Laser Cutting vs. CNC Punching: Which is Better for Your Sheet Metal Project?

When designing a sheet metal part, choosing the right fabrication process is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Two of the most common cutting methods—laser cutting and CNC punching—each offer unique advantages depending on your part geometry, volume, and material requirements.

Understanding the differences helps engineers, buyers, and manufacturers choose the most cost-effective and efficient process. Below, we break down how the two methods compare and when each one is the smarter choice.