Which laser would you recommend for beginners, for playing with children, and for DIY?
Children 0 to 12 - no laser.
For children older than 12 it is very individual how developed and responsible they are and the adult who will assist.
I have had my âgranddaughterâ with me to the workshop a few times because she has always been very interested in laser technology and art. We made some projects, drew and constructed parts and produced them afterwards with the laser. Always with glasses that fit the laser beam type and hands in the pockets. 
We have always had a fantastic time together and the items that she has made are never thrown away.
ps. start with a cheap diode laser - 10-20 Watts, if you get caught, you can expand afterwards.
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Start out with a 10W output laser, as opposed to 5W, because youâll I grow a 5w in no time. Also, make sure you get one that has air assist. It makes a big difference. Hereâs a link to one that I recommend from a reputable company that does provide reasonable support. Many others donât. Hope this helps. Amazon.com: Longer RAY5 Laser Engraver with Air Assist Kit, 10000mW High-Precision Laser Engraver, Compressed Spot CNC, App Offline Control, DIY Engraving Tool for Metal/Glass/Wood, Class 4.
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Search the forum for various brands. Any where a full compatibility issue with Lightburn is mentioned should be avoided. This usually indicates a proprietary operating system in the laser, meaning they are trying to force you to use only their in-house software.
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Other than size and power, I think your main concern is safety so Air extraction to outside and Safe viewing screen protection (as well as eyeware) in the enclosureâŚwhich may also prevent operation while open.
After safety concerns, a reliable sturdy machine with good manufacturers support and plenty of users to assist with general knowledge. A machine that may become an alternative if you decide to improve your setup.
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Iâve had multiple Atomstack machines and have been happy with all of them.
They offer a nice line of machines to choose from
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Thanks for all the tips. I had a Pixi 10W algolaser for a while, but the device had a fault. I returned it under warranty, so Iâm looking for something else. I no longer trust this companyâs products and am looking for something that will work properly.
No matter who makes it, it is possible to get a defective machine. Nobody makes one with zero defects. The challenge is to find one with the least amount of defective machines. Search the Forum for specific brands and models. You will soon see those that seem to have a lot of hardware issue postings. If you want Plug ân Play, avoid those machines. If you like tinkering with stuff, your choices are limitless.
I have 3 different Sculpfun machines, but that is a biased opinion. I am too old for tinkering anymore. They cost a little more, but there is a reason for that.
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