Laser marking
Marking changes surface appearance — colour or contrast — with little or no material removal. On stainless steel, annealing can form a dark oxide under an intact surface, which helps preserve corrosion resistance.
Use marking for serials, logos, and 2D codes when part geometry and finish must stay within tight tolerances.
Laser etching
Etching melts a thin top layer, leaving a frosted, slightly tactile mark. It is usually faster than deep engraving and offers strong contrast on many metals.
Common for nameplates, tags, and branding that will be handled but does not need millimetre-scale depth.
Laser engraving
Engraving vaporizes material over multiple passes to cut a recess. Marks survive heavy abrasion, coating removal, and harsh environments — at the cost of time and heat input.
Specify target depth early; every extra fraction of a millimetre adds passes and cost.
Quick decision guide
Need machine-readable codes with minimal depth? → Marking.
Need visible, tactile branding without deep cavities? → Etching.
Need marks that survive sandblast or refinish? → Engraving.
Unsure? Send material photos and duty-cycle notes — we recommend a process and first-article sample.