The Glowforge Aura arrives as a compelling option for those seeking to enter the world of laser cutting and engraving. This compact machine strikes a balance between user-friendliness and creative potential. While it lacks the raw power of its larger Glowforge siblings, the Aura packs impressive capabilities into a desktop-friendly size.
This review is aimed at crafters, hobbyists, and even small business owners who want a laser cutter and engraver streamlined for ease of use. If you're intrigued by the idea of transforming wood, leather, acrylic, and more with precision laser technology, the Glowforge Aura could be your gateway into this exciting world.
Throughout this review, we'll delve into the Glowforge Aura's key features, its overall performance, the pros and cons for various use cases, and help you decide if this is the right creative tool for your needs.
Glowforge Aura Review
The Glowforge Aura packs impressive laser cutting and engraving capabilities into a user-friendly, desktop-sized package. If you're a crafter, hobbyist, or small business owner, the Aura shines in bringing your designs to life on wood, leather, acrylic, and more. While less powerful than other Glowforge models, it balances functionality and a welcoming experience for those new to laser cutting.
Key Features and Specifications
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | Approx. 22 in (W) x 20.5 in (D) x 5 in (H) |
| Weight | Approx. 48 lbs |
| Workspace | 19.5 in (W) x 12 in (D) |
| Passthrough Slot | Yes, for working with longer materials |
| Max Material Thickness (Without Tray) | 3/4 inch |
| Max Material Thickness (With Tray) | 1/4 inch |
| Laser Type | Class 1 CO2 Laser |
| Laser Power | 6 watts |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi (2.4GHz only) |
| Camera System | Lid-mounted wide-angle camera for design placement and preview |
| Exhaust | 4-inch exhaust port, venting to the outdoors required |
| Air Filter | Optional, sold separately |
| Price | $999 |
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Browser-Based Design Software | Intuitive Glowforge web-based software compatible with any device |
| Design Tools | Built-in design tools, shape libraries, image tracing, and text options |
| Proofgrade Materials | Glowforge's line of materials with automatic laser settings |
| Material Versatility | Cuts and engraves wood, leather, acrylic, fabric, paper, and more |
| Precision & Detail | Capable of fine details and intricate engravings |
| Ease of Use | Beginner-friendly design and setup |
Cutting and Engraving Capabilities
Maximum Material Size: The Glowforge Aura's cutting bed accommodates materials up to 19.5 inches wide and 12 inches deep. Its unique passthrough slot enables you to work with longer materials by feeding them through the machine.
Cutting Power: The Aura is Glowforge's entry-level model, meaning it has less cutting power than the Glowforge Plus or Pro. It excels at cutting thinner materials like:
- Wood (up to 1/8 inch thick)
- Acrylic (up to 1/8 inch thick)
- Leather
- Fabric
- Paper and cardstock
- Thicker materials may require multiple passes, increasing cut times.
Engraving Abilities: The Glowforge Aura delivers beautifully detailed engravings on a wide variety of materials. Its precision allows for intricate patterns, text, and photorealistic images.
Supported Materials
- Proofgrade Materials: Glowforge offers a curated selection of “Proofgrade” materials. These come pre-tested with settings stored in the Glowforge software. Using Proofgrade materials eliminates the need for manual settings and experimentation, ensuring consistent results.
- Non-Proofgrade Materials: The Aura isn't limited to just Proofgrade materials. You can successfully use a wide range of other materials, but you'll need to determine the optimal speed, power, and focus settings yourself through testing. The Glowforge community is a great resource for finding recommended settings.
Design Software
Overview of Browser-Based Glowforge Software: The Glowforge software is entirely web-based. This means you can access it from any computer, tablet, or even smartphone with an internet connection and compatible browser. There's no need to download or install any separate programs.
Ease of Use: The Glowforge software boasts a user-friendly interface designed with beginners in mind. Features like drag-and-drop functionality, a clear toolbar, and helpful guides make the learning curve very manageable.
Design Tools and Features: The software includes:
- Basic shape tools (squares, circles, lines)
- Text tools with a variety of font options
- Image tracing for turning photos or sketches into cuttable/engraveable designs
- A library of pre-made designs
- The ability to upload and work with your own designs in compatible file formats
Camera System
- Material Preview and Design Placement: The Glowforge Aura has a camera embedded in the lid. This provides a live view of the entire cutting bed, displayed directly within the design software. You can effortlessly position your designs onto the material with incredible accuracy.
- Advantages of the In-Machine Camera: The camera system is a core advantage of the Aura. It enables precision alignment even on irregularly shaped materials. You can avoid wasted material and ensure your project looks exactly as intended.
