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The Mecpow M1 arrives in October 2025 with a simple proposition: offer beginners an enclosed, compact and affordable laser engraver. The machine is available with a 3.5 W or 5 W diode, works over 100 x 100 mm and weighs only 2.4 kg. Mecpow claims FDA Class 1 certification, a stop when the lid is opened and a starting price of $159. It is a reassuring formula on paper, provided that an enclosure is not confused with the absence of risk.
A small machine ready to use
The M1 comes pre-assembled in a 220 x 264 x 194 mm enclosure. Its 100 mm square work area suits coasters, key rings, cards, small jewellery and labels. A large sign or significant production run will require another format.
Four buttons on top handle the basic controls. Wi-Fi, a cable connection and the MKSLaser app complement LightBurn and LaserGRBL. Mobile operation makes first projects easier, while LightBurn offers more control as you progress.
Two diodes and an optional infrared module
M1 3.5 W: this version prioritises price and engraving. Its power reserve remains limited for cutting wood.
M1 5 W: Mecpow claims cutting 3 mm plywood and 5 mm pine under optimal conditions. The number of passes, wood species and air assistance strongly affect this result.
1.2 W infrared module: sold separately, it can mark certain metals and plastics. It has neither the power nor the depth of a professional fibre laser.
Maximum speed: both versions claim 10,000 mm/min and 0.01 mm accuracy. These manufacturer figures do not automatically describe the time or detail of a real project.
Accessories: the G3 Pro and G5 rollers enable cylindrical engraving. Risers increase the available height and the P50 purifier can supplement the internal fan.
Specification sheet
| Specification | Claimed value |
|---|---|
| Diode power | 3.5 W or 5 W |
| Optional module | 1.2 W infrared |
| Work area | 100 x 100 mm |
| Maximum speed | 10,000 mm/min |
| Claimed accuracy | 0.01 mm |
| Connections | Wi-Fi, cable, app |
| Software | LightBurn, LaserGRBL, MKSLaser |
| Claimed class | FDA Class 1 |
| Weight | 2.4 kg |
Prices and configurations
The Mecpow announcement of 16 September schedules the release for October 2025. The official product page then lists the M1 from $159. The prices of the 3.5 W and 5 W variants should be compared, then the infrared module, roller and purifier added only if the projects justify them.
What Class 1 covers
The INRS explains that Class 1 means hazardous radiation is not accessible under the intended normal conditions. The lid contact must never be bypassed, and the M1 must never be operated while dismantled. The claim should also be checked on the label of the delivered machine.
Fumes and fire remain separate risks. The fan must lead to outdoor extraction or genuinely suitable filtration. Every job must be supervised, on a non-combustible surface, with an identified material. PVC remains prohibited.
In conclusion, a good first engraver?
The M1 brings together the most useful elements for getting started: minimal assembly, an enclosure, standard software and an accessible price. The 100 x 100 mm work area and 3.5 W or 5 W power logically limit projects. The 5 W version seems the most balanced for retaining a small cutting capability. Its certification, accuracy, extraction effectiveness and the quality of the supplied settings still need to be checked. Does this format seem sufficient to you for discovering engraving on small objects?
FAQ
What power options are available for the Mecpow M1?
What is its engraving area?
Is the Mecpow M1 Class 1?
What software can be used?
