A practical comparison of four laser types — UV (355 nm), blue diode (450 nm), MOPA fiber (1,064 nm), and CO2 (10,600 nm) — for marking 3D-printed plastics across materials including PLA, PETG, ASA, TPU, and polycarbonate. Results vary significantly by laser type and material combination. The UV laser proved most versatile, delivering the cleanest marks on the widest range of plastics with minimal tuning. The MOPA fiber laser also worked but is better suited to metal. CO2 and diode lasers can achieve good results only under specific conditions and are generally better for cutting than marking thermoplastics.
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