Optional Air Filter
- Effectiveness in Odor and Fume Reduction: The Glowforge air filter significantly reduces the smell and fumes that are generated during laser cutting and engraving. It's highly effective for maintaining a pleasant and safe indoor workspace.
- Necessity: While the air filter isn't strictly required, it is a very worthwhile investment if you plan to use the Aura frequently, especially in a smaller or poorly ventilated space.
Setting Up and Using the Glowforge Aura
Unboxing and Setup:
Packaging and Included Components: The Glowforge Aura arrives securely packaged to protect it during shipping. Inside the box, you'll find:
- The Glowforge Aura machine
- Power cord
- Exhaust hose
- Sample Proofgrade material
Step-by-Step Setup Ease: Glowforge excels at providing a user-friendly setup process. Clear instructions guide you through:
- Removing protective packaging
- Lifting and placing the machine
- Installing the cutting tray
- Attaching the exhaust hose
- Connecting the power supply
WiFi Connectivity: The Glowforge software will walk you through connecting your Aura to your Wi-Fi network (2.4Ghz band only). Ensure you have a strong signal where your machine is placed.
Creating a Project:
Using Glowforge Design Tools: Once connected, open the Glowforge software in your web browser. Explore the built-in tools:
- Basic shapes (squares, circles, etc.)
- Text options with diverse fonts
- Image tracing to turn raster images (like photos) into laser-ready designs
Uploading Your Own Designs (Supported File Types): Import your creations from design programs. The Glowforge Aura supports:
- SVG
- PNG
- JPG
- And others
Utilizing Proofgrade Materials for Automatic Settings: Proofgrade materials offer the most streamlined experience. Simply scan the barcode, and the software automatically recognizes the material and applies the correct power, speed, and focus settings.
The Cutting and Engraving Process:
- Material Placement and Design Alignment: Open the Aura's lid and position your material on the cutting bed. The built-in camera shows a live preview in the software. Drag and drop your design directly onto your material for perfect placement.
- Noise Level: The Glowforge Aura operates at a moderate noise level. It's comparable to a kitchen appliance or vacuum cleaner. For prolonged use in shared spaces, noise might be a consideration.
- Speed and Precision: The speed of cutting and engraving varies depending on material and design complexity. Expect intricate designs to take longer. The Aura maintains impressive precision thanks to its rigid construction and accurate laser control.
Please note: Proper venting is crucial with laser cutters. Always connect the exhaust hose and route it outdoors whenever operating the Glowforge Aura.
Engraving on Materials and Results
To demonstrate the potential of the Glowforge Aura, let's explore how it performs across different materials:
- Wood (Cutting and Engraving): With wood, the Aura can cut intricate shapes and engrave fine details. Explore adding engraved monograms, patterns, or images to your wood projects.
- Acrylic (Cutting and Engraving): Acrylic cuts cleanly with the Aura, and engravings can have a frosted or textured look. It's ideal for creating eye-catching displays and accessories.
- Leather (Engraving): Leather offers a striking medium for engravings. The Aura can produce images, text, or intricate patterns onto the leather's surface.
- Fabric (Engraving): Fabric engraving produces a subtle, but unique decorative touch. Use it to add text, simple images, or decorative borders to fabric items.
- Paper and Cardstock (Cutting and Engraving): The Aura excels at cutting detailed paper and cardstock with laser precision. Engraving adds an extra dimension, making custom-designed cards extra special.
Level of Detail & Quality
The Glowforge Aura is capable of creating projects with impressive detail and quality. Fine lines, smooth curves, and intricate engravings are possible due to its precise laser control. With some practice and knowledge of different materials, you can achieve professional-looking results.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Cons:
Who Should (and Shouldn't) Buy the Glowforge Aura
Ideal Users:
Not Ideal For:
Important Note: Even if you fall into the “Not Ideal For” categories, it's still worth exploring the entire Glowforge range. It's possible a different model might perfectly suit your needs!
Glowforge Aura vs. Competitors
The Glowforge Aura enters a market where several other compact laser cutters and engravers offer compelling features at various price points. Let's take a brief look at some of its main competitors:
Glowforge Aura vs. xTool M1
Price
- Glowforge Aura: Represents a more significant investment than the xTool M1. However, regular sales and promotions can lower the price gap.
- xTool M1: More budget-friendly, while still offering substantial laser power and features.
Size
- Glowforge Aura: A compact option, designed to fit well on desks and in smaller workspaces.
- xTool M1: Also boasts a desktop-friendly footprint, comparable in size to the Aura.
Features
- Glowforge Aura:
- Focuses on ease-of-use with intuitive software and a seamless camera system for design placement.
- Well-supported by the large and active Glowforge community.
- Optional, but highly recommend air filter for healthier use.
