Glowforge vs Epilog: Difference and Comparison

Laser cutting is a procedure that has been in use since the 1960s when it was used only in big industries. It was then and now when people can buy small compact laser cutters for themselves. They can be used in the workplace or even as a hobby.

Glowforge and Epilog are both popular laser-cutting companies. It totally depends on the person’s requirements for the laser size, its capacity, and the wattage rate of the laser to select the ideal laser machine for them.

Since both of the laser machines by the companies have different features to provide, it is important to get information about them before buying the right option.

Key Takeaways

  1. Glowforge uses a laser cutter and engraver to create designs on various materials, while Epilog uses a CO2 laser to cut and engrave materials such as wood, acrylic, and metal.
  2. Glowforge is designed for home and smaller projects, while Epilog is better suited for industrial and large-scale projects.
  3. Glowforge is more affordable, while Epilog is more expensive but offers higher precision and more advanced features, such as a rotary attachment for cylindrical objects.

Glowforge vs Epilog

The difference between Glowforge and Epilog is that they have different techniques for using laser machines. For cutting or engraving in Glowforge, one has to have an internet connection, but it is not required in Epilog machines. Also, the mechanics of cooling the laser machines are different as well in the models of the companies.

Glowforge vs Epilog

Glowforge is a company that produces a series of laser cutters. Their versatility in the products like wood, paper, and fabric material is quite high. They call their products 3D laser printers when, in fact, they are CNC laser cutter engravers.

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Epilog is a company that manufactures laser engraving and cutting systems. They have products for people ranging from beginners to ones used for industrial work. The bigger the range of the product, the more functions it will have, which include a larger engraving area, more laser options, etc.

Comparison Table

Parameters of ComparisonGlowforgeEpilog
DefinitionGlowforge is a company that produces a line of laser cutter/engravers.Epilog is a laser machine system manufacturer that has been in the business since 1988.
Year of discovery  20141988 
Product linesThe company currently has three laser machine lines: Glowforge Basic, Glowforge Plus, and Glowforge Pro.They have three lines of series: Zing Laser, Fusion Edge, and Fusion Pro.
Laser wattThe products have a maximum of 45w laser.There are more options for laser watt by Epilog. Starting from 30 watts for the Zing laser to 50 watts for the Fusion Pro.
Internet connectivityUsing Glowforge’s products, one has to have internet connectivity to cut or engrave their particular material.There is no mandatory use of internet connection in Epilog machines. They can either choose to use it or not.
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What is Glowforge?

Glowforge is a 3D laser machine company that manufactures various laser machines used for cutting, engraving, and marking different materials. They have installed live cameras in the laser machines that help preview the material’s design.

The company currently has three types of laser cutters: Glowforge Basic, Glowforge Plus, and Glowforge Pro. Laser cutting, at a minimum, would take a couple of hours. A simple or basic design, on average, would take just a couple of minutes to engrave.

The software used for laser cutting or engraving is regularly updated with numerous changes and updations that make it easier. It can be used from almost any internet browser.

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The browser just needs to be updated to the latest version. They even have their own Glowforge App that users can download to control the machine.

glowforge 1

What is Epilog?

Epilog is a company that produces a series of laser machines that engrave, cut, and mark products. The company was in 1988 and is based in the United States, and the products are also manufactured there. The product range has different features like different engraving areas, internet connectivity, etc.

The company has three lines of laser machines: Zing Laser for starters, Fusion Edge for businesses, and Fusion Pro for industrial usage. In three types, the lasers are of series. For example, Zing Laser has Zing 16 and Zing 24. 16 and 24, respectively, state the size of the engraving area of the laser machine.

