RatRig Stronghold XT-50 6W Plug&Play Laser Kit

RatRig PLH3D-XT-50 Laser Upgrade Kit

Specs: 6W Optical Power, Ultra HD 550DPI 45um spot, max wood cutting thickness 3 mm (⅛”)

Best For: Very Detailed Engraving, Thin Materials Cutting

Includes: Laser Head, PLH3D-CNC Adapter, Mount and Screws, PSU, Wiring, Air Nozzle, Height Reference Tool

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$749.00 tax excl.

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Items included in the kit:

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Product description

PLH3D-XT-50 Laser Head: The Ultimate Product for Years

Great choice! This comprehensive RatRig Stronghold & LEAD CNC Laser Add-on kit with the XT-50 laser head, arguably the best single-laser-diode laser cutter and engraver on the market, is a perfect addition for your RatRig Stronghold & LEAD CNC machine. It contains everything you need for your RatRig Stronghold & LEAD CNC machine - from plug-and-play electronics for RatRig Stronghold & LEAD CNC controller, through mechanical mount to laser safety equipment.

You don’t need higher laser power for laser engraving wood. PLH3D-XT-50 can effortlessly laser engrave wood while being moved at maximum working speeds of popular CNC machines. In addition, XT-50 laser engraves with Ultra HD resolution and your eye would not see any difference if the focused beam spot was any smaller.

PLH3D-XT-50 laser heads are a great substitute for CO2 CNC lasers and can work with special engraving laminates, laser foils and many standard materials such as wood, rubber, cardboard, fabrics, leather, painted/anodized metal. The XT-50 lasers are also great for stainless steel and titanium marking.

XT-50 Laser Head

Benefits Offered by Opt Lasers for the First Time on This Market

5-year Opt Lasers Warranty
30-Day Satisfaction Guarantee for Returns
Lifetime Technical Support
#1 in Customer Support
Unmatched Durability and Reliability
Optional Collision or Laser Head Drop Insurance
Product Originating from the Laser Head Concept Creator
Made in Poland, EU

LightBurn Software — Get 10% Off When You Buy with Opt Lasers Kits

Save 10% when you add LightBurn to your XF+, XT-50, or XT8 Kit.

When purchased together with our Plug&Play Kits, LightBurn comes at an exclusive discounted price — so you start with the best tools and the best value from day one. Widely trusted by laser users around the world, LightBurn is the community’s most popular choice, with thousands of licenses sold.

LightBurn software is available as an optional accessory with our laser kits or heads and is compatible with all Opt Lasers cutting and engraving modules — including XT8, XT-50, and XF+. It streamlines your workflow and provides precise control for optimal cutting and engraving results. You can add it from the Accessories section at the top of the page.

Compatibility tip: LightBurn’s compatibility depends on your machine’s motion controller/firmware (not the laser module itself). It works with most available CNC controllers and includes a Custom G-Code postprocessor. However, please make sure that your controller is supported before purchasing.

Whether you’re working with wood, plastics, leather, or foam, pairing LightBurn with Opt Lasers hardware ensures reliable, efficient, and high-quality results.

LightBurn Software for Laser Engraving and Cutting

PLH3D Series: From Concept to Results - See It in Action

Plug & Play Kits – How to Install in Minutes

How to connect a PLH3D-Series laser to your CNC — applicable to XT-50

Quick wiring and setup guide for PLH3D lasers on popular routers. The process is identical for the PLH3D-XT-50 using the PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro.

PLH3D-CNC Adapter PRO – Ultimate Control Solution

PLH3D-CNC Adapter PRO video – control and safety features

Simplifies wiring with signal conversion, presets and OLED-guided setup. Real-time diagnostics and layered safety protect you and your XT-50.

LaserDock PRO – Quick Docking for CNC Lasers

LaserDock PRO quick docking system

Snap the laser on/off in seconds with magnetic alignment and integrated air/power. Optional accessory compatible with XT-50.

What Can You Cut or Engrave with PLH3D-XT-50?

These are the most popular materials for laser cutting and engraving using the PLH3D-XT-50 laser head.

