Is CO2 Laser Marking Better Than Fiber For Marking

Whether CO2 laser marking is better than fiber laser marking depends on the material and application requirements. Here’s a detailed comparison:

1. Material Compatibility

• CO2 Laser (10.6 µm wavelength)

• Wood

• Paper

• Acrylic

• Glass

• Plastics (some types)

• Leather

• Rubber

• Best for organic materials:

• Weak on metals (requires special coatings for marking).

Fiber Laser (1.06 µm wavelength)


• Steel, Aluminum, Titanium

• Ceramics

• Some plastics (e.g., ABS, polycarbonate)

• Anodized & coated metals

• Best for metals & hard materials:

• Ineffective on transparent/reflective materials unless treated.

2. Marking Quality & Speed

• CO2 Laser

• Produces high-contrast marks on non-metals.

• Slower on metals (if marked at all).

• Fiber Laser

• Faster & more precise for metals.

• Can do deep engraving and high-contrast annealing marks.

3. Maintenance & Operating Costs

• CO2 Laser

• Requires regular gas refills (CO2 tubes degrade over time).

• Higher power consumption.

• Fiber Laser

• Solid-state design (no gas, minimal maintenance).

• Longer lifespan (~100,000 hours).

4. Which is Better?

• For metals (stainless steel, aluminum, titanium) → Fiber laser is superior.

• For organics (wood, acrylic, glass) → CO2 laser is better.

• For mixed materials → Consider a hybrid or dual-laser system.