Many people talk about lasers. Few understand the market behind them. When I started Kirin Laser, I saw a gap: buyers wanted precision, reliability, and scalability—but found confusion. So, what is the real size of this industry?
The global laser marking machine market was worth around $3.3 billion in 2024, and it’s growing fast—about 8% per year. This growth is fueled by automation, regulation, and the demand for traceable precision.
In this article, I’ll walk you through different parts of the laser machinery industry—marking, engraving, cutting, and welding. I’ll use data, and I’ll also share what we’ve seen inside Kirin Laser.
How big is the laser engraving market?
Everyone wants personalization. Whether it’s branding, asset tagging, or decorative work, engraving is the way many industries leave a permanent mark. But how big is this niche?
The laser engraving market is valued at over $3 billion globally and is growing steadily with applications in jewelry, electronics, industrial tools, and more. It’s a sector driven by demand for customization, durability, and non-contact processing.
Where the growth is coming from
At Kirin Laser, we’ve seen orders for engraving machines come from two types of customers: those scaling their B2B custom production1, and entrepreneurs starting personalized product businesses. Here's how the industry breaks down:
| Application Segment | Use Cases | Growth Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Jewelry & Crafts | Custom designs, text, logos | High-value personalization2 |
| Electronics | Device branding, ID codes | Consumer electronics growth |
| Tools & Metal Parts | Serial numbers, branding | Industrial asset tracking |
| Promotional Products | Gift items, awards | E-commerce personalization |
Not just art—it's automation
Engraving has shifted from a manual or decorative niche to a fully automated manufacturing3 step. We supply fiber and CO2 engravers to firms that now treat engraving as an inline process, not an afterthought. As production lines speed up, so must engraving. That’s why demand keeps climbing.
How big is the laser cutting machine market?
Laser cutting looks flashy—but its real value is hidden in supply chains. From sheet metal to packaging, it’s reshaping production. So what’s the market size?
The global laser cutting machine market crossed $6.5 billion in 2024 and is expected to surpass $10 billion by 2030. This growth is backed by manufacturing automation, precision metalwork, and increasing material diversity.
A look into real-world demand
In Kirin Laser's experience, cutting systems4 are often the first big investment for small to mid-size factories modernizing production. These are not just tools—they're growth enablers.
| Industry | Cutting Need | Machine Type |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | Body panels, gears, exhaust parts | Fiber laser cutters |
| Architecture & Signage | Lettering, panels, patterns | CO2 and mixed-gas lasers |
| Sheet Metal Fabrication | Precision cutting at scale | CNC-integrated fiber lasers5 |
| Consumer Products | Furniture parts, packaging, casings | Low-power CO2 lasers |
Why it's more than just size
Laser cutting machines do more than slice metal. They help reduce scrap, improve speed, and lower labor costs. I often tell new clients this: you’re not buying a machine—you’re buying better margins. Our customers use these machines to compete globally. That edge is why the market is growing so fast.
How big is the laser market?
When people say “the laser market,” they usually mean the entire industry: cutting, welding, engraving, marking, medical, defense, and research. So what’s the full scope?
The global laser market is over $18 billion in 2024, expected to cross $25 billion by 2028. Industrial lasers make up a major slice—driven by demand from manufacturing, energy, and electronics.
Breaking it down: The segments inside the market
Let’s zoom in on the major branches:
| Segment | 2024 Market Size | Growth Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Industrial Lasers6 | ~$8B | Automation, precision processing |
| Medical Lasers7 | ~$4.5B | Minimally invasive surgery, aesthetics |
| Defense & R&D | ~$2.5B | Directed energy, optics |
| Communication | ~$3B | Optical fiber, 5G, LiDAR |
Why this matters to us
At Kirin Laser, we operate inside the industrial segment—specifically marking, welding, and cutting. When I pitch to distributors or attend expos, I often get asked if the market is saturated. My answer is simple: saturation happens when there’s no innovation. But laser technology is evolving every year. We now build machines with AI-assisted tracking8, cloud connectivity, and smart diagnostics. That’s why we’re still growing.
How big is the laser welding market?
Welding is the quiet giant of laser applications. It doesn't get flashy headlines, but it’s a critical part of many industries. So how big is this market?
The laser welding market was valued at $1.6 billion in 2024 and is forecasted to grow at 7–9% CAGR. It’s growing fast in automotive, electronics, and medical device manufacturing.
What’s driving adoption by laser weld?
Laser welding9 offers speed, control, and consistency—three things traditional methods can’t match. Kirin Laser machines are now used by clients who weld battery packs, sensors, and even tiny watch parts.
| Industry | Laser Welding Application | Benefit Over Traditional Welding |
|---|---|---|
| Automotive | EV battery packs, exhausts, doors | Low heat, precise seams |
| Electronics | Sensors, enclosures | Micro-welding, no deformation |
| Medical Devices | Surgical tools, implants | Clean, sterile, no filler needed |
| Aerospace | Lightweight alloy welding | Deep penetration, structural safety |
Why it’s exploding now
For years, laser welding was seen as “too advanced” for small shops. But prices are dropping. We now offer handheld laser welders10 that are portable, affordable, and easy to train on. Many distributors tell me: “This machine sells itself.” And it’s true—when customers see clean welds with no post-processing, they’re sold. That’s why the market is growing year after year.
Conclusion
The laser machine market11 is not one single space—it’s a group of growing, connected industries. At Kirin Laser, we build machines that serve those rising demands: marking for traceability, cutting for speed, engraving for customization, and welding for strength. These aren’t trends—they’re long-term shifts in how industries build and brand products. If you’re in this business, or thinking about entering it, know this: the numbers are big, and the future is brighter than ever.
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Understanding B2B custom production can help businesses leverage personalized solutions for growth and efficiency. ↩
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Exploring high-value personalization can reveal strategies to enhance customer satisfaction and drive sales. ↩
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Discover how automated manufacturing is revolutionizing efficiency and productivity across various sectors. ↩
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Explore how cutting systems can enhance production efficiency and profitability in manufacturing. ↩
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Learn about the innovative applications of CNC-integrated fiber lasers in modern manufacturing. ↩
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Explore this link to understand the latest innovations and trends in the Industrial Lasers market, which can help you stay ahead in the industry. ↩
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Discover how Medical Lasers are revolutionizing surgery and aesthetics, providing insights into their impact on healthcare and beauty industries. ↩
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Learn about AI-assisted tracking in laser technology and how it enhances precision and efficiency in various applications. ↩
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Explore the benefits of laser welding, including speed and precision, which are revolutionizing various industries. ↩
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Discover how portable and affordable handheld laser welders are making advanced welding accessible to small shops. ↩
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Find the best laser industry in 2025 from Kirin Laser, clicking this link to know all details and market. ↩
