Snapmaker has opened preorders for 20W and 40W laser modules that serve as significant upgrades to those on existing Snapmaker machines.

Pop on a 40W module, Snapmaker says, and you’ll be able to cut through 15 mm of basswood plywood at 20 mm/s in one pass. Using the 20W, you’ll cut through 10 mm at 10 mm/s. That’s quite a bit more than the Artisan and Snapmaker 2.0 – both of which are compatible with the new modules, and which feature 1.6W and 10W modules respectively. The only caveat is there’s no camera, like the one on the 10W unit.

Power and speed aren’t the only focal points here. Both modules feature “smart” air assist, helping to keep the laser lens clean and blow fumes away to prevent charring. Users can control the feature via Luban, Snapmaker’s free, open-source CAM software. This will allow them to apply air assist only on cutting layers for parts that are being both cut and engraved, as well as access a range of laser material profiles.

Additionally, a “focus lever” enables easier laser calibration, with users releasing the lever and manually moving the toolhead down until the lever touches the material. There’s also an autofocus setting on Snapmaker’s machines that runs according to material thickness. Rounding things out are a laser safety shield, as well as orientation detection, which uses a gyro sensor to ensure the module is installed correctly and stays in place.

Given that the new lasers are compatible with Snapmaker’s older machine, the Snapmer 2.0, the manufacturer’s dedication to both modularity and continued support is notable. The Snapmaker 2.0 is over four years old now – a commendable amount of support time from a consumer standpoint. In addition to the 2.0 and the Snapmaker Artisan, the modules are also compatible with the Snapmaker Ray series, the Ray Laser Engraver and Cutter, and various other modules for the OEM’s machines.

Snapmaker’s laser modules are up for preorder on Snapmaker’s website, with a discount currently bringing the 20W version down to $499 and the 40W to $899. Anyone who has purchased a Snapmaker 2.0 or Artisan before July 24 will receive an extra 10% off. Depending on what you order, estimated delivery times range between late October and late December.

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