Laser Cutting Speed Calculator
The laser cutting speed calculator estimates total cutting time based on the length of cuts you need to make and the feed rate of your machine. Laser cutting speed (feed rate) is typically measured in millimetres per second or millimetres per minute. To find total cut time, divide the total cut path length by the feed rate. This tool also helps you check whether a given feed rate is appropriate for your material by showing expected cut time per metre. Whether you run a CO2 laser, a diode laser, or a fibre laser, knowing your cut time in advance helps you plan jobs, quote clients, and batch multiple projects on a single sheet.
Laser cut time formula
Cut time (min) = (Total length (mm) x Passes) / Feed rate (mm/min)
Total job time = Cut time x (1 + Overhead fraction)
Overhead fraction = Overhead % / 100
The overhead percentage accounts for rapids (non-cutting moves), focus adjustments, and material loading. A typical 10 to 20% overhead is reasonable for most jobs.
Frequently asked questions
What is feed rate in laser cutting?
Feed rate is the speed at which the laser head moves across the material, measured in mm/s or mm/min. Higher feed rates mean faster cutting but may not cut fully through thicker materials. The correct feed rate depends on laser power, material type, and material thickness.
How does laser power affect cutting speed?
Higher laser power allows faster cutting speeds for the same material and thickness. Doubling the power does not exactly double the speed, because the relationship is non-linear and depends on material absorption and thermal conductivity. Always test on scrap material before a final cut.
What is the difference between cutting and engraving speed?
Cutting typically uses slower speeds and higher power to cut all the way through material. Engraving uses faster speeds and lower power to ablate the surface without cutting through. Engraving speeds can be 5 to 20 times faster than cutting speeds for the same material.
Why does material thickness matter so much?
Thicker material requires more laser energy per unit length to cut through. This means either lower speed (more dwell time per point) or higher power. As a general rule, doubling material thickness roughly halves the maximum usable cutting speed.
How do I find the right speed for my material?
Most laser manufacturers provide speed/power charts for common materials. Run a test grid (varying speed and power in small increments) on scrap material. The goal is the fastest speed that still produces a clean, full-depth cut. Record your settings for future reference.
Sources
Reviewed by the CalculatorHub team, edited by James Graham, 14 June 2026. See our methodology.