AtomStack Atelier vs SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W
Verdict
On our scores the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W comes out ahead, 76 to 71. The AtomStack Atelier is a 12 W galvo diode laser with a 120 × 120 mm work area; the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is a 20 W diode laser with 400 × 400 mm. The AtomStack Atelier costs about $100 less at list price.
The AtomStack Atelier is best for
Crafters, schools and market sellers who personalize small items in batches and need a Class 1 machine they can carry and run in a shared space.The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is best for
Home users who want a 20W diode in a real Class 1 enclosure with camera and air assist in the box.Specs and scores side by side
| AtomStack Atelier | SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W | |
|---|---|---|
| Laser type | Galvo diode laser | Diode laser |
| Form | Enclosed | Enclosed |
| Optical power | 12 W | 20 W |
| Work area | 120 × 120 mm | 400 × 400 mm |
| Max speed | 4,000 mm/s galvo engraving, 15,000 mm/s preview (maker claims) | 40,000 mm/min (about 667 mm/s) |
| Air assist | None | Included |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Autofocus | No | No |
| Safety | Class 1 (IEC 60825-1) enclosure with a door interlock, 15 degree tilt stop, USB safety key and emergency stop/power button; no flame detection listed. AtomStack's manual says removing the baseplate or covers takes it out of Class 1 | Class 1 enclosure with door sensor, flame sensor, tilt protection, emergency stop and key switch |
| Weight | 3.5 kg | not published |
| Price | $599 | $699 |
| Overall score | 71 | 76 |
| Power score | 48 | 65 |
| Speed score | 88 | 72 |
| Ease score | 86 | 82 |
| Safety score | 86 | 90 |
| Value score | 72 | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, the AtomStack Atelier or the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W?
On our scores the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W comes out ahead, 76 to 71. The AtomStack Atelier is a 12 W galvo diode laser with a 120 × 120 mm work area; the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is a 20 W diode laser with 400 × 400 mm. The AtomStack Atelier costs about $100 less at list price.
Which is cheaper, the AtomStack Atelier or the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W?
At list price the AtomStack Atelier ($599) costs less than the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W ($699).
How we rank: by our own scores for power, speed, ease of use, safety and value, from the maker's published specs and independent tests where they exist. Some links earn us a commission (for example TwoTrees, SainSmart, Gweike and Amazon). That never changes a score or the order of a list (disclosure).