The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 tried the impossible and succeeded!
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Introductory
The technology of laser engraving and cutting has developed rapidly in recent years and is now available not only in industrial environments, but also for home users. AlgoLaser, an emerging company in the field of laser technology, has just introduced its latest model, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2, which offers a wide range of solutions for laser machining from hobby users to small businesses.
The manufacturer is barely a year old, but I wouldn't be particularly worried about that, since its founder is also one of the original founders of the extremely well-known Ortur.
The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is a versatile tool suitable for engraving and cutting wood, leather, acrylic and many other materials. Its field of use is extremely wide: it can be used to make personalized souvenirs, unique decorations, products with a company logo, or even prototypes. The machine has a 10 watt laser source, which provides enough power for most home and small industrial uses.
Although AlgoLaser is a relatively new player on the market, it is quickly building its reputation with its innovative and user-friendly solutions. The company's philosophy is to make cutting-edge technology available to a wider audience while not compromising on quality and safety. The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 embodies this philosophy, combining an affordable price with advanced features.
The market for laser engravers has undergone significant development in recent years. The technology, which was once intended exclusively for industrial use, is now also available in a compact, desktop version. The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 fits into this trend, offering a solution that does not require special expertise or an industrial environment to use. Actually, this matter is much more complex than this, but I will try to explain this in more detail in the experience chapter.
A special feature of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 and several AlgoLaser machines is the built-in, self-developed AlgoOS operating system, which simplifies the operation of the machine. This system allows even complete beginners to quickly learn the basics of laser engraving and implement complex projects. The built-in touch screen and WiFi connection further increase the usability and flexibility of the machine.
Safety was a key consideration when designing the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2. The machine has many safety features, including an emergency stop button and a safety key. These features allow users to work with the machine with peace of mind, knowing that their safety is guaranteed.
Overall, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is an exciting new entrant to the hobby and small business laser engraver market. In the following, I will examine the features, specifications and performance of the machine in detail to give you a comprehensive picture of this promising device.
External and connectors
The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is an absolutely compact and modern looking laser engraving machine. The black and red color combination of the device creates a striking, particularly showy, quality effect even at first glance. The dimensions of the machine are 668,5 mm x 601,5 mm x 178 mm, which allows it to fit on even a medium-sized desk or workbench. The entire structure weighs only 4,74 kg, making it extremely easy to move and transport.
The frame structure of the machine consists of aluminum profiles, which are common in DIY machines, which ensure stability and accuracy during operation. Assembly is a relatively simple process, which emphasizes the DIY (Do It Yourself) nature. I will write a few sentences about installation in the next chapter. The moving parts of the machine run on V-profile rollers, the adjustment of which, as with all such machines, is critical for accurate operation.
The laser head is the most important part of the machine, it contains a 10 watt diode laser. A particularly practical feature is that the safety cover of the laser head is magnetically fixed, so it can be easily removed when adjusting the workpiece or cleaning the laser head. The height of the laser head can be adjusted in the usual way with adjustment screws. This solution is not the most modern, it can also be somewhat cumbersome during frequent use, but the point is that it enables precise adjustment.
The machine's control unit includes the 3,5-inch IPS capacitive touch screen, behind which we find the hardware that runs the AlgoOS operating system. This screen is used to change machine settings and control operations. The main connectors and safety elements are also located on the control unit.
In terms of connectors, the machine offers several options. It has a USB-A port that allows you to connect a USB flash drive for direct loading of design files. There is also a USB-C port for direct connection to a computer. The machine is also equipped with a WiFi antenna, which enables wireless control.
Safety has apparently been given a prominent role in the design of the device. The machine has an emergency stop button, which stops the operation immediately if necessary. In addition, there is a safety key that can be removed in two positions, thus preventing unauthorized use of the machine. There are rubber feet on the bottom of the machine, which not only serve as anti-slip, but also provide an opportunity to fix the machine to the work surface.
The work area measures 400mm x 435mm, providing enough space for most hobby and small business projects. An air-cooled auxiliary pump can be optionally ordered for the machine, which improves the cutting performance and the cleanliness of the work area. The machine is compatible with accessories offered by the manufacturer, such as a closed cover or rotary axis engraving unit.
Assembly
Assembly in the video at the beginning of the article!
The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2, as the name suggests, comes in the form of an assembly kit. The manufacturer placed great emphasis on making the assembly process as simple as possible, so that even novice users can easily assemble the machine.
