3D Printer vs Laser Cutter: Which is Better?

by Winnie Li Updated on August 21, 2024

Over the last couple of years, more and more people have opted to work from home and have obtained the “side hustle” mentality. For many of those people, that involves using their artistic abilities to make products that others want to buy utilizing hobby machines such as 3D printers or laser cutters. We call these people “Makers”.

In this article we’ll discuss the differences between 3D printers vs. laser cutters, especially as it relates to running a small business.

In This Article

  • Some Historical Contest about 3D Printing and Laser Cutting
  • 3D Printing vs. Laser Cutting: Definition Comparison
  • Laser Cutters vs. 3D Printers: Which Should I Choose?
  • Conclusion

Some Historical Contest about 3D Printing and Laser Cutting

The internet is full of promises and advertisements for just such “side hustle” makers. These days there is a machine for everything. 

Twenty years ago, if you wanted to be a maker, the technology was either limited to movement along 2 axis, right and left, and backwards and forwards such as in an inkjet printer.

Someone slapped a blade on a 2 axis printer an