---
title: "Learn the difference between laser types"
description: "One of the most versatile tools in a shop or makerspace is a laser cutter. The recently funded (http://glowforge.com) makes having one in your garage a possibility. With so…"
canonical: "https://www.baldengineer.com/learn-the-difference-between-laser-types.html"
author: "James Lewis"
date: "2015-10-27T13:39:39Z"
lastmod: "2015-10-27T13:39:39Z"
categories: ["around-the-web"]
tags: []
---

# Learn the difference between laser types


[![inside a laser diode](http://i2.wp.com/makezine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-28-at-5.00.16-PM-620x421.png?zoom=2&resize=277%2C188)](http://i2.wp.com/makezine.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Screen-Shot-2015-08-28-at-5.00.16-PM-620x421.png?zoom=2&resize=277%2C188)

inside a laser diode


One of the most versatile tools in a shop or makerspace is a laser cutter. The recently funded [Glowforge](http://glowforge.com) makes having one in your garage a possibility.

With so much exciting around laser cutters, you might be wonder what is a laser anyway? There are two primary laser types: Gas and Diode.  [Jordan Bunker](http://makezine.com/author/tensorflux/) goes into detail in the [Make: Skill Builder article](http://makezine.com/2015/10/22/skill-builder-lasers/), about the difference.

The pictures and diagrams alone are worth the look. The diagram on how a laser diode emits light is one of my favorites. (Actually, I think it is a good general purpose "led/diode diagram."

Check out "[Learn the Difference: Gas and Diode Lasers](http://makezine.com/2015/10/22/skill-builder-lasers/)," via Make.