XT8 Laser Materials
WoodWood
PlywoodPlywood
LeatherLeather
FoamFoam
Rubber (non-PVC)Rubber
CorkCork
Anodized AluminumAnodized Aluminum (Engraving)
Ceramic Tiles (Engraving)Ceramic Tiles (Engraving)
AcrylicAcrylic
Stone (Engraving)Stone (Engraving)
Paper & CardboardPaper & Cardboard
FabricsFabrics
Metals (Engraving)Metals (Engraving)
Specialty MaterialsSpecial Materials
GlassGlass
Applications and capability (Cut / Engrave) for PLH3D-XT-50
Application TypeCutEngrave
Paper (bond, coated wrapping, packaging)
Textiles (natural and synthetic)
Foam (charcoal, latex, lux)
Polymer Foams
Cardboard (corrugated, mat, paper)
Balsa
Plywood (Structural, Hardwood)1
Wood (e.g., Birch)
MDF
Bookbinding Paperboard
Polymer Films
Acrylic Glass
Genuine Leather
Faux Leather
Neoprene
Stone2
Marble
Tool Steel
Carbon Steel
Stainless Steel
Titanium
Anodized Aluminum
Bare Aluminum
Copper
Brass

Notes:

  1. This table is a general guideline based on blue-laser processing with the PLH3D-XT-50. Real performance depends on the exact material (manufacturer, grade/alloy), production process, color, thermal properties and surface finish. Always run a test for your specific stock. Dark materials absorb blue light better; very light/white or blue-tinted materials can be difficult or impossible to process.
  2. For stone, the result depends strongly on thread density and thickness of the composite.

Example Specific PLH3D-XT-50 Applications

PLH3D-XT-50 is engineered for ultra-precise engraving and clean, thin-material cutting. Its rectangular, sub-50 µm spot and factory 60.0 mm working distance deliver crisp edges, readable micro-text and photo-grade textures across many materials.

Below are three common application scenarios. Each section pairs practical tips with a compact parameter table to help you dial in results quickly on your specific CNC, air setup and material batch.

Exceptionally Accurate Metal Engraving

The microscopic square spot renders fine logos, micro-text and dense textures on stainless steel and titanium with excellent contrast.

  • Set working distance to 60.0 mm (Height Reference Tool) for the smallest spot.
  • On reflective parts, introduce a slight tilt (~) to avoid specular back-reflections.
  • Use clean, dry air to keep marks sharp and optics clear; wipe the surface before engraving.
Recommended parameters for stainless steel engraving
MaterialOperationFeed RateAir Flow
Stainless Steel Engraving 5 mm/s (11.8 IPM) 5 L/min

Ultra-HD Ceramic Tile Engraving

With >500 DPI capability, the XT-50 produces photo-grade engravings on ceramic tiles with crisp edges and smooth tonal transitions.

  • Start between 350–500 DPI and run a small test swatch to confirm tone mapping.
  • Use moderate air (too much can over-cool and wash out contrast); ensure the tile is perfectly flat.
  • Clean the surface before/after to remove fine dust that can gray highlights.
Recommended parameters for ceramic tile engraving
MaterialOperationFeed RateDPI
Ceramic Tile Engraving 2500 mm/min 423

Detailed Engraving & Thin Cutting on Soft Materials

The sub-50 µm spot yields thin, consistent kerfs and clean edges in wood, leather, textiles and foams; ideal for fine inlays, lettering and intricate patterns.

  • For cutting, set the nozzle about 1–3 mm above the surface and increase air until char/flare-ups are minimized.
  • For engraving, reduce airflow to preserve surface texture and avoid over-cooling.
  • Always verify material safety and provide proper ventilation, especially for plastics and composites.
Recommended parameters for thin composite cutting
MaterialOperationThicknessFeed RateAir Flow
Coal Duplex Cutting 1 mm (0.0393") 500 mm/min 10–20 L/min

Features & Benefits of the PLH3D-XT-50 Cutting and Engraving Laser Head In Details

Adjustable, Microscopic & Square Beam Spot 25 - 500 DPI - The XT-50 laser heads have adjustable beam spots, below 50µm at perfect focus. Adjusting the height increases the spot size up to 2mm, enabling Ultra HD resolution over 500 DPI or large-scale engraving down to 25 DPI.