- xTool M1
- Includes both laser cutting/engraving and blade cutting capabilities, expanding project possibilities.
- Powerful machine for the price point, handles a wide range of materials.
- Software less polished and intuitive compared to Glowforge's offering.
Key Considerations
- Ease of Use vs. Versatility: The Glowforge Aura prioritizes a streamlined and beginner-friendly workflow. The xTool M1 offers greater project flexibility due to its blade-cutting function but could present a steeper learning curve.
- Raw Power: The xTool M1 surpasses the Aura in terms of its laser power and ability to cut thicker materials.
- Price: If budget is a major concern, the xTool M1 generally represents a better value proposition.
- Software: Glowforge's web-based software is significantly more polished and user-friendly than the current xTool software offering.
- Community and Support: Glowforge boasts a vast, well-established community of users and excellent support resources. xTool's community is growing but currently smaller.
The Best Choice Depends On:
- Budget-focused users: The xTool M1 is likely a better choice due to its price advantage.
- Users prioritizing ease of use: The Glowforge Aura delivers a smoother experience, especially for beginners.
- Users needing maximum versatility: The xTool M1's blade cutter functionality significantly expands capabilities.
- Those cutting thicker materials: The xTool M1 might be preferable because of its more powerful laser.
Glowforge Aura vs. Glowforge Pro
Price
- Glowforge Aura: The most affordable model in the Glowforge lineup.
- Glowforge Pro: Significantly more expensive than the Aura, reflecting its larger size, increased power, and professional-grade features.
Size
- Glowforge Aura: Compact and desktop-friendly, ideal for limited spaces.
- Glowforge Pro: Substantially larger machine, requiring dedicated workspace. Its passthrough feature enables working with much longer materials.
Features
- Glowforge Aura:
- Intuitive software and camera system for ease of use.
- Handles a wide range of materials, excels at thinner cuts.
- Optional air filter for indoor operation.
- Glowforge Pro:
- Significantly more powerful laser for cutting thicker materials in fewer passes and faster engraving speeds.
- Passthrough slot handles extremely long materials without being restricted by bed size.
- Built-in cooling system for continuous operation in warm environments.
Key Considerations
- Power vs. Compactness: The Aura focuses on a beginner-friendly package within a small footprint. The Pro sacrifices desktop convenience for superior performance and greater material capabilities.
- Material Thickness: The Aura excels with materials up to about 1/4-inch thick. The Pro is ideal for consistently cutting thicker woods, acrylics, and other materials.
- Production Level: The Pro serves users with higher production needs due to its speed and ability to work continuously without overheating.
- Price: The Glowforge Pro costs significantly more, positioning it as an investment for serious entrepreneurs and businesses.
The Best Choice Depends On:
- Space Constraints: If you have limited space, the Aura is the clear winner.
- Material Needs: If your projects often involve thicker materials, the Pro's extra power becomes essential.
- Production: For small-batch or low-volume production, the Aura suffices. The Pro handles higher production, especially for business use.
- Budget: The Aura wins this point, catering to beginners and users with tighter budgets.
Important: There's also the middle-ground option of the Glowforge Plus. It provides a balance of features and power at a price point between the Aura and Pro. Consider it if you want more capabilities than the Aura without venturing into the pro-level pricing.
Glowforge Aura vs. xTool D1 Pro
Price
- Glowforge Aura: Typically a higher priced option than the xTool D1 Pro
- xTool D1 Pro: Provides excellent value for its price point, offering robust features and power
Size
- Glowforge Aura: Compact design for desks and smaller workspaces.
- xTool D1 Pro: While more desktop-friendly than some high-powered laser cutters, the D1 Pro does have a larger footprint than the Aura. Consider your available space.
Features
- Glowforge Aura:
- Prioritizes ease of use, offering simplified software and an integrated camera system for design placement.
- Access to the large Glowforge user community and support base.
- Optional air filter (sold separately) for safer indoor work.
- xTool D1 Pro:
- Powerful laser, exceeding the Aura's cutting and engraving capabilities.
- Can be further expanded with accessories like a rotary attachment for engraving cylindrical objects.
- While functional, xTool's software could be less intuitive than Glowforge's offering.
Key Considerations
- User-Friendliness: Glowforge Aura holds a clear advantage when prioritizing a streamlined, beginner-friendly workflow.
- Power and Versatility: xTool D1 Pro wins with its more powerful laser and the potential for accessories like a rotary attachment for added project types.
- Software Experience: Glowforge's web-based software receives high praise for its ease of use. xTool's software can require a steeper learning curve.
- Price: If budget plays a critical role, the xTool D1 Pro delivers impressive value.
