Let's Compare The L2 And The 6550 (With A Focus On The NEW! L2)

Which diode laser engraver cutter is right for me?

This is the recurring question we received after launching the new L2.

So let's see if we can help you decide which of our machines is right for you.

With the introduction of the YoraHome Toocaa L2 Laser Engraver, we are now offering an entirely new machine that offers included features not available with the 6550.

In this blog, we're going to compare the two machines and help you determine what the best fit is for you!

1. Workspace

The size of your projects is obviously a huge factor in machine selection - you're going to want a machine that can tackle your designs without minimal tiling and positioning. 

The 6550 gives you a work area of 650x500 mm (26x20 in), while the L2 gives you a work area of 430x400 mm (17x16 in). 

The majority of users are not running projects that use the entire work area - rather, they tend to run fairly common sizes, such as 8x10 inches, 12x12 inches, etc.

While the 6550 gives you the advantage of a larger work area, you need to consider your intended usage when selecting your machine.

2. Assembly

With any laser engraver, your end goal is to get the machine up and running as quickly as possible; so you can make your creativity a reality.

The 6550 comes as a fully ready-to-assemble kit. It's up to the end user to assemble nearly every aspect of the machine. This may be a deterrent to some users, and can be a cause of frustration for some.

The L2 comes out of the box with the entire frame pre-assembled and ready to go - attach the laser module and connect one wire harness, and the main frame is done!

The enclosure assembly is very straightforward, and the manual provides clear instructions to help you.

On our very first experience with the L2, we had it assembled and burning in about 45 minutes, faster than assembling a 6550.

3. Enclosure

Safety is obviously a huge concern for users; not only for their own protection, but for those around them as well. The best way to protect bystanders from laser exposure is with some sort of enclosure.

While we do offer an optional enclosure for the 6550, the L2 includes an integrated enclosure with 360 degree visibility, rigid acrylic construction that filters the laser light, and a larger exhaust fan.

The enclosure also has a large, full width lid with gas support struts for easy access to the work area.

There is an included safety switch to stop the laser in the event the lid is opened during operation, and perimeter lighting for better viewing. The enclosure is secured to the machine frame, making the L2 and "all in one" construction.

4. Focusing

Every diode laser needs to be set at the proper height in order to maintain the correct focal distance to the workpiece so that the laser beam is properly concentrated to get the best performance.

The easiest method to adjust this height is with some sort of adjustable Z-Axis mechanism.

The 6550 now includes a Z-Axis, and the height is adjusted by using a thumb screw to raise/lower the laser, and setting the height based upon the included measurement cylinder.

This is an effective means of setting height, but we can attest that a handful of users have lost their measurement cylinders over the years, requiring replacement.

The L2 laser module has a convenient fold-away height gauge built right in to the laser, and an easy to use quick release to adjust the height in seconds.

Flip the gauge down, release the latch, lower the laser until the gauge touches, secure the latch and store the gauge - ready to burn!

5. Positioning

Determining the start location and positioning your workpiece can be a challenge for many; being able to consistently repeat project position is a must if you're trying to make batches of similar items.

The 6550 unfortunately does not have provisions for installation of homing/limit switches; while a "homing" function can be performed manually, it may not be consistent every time.

The L2 includes limit switches at both ends of the X and Y axes, allowing for quick homing of the machine for consistent positioning, as well as preventing the machine from running into the side rails.

The L2 also has an optional camera that attaches to the lid of the enclosure, which can be used within LightBurn for easy layout of your projects on the workspace.

6. Safety Interlocks

In the event of an "oops" moment while running your laser (we've all been there, don't feel bad!); having a means to stop the machine can reduce the possibility of damaging the machine, or ruining your project.

The 6550 is limited in this aspect, as there are no means of integrated safety items. This is not a feature that can be easily added, and no plans are in place to amend the design at this time.

The L2 has the lid interlock mentioned earlier, as well as a number of other safety features:

• Flame detection built in to the laser module - shuts down the machine in the event of a fire directly under the laser. Not susceptible to ambient sunlight like some other designs.
• Gyroscopic sensors - shuts down the machine if it gets bumped. Minimizes damage to your workpiece if the machine gets moved inadvertently.
• USB Interlock - removing the USB dongle from the controller port disables the machine. Keep curious people from trying to use the machine, or disrupting your projects.
• Enclosed rails - all the rollers and belts are contained within the frame rails; no chance of wires getting stuck in a roller and jamming the machine movement.

Conclusion

The YoraHome Toocaa L2 laser engraver cutter shows the future of YoraHome for laser engravers, and we can't wait to see what our partnership with Toocaa brings in the future for new machines!

We will be releasing more videos and examples of the Toocaa L2 capabilities soon - if there's anything in particular you would like to see us try out, or if you have any questions; drop us an email to let us know.

The L2 machines are in stock and ready to ship. Order your L2 today!