Bambu Lab unveils R1 55W CO2 laser cutter for home workshops

Bambu Lab has announced and released the R1, a 55W CO2 laser cutter and engraver designed for home workshops. Moving beyond its established 3D printing lineup, the company offers the R1 as a standalone unit capable of processing wood, acrylic, leather, paper, fabric, glass, stone, and coated metals.

The device features a 600 by 300 mm working area, with an optional conveyor accessory that allows for stock up to 3,000 mm long. Key technical features include an Auto Laser Alignment system that uses motorized actuators to correct mirrors in approximately one minute, and a TriSense System comprising cameras, lasers, and encoders for positioning and motion tracking. The R1 holds a Class 1 laser safety rating under IEC 60825-1, intended to allow for enclosed operation without specialized goggles.

Retailing at $2,499, the R1 has been noted for its competitive pricing relative to other CO2 lasers of similar caliber. Reviewers have highlighted its ease of assembly, simple calibration, and integrated software suite, though they noted loud fans and the requirement of an optional lens for thicker materials.