- Support: Glowforge enjoys a vast, well-established community of users and offers strong support resources. xTool's community is growing but currently trails behind.
The Best Choice Depends On:
- Budget: Cost-conscious users will find the xTool D1 Pro highly appealing.
- Comfort with Technology: The Glowforge Aura is more straightforward for those less familiar with laser cutters and related software.
- Material Needs: The xTool D1 Pro handles thicker materials more easily with its powerful laser.
- Project Diversity: If you foresee venturing into engraving with a rotary attachment, the xTool D1 Pro becomes the more expandable option.
Read Also: Why Does My Glowforge Keep Saying Centering
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What materials can I use with my Glowforge Aura? The Glowforge Aura is remarkably versatile! It handles the following materials beautifully:
- Wood: Hardwoods, softwoods, plywood
- Acrylic: Cast and extruded acrylic
- Leather: Various types of leather (natural and some synthetic)
- Fabric: Felt, cotton, and several other fabrics
- Paper and Cardstock: For cutting and engraving
- Proofgrade Materials: Glowforge's pre-tested line with automatic settings.
Remember, you can experiment with other materials not listed here (always with proper ventilation!).
Q: What is the thickest material that Glowforge Aura can cut? The Glowforge Aura excels with materials up to 1/4 inch thick. With the cutting tray removed, you can fit some slightly thicker materials (up to about 3/4 inch). However, thicker materials often require multiple passes, impacting speed and edge quality.
Q: What is the difference between Glowforge Pro, Plus, and Aura? Here's a quick breakdown:
- Aura: Most compact, focused on ease of use, less powerful laser ideal for thinner materials.
- Plus: Mid-range option, increased cutting power, passthrough for longer materials, but still relatively compact.
- Pro: The largest and most powerful model, continuous and rapid operation, for those aiming at production level output.
Read Also: xTool P2 vs Glowforge Pro
Q: Do I need additional software to print with a Glowforge? No! Glowforge features its own web-based design software. Upload your design files (or work within the software itself), and send them directly to your Aura via Wi-Fi.
Q: How much space will a Glowforge Aura take up in my home? The Aura is impressively compact for a laser cutter! You'll need roughly a 22-inch wide by 20.5-inch deep space on a desk or work surface. Ensure room to open the machine's lid fully and comfortably place materials.
Q: How easy is it to get started? Glowforge excels in this area! Setup is guided, the software is intuitive, and there are many resources to help beginners. You can go from unboxing to your first project surprisingly quickly.
Q: How precise is the Glowforge laser? The Glowforge laser offers fantastic precision. Expect intricate details and accurate cutting in your projects.
Q: Can I use the Glowforge Aura outdoors? It's strongly recommended to only use the Glowforge Aura indoors with proper ventilation. Operating it outdoors exposes the delicate machinery to weather, debris, and unstable surfaces.
Q: Is the Glowforge Air Filter Necessary? While not strictly mandatory, the air filter significantly improves your user experience and protects your health. Even cutting natural materials can produce odor and fumes, making the filter essential for indoor use.
Q: Can I cut metal with the Glowforge Aura? The Glowforge Aura cannot cut or engrave metals. Its CO2 laser specializes in organic materials and some plastics.
Q: How noisy is the Glowforge Aura? The Aura operates at a sound level comparable to a kitchen appliance or vacuum cleaner. While not silent, it shouldn't be overly disruptive when in use. However, consider potential noise concerns in quiet or shared spaces.
Q: What's included with my Glowforge Aura purchase? You'll receive the following:
- The Glowforge Aura machine
- Power cord
- Exhaust hose
- Sample Proofgrade material
- Setup instructions
Conclusion
The Glowforge Aura offers a compelling entry point into the world of laser cutting and engraving. Its compact size, exceptional user-friendliness, and capable laser make it an attractive option for a wide range of users. Although less powerful than its larger siblings, the Aura produces clean cuts and detailed engravings on various popular materials. The user-centric software and seamless camera system truly streamline the creative process.
Ultimately, whether the Glowforge Aura is a worthwhile investment depends on your individual needs and goals:
The Glowforge Aura is, without a doubt, a well-designed and highly accessible laser cutter and engraver. If its blend of compactness, user-friendliness, and creative potential aligns with your aspirations, it can be an exceptionally rewarding tool.
Have you experimented with the Glowforge Aura? Share your own thoughts and experiences in the comments below! To discover even more about the Glowforge Aura's capabilities, be sure to visit the official Glowforge website.
Overall: The Glowforge Aura earns its place as a highly accessible and enjoyable creative tool. Although pricier, its seamless experience often justifies the investment. If you value ease of use, want to create detailed projects, and have limited space, the Glowforge Aura should top your list.
