I did extensive research before deciding on an Epilog laser. When I first started looking into lasers, I had no experience with them and had never used one before. My knowledge at that point was limited to my background in CNC metal cutting machines and design software.

I looked at all the major brands like Boss, Laguna, and others. While researching CO2 lasers, I noticed that most of these machines have water-cooled heads, and the laser lifespan is typically between 1,500 to 3,000 hours before needing a recharge. In various forums, I kept seeing Epilog and Trotec being mentioned as top-tier American-made lasers, though many found them outside their price range.

From running my business, I’ve learned that sometimes it’s worth investing in the best equipment you can afford. With that in mind, I started researching Epilog and Trotec. I immediately noticed that these machines are about three times the price of Chinese imports. However, they come with air-cooled lasers, operate at a different RF frequency, and last three times longer. Another key factor for me was that both Epilog and Trotec are American-made, which is important given the current global climate. I prefer to buy American when I can.

I also saw that both companies now offer the iris camera system, allowing precise placement of artwork on the material. Since my business primarily focuses on custom, one-off products, this feature was very appealing. I decided I wanted a newer model with the camera system.

Ideally, I wanted either the Trotec Speedy 360 or 400 or the Epilog Fusion Pro with 120 watts of power. The larger table size and the faster speed, around 170 inches per minute (IPM), made these models stand out. Once I knew what I wanted, it was time to choose between the two companies. I found some used machines within my budget and called both companies to inquire about the cost of recharging an 80-watt laser. If I remember correctly, Epilog's recharge cost was around $1,500, while Trotec’s was about $3,300—roughly twice as expensive.

That price difference was the deciding factor, so I went with Epilog. I spoke with representatives from both companies, and they were equally helpful. From what I gathered, both provide strong support, though Epilog has a slight edge in customer service. I did appreciate Trotec’s extensive online training presence, particularly the instructional videos by Laser Dan, which I found valuable. However, the cost of recharging the laser ultimately drove my decision.

I ended up purchasing a used Epilog Fusion Edge 60-watt laser, which was just over a year old, and brought it to the shop. There’s been a bit of a learning curve as I integrate the laser into my business and explore all the new possibilities it offers. So far, I’ve been very satisfied with the machine. While it’s not the Pro series with 170 IPM (mine runs around 120 IPM), I’m happy with the performance for the price. In the future, I see us upgrading to a Fusion Pro 120-watt with a 4-foot bed for larger projects.

I hope my insights help you in your decision-making process. These are just my thoughts based on my own experiences, and since I’ve never used a Trotec, I can’t directly compare it to Epilog.