People can customize their engravings and cuttings according to their choices. The Zing Laser line was the USA’s first low-cost laser that was released in 2008. If one wants a higher speed for their engraving, they would need to choose the costlier option from their product line.

epilog

Main Differences Between Glowforge and Epilog

  1. Glowforge and Epilog have different ways of going through the procedure of laser cutting/engravings. Glowforge needs an internet connection for its usage, while Epilog’s laser machines do not need any internet.
  2. The technique of cooling down the laser machine is different in the models of the two companies. Glowforge looks less complex and more sophisticated in comparison to Epilog machines since the machine cools down the system internally. Epilog has extra cool fans and tubes to cool the system.
  3. Glowforge laser machines are simpler to set up and look more compact in comparison to the product line by Epilog.
  4. Glowforge is a rather new company in comparison to Epilog. Epilogue is way older than the former. It has been around since 1988, while Glowforge was launched in the year 2014.
  5. The models of laser machines that have the option of internet connectivity by Epilog only support Windows. While all the products by Glowforge support more amount of internet browsers.

References

  1. https://oatd.org/oatd/record?record=%22handle%5C%3A1721.1%2F107578%22
  2. https://www.google.co.in/books/edition/Robot_Builder_s_Bonanza_5th_Edition/3tp6DwAAQBAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&bsq=Glowforge&dq=Glowforge&printsec=frontcover

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Sandeep Bhandari
Sandeep Bhandari

Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.

28 Comments

  1. The detailed descriptions of Glowforge and Epilog provide a comprehensive understanding of their offerings, enabling potential buyers to make an informed decision based on their specific needs.

    • Having access to such detailed information makes the decision-making process much smoother and more efficient.

    • The thorough insights into the features and capabilities of each company’s products are extremely valuable for anyone considering a purchase.

  2. The key takeaways provided about Glowforge and Epilog are very informative. Understanding the distinction between the two companies and their products is essential for making an informed choice.

    • Having a clear understanding of what each company offers can really help in deciding which laser machine is the best fit for one’s needs.

    • Absolutely, the details about the differences in functionality and suitability for various projects are crucial to know for someone considering a purchase.

  3. Laser cutting has truly come a long way since its inception. It’s interesting to see how it has transitioned from being a feature only in large industries to being accessible to individuals as well.

    • The democratization of technology is always a good thing, allowing more people to explore and use it for various purposes.

    • I agree, it’s fascinating to see how technology has evolved and made things like laser cutting more accessible to the general public.

  4. The detailed information about Glowforge and Epilog provides a solid basis for individuals to determine which laser machine suits their unique requirements.

    • Having such comprehensive knowledge available can really help consumers avoid making a decision they may regret later on.

    • Understanding the specific features and capabilities of each company’s products is crucial for making an informed investment.

  5. The detailed comparison between Glowforge and Epilog is incredibly beneficial for individuals seeking to purchase a laser machine, as it allows them to make an educated decision based on their needs.

    • Understanding the distinctions between the features and functionalities of each company’s products is vital for potential buyers.

  6. The detailed descriptions of Glowforge and Epilog shed light on the distinct qualities of their laser machines, helping individuals understand which one aligns best with their needs.

    • Having a clear understanding of each company’s offerings can really help consumers make a well-informed decision.

    • It’s clear that both companies have unique offerings, and it’s important for potential buyers to recognize which features are most important to them.

  7. The in-depth knowledge provided about Glowforge and Epilog is incredibly beneficial for individuals exploring the option of purchasing a laser machine, as it equips them to make a well-informed decision.

    • Being informed about the specific differences and advantages of each company’s products is crucial for making the right investment.

  8. It’s important to be well-informed when choosing the right laser machine for one’s needs. Factors like laser size, capacity, and wattage rate play a crucial role in making the right decision.

    • Absolutely, it’s a significant investment, and having a clear understanding of one’s requirements and the available options is essential.

    • The more information one has, the better equipped they are to make a decision that aligns with their needs and preferences.

  9. The emphasis on the distinctions between Glowforge and Epilog highlights the importance of considering individual requirements and preferences when choosing a laser machine.

    • Being able to make an informed choice based on one’s specific needs is essential, and the detailed comparison is instrumental in facilitating this process.

  10. The comparison table between Glowforge and Epilog provides a comprehensive overview of their differences, making it easier for prospective buyers to evaluate their options.

    • It’s great to have such detailed information available for potential buyers, as it streamlines the decision-making process.

    • The detailed analysis of the features and specifications of each company’s products is incredibly valuable for those looking to make an investment in a laser machine.

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