Bambu Lab, a company known for its 3D printers, has launched its first product outside the 3D printing space with the R1, a 55W CO2 laser cutter. This new machine targets the expanding "maker space" — a community of hobbyists, artists, and small-scale manufacturers who use tools like 3D printers and laser cutters for creative and practical projects. The R1 features automatic alignment, positioning, and optical systems, making it more user-friendly than many similar machines. It can cut and engrave a variety of materials, including clear acrylic and glass, thanks to its CO2 laser technology, which differs from the diode lasers found in many other laser cutters. The R1 has a standard working area of 600 x 300mm, and with an optional conveyor, it can extend to a 3000mm length, allowing for longer cuts. It's relatively compact, with dimensions of 940 x 560 x 200mm and a weight of 33.5 kg. The machine includes the TriSense system, which uses a combination of cameras, lasers, and encoders to track materials and ensure precise movement. It also offers automatic laser alignment, reducing the need for manual adjustments of mirrors. The Bambu Suite software controls the machine, offering pre-set profiles for common materials and manual controls for others, though some users have found the software’s workflow to be less intuitive, with issues like complicated file imports and occasional display problems. The R1 is priced at $2,499 in the US and £2,249 in the UK. Pre-orders began on September 22, 2026, with shipping expected in October. A range of optional accessories is available, including a conveyor belt for extended cutting, a rotary attachment for curved surfaces, and safety features like an air purifier and an automatic fire extinguishing system. The machine comes with a short-focus lens by default, which is ideal for engraving and thin material cutting. During testing, the R1 performed well on a range of materials, including wood, acrylic, MDF, leather, ceramic, metal, and glass. It was able to cut through 18mm black walnut and 20mm acrylic, showing its versatility. However, some users might prefer a honeycomb bed — a grid-like platform that better supports small parts — as the current slats may not prevent small pieces from falling through the gaps. The R1 is aimed at users already familiar with Bambu Lab’s products, offering a powerful addition to their workflow by combining 3D printing with laser engraving and cutting. While the hardware is well-designed and easy to use, the software still needs improvements to provide a more seamless experience for users.