Verdict
A desktop CO2 that undercuts Glowforge by thousands with a larger bed and LightBurn support. Maker Hacks notes it has no autofocus. Compare it with the xTool P2S, which costs a bit more and adds autofocus and faster motion.
Buy it for
- A first CO2 on a budget
- LightBurn users
- Engraving glass and clear acrylic
Skip it if
- You want autofocus
- You need fast production speeds
What it can do, material by material
Based on the laser types it carries. "With coating" means only with marking spray, a coated surface or light marks. Always test on scrap first.
Wood & plywoodCuts
Clear acrylicCuts
Dark acrylicCuts
LeatherCuts
Paper & cardCuts
GlassEngraves
Slate & stoneEngraves
Anodized aluminumEngraves
Stainless steelWith coating
Brass, copper, raw aluminumNo
ABS & colored plasticsEngraves
Specifications
- Lasers
- 50 W CO2
- Motion
- Gantry (moving head)
- Working area
- 510 x 300 mm (20.1 x 11.8 in)
- Max speed
- 500 mm/s
- Wood cut
- 10 mm (plywood and basswood)
- Acrylic cut
- 10 mm (acrylic)
- Enclosure
- Fully enclosed
- Autofocus
- No (manual)
- Camera
- 5 MP fisheye camera
- Status
- Current (with newer Polar Lite 55W)
Compare and alternatives
Not sure this is the right type of laser? Try the laser finder: pick your material and thickness and it lists the machines that can do the job.
Sources
Specs and prices checked November 4, 2026. Prices change often; confirm before you buy.
FAQ
What lasers does the OMTech Polar 50W have?
50 W CO2.
How big is the OMTech Polar 50W working area?
510 x 300 mm (20.1 x 11.8 in).
How thick can the OMTech Polar 50W cut?
Up to 10 mm of wood (plywood and basswood) and 10 mm of acrylic (acrylic).