What Is the Best Laser Engraver for Tumblers in 2025?

Laser engravers empower crafters and small businesses to create detailed designs on tumblers and other blank crafts. Having the best laser engraver for tumblers can make a significant impact on the overall quality of your crafts.

The type and brand of laser engraver machine you choose also affect engraving speeds, production output, and the level of detail each project can achieve. When comparing laser machines for tumblers, it’s also important to consider their price, features, and how well they align with your business goals. 

This guide will walk you through some of the top laser engravers available in 2025. We will compare the main types of engravers, highlight the best laser engraving machines for beginners and small businesses, and point out which models stand out for performance and value. By the end, you will be able to make an informed decision to select the right laser engraver that fits your goals and unique needs.

Introduction to Laser Engraving

Laser engraving uses a focused laser beam to create permanent, high-quality designs on a wide range of materials. In addition to powder-coated stainless steel tumblers, crafters use laser engraving on wood, plastic, and other surfaces. The engraving process offers tremendous precision in removing or altering the surface layer of a suitable material, resulting in crisp, detailed engravings that stand the test of time.

This crafting medium has long been a popular choice among businesses and individuals to produce personalized gifts, promotional items, and unique designs. With advancements in technology, today’s laser engravers are more accessible and affordable than ever, making it possible for crafters and hobbyists to invest in professional-grade equipment to expand their creative offerings.

Whether you want to engrave tumblers for a special event, create branded merchandise, or offer one-of-a-kind products, laser engraving provides the flexibility and quality to bring your ideas to life.

What Type of Laser Engraving Machine Works Best for Tumblers?

When choosing a laser engraver for tumblers, it’s critical to understand how different types of devices perform on stainless steel and powder-coated surfaces. You need to select a laser machine that's suitable for engraving tumblers. Here are the main types of laser engravers: 

• Fiber Laser Engraver: Some of the best laser engravers for stainless steel tumblers are fiber laser engravers. These engravers create crisp, permanent designs that hold up to daily use. Fiber lasers work quickly and are ideal for small businesses that want consistent, professional-quality engraving results directly on metal surfaces. Still, they may not be a practical choice for those who only want to engrave on powder-coated surfaces, as they primarily excel at engraving metal. 
  
  
• CO₂ Laser Engraver: A CO₂ laser engraver is effective for removing powder coating to expose stainless steel underneath. It is also a versatile option that works with acrylic, wood, or glass. CO₂ laser machines are particularly effective for engraving on cylindrical objects like tumblers, mugs, and cups when used with a compatible rotary attachment. However, they do not engrave directly into raw metal.
  
  
• Diode Laser Engraver: A diode machine is an affordable way to start engraving tumblers, making it an appealing option for beginners. While it can handle powder-coated surfaces, it is slower and less powerful than fiber and CO₂ models. For hobbyists, it is a good introduction, but it may not meet the demands of a busy tumbler business.
  
  
• UV Laser Engraver: UV laser engraver machines provide exceptional detail on plastics and specialty materials, but they are not a suitable choice for stainless steel tumblers. Using a UV laser engraver on a tumbler will yield inconsistent results, and the higher price makes it difficult to justify for most small engraving businesses.

By understanding the strengths and limits of each option, you can choose the type of laser engraver for tumblers that matches your budget and business goals. Now that you understand the basic types, let's unpack specific brands and models that are ideal for laser engraving tumblers.

Best Fiber Laser Engravers for Tumblers

A fiber laser engraver is a top choice for engraving powder-coated tumblers because it produces precise, durable designs that resist fading. In addition to powder coatings, fiber lasers can engrave materials such as metals, plastics, and coated surfaces with high precision, offering versatility if you work with different types of blanks. 

Small businesses and crafters rely on fiber laser engraving machines for consistent, high-quality results, especially for detailed tumbler designs. Here are some of the best fiber laser engravers that excel at producing crisp engravings directly on stainless steel tumbler cups.

xTool F1 Fiber Ultra 20w Laser Engraver

The xTool laser engraver F1 Ultra is a versatile dual-laser system that features both a fiber laser for stainless steel and a diode laser for powder coatings. It can remove coatings on tumblers and engrave directly on stainless steel with fine detail. Its compact design fits smaller workspaces, and it offers fast engraving speeds with excellent accuracy. This model is ideal for crafters and small businesses who want to engrave directly on metal and powder-coated surfaces. 

