So I got curious about what type of laser cutters are half way

It's all dogshit, though some at least include some OK parts. Nothing is better than 'good starter kit for building something more complete'.

>>1156840
Not sure but please get one that laser etches plexiglass. I have a billion projects requiring this and potential resources to make us some money. If not i can hook u up with some cool painted shit and a little cash. Maybe a pair of tickets to fight night and a beer if u near tulsa oklahoma

>>1156840
Live near a decent sized city? Find a makerspace or check the library. Several around me have lasers. The library will usually only be operated by an employee, you can't actually touch it. Makerspace tends to be pretty much free reign (except techlab, those guys are anal retentive as fuck.)

>>1157027
~ any hobby laser will etch plexiglas.

How is the finish on the cut edges of acrylic? Is it a lot of prep to get to a polished edge?

>>1158279
Nope. Personally i use a fine tooth saw and go slo as heat is a cunk. Pick off the melted shit. Amd i never did it but everyone says just run over it with a propane torch. Perfect edge. I always backlight etched shit so rough edge actually bnefits for dispersing light.