Glowforge Aura Settings & Speeds
Updated May 2026 · 63 tested settings · 35 materials
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The Glowforge Aura is a 6W diode laser engraver with a 508×279mm work area. This page lists 63 community-tested settings covering speed, power, passes, air assist, and DPI across a range of materials. Always run a test cut on scrap material first — results vary depending on your material batch, focus, and ambient conditions.
The Glowforge Aura is Glowforge's most compact and affordable machine — an enclosed diode laser for entry-level crafters and home studios. It uses the same cloud-based Glowforge app as the CO₂ models, with camera positioning and Proofgrade material support. Best for paper, leather, light wood, and thin acrylic. More affordable and quieter than the CO₂ Glowforge line, but less powerful. A good first machine for crafters who want Glowforge's plug-and-play experience at a lower price.
Should you buy the Glowforge Aura?
Best for: Absolute beginners who want Glowforge plug-and-play simplicity at the lowest entry price. Paper, leather, light wood, and thin acrylic.
Skip if: You need real cutting power or LightBurn — the Aura is a diode laser with Glowforge's cloud-only software. Limited material range.
Want CO₂ quality instead? Compare the Glowforge Spark (entry CO₂). Compare →
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63 settings
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Frequently Asked Questions
What materials can the Glowforge Aura engrave or cut?
The Glowforge Aura has community-tested settings for 3mm Mirrored Acrylic, 3mm Clear Acrylic (Cast), 3mm Maple Plywood, Rubber Stamp Material, 3mm Walnut Plywood, Bamboo 3mm, Cotton Fabric, Denim Fabric, and 27 more. Results vary by material batch, focus, and ambient conditions — always test on scrap first.
What is the work area of the Glowforge Aura?
The Glowforge Aura has a work area of 508×279 mm (approximately 20×11 inches).
What settings should I use to cut 3mm Walnut Plywood on the Glowforge Aura?
A community-tested starting point is speed 200 mm/min, power 100% in 3 passes. Always run a test cut on scrap to confirm before committing to your project.
Can the Glowforge Aura engrave metal?
Diode lasers can mark anodized aluminium, coated metals, and powder-coated surfaces without any spray. For bare steel, brass, or copper you need a marking compound like Cermark or Dry Moly. Fiber lasers mark bare metal directly without any coating.
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