The assembly instructions included in the package are of exceptionally high quality, although the texts in the pictures are not very large, so it was somewhat problematic for me, with reading glasses, to lick the texts here and there. In any case, the document contains clear, easy-to-understand, easy-to-interpret images, which are complemented by useful notes and guides. This actually makes the assembly process easier and minimizes the potential for errors.
Assembling the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is a relatively simple process, requiring only a few screws to fit the parts together. The frame consists of aluminum profiles that are attached to each other by corners. The moving parts, such as the gantry (the supporting structure of the laser head), come already pre-assembled, which greatly simplifies the process.
What should you pay attention to during installation?
The screws at the corners of the frame go through the legs, essentially the leg is what arranges the aluminum profiles in the right position. This is a great relief, as the end result will be a precisely assembled frame even without special attention. I recommend not tightening the screws until the frame is fully assembled. In this case, place the structure on a guaranteed flat surface so that the legs lie neatly on the table, and tighten the fixing screws firmly in this position.
Also make sure that the rib belts are properly tensioned. If you put the belts in place with insufficient tension, the gear that moves the laser head's supporting structure may skip a tooth during operation, and in this case the cutting and engraving will be inaccurate.
When you are done with the assembly, there is another important step, adjusting the tension of the V-rollers. This can be done by adjusting the eccentric nuts, which requires the small spanner included in the package. Correct adjustment is critical to the correct operation of the machine and the manual provides detailed instructions on how to check and adjust this. This method is as follows: after installing the laser head, the machine must be tilted at an angle of 45 degrees. If the gantry slides down smoothly, the adjustment is correct. If it slides too fast, it's too loose, and if it doesn't move, the adjustment is too tight.
Specification
Let's quickly run through the raw factory data so that I can finally start presenting the machine from the point of view of use. This will be the experiences section below, which will be preceded by a shorter section about the self-developed AlgoOS operating system. Let's see the specification then!
The AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is therefore an engraving and cutting machine equipped with a 10-watt diode laser. This laser source emits blue light with a wavelength of 455 ± 5 nm, which is ideal for machining many materials. The focal point of the laser is extremely small, measuring only 0,05 x 0,1 mm, which enables extremely detailed engraving and precise cutting.
The working area of the machine is 400 mm x 435 mm, which provides enough space for most hobby and small industrial projects. Moreover, this size is actually above average, since most similar machines have a useful working area of less than 400 x 400 millimeters. The maximum working speed of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is 12000 mm/min, which enables fast processing, and this will come in handy especially when engraving larger surfaces. According to the manufacturer, the lifetime of the laser head exceeds 10 hours, which ensures long-term use. Of course, I wasn't able to try this during the test, but based on my experience with similar heads, it's easily in the deck that it really can do this much.
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is compatible with many file formats including jpg, svg, png, bmp, G-code and dwg. This versatility allows users to create patterns to be engraved or cut using different design software. The machine supports Android, iOS, iPad, Windows and macOS operating systems, so it can be controlled from virtually any device.
For control, it uses AlgoLaser's proprietary AlgoOS operating system, which can be operated via a 3,5-inch IPS capacitive touch screen. In addition, the machine is compatible with popular laser control software such as Lightburn or LaserGRBL, which further increases the possibilities of use.
The machine is powered by a power supply with an input voltage of 100-240V, 50/60Hz, which provides an output voltage of 24V 4A (maximum 6A). This universal power supply allows the machine to be used in different countries and on different electrical networks.
In terms of safety, the DIY KIT MK2 complies with many international standards, including FCC, CE, RoHS and FDA. It is also UL listed and complies with IEC60825-1 and IEC60825-4 standards for laser safety.
The machine can engrave and cut many materials. Materials that can be cut include various types of wood (except high oil or resinous woods), plywood, MDF, cardboard, corrugated paper, acrylic, cork, polycarbonate, Depron foam, non-woven fabrics, bamboo and leather. The list of materials that can be engraved is even wider and includes glass, ceramic, tile, aluminum oxide, stainless steel, coated metals and dark stones.
AlgoOS, so is it the best software?
Software operation in the video at the beginning of the article!
When I was asked to test the machine, they drew my attention to the soul of the machine, the AlgoOS, and the touch-sensitive display belonging to the machine. I will describe why in the next chapter, now the main thing is to try to summarize what this system is like, why it is good, what it can be used for. After that, the experiences will really come!
