1. What is the difference between the LONGER RAY5 Mini and the RAY5 Mini S?
The RAY5 Mini S is an upgraded version of the RAY5 Mini with several improvements.
It includes a protective enclosure that helps contain laser light and smoke during operation, making it safer for use at home, in schools, or shared workspaces.
All versions (2.5W, 3.5W, and 5.5W) have the same 130 × 140 mm working area.
2.5W and 3.5W models are ideal for detailed engraving on keychains, jewelry, and small crafts.
The 5.5W version is better suited for cutting thicker materials and also features Class I certified safety.
2. Is the LONGER RAY5 Mini S suitable for beginners with no laser experience?
Yes. The RAY5 Mini S is designed specifically for beginners.
The machine arrives fully assembled and can be set up in less than one minute. The dovetail fixed-focus laser head eliminates the need to adjust focus when switching between materials.
Users can operate it through the MKSLaser mobile app (Android and iOS) to import photos, adjust settings, and start engraving directly from a smartphone.
For advanced users, the machine also supports LaserGRBL (free, Windows) and LightBurn (paid with a 30-day trial). Step-by-step manuals and video tutorials are included to help beginners get started quickly.
3. What materials can the LONGER RAY5 Mini S engrave and cut?
The RAY5 Mini S supports engraving on more than 300 materials, including wood (plywood, basswood, MDF, balsa), leather, fabric, paper, cardboard, coated or anodized metals, opaque or coated acrylic, cork, coated ceramics, and most plastics (except PVC).
Cutting capability depends on the laser power.
2.5W can cut paper, thin cardboard, balsa (≤3 mm), and thin fabric.
3.5W can cut light wood (≤5 mm) and thin acrylic.
5.5W can cut basswood up to 8 mm and acrylic similar to other 5W-class lasers.
Lower power versions are best for precision engraving, while the 5.5W model is recommended for users who need stronger cutting performance.
4. Can the LONGER RAY5 Mini S work without a computer?
Yes. The RAY5 Mini S supports offline operation.
You can load files onto a TF card and run the engraving job directly on the machine without connecting a computer.
The machine also supports Wi-Fi control through the MKSLaser mobile app, allowing jobs to be sent and monitored from a smartphone.
The 5.5W version additionally includes a 3.5-inch touchscreen for starting, pausing, and adjusting engraving parameters directly on the machine.
5. What software is compatible with the LONGER RAY5 Mini S?
The RAY5 Mini S is compatible with LaserGRBL (free, Windows), LightBurn (Windows, macOS, Linux with a 30-day free trial), and the MKSLaser mobile app (Android and iOS).
It supports common file formats including JPG, PNG, BMP, GIF, SVG, NC, GC, and G-code.
The machine can connect through Wi-Fi, USB cable, TF card offline mode, or the MKSLaser app. It works with Windows 7+, macOS, and Linux systems, and does not require proprietary software.