OMTech 20W Fiber Laser Engraver

The OMTech laser engraver 20W model is a reliable option for beginners and small shops. It offers enough power to mark powder-coated and pretreated stainless steel tumblers efficiently. The machine is compact and features adjustable settings for different project types. Its impressive engraving speed allows for faster processing times and higher productivity. Its balance of affordability and performance makes it perfect for beginners.

ComMarker B6 MOPA Fiber Laser Engraver

The ComMarker B6 MOPA is designed for small businesses and professional users who require precision and speed. It excels at engraving metal surfaces, including stainless steel tumblers. The machine supports rotary attachments, and its rotary axis enables precise, full-surface engraving on cylindrical objects. Automated focusing ensures consistent results, and multiple items can be engraved sequentially using jigs or fixtures. Its compact footprint and user-friendly interface make it a strong choice for high-volume engraving projects.

Quick Picks for Fiber Laser Engravers:

• Most Affordable: OMTech 20W Fiber Laser Engraver – Provides solid performance at a lower price point.
  
  
• Best for High Volume: ComMarker B6 MOPA – Offers speed, precision, and 360-degree engraving with rotary attachments, perfect for shops processing multiple items efficiently.
  
  
• Best All-Around: xTool F1 Ultra Fiber Laser Engraver – Combines flexibility, speed, and quality for various tumbler projects.

Best CO₂ Laser Engravers for Tumblers

When it comes to customizing powder-coated tumblers, a CO₂ laser engraver is a reliable choice. CO₂ laser machines excel at creating high-contrast, permanent designs on powder coatings, anodized aluminum, and painted surfaces, making them ideal for entrepreneurs working with powder-coated tumblers.

OMTech 60W CO₂ Laser Engraver

The OMTech 60W CO₂ Laser Engraver is a popular choice among small businesses because it offers reliable performance while being more affordable compared to other CO₂ laser engravers. The machine comes equipped with an air assist system to enhance engraving quality. The OMTech laser engraver is compatible with various software, offering flexibility for different design needs. OMTech 60W models are also capable of laser cutting and can handle a variety of engraving and cutting tasks.

Glowforge Pro 45W CO₂ Laser Engraver

The Glowforge Pro is known for its ease of use, and its 45W laser tube provides sufficient power for engraving on powder-coated tumblers. It also features an integrated camera system that simplifies design alignment, and its cloud-based software allows for remote operation. While it may not have the same power as some other models, the Glowforge Pro is suitable for businesses focusing on smaller-scale operations or those new to laser engraving.

Boss Laser LS-1420 CO₂ Laser Engraver

The Boss Laser LS-1420 is a versatile machine that offers a 45W CO₂ laser tube, providing ample power for engraving on various materials, including coated tumblers. It features a compact design, making it suitable for small workshops. The machine is compatible with rotary attachments, allowing for engraving on cylindrical items.

xTool P2 CO₂ Laser Cutter & Engraver

The xTool P2 stands out as a top-tier CO₂ laser engraver. Its 55W laser tube offers a large working area and high engraving precision. The built-in camera system aids in aligning designs on cylindrical surfaces, ensuring accurate and consistent results. The xTool P2 is praised for its user-friendly interface and robust build, making it a solid investment for businesses aiming for high-quality engravings.

Quick Picks for CO₂ Laser Engravers:

• Most Affordable: OMTech 60W CO₂ Laser Engraver – Provides reliable performance at a lower price point compared to other CO₂ engravers. 
  
  
• Best for High Volume: Boss Laser LS-1420 CO₂ Laser Cutter and Engraver – Equipped with a 45W laser tube, it provides high-speed engraving up to 1,500 mm/sec and supports 4-way pass-through, ideal for large-scale operations.
  
  
• Best All-Around: xTool P2 55W CO₂ Laser Cutter & Engraver – Combines a powerful 55W laser with a spacious working area and advanced features like dual HD cameras and AutoPassthrough™, offering versatility for various projects.

Best Diode Laser Engravers for Tumblers 

Diode laser engravers offer crafters precision and versatility at a more accessible price point compared to CO₂ and fiber lasers. However, like with CO₂ laser engravers, your tumblers must feature powder coatings for the diode engravers to be effective; most diode models only remove powder coatings rather than engraving metal directly. In addition to powder coatings, diode laser engravers can etch anodized aluminum, expanding the range of customizable drinkware. 