The AlgoOS operating system is therefore the soul of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2, which uniquely combines a user-friendly interface with advanced functions. This system enables the machine to operate independently even without a computer, which significantly increases the possibilities of use.
The system's user interface is accessed via a 3,5-inch IPS capacitive touch screen. This screen is extremely responsive, reacting to the user's touch immediately and very well, which allows for smooth and intuitive handling. The user interface of AlgoOS is clean and minimal, but similar to that of a modern smartphone, which makes navigation easier and reduces learning time.
The main menu has a clear layout, important status information is immediately visible here, such as the status of the WiFi connection, the presence of the USB device, or the availability of the SD card. The system also has built-in memory, which provides approximately 7 GB of free storage space for user projects. According to my experience, this will be enough for almost everything.
One of the outstanding features of AlgoOS, and surprising to me, is the built-in project library. It includes a number of pre-made patterns that users can immediately use for engraving or cutting. This will be especially useful for novice users, who can quickly start working with the machine without having to create their own designs. The feeling of success is coming soon!
In my experience, managing projects is extremely easy. Users can choose from built-in patterns, load files from a USB flash drive, or use the machine's internal memory. The system is even able to show a preview of the selected project, which can help you avoid mistakes and position the workpiece more precisely.
AlgoOS enables precise control of the machine's movement. Users can choose from different increments (0,1mm, 1mm, 10mm) and can also adjust the speed of movement. The system also supports the recording of the machine zero point (homing) and the framing of the workpiece, which helps in precise positioning.
One of the extremely useful functions of the software is the "Again" button, which enables serial production. This can be especially useful for small businesses that want to manufacture identical products.
AlgoOS has a built-in self-check function that gives you a complete overview of the machine's health in a minute. This includes checking the emergency stop button, safety key, laser, air pump, LCD display and SD card.
The system supports WiFi connection, which enables wireless control. Setting up WiFi is as easy as on a smartphone - just enter the password and the machine will connect to the network.
One of AlgoOS' outstanding, though not unusual, security features is crash recovery. If engraving or cutting is interrupted for some reason (for example, due to a power failure), the machine can resume work exactly where it left off. This significantly reduces material loss and saves time.
The system also supports firmware updates. These updates can be installed with a single tap, ensuring that the user is always working with the latest and most powerful version. AlgoOS also offers multilingual support, enabling global use. The system is available in 17 different languages, not including Hungarian. Keep English or German, or maybe something else that is dear to your heart and you speak it.
Based on my experience, AlgoOS is extremely user-friendly and easy to use. The system is really very responsive, the menus are structured absolutely logically, and the functions are easily accessible. In particular, I have to praise the built-in sample library and the "Again" function, which make the work much easier and faster. I was mostly happy with the latter, as it happens that I make a few dozen smaller objects, but completely identical objects, so I don't have to reload and calibrate the process every time.
Overall, then, AlgoOS is a sophisticated yet easy-to-use operating system that significantly contributes to the versatility and user-friendliness of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2. The system is suitable for both novice and experienced users and offers a number of features that make laser engraving and cutting easier and more efficient.
Experiences
Ok, so here we are at the penultimate paragraph, experiences. First, I will run through the specific experiences, then I will write a summary opinion!
Assembly and setup of AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2:
While unpacking, I noticed how good the materials are and how well designed the machine is. Although I faced the usual aluminum profile solution, the head moving bridge, the fixing of the rollers and many other small things showed that although Algolaser is a new company, this machine is no longer the first machine of the person who designed it.
As I wrote above, the assembly of the machine turned out to be relatively simple. The manual provided by the manufacturer is of exceptionally high quality, with clear and understandable images and useful notes. This made the assembly process much easier. The parts fit together perfectly and really only required a few screws to assemble.
What didn't you like? Well, there was some, though not much. The first is that compared to machines with hidden wiring, this DIY design is still quite inexpensive, at least because of the cables. Ortur machines already have a cable guiding "chain", the cable whip can be threaded into it so that the strings do not get caught in anything during operation. Well, in the case of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2, there is no such thing, so you have to be very careful during use so that the cable does not get stuck.
the other thing I didn't like was the material of the tube that carries air to the head. This is a rigid plastic tube, while almost all manufacturers use a more usable, more flexible rubber tube. I understand that this plastic pipe has advantages due to the smaller wall thickness (more air can be transferred in a unit of time), but its stiffness kills all positive thoughts. I recommend that you get a rubber tube, I found one with an external size that will fit the tube stub of the laser head.