Adjustable, Microscopic & Square Beam Spot 25 - 500 DPI

High Power Density - The XT-50 laser heads achieve a small beam-spot size, increasing power density and enabling faster cutting and engraving. For example, the XT-50 can engrave (not just mark) stainless steel and tool steel.

High Power Density

Cutting and Engraving - PLH3D-XT-50 blue laser allows to cut and engrave various materials such as wood, cardboard, rubber, paper, textiles, leather, plastic, balsa, plywood, and many others, as well as mark stainless steel, titanium and low heat conductance subtypes of steel.

Cutting and Engraving with XT-50

Improved Safety - The cutting and engraving laser head is equipped with an “Armed” indication LED, signaling its connection to the power supply and providing alerts for overheating. Additionally, ambient temperature warnings ensure safe operation.

Improved Safety LED

Factory Set Lens - Each laser head is shipped with a High-Resolution Triplet lens adjusted to focus at 60.0 mm. This distance is the best-optimized focus distance to start with.

Factory Set Lens in XT-50

Built-in Driver - A short connection between the laser diode and a driver ensures better protection for a diode, possibility of high-frequency current modulation as well as eliminates inductance effects during the switch-on.

Built-in Driver in XT-50

No Additional Cooling Required - This lightweight laser requires no additional cooling. The XF+ laser's body acts as a heatsink, allowing it to work constantly for 24 hours, every day.

No Additional Cooling Required in XT-50

The Most Precise Laser Head on the Market - Thanks to our special optical design, the XT-50 reaches the highest precision, delivering unparalleled accuracy for detailed work.

The Most Precise Laser Head on the Market

Customer Stories – Opt Lasers

Customer Story - Nicky Norton with Opt Lasers XT-50

Nicky Norton is the creator of the Norton Method — a widely adopted workflow primarily for laser engraving on ceramic tiles (Norton White Tile), also inspiring work on wood and stainless steel. His projects circulate broadly in Facebook maker groups, consistently earning recognition and helping newcomers improve results.

"(... ) Then I saw a few postings of fantastic engravings with people using the Opt Lasers PL3D-XT-50 6 watt. I reached out to Opt Lasers and in short time I had one. As soon as I unboxed it I realized that this was a High Quality Crafted precision Module. Some teething pains connecting it to my Laser machine were quickly overcome with the Fantastic support I received from Opt Lasers support via messaging/e-mails/ and Zoom calls. The precision and accuracy of this laser with a beam of 30 x50 microns (incredibly high laser fluence) soon proved to be unmatchable in the quality of engravings I was able to achieve.

Overall, working with Opt Lasers products and support staff has been a very positive experience and has renewed my enthusiasm in the use of Diode engraving."
— Nicky Norton
Customer Story - Kris Crawford with Opt Lasers

Kris Crawford is a Canadian maker and content creator behind Further North Fabrication, sharing woodworking and metalworking builds on YouTube and Instagram. Since 2021 he has used Opt Lasers to add intricate detail to client gifts and personal projects — a trusted voice encouraging others to explore CNC laser fabrication.

"(... ) Integrating the laser with my modified X-Carve CNC was a seamless process, and it has since elevated the capabilities of my setup. The precision and versatility of the Opt Lasers module have been a game-changer for my DIY projects, allowing me to create intricate designs and add detailed engravings to a variety of materials. Whether I’m working on wood, acrylic, or metal, the laser delivers outstanding results every time."
— Kris Crawford
Customer Story - April Wilkerson with Opt Lasers

April Wilkerson is a Texas-based DIYer, woodworker, and metalworker — known on YouTube as @AprilWilkerson — with over 1.5 million subscribers. From YouTube to TV, her step-by-step builds empower makers worldwide, now with laser projects in the mix.

"(... ) Installation and operation was surprisingly smooth and easy, truly plug and play. But since this was my first laser, I needed advice early on and the guys at Opt were fantastic; responsive, knowledgeable, and always willing to take the time to thoroughly answer my questions. They even answered questions I didn't know to ask!"
— April Wilkerson
Customer Story - Jim Neeb with Opt Lasers

Jim Neeb is a retired engineer and 45-year woodworker who has supported Opt Lasers since the early days via his YouTube channel @JNWoodworks and our official user group. He’s known for clear, practical guidance and polished demos that help makers master laser techniques. He is also an official tester collaborating with Avid CNC.

