We’ve previously reported on laser cutters, which is a type of product that has become quite affordable, as evidenced by numerous offerings on Amazon. These cheaper devices can be used to work with softer materials like wood or plastic, but they quickly hit their limits when processing thicker metal. The Herolaser, which is now crowdfunding on Kickstarter, claims that it can handle metal and offer more possibilities for tinkerers.
Using this kind of laser cutter it isn’t as easy as with plastic-cutting lasers, as it requires gases like argon or nitrogen, which also make it more costly. That said, this device is available in two model variants, namely the C700 and C700 Pro. The Pro version can cut stainless and carbon steel that’s up to 4 mm thick, and aluminum up to 2 mm thick. The base model can only cut steel half as thick, as the laser has a wavelength of 1,080 nm.
The working area of this laser cutter measures 400 x 300 mm (15.7 by 11.8 inches), which could be too small for larger projects. The precision or deviation is specified as 0.03 mm. The Herolaser 700 can also be used as a handheld device in order to process bigger pieces of metal. Furthermore, the T700 Pro system can be used for welding and cleaning. The C700 base kit is priced at approximately $3,299 as part of the ongoing crowdfunding campaign, but international customers may be on the hook for additional import fees. Deliveries are expected to start in September, and as with all crowdfunding campaigns, backers should be aware of the usual financial risks if the product never makes it into production.
I have been active as a journalist for over 10 years, most of it in the field of technology. I worked for Tom’s Hardware and ComputerBase, among others, and have been working for Notebookcheck since 2017. My current focus is particularly on mini PCs and single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi – so in other words, compact systems with a lot of potential. In addition, I have a soft spot for all kinds of wearables, especially smartwatches. My main profession is as a laboratory engineer, which is why neither scientific contexts nor the interpretation of complex measurements are foreign to me.
My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.