Cloudray CR Series Russ OEM 70W vs. OMTech AF2028-80-80W

Both Cloudray and OMTech are well-known names in the laser equipment industry. Each brand offers a range of products designed to meet various needs, from small-scale projects to more demanding professional tasks. But what are their differences, and which brand is better? In this article, we’ll compare two popular models: the Cloudray CR Series Russ OEM 70W and the OMTech AF2028-80-80W, focusing on their features, performance, and value for money, in order to answer these questions.

Cloudray vs. OMTech: Background

Cloudray

Founded in 2012 and based in China, Cloudray is a company that specializes in laser cutting, engraving, and marking machines, offering solutions that cater to a broad range of industries, including industrial manufacturing, advertising, medical equipment, and electronics. Cloudray is known for its commitment to technological innovation, product quality, and customer support.

OMTech

OMTech, founded in 2008 and headquartered in the United States, OMTech laser equipment are widely used in industrial manufacturing, advertising, and crafts production. OMTech’s reputation is built on the high performance, stability, and user-friendly nature of its machines. The company offers robust customer support, including technical assistance and training, ensuring users can maximize their investment. OMTech’s products are particularly well-regarded in North America and have a growing international presence.

Cloudray CR Series Russ OEM 70W vs. OMTech AF2028-80-80W

1. Laser Power and Engraving Performance

• Cloudray CR Series Russ OEM 70W: This model features a 70W CO2 laser, suitable for small to medium-sized projects. It boasts a maximum engraving speed of 800 mm/s, making it a great choice for tasks that require speed and efficiency.

• OMTech AF2028-80-80W: Equipped with an 80W laser, the OMTech model is better suited for cutting thicker materials, in bigger sizes, with better precision. It offers a deeper cut and faster processing speed, with a maximum engraving speed of 600 mm/s.

2. Work Area and Design

• Cloudray: With a 20"x12" work area, the Cloudray CR Series is compact, limiting the machine to  smaller projects and workspaces with limited space.
• OMTech: The OMTech AF2028-80-80W provides a much larger 20"x28" work area. Its four-way channel design accommodates larger materials, making it ideal for more complex and sizable projects.

3. Cooling System

• Cloudray: The Cloudray model uses a water pump for cooling, which is sufficient for general operations.
• OMTech: OMTech enhances its cooling capabilities with a water cooler, making it better equipped for long-term, high-load tasks, especially when dealing with thick materials.

4. Control System and Automation

• Cloudray: This model comes with a standard digital control panel, which is compatible with popular softwares like LightBurn and RDWorks.
• OMTech: The OMTech machine features an autofocus system, offering greater precision and ease of use. It also supports a variety of control software, including RDWorks, LightBurn, and even AutoCAD.

5. Special Features and Safety Certifications

• Cloudray: The Cloudray model includes rotary engraving capabilities, air assist, and an exhaust fan. However, specific safety certifications are not clearly listed.
• OMTech: OMTech is equipped with a dual worktable (honeycomb and blade) and is both FDA-compliant and CE-certified, ensuring it meets high safety and international standards. 

6. Price and Value for Money

• Cloudray: Priced at $3,999 USD, which is a fair price for users with a limited budget, but still looking for high-performing laser engravers. 
• OMTech: At $3,699.99 USD, the OMTech AF2028-80-80W provides more power, a larger work area, and a broader range of features at a lower price, making it a more cost-effective choice.

7. Size and Portability

• Cloudray: The Cloudray machine measures 1430 x 690 x 590 mm. Its relatively large size somewhat contradicts the limited scale of its capabilities. 
• OMTech: The OMTech device is slightly more flexible, with dimensions of 120/150 x 87 x 90 cm, making it suitable for various work environments, especially with the addition of an expansion cover.

8. Warranty and After-Sales Support 

• Cloudray: Cloudray offers a 2-year warranty for the machine (excluding lenses and laser tubes), a 9-month warranty for the laser tube, and a 3-month warranty for the lenses.
• OMTech: OMTech provides a 2-year warranty for the entire machine and a 1-year warranty for the laser tube, offering broader coverage and more comprehensive after-sales support.

Conclusion

Our final verdict is that the OMTech AF2028-80-80W is better in almost every aspect when it comes to lasering equipment. Cloudray CR Series Russ OEM 70W is an excellent choice for users who need fast engraving and are working with smaller projects. However, for those requiring more power, a larger working area, and simply want more value for their money, we believe that OMTech is a much better way to go. Try visiting Cloudray and OMTech’s websites for even more information.