"(... ) Opt Lasers is the ONLY diode laser company that I recommend because there really aren't any other companies with products even close to their level of quality and customer service. I can say that with confidence through my own experience as well as the feedback I get from my YouTube viewer contacts around the world."
— Jim Neeb

Product Technical Specifications

Technical specifications for PLH3D-XT-50
PLH3D-XT-50
Laser Diode Optical Specification 6 W @ 450 nm
Working Distance (WD) measured from the front surface of the laser head body 60 mm (2.36”)
Factory-set 60 mm (2.36")
Beam Spot Specs & Resolution <50 µm   >550 DPI
Max Power Density > 2500 kW/cm²
Optical System Efficiency > 87%
Modulation Inputs PWM / Analog / TTL
Recommended PWM Base Frequency 5 – 10 kHz
Max. Modulation Bandwidth 30 kHz
Modulation Input 1 Analog / TTL / PWM, 0 – 5 V
Modulation Input 2 TTL / PWM, 0 – 24 V
Input Impedance of 1 and 2 > 1 kΩ
Dimensions of Laser Head (L × W × H) 40 × 55 × 140 mm
(1.6 × 1.7 × 5.51 in.)
Weight of Laser Head, Typ. ~370 g (13.1 oz)
Flow Rate of Fan 43 m³/h (25 CFM)
Fan Noise 58 dBA
Mounting Hole Pattern 4 holes, 24 × 15 mm
(0.94 × 0.59 in.)
Mounting Hole Type M3 × 0.5 × 4.5 mm
Max. Ambient Temperature 40°C (113°F)
Operating Temperature 10–40 °C (50–104 °F)
Laser Diode Lifetime > 10,000 h
Power Supply Unit Voltage 12 – 24 V
12 V PSU Min. Current 2.5 A
24 V PSU Min. Current 1.25 A
Max. Power Consumption 30 W

PLH3D-XT-50 Laser Head – FAQ

Yes. XT-50 works with most hobby and pro CNC routers and engravers. The kit includes the PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, which accepts common controller outputs (PWM/TTL/Analog up to 24 V) and provides safety interlocks. Mechanical mounting is via the dedicated plate or LaserDock PRO.

XT-50 (6 W) is optimized for ultra-high-detail engraving and precise thin-material cutting. Typical materials: wood, plywood/MDF, leather, textiles, cardboard, rubber, plastics (e.g., ABS, acrylics), laminates/foils, painted or anodized metals. It marks stainless steel and titanium and engraves anodized aluminum.

  • Optical power: 6 W (blue, ~450 nm)
  • Spot/resolution: ~45–50 µm square spot (> 500 DPI), adjustable with Z
  • Supply: 12–24 V DC (via Adapter Pro); max consumption ~30 W
  • Size/weight: 40 × 55 × 140 mm; ~0.37 kg

This optical setup yields photo-grade detail, razor-sharp text/barcodes, and very clean micro-features.

XT-50 is ideal for thin, accurate cuts (e.g., veneers, paper, card, thin fabrics, thin balsa/ply). Typical single-pass wood cuts are up to ~3 mm depending on species and air-assist. For thicker stock or production-grade cutting, consider the XT8. Use air-assist for cleaner edges and faster throughput.

Nominal working distance (WD) for XT-50 is 60.0 mm from the head’s front face to the work surface. Use the included Height Reference Tool for quick, repeatable setup: place the tool on material, jog Z until the head touches it lightly, remove the tool, and you’re in focus.

Yes. The XT-series High-Pressure Air-Assist Nozzle improves speed and edge quality and protects optics. Start with ~1–3 l/min for fine engraving and ~10–15 l/min for cutting. Aim the jet slightly ahead of the beam, ~1–3 mm above the surface. Use clean, dry air (filter + oil separator recommended).

Yes. The kit includes the XT-50 head, PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, mount, PSU, safety glasses, signal cable, laser head cable, Height Reference Tool, the air-assist nozzle, stickers and screws. Typical first-time installation takes < 1 hour. With LaserDock PRO, daily attach/detach takes seconds.

