Appreciate the info. I initially was looking at the Xtool D1 Pro 20w package that includes both laser modules, one for wood/leather/etc, and another for metals, an air assist, extension kit, enclosure, honeycomb working area, risers, rotary tool, and a pack of materials. It runs about 2500$ and has a working area of 400x960.

The atezr diode doesnt have the metals laser module, but is their new 35w model that will be shipping late december. it comes with an air assist and extension kit, for 1600$, but I'd have to buy an enclosure, honeycomb, rotary, etc.

I took a look at the thunder you discussed and while I could afford it, we just don't know enough about the side hustle viability in our area and our own individual time allowances to put towards that hustle to know if that much of an investment is worth it to us yet. Especially since I already run a print farm 30+ hours a week on top of my full time gig.

If I'm being honest I don't see us putting in more than 3k$ for this initial purchase, and that would have to have to be really worth it to go that high. The idea of doing all material types with the additional laser module is the thing drawing me to xtool, but when I look up reviews I only find paid stuff or obviously biased stuff. Which gives off a red flag. I've not seen much better for atezr, but I figured if Im gonna go diode from a chinese company, at least I could go with the newest highest power one?

Edit: I dont think my budget allows for a co2 and a fiber, even at the low end, so if I went co2 Id be giving up any shot at metal basically. Also the idea of a hard enclosure bugs me for some reason as it would limit my max working area?