Performance of AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2:
The power of the 10 watt laser meets the specifications. Of course, I couldn't measure this, but since I have several 10-watt lasers at home and have worked with them, I have some basis for comparison. In the cutting and engraving tests, the machine performed well, but not exceptionally well. The cutting speeds are comparable to other machines in a similar category. According to my measurement, at 90% power, the machine was able to cut at a speed of 411 mm/min, which is almost exactly the same as other 10 watt lasers.
In engraving tests, the machine proved to be more powerful than some competing 10-watt lasers. The engraved patterns were darker and deeper, suggesting that the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 has a minimally higher actual output. Of course, it is also possible that Air Assist is better than other machines, because the amount and power of the air coming to the workpiece can greatly influence the color of the patterns on the workpiece. It is often better to turn off the Air Assist system for individual jobs or materials in order to get the right color and depth.
Cutting quality of AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2:
The cut edges were clean and brown with no visible charring. This indicates a good quality cut. The cut lines looked maybe (very maybe) a bit thinner and cleaner compared to another brand I compared, although this was only noticeable in a direct comparison. I dare not say this for sure, because in the case of plywood, the quality, the amount of glue, the hardness of the wood can vary even within one board, so it is difficult to compare. It's also true that a lot depends on the exact setting, so it's not at all certain that as a beginner you'll get cutting edges like the ones I saw during the test.
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 engraving quality:
During my engraving tests, the machine was able to produce fine shades and details. Here it is important to note that in order to achieve the desired result, the strength of the laser and the speed of the laser head may need to be adjusted even more precisely, and this requires experience, which can only be achieved with a lot of work and practice. So go ahead, don't get upset if your first 10-20 jobs don't turn out as you imagined, it will work out, experience makes the master!
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 software and handling:
I already wrote more about the AlgoOS operating system, so I don't want to discuss it here. Not only because it's easy to use, but also because I haven't used it very much. But I'll write more about that! What I haven't written about yet is that, of course, there is also a phone application, which greatly simplifies use for beginners. Algolaser DIY Kit MK2 also needs a Wi-Fi connection for this, as the software will find the machine on the same Wi-Fi network, so you can control the machine with a wireless connection.
How the application works in the video at the beginning of the article!
Safety features of AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2:
Safety features such as the emergency stop button and safety key functioned properly. The machine stopped immediately when the emergency stop button was pressed and could not be started without the safety key. But I think that's because nowadays it's hard to find a basic machine without such functions, but even if I could find one, I would definitely not choose these.
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 cooling and noise level:
The active cooling system has proven to be effective. It should be noted that the fan only turns on when necessary and turns off automatically when the laser is not in use. This significantly reduces the machine's noise level and energy consumption. At the same time, it is almost completely unnecessary to deal with the noise level of the machine if you use the Air Assist system, because it is guaranteed to suppress the machine's own sound. I've been thinking a lot about the fact that I should look around on the internet to see what kind of compressor and tank solutions I could use for the Air Assist system, which don't rattle constantly. Well, the time will come for that too.
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 Air Assist:
During testing, there were some issues with connecting the air pump. The included air tube was not only too stiff, but also turned out to be short, which caused great difficulties in proper placement. In addition, the pipe sometimes got caught in the limit switch, which on the one hand stopped the work, and on the other hand also represented a potential safety risk. I can really only recommend that you get a flexible and much longer rubber tube, because the factory tube (I'm trying to put it carefully) is a piece of shit.
AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 comparison with other machines and what I didn't like:
Overall, the performance of AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 proved to be absolutely competitive with other machines of a similar category. Cutting speeds were similar, while engraving performance seemed to be slightly stronger.
Adjusting the height of the laser head turned out to be somewhat difficult with the screw solution used. As I noted above, this is not the only machine that uses this. The fact that the head is held in place by not one, but two screws can definitely be written as an advantage. This is not beneficial during the adjustment, because the adjustment itself takes longer, but it is beneficial from the point of view that the head will be in the correct position on the rail, so the laser will arrive perpendicular to the workpiece (if it is properly flat), and this is more beautiful and results in more accurate jobs. However, a faster, possibly lever-based attachment method would make use more convenient.