Sculpfun SF-A9

The Sculpfun SF-A9 stands out as a top choice among diode laser engravers and comes in 20W and 40W versions. With a 40W diode laser module, it delivers high-speed, precise engraving. The machine utilizes several diodes to form a single compressed laser beam. Its focused spot size and motion system allow for precision and detail in engraving, making it suitable for intricate designs. Its sturdy mechanical gantry ensures stability during operations. With the optional infrared laser module, the SF-A9 expands its capabilities to metals and certain plastics, making it great for crafters who use various materials.

ATOMSTACK X30 Pro

The ATOMSTACK X30 Pro is one of the most powerful consumer-grade diode laser engravers, offering 33W optical power. It’s built with a stable aluminum frame, fixed-focus module, and enhanced cooling systems, making it suitable for cutting and engraving hard materials, including wood, acrylic, leather, and coated materials. In addition to engraving, the X30 Pro delivers precise cuts, handling various materials efficiently thanks to its high power output. Its robust build and advanced features make it an excellent choice for small businesses seeking efficiency and quality.

Acmer P3 IR & Diode Dual Laser Engraver

The Acmer P3 IR & Diode Dual Laser Engraver offers versatility with its 10W diode laser for cutting powder coatings and a 2W infrared laser for engraving metals. The 10W diode laser can cut a variety of materials such as paper, acrylic, and wood with high precision, while the 2W infrared laser can engrave directly into stainless steel tumblers. Its CoreXY motion structure ensures high-speed operation, and the built-in camera aids in precise positioning.

Quick Picks for Diode Laser Engravers:

• Most Affordable: Sculpfun SF-A9 – Offers high precision and versatility at a budget-friendly price.
  
  
• Best for High Volume: ATOMSTACK X30 Pro – Provides powerful performance and efficiency for high-volume operations.
  
  
• Best All-Around: Acmer P3 IR & Diode Dual Laser Engraver – Provides the most versatility while remaining relatively affordable.

Get the Best Laser-Engraving Blanks Wholesale

In addition to investing in a laser engraver, you need high-quality laser-engraving tumblers to craft stunning custom drinkware. At The Stainless Depot Company, we offer laser-engraving blanks wholesale. Our tumblers are specifically designed for customization, providing a smooth, consistent surface that produces clean engraving results every time.

Why Choose Our Tumblers:

• Engraver-Friendly Coating: Each of our engravable tumblers features a high-quality, powder-coated finish that works perfectly with various types of laser engravers.
  
  
• Variety of Sizes and Styles: We offer numerous sizes, colors, and styles to help you meet your customers’ preferences. We even offer engravable tumblers with removable handles.
  
  
• Wholesale Options: Our wholesale pricing options support crafters and small businesses alike, making it easier to stock up on tumblers without overspending.
  
  
• Durable and Reliable: Each blank is crafted for long-lasting performance, ensuring that it continues looking great after years of use.
  
  

By sourcing your blanks from The Stainless Depot Company, you can focus on creating customized tumblers with confidence, knowing that your materials will support the high-quality output your customers expect.

Laser Engraving FAQs

What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using a Laser Engraver?

Always wear protective eyewear designed for your laser type. Ensure your workspace is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes. Keep flammable materials away from the laser and never leave the machine unattended while it is running. Regularly clean the machine and inspect components for wear or damage.

Can I Use the Same Settings for Coated and Bare Metal Surfaces?

No. Coated and bare metals react differently to laser engraving. Coated surfaces often require lower power and slower speeds to avoid burning or discoloration, while bare metals may need higher power for a visible mark. Always follow your laser engraver manufacturer's instructions for the best results.

How Do I Make a Laser Engraving File?

Create your design in vector-based software such as Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, or Inkscape. Convert text and shapes into vector paths and save the file in a format compatible with your laser software, such as SVG, DXF, or PDF. Make sure to mirror the design if necessary, especially for cylindrical surfaces like tumblers.

Start Your Laser Engraving Journey with The Stainless Depot Company

Choosing the right laser engraver for your tumbler business is essential for producing high-quality, professional designs. Whether you choose a CO₂, fiber, or diode laser, understanding the capabilities of each type will help you find the best fit for your business size, skill level, and production needs. With the right equipment and blanks, you can create customized tumblers that impress customers and keep your business growing.

At The Stainless Depot Company, we provide exceptional engraved tumblers as well as helpful guides for creative entrepreneurs. Be sure to explore our other laser engraving guides, including our overview for how to laser engrave tumblers and the best laser-engraved tumblers, to get practical tips and inspiration for your projects.

Whether you’re just getting started or ready to scale your creative business, we're here to provide guidance and supplies to help you make every tumbler your best work yet.