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The Longer RAY5 miniS places the company’s small diode engraver inside an enclosure advertised as FDA Class 1 for normal operation. Longer launched power options from 2.5W to 10W, with entry pricing from $139.99. The enclosure is a welcome improvement, but it does not solve smoke extraction by itself.
The miniS is delivered assembled and occupies far less space than a conventional open-frame diode laser. Its small work area is intended for coasters, tags, ornaments and test pieces rather than full sheets.
Four power options, two work areas
The 2.5W and 3.5W models provide a 130 x 140 mm work area and are primarily engraving tools. The 5.5W and 10W versions increase cutting ability but reduce usable depth to about 120 mm because the larger laser module occupies more space.
Longer quotes up to 12,000 mm/min movement and 0.04 mm accuracy. Those are maximum figures, not guarantees for every material. Cutting requires slower passes, correct focus and air assist, while fine engraving depends on both spot size and mechanical calibration.
Connections and software
USB, Wi-Fi, a mobile app and offline operation provide several ways to send a job. The miniS supports LightBurn and LaserGRBL, while Longer also provides its own LaserBurn software. Experienced users will generally value LightBurn compatibility because it offers a mature layout and material workflow.
The enclosure includes an emergency stop and axis limit switches. The exact accessories depend on the Basic or Pro bundle, so buyers should verify air assist, work surface and extraction parts before ordering.
Specification sheet
| Specification | Announced value |
|---|---|
| Technology | Blue diode laser in an enclosure |
| Power options | 2.5W, 3.5W, 5.5W and 10W |
| Work area, 2.5W / 3.5W | 130 x 140 mm |
| Work area, 5.5W / 10W | 130 x 120 mm |
| Maximum movement speed | 12,000 mm/min |
| Claimed accuracy | 0.04 mm |
| Safety rating | FDA Class 1 claimed for normal use |
| Connectivity | USB, Wi-Fi, app and offline mode |
| Software | LightBurn, LaserGRBL and LaserBurn |
| Assembly | Delivered assembled |
What independent testing found
Planète Numérique tested the 5.5W miniS and rated it 3.5 out of 5. The review praised the compact preassembled format, acceptable engraving and free LaserBurn software. It also identified important weaknesses: an unprotected acrylic floor, poor access inside the enclosure and no well-designed smoke-hose outlet.
Those findings reinforce the need for a suitable sacrificial or honeycomb surface and a real extraction plan. A tinted acrylic box is not a substitute for removing smoke, and cutting should never be left unattended.
Price and current availability
Longer’s launch range listed the 2.5W at $139.99, the 3.5W at $179.99, the 5.5W at $229.99 and the 10W at $339.99. The current product page and collection do not always show every version at those prices, so treat them as launch references rather than a guaranteed offer.
Class 1 does not mean risk-free
As France’s INRS explains, a Class 1 product can contain a more powerful laser as long as hazardous radiation remains inaccessible in normal use. Never bypass the interlocks or operate the miniS open. Also avoid PVC and unidentified plastics, which can release toxic or corrosive fumes.
The RAY5 miniS is appealing as a low-cost, small enclosed engraver. Its compactness is also its main limitation, and the independent review shows that buyers should budget for a safe bed and effective extraction rather than assuming the enclosure completes the workshop setup.
FAQ
How does the RAY5 miniS differ from the RAY5 Mini?
Which power versions are available?
What is the engraving area?
Does Class 1 remove the need for ventilation?
