How to Choose Between a 5W UV and a 20W Fiber Laser Engraver

When you’re investing in your first or next laser machine, deciding between a 5W UV laser engraver and a 20W fiber laser engraver can feel like comparing apples to oranges. Both technologies are incredibly capable—but they shine in very different ways. Whether you’re customizing glassware, marking metals, or launching a small laser business, the choice you make can dramatically impact your workflow, materials, and results.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between UV and fiber laser engravers, with a special focus on 5W UV vs. 20W fiber systems. We’ll help you match the right tool to your projects—so you don’t overbuy or underperform.

Understanding the Basics: UV vs. Fiber

Before diving into the wattage, let’s clear up the core technology.

UV Laser Engravers (355 nm): These use short-wavelength ultraviolet light that interacts with materials on a photochemical level. That means less heat, which is great for delicate surfaces.
Fiber Laser Engravers (1064 nm): These operate using a solid-state laser source, producing powerful beams that engrave by thermal interaction. They’re ideal for metals and other high-density materials.

👉 In short: UV = cool and precise. Fiber = hot and strong.

Why Power Ratings Matter — But Not Everything

A 20W fiber laser engraver is not “four times better” than a 5W UV. Wattage impacts speed and depth, but the type of laser determines what materials you’re working with and how clean your results are.

Let’s compare:

Feature	5W UV Laser	20W Fiber Laser Engraver
Best For	Plastics, glass, acrylic, leather, PCBs	Metals (steel, brass, aluminum), anodized materials
Engraving Detail	Extremely fine (spot size ~0.002mm)	Sharp on metal, but larger spot size (~0.01mm)
Thermal Damage	Very low – ideal for delicate surfaces	Moderate to high – can discolor or warp soft materials
Color Engraving	Not applicable	Optional (with MOPA model upgrades)
Cutting Capability	Very limited	Can engrave deep or cut thin metals
Speed	Moderate	Fast for metals

When to Choose a 5W UV Laser Engraver

You should go UV if:

You engrave glass, acrylic, or clear plastics (which fiber lasers can’t touch).
You want pinpoint precision for micro-text, QR codes, logos, or electronics.
You run a business making custom gifts, jewelry, tumblers, or leather products.
You care about no burn marks and perfect edges on sensitive items.

✅ Recommended: ComMarker Omni 1 UV Laser Engraver
With 16K resolution, ZeroBurn™ tech, and compatibility with LightBurn, the Omni 1 is a small-format powerhouse perfect for detailed, multi-material work.

When to Choose a 20W Fiber Laser Engraver

You should go fiber if:

You engrave metal daily (e.g., stainless steel tags, tools, weapons, or serialized parts).
You need faster production and deeper engraving than a UV laser offers.
You want a machine that works with anodized aluminum, brass, copper, and more.
You need a rugged, fast setup for industrial or business use.

✅ Recommended: ComMarker B6 Fiber Laser Engraver (20W)
With 0.01mm precision and ultra-portability, the B6 delivers professional-grade metal engraving in a lightweight, shop-friendly package.

Use Case Scenarios

Here’s what a few typical users might choose:

Maker doing etched wine glasses and leather coasters? → Omni 1 UV
Gunsmith marking steel slides or AR lowers? → B6 Fiber
Small biz customizing tumblers, tags, and wood boxes? → Consider Omni 1 for precision or B6 for speed.
Engraving circuit boards or plastic enclosures? → UV is your best friend.

What About Maintenance and Ease of Use?

UV Lasers: Typically more compact, lighter, and quieter. They need ventilation for materials like acrylic or plastic.
Fiber Lasers: Built tougher for heavy-duty use. They can be louder, and often need more robust electrical and cooling setups.

💡 Both the Omni 1 and B6 come with intuitive software options like LightBurn and EZCAD, and both support rotary attachments for cylindrical engraving.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

For UV Laser Engraving:

If results are faint on glass, double-check focus height and reduce speed.
Ghosting or foggy lines? Improve airflow and add painter’s tape to glass.

For Fiber Laser Engraving:

Uneven depth on metal? Recalibrate Z-height and test hatch spacing.
Discoloration or burn marks? Reduce power or increase frequency.