If you’re in the market for a high-performance laser engraving solution that blends versatility, automation, precision, and efficiency, understanding the strengths of both the OMTech Solis Duo and the Monport AutoForge is essential. The Solis Duo delivers an impressive dual‑laser configuration (fiber + diode), rapid 10,000 mm/s speed, a large working area, and optional autofocus—all in a sturdy, enclosed design ideal for creators juggling metals and non-metals. Meanwhile, the Monport AutoForge elevates automation with its world-first Auto‑Load System, supports three advanced laser configurations—including MOPA color marking and UV subsurface engraving—and offers seamless batch production on a 230 × 230 mm work area.
Though both machines impress on their own, the AutoForge edges ahead slightly by weaving hands‑free automation, deeper material versatility, and a modular laser configuration into a single platform—making it an exceptionally powerful tool for professionals looking to scale production with minimal intervention.
Table of Contents
- Overview of Each Machine
1.1 OMTech Solis Duo – Key Features & Specs
1.2 Monport AutoForge – Key Features & Specs - Technical and Functional Comparison
2.1 Laser Configurations & Material Capability
2.2 Automation & Workflow Efficiency
2.3 Working Area & Batch Processing Capability
2.4 Speed, Precision & Control Interfaces
2.5 Safety, User Experience & Design
2.6 Pricing & Value Proposition - User Scenarios — Who Benefits Most?
- Refined Perspective: Which Machine Holds the Slight Edge?
- Closing Thoughts & Recommendation
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Overview of Each Machine
1.1 OMTech Solis Duo – Key Features & Specs
The OMTech Solis Duo bursts onto the scene as a compact, dual‑laser engraver combining a fiber laser (1064 nm) for metal processing and a blue diode laser (455 nm) for non‑metals like wood, leather, acrylic, paper, and ceramics. It boasts a blazing engraving speed up to 10,000 mm/s with a remarkable 0.002 mm precision.
This model comes in three power configurations:
- 20 W fiber + 20 W diode,
- 30 W fiber + 20 W diode (with autofocus), and
- 50 W fiber + 40 W diode (with autofocus).
The work area ranges from a generous 9.8″ × 9.8″ and, with an optional conveyor, extends to 9.8″ × 35.4″ (250 × 900 mm)—the longest in its class. Enhanced by a 16 MP HD camera for alignment, a touchscreen interface, and rotary axis compatibility, this model is engineered for precision and convenience.
Sales are via pre‑orders, with the first shipments expected to begin around October 2025. The machine is fully enclosed with a tinted window, offering added safety and a cleaner workspace.
1.2 Monport AutoForge – Key Features & Specs
The Monport AutoForge distinguishes itself through its pioneering Automatic Loading System (ALS), a first-ever feature in laser engraving. Launched via Kickstarter on August 19, 2025, this system automates loading, engraving, and unloading workflows—eliminating manual handling and elevating productivity.
It supports three laser configurations:
- 30 W fiber + 20 W diode (dual‑laser),
- 60 W MOPA fiber (capable of delivering over 100 colors on stainless steel), and
- 5 W UV laser for subsurface crystal and glass engraving.
Its 230 × 230 mm work area supports swift engraving at 10,000 mm/s, and the system can execute deep-relief engraving up to 10 mm on stone and 5 mm on copper.
The machine offers a 4.3‑inch touchscreen interface, offline engraving via USB, autofocus, and a safety glide door that automatically pauses operation if opened. It’s tailored for business-class batch production, especially metal business cards and bulk engraving tasks.
Early Kickstarter pricing offers significant discounts—e.g., the Dual‑Laser version starts around $2,199 (Super Early Bird), compared to its $3,299 MSRP.
2. Technical and Functional Comparison
2.1 Laser Configurations & Material Capability
OMTech Solis Duo:
- Dual-laser setup combines fiber and diode lasers, enabling wide material versatility in a single unit without switching hardware.
- Cutting depths up to 0.5 mm on aluminum, 16 mm on dark acrylic, and 21 mm on basswood at higher power options.
Monport AutoForge:
- Offers three discrete laser types: dual-laser, MOPA color fiber, and UV; users select based on their production needs—offering heightened flexibility and specialization.
- The MOPA 60 W excels at color marking; the UV 5 W shines in crystal and glass engraving; whereas the dual-laser still covers both metal and non-metal tasks efficiently.
Verdict: Both machines accommodate diverse material workflows. The Solis Duo is efficient for mixed-material projects instantly, while the AutoForge allows deeper specialization and broader capabilities with the right module.
2.2 Automation & Workflow Efficiency
Solis Duo:
- Equipped with autofocus (in higher tiers) and a high-resolution camera for quick alignment—but still relies on manual loading and supervision.
AutoForge:
- Puts automation first: its Automatic Loading System loads, identifies, engraves, and unloads items autonomously—ideal for true batch processing.
- The system supports multi-feeder loading of up to six modules and includes tools like ForgeSight Align to maintain precision across items.
Verdict: If your workflow prioritizes automation, especially high-volume production, the AutoForge takes a commanding lead.
2.3 Working Area & Batch Processing Capability
Solis Duo:
- Standard bed: 9.8″ × 9.8″ (250 × 250 mm). With optional conveyor: 9.8″ × 35.4″ (250 × 900 mm)—unmatched in linear length capacity for batch tasks.
AutoForge:
- Work area: 230 × 230 mm (~9″ × 9″). Compact but sufficient for business cards, labels, and small tiles.
- Automates batch insertion instead of relying solely on bed size.
Verdict: The Solis Duo offers expansive length for long-format projects via its conveyor, whereas the AutoForge optimizes batch throughput despite a smaller bed.
