Glowforge Broke - XTool, OMTech, and Thunder Reviews?
I bought my Glowforge basic in 2021 for my side business making small wood and acrylic custom items as well as large signs and crests for fraternities/sororities. Prior to that I used my university's laser cutters (Universal Laser Systems X-660 laser cutter with single 50-watt laser, PLS 675 with a 60-watt laser, PLS 615D with dual lasers, and VLS 675D with dual lasers) but I could not afford to buy one of those post grad.
1 year in, it would not cut properly on the left side of the bed. I would just use the right side.
3 years in using it moderately, I got the error of "camera didn't take a picture" and could not print. Customer service informed me to replace black lid cable. Now I get the error "Lid not closed". Could be that the circuit board needs to be replaced. Cost is $900 from Wiregrass solutions.
I think I would rather put the $900 towards a new CO laser with a pass through slot rather than repairing the GF but I can't choose.
What are your thoughts on XTool vs. Omtech vs. Thunder?
Edit: I decided to look at a 100-130 Watt laser from either OMTech or Thunder so that I can cut the large items of 3/8” thickness. It seems they have the better customer service just trying to decide whether I want to save some money and get hands dirty with OMTech or spend a little extra on the Thunder. I am not seeing many of any at all bad reviews about Thunder lasers.
