OMTech unveils Polar Lite: A compact 55W CO2 laser for creators

OMTech, a prominent manufacturer of laser engraving machines, has announced the launch of the Polar Lite, a new compact and affordable 55W CO2 laser engraver designed specifically to empower creators, makers, and small business owners.

Building on the success of their established Maker, Pronto, and Pro CO2 Laser Series, OMTech continues its commitment to innovation with the Polar Lite. This portable laser cutter aims to deliver broad material compatibility, intuitive operation, and a surprisingly spacious work area within a compact form factor. Priced at approximately £1,520 (converted from $1,899.99, and around £1,440 during the pre-sale period which began on May 19th), the Polar Lite is poised to offer significant versatility without compromising on quality, making it an attractive option for the UK market.

Samson Yang, COO of OMTech, highlighted the machine’s core philosophy: “We designed the Polar Lite to give our customers the power and precision of a professional laser machine, but in a format that fits right into home studios and small workspaces. Whether you’re engraving personalised gifts or launching a side hustle, this machine delivers performance, safety, and simplicity.”

The Polar Lite is equipped with a high-performance 55W CO2 laser tube, capable of engraving and cutting a wide array of materials commonly used in the UK. This includes wood (up to 15.5mm), acrylic (up to 25mm), leather, coated metals, cardboard, and various fabrics. Its generous 500mm x 300mm (20″ x 12″) work area is further enhanced by convenient front and rear pass-throughs, allowing users to handle oversized materials, a valuable feature for larger projects. The inclusion of a removable workbed and support for a rotary axis also extends project capabilities to include curved and cylindrical objects, expanding creative horizons for UK users.

OMTech has prioritised user experience with the Polar Lite’s intuitive design and smart features. A one-click auto-focus simplifies setup by ensuring perfect alignment without manual adjustments. Flexible connectivity options, including built-in WiFi, USB, and Ethernet, are provided, while compatibility with popular software such as LightBurn and RDWorks allows creators to seamlessly integrate the machine into their existing workflows.

Safety and efficiency are also key considerations. A powerful 282.5 CFM exhaust fan and 18.8 CFM air assist pump work in tandem to remove debris and protect the laser head, resulting in cleaner, more accurate cuts. The integrated water pump and tank ensure stable cooling during extended use, and a custom digital display offers real-time water temperature and laser current readings, with an automatic alert if temperatures exceed 42°C (107°F).

The Polar Lite is positioned as an ideal tool for a diverse range of users in the UK, from side hustlers and home-based businesses creating custom items to DIY enthusiasts, hobbyists, and even retirees or part-time makers. Its compact dimensions (approximately 104.4cm x 56.4cm x 27.9cm) and lightweight build (approximately 41kg) make it easy to move and store, suiting occasional use or mobile operations at craft fairs.

In its class, the Polar Lite distinguishes itself with a larger work area, integrated auto-focus, competitive pricing, an exclusive dual-sensor display with over-temperature alerts, and a robust cooling and airflow system. All units come with a 14-month warranty and a comprehensive accessory package, including exhaust ducting, USB cables, and a starter material kit. With an estimated 11,000-hour laser lifespan, ±0.02mm accuracy, and a maximum speed of 500 mm/s, the OMTech Polar Lite promises professional-level engraving capabilities right out of the box for the UK market.

#OMTech #PolarLite #CO2Laser #LaserEngraver #UKMakers #SmallBusinessUK #NewProduct #LaserCutting #HomeStudio #CraftTech

Editor at TopEngravers. Specialising in reviews of new laser engraving products, practical engraving tips, and detailed engraver guides.