2.4 Speed, Precision & Control Interfaces
Both machines share high performance metrics:
- 10,000 mm/s engraving speed across the board.
Solis Duo:
- Precision: 0.002 mm accuracy.
- Controls: touchscreen, remote, and LightBurn / OMTech Lab software compatibility.
AutoForge:
- Offers offline engraving via USB and a 4.3‑inch touchscreen.
- Intelligent “safe-laser preview” and autofocus streamline operation.
Verdict: Performance-wise, both are well-matched. The Solis Duo edges slightly ahead in precision; the AutoForge leans heavily into intuitive automation and safety.
2.5 Safety, User Experience & Design
Solis Duo:
- Enclosed design with tinted window offers robust protection against laser exposure and fumes.
- Features concierge-style options: rotary axis, conveyor, high-res alignment camera.
AutoForge:
- Includes a safety glide door that pauses operation if opened.
- Designed for minimal user intervention, enhancing operational safety in automated workflows.
Verdict: Both excel in safety. AutoForge shines in safety built around automation; Solis Duo stands strong with its industrial containment and flexible attachments.
2.6 Pricing & Value Proposition
Solis Duo (pre-order pricing):
- 20 W fiber + 20 W diode: $2,999.99
- 30 W fiber + 20 W diode (with LightBurn): $3,699.99 (approx)
- 50 W fiber + 40 W diode: $4,699.99.
AutoForge (Kickstarter Early Bird):
- Dual‑Laser: Retail $3,299; Super Early Bird $2,199; Early Bird $2,399.
- MOPA 60 W: Retail $5,999; Early Bird $3,999–$4,599.
- UV 5 W: Retail $5,999; Early Bird $3,999–$4,599.
Verdict: At comparable power levels, the AutoForge offers better price incentives (especially early-bird) and embeds automation—thus delivering compelling value. But these deals are time-limited and limited in quantity.
3. User Scenarios — Who Benefits Most?
Choose OMTech Solis Duo if you’re:
- A creative hybrid user needing rapid switching between metal and non-metal materials without manual reconfiguration.
- Handling long-format or continuous jobs like belt tags, wristbands, or banner-like items that benefit from a conveyor.
- Prioritizing high precision—the 0.002 mm accuracy and HD alignment aid ultra-fine details.
- Building for safe studio setups where a fully enclosed unit offers peace of mind.
Choose Monport AutoForge if you’re:
- Scaling batch production—especially jobs like metal business cards, badges, or repetitive gift engraving.
- Craving hands-off automation—AutoForge’s AutoLoad System significantly cuts labor time.
- Expanding into specialized engraving such as color marking (MOPA) or crystal subsurface work (UV).
- Budget-conscious with early access—the Kickstarter discounts can dramatically lower entry costs.
4. Refined Perspective: Which Machine Holds the Slight Edge?
Both the OMTech Solis Duo and the Monport AutoForge are standout laser engravers built for modern creators and entrepreneurs. If your priority is seamless dual-material flexibility, precision, and extended conveyor workflows, the Solis Duo is a powerful and polished choice. But when hands are tight and volume demands are high, the AutoForge takes the lead. Its groundbreaking automation, combined with modular laser options and early‑bird value, makes it an exceptional tool—especially for those seeking a scalable, low-labor solution.
In subtle favor of Monport, AutoForge edges ahead—though only just—thanks to its automation-first design and diversified laser capabilities. Yet in situations requiring longer format engraving or ultra-high precision, the Solis Duo remains a compelling alternative.
Closing Thoughts & Recommendation
Both these engravers redefine expectations: OMTech Solis Duo impresses with dual-laser versatility, high resolution, and modular expandability; Monport AutoForge delivers innovation through automation, multi-laser specialization, and batch production power.
If your workflow leans into craft, flexibility, and fine detail, the Solis Duo may satisfy you best. Yet, for time-crunched professionals pursuing volume, efficiency, and minimal manual handling, the AutoForge presents a slight but strategic advantage—making it a stronger recommendation overall.
Either way, your choice promises cutting-edge performance that modern creators can rely on.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) {#faq}
Q1: When will the OMTech Solis Duo begin shipping?
A1: Pre‑orders are open now, with the first shipments expected to start around October 2025.
Q2: What is truly unique about the Monport AutoForge?
A2: It’s the world’s first laser engraver with a fully Automatic Loading System, enabling truly hands‑free batch production—no manual feeding required.
Q3: What laser types are available for each?
A3:
- Solis Duo: dual-laser combining fiber and diode options—available in 20/20 W, 30/20 W, and 50/40 W variants.
- AutoForge: Choose from dual-laser (30/20 W), 60 W MOPA color, or 5 W UV laser configurations.
Q4: How do their working areas compare?
A4: The Solis Duo offers up to 9.8″ × 9.8″ (or extended 9.8″ × 35.4″ with conveyor. The AutoForge has a 230 × 230 mm (~9″ × 9″) workspace.
Q5: Do both support automation?
A5:
- Yes, Solis Duo offers autofocus and camera alignment—but requires manual loading.
- AutoForge automates the entire workflow—load, align, engrave, unload—perfect for batch production.
Q6: Which is better value?
A6:
- Solis Duo offers strong mid-tier pricing starting near $3,000.
- AutoForge provides aggressive early-bird pricing (e.g., $2,199) and automation—overall delivering more efficient cost-per-unit in large runs.
Quick Links to Product Pages
- Official OMTech Solis Duo page: https://omtech.com/pages/omtech-solis-duo-pre-order
- Monport AutoForge: https://monportlaser.com/pages/autoforge?sca_ref=5825031.wJzNqLroZf&sca_ref=9386512.ZAD61paaXw
Picture by: vecteezy