Use your controller’s laser/spindle output into the Adapter Pro. Supported: PWM 0–5/0–10/0–24 V or Analog 0–5/0–10 V. Recommended PWM base frequency: 5–10 kHz for smooth grayscale. Do not connect both Analog and PWM simultaneously.

Turn the Adapter Pro key switch ON, then press the knob to enter ARMED. For a quick hardware test (no CNC), use TEST MODE to emit a very low duty cycle while holding the knob. Always wear OD7+ goggles and keep the work area ventilated.

Yes. In the Adapter Pro Advanced Settings, set STATUS INPUT to “ignored” for 5-pin heads (the ST pin is unused). This avoids false status readings.

XT-50 includes temperature protection and a fast driver for stable modulation. Use OD7+ goggles (190–540 nm), shielding/interlocks, and keep bystanders protected. The Adapter Pro adds a key lock, ARMED state, status LEDs/OLED, and error-driven disarming.

XT-50 marks stainless steel and titanium and engraves anodized aluminum. For reflective workpieces, tilt the part ~ so specular reflections can’t return to the diode. Always wear OD7+ glasses.

Inspect the protective window regularly and clean about every ~100 h (or sooner in smoky jobs) using 99.9% IPA and lint-free swabs; avoid generic eyeglass wipes. Keep the air line dry (filter + oil separator); the nozzle keeps smoke away from the window and prolongs intervals between cleanings.

Yes, ensure good ventilation or fume extraction, especially for plastics and resinous woods. Air-assist reduces smoke at the beam, but vapors must still be removed from the workspace. Always follow local safety regulations.

Any G-code workflow with laser-compatible PWM output works (e.g., LightBurn, LaserGRBL, Vectric, Fusion 360 with post). Configure your controller’s laser mode and PWM scale per the head/Adapter manuals.

XT-50 (6 W): photo-grade detail, micro-features, thin cutting, WD ~60 mm.
XT8 (45 W): fast cutting/engraving and thicker materials; different WD. Both use the same Adapter Pro workflow; choose based on whether precision detail (XT-50) or throughput/thickness (XT8) matters more.

The kit includes: XT-50 head, PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro, mount, PSU, safety glasses, signal/head cables, Height Reference Tool, air-assist nozzle, stickers and screws. Optional but recommended: LaserDock PRO (quick on/off) and a small compressor for air-assist.

Leave a small service loop for Z; route the laser cable in existing chains; tie every 20–30 cm; avoid long parallel runs with spindle/VFD or stepper bundles; cross at 90°. Ensure connectors are fully seated and strain-relieved.

Yes. With LaserDock PRO the laser head docks magnetically in seconds. Keep the spindle powered off/disabled during laser operation and ensure the beam path and air line are clear.

  • Adapter Pro key ON, state ARMED, no error on OLED/LEDs
  • PWM input shows activity when sending M3 S…
  • GND and PWM wired to the right inputs; no 24 V on signal pin
  • Laser cable fully seated at both ends; WD set correctly
  • Try Adapter’s TEST MODE at very low duty cycle

XT-50 is serviceable; optics and protective windows are replaceable. We provide technical support, manuals, STEP files, and spare parts. Warranty terms depend on region—see the product page or contact us.

  • XT-50 head with protective window installed
  • PLH3D-CNC Adapter Pro + PSU and AC plug set
  • Mounting plate + screws; cables (signal + head)
  • Height Reference Tool; Air-Assist Nozzle
  • Laser Safety Glasses; stickers; quick guide/manual links

Yes—this is a plug & play kit: mount the plate, connect PWM/GND and power to the Adapter Pro, set WD with the Height Tool, and run the first-light test. Daily use is even faster with LaserDock PRO. No hidden parts required.

You can do either. Hard-mount works great if the laser stays on the machine. LaserDock PRO is recommended if you frequently switch between spindle and laser—it shortens setup to seconds and protects connectors.

Reviews

19-02-2024

Innovazione e Precisione

La facilità di installazione, unita alla precisione delle incisioni, rende questo prodotto insostituibile.

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