I also feel that it is a problem that the focus adjustment tool, although efficient and easy to use, does not have a dedicated storage space on the machine, which increases the risk of losing it. We are not talking about something big, but a small aluminum cylinder, which is also black, so if it falls and rolls away, you may not be able to find it easily. I'm not even talking about what happens if the machine is not in a fixed place all the time, but sometimes has to be packed away. In such cases, the focus cylinder can easily lose track, which will be a great annoyance.
What do I think of the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2?
Well, with a few years of experience and many, many hours of blue laser work behind me, I have now established which machines I like more and which ones less.
The manufacturers are trying to broaden the segment of the customer interested in laser treatment, but rather narrow, and to attract the following:
- who may be less interested in the topic,
- who do not have much technical sense, but still want to create,
- and those who essentially just want to create without any technical knowledge, and they are very uninterested in how and why the machine they work with works.
And this effort on the part of the companies seems interesting to me, an experienced user, but mostly unnecessary. Of course, this is understandable, and I will tell you why!
I like them, but I don't like, for example, the fixed-frame machines sold to beginners, in which the cables and ribbed belts run hidden. For me, they are more difficult to set up and more cumbersome. I don't really like closed-box machines either, although I admit that, in a home environment, they are extremely useful when appropriate, because the apartment doesn't stink from the many fumes that are generated during work.
They are not particularly interested in machines with a display and their own operating system. I have never used Wi-Fi access or phone applications for a minute (except for tests), I feel they are unnecessary, somehow I feel that I can do more professional and accurate work with a PC software or USB. Not to mention how important material saving is to me, so it's not my job to cut out a 5×5 anything from the middle of a square meter plate and I'm happy that it turned out beautiful.
If it's about saving materials, it's important to mention that I absolutely hate laser heads where I can't see the point from the head itself where the laser reaches the workpiece. It's simply impossible to set them exactly in position, when the laser goes around the enclosing square, I can't see where the edge of the surface intended to cut out and engrave the brain is on the workpiece, and I could continue.
It also doesn't help if there is a small window at the front of the laser head, because I can only see through them when the laser starts, but then only the light of the laser is visible, not the workpiece. So it's all crap as it is.
DON'T BUY SUCH A LASER? WHEN THE LASER HEAD ALMOST SCRUBBS THE WORKPIECE WHILE WORKING! BUY ONE WHERE YOU CAN SEE THE POINT WHERE THE LASER MEETS THE WORKPIECE! I WILL BE THANKFUL IF YOU AT LEAST TAKE THIS ONE ADVICE!
Well, now comes the reason why I wrote all of this!
AI wrote it here because, on the one hand, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is suitable for beginners, because it has a touch-sensitive display, a phone application, a self-designed (and very well-functioning) operating system, Wi-Fi, and all kinds of unnecessary horse whistles for me, but anyway the machine is the aluminum profile solution that I love, and it also has a laser head that meets my requirements.
What follows from this?
It follows that the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 is made for beginners and full amateurs. But even if you develop, you won't outgrow it easily. In other words, you will find your calculation with the machine even if you are a beginner, even if you are advanced, and even if you already handle these machines professionally.
In other words, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 has become a truly universal, easy-to-use machine, even suitable for professional work.
(I know that blue lasers are a joke for those who work with CO machines, but for those of you who use lasers for a living, don't forget that not everyone wants to make a living from this job, not everyone wants to cut thousands of the same key rings, for many it is fun and a pastime. , who lives his hobby as a professional in what he does, just like you who made a living from this work.
Conclusion
- Make your target audience bigger.
- Let the machine meet the needs of beginners.
- May the machine meet the needs of professionals.
- Let the machine be capable of even more serious work.
- Let the machine be able to serve even the smallest successes of beginners.
Perhaps you also feel that it is not easy to find this middle ground, but as the example shows, it is not impossible. With the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2, the manufacturer managed to stay on the right track, since the machine will not be scary even for absolute beginners, and as these beginner customers develop and experience, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 will be able to satisfy the growing needs and purchases.
So the point is:
If you are looking for a machine for yourself as a beginner, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 will be suitable.
If you are looking for an advanced machine for yourself, the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 will be suitable.
If you are looking for a machine for yourself as a professional, then the AlgoLaser DIY KIT MK2 will be suitable, as you will not use all its capabilities that a beginner uses to make the work easier and simpler.
To make a purchase, use the DIYKITMK2 coupon code, so the price of the 10-watt machine is $309, which is HUF 116 at the time of writing this article, which is quite a good offer in this category.
Buy here:
