.

A quick but important note: even though the Alpha MK2 has built-in safety features, you should never run it unprotected in a small, closed room. Engraving and cutting release fumes, and direct laser exposure is dangerous for eyes.

· Always wear the provided laser safety glasses.

· Use an enclosure or work in a well-ventilated space.

· Keep children and pets away from the work area.

· Never leave the engraver unattended while running.

These aren't just suggestions—they're must-follow rules if you want to engrave safely and enjoyably.

At around €400–€500  Alpha MK2 20W laser engraver lands squarely in the sweet spot of affordability and capability. It's more powerful than most entry-level diode machines but far cheaper and more compact than CO₂ engravers.

For beginners, it offers an easy entry point without quickly hitting performance limits. For hobbyists and small business owners, it's powerful enough to produce sellable products. Add in the bundled air assist, safety features, and AlgoOS's intuitive workflow, and it's hard not to see this as one of the best values in desktop engraving today.

The AlgoLaser Alpha MK2 20W laser engraver is exactly what many hobbyists and small makers have been waiting for. It combines user-friendliness with real cutting power, and it doesn't skimp on the extras like air assist and safety systems.

If you're a beginner, you'll appreciate the simple assembly, material presets, and AlgoOS interface. If you're more advanced, you'll love the LightBurn compatibility, cutting ability, and fine control over power and speed.

Bottom line: this is not just a "toy engraver." It's a serious tool that's approachable enough for newcomers but robust enough for seasoned tinkerers. Whether you want to engrave custom gifts, cut out wooden models, design leather patches, or even start a side business, the Alpha MK2 can do it—and do it well.