OneLaser Hydra 9 Review: Why Makers Love this Machine

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When it comes to buying a laser engraver, creators are looking for more than just raw specs. They want reliability, versatility, support—and a tool that helps their business grow. That’s exactly what came through in a recent YouTube interview hosted by Brandt Workman from Bearded Builds CO, featuring Josh Wright from Wright’s Woodworks and Taran Hooks from Hooks Design Co.

The insights shared in this casual, maker-to-maker conversation speak directly to the value we strive to deliver with every machine. Here’s why creators like Taran and his wife chose to buy a laser engraving machine from OneLaser.

1. A Creative Duo Looking to Level Up

Taran shared how he and his wife began in the maker space several years ago. Their journey started with a small diode and a CO2 laser, which they used for wood cutouts and paint-class materials in a local studio.

Taran also launched a hat business—one that unexpectedly took off through word of mouth and social media. Their story echoed Brandt and Josh’s own paths, which also began with CNC machines before laser engraving became a core part of their business.

As Taran’s business expanded, so did their need for a better machine. They were at a crossroads—should they go CO2 or RF? Should they choose a machine built purely for engraving or one that could cut thicker materials as well?

“Then I saw the Hydra 9,” Taran said. “If my ideas could have a baby, this is exactly what it would look like.”

2. Why the Hydra 9?

Originally, Taran and his wife were preparing to buy a laser engraver during Black Friday. But just a few weeks before, they discovered the Hydra 9—OneLaser’s dual-laser machine built with both an RF tube and a CO2 glass tube.

For a couple balancing craft production and detailed hat patches, the dual-tube design was the perfect solution. It meant they didn’t have to choose between detail and power—they could have both.

And while they expected a delay in shipping due to demand, the machine arrived sooner than expected.

“We got it at noon, and by 3:30 I was engraving my first patch.”

3. First Impressions: Setup, Build, and Running Projects

Taran explained that setup was straightforward. The Hydra 9 was delivered during a snowstorm, but everything was crated securely. No damage, no alignment issues, and no surprises. They placed it in their cold barn and, with help from OneLaser support, were able to run the RF tube immediately without using the water chiller.

“Everything just worked,” he said. “It came ready to go. I’ve never had a machine get running that fast.”

What stood out immediately was the rigidity and strength of the build. Compared to their previous laser, the Hydra 9’s door, frame, and gantry felt smoother, heavier, and more durable.

Even with only the RF tube installed, they were able to cut quarter-inch wood for large signage—something they hadn’t expected to do without the glass tube connected.

4. Performance That Speaks for Itself

Most of Taran’s work with the Hydra 9 has focused on hat patches, particularly using leatherette materials. The feedback?

“It’s just night and day compared to before. The detail is so much sharper. And what’s more important—it’s consistent.”

He noticed that even when batching multiple patches at once, the quality stayed crisp edge to edge—left, right, front, and back. Speeds of 800 to 1200 mm/s were possible thanks to the RF laser’s tight beam and smaller dot size.

“I ran the same patch I made two years ago, and the difference is crazy.”

They also noted that, compared to other setups they’d seen online, the Hydra 9’s air assist design—running directly through the nozzle—was far superior for cutting, especially on RF machines where airflow precision is key.

5. Comparing Machines: Why OneLaser Stood Out

Before choosing the Hydra 9, Taran had strongly considered a competing RF machine with a slightly smaller bed—but that machine came at a significantly higher cost and didn’t offer the cutting power they needed for larger projects. That’s when the Hydra 9 became the clear choice.

“I was ready to buy something else, but when I saw the Hydra and what it offered, it was the right decision. I got a bigger bed, both lasers, and better airflow—all for less money.”

They also appreciated OneLaser’s autofocus system and how easy it was to adjust in LightBurn. Although they hadn’t yet used the onboard camera, they noted that it would come in handy once their new laser workspace was finished.

6. The Future Is Bright—and Full of Projects

With two machines now running in their workspace, Taran and his wife have more room to grow. From leatherette hat patches and custom glass bottles to large wooden signs, the Hydra 9 has helped free up their workflow.

They’ve even started thinking about expanding into hat bar setups at craft shows and possibly mobile engraving options for events. And with faster turnaround and more consistent results, their business has more capacity than ever—even with most sales still coming from organic word of mouth.

“We usually come out to the barn after the kids go to bed and get to work. Now with two machines, we’ve got more time to focus on growing.”

Learn more: How to Start a Laser Engraving Business

7. Real Tools for Real Makers

Brandt and Josh, both long-time creators in the maker community, echoed the same excitement throughout the interview. What they appreciated most was hearing from someone who had bought their own machine, made it work for their business, and was genuinely impressed with its performance.

At OneLaser, that’s our goal: to build powerful, flexible tools that are easy to set up and reliable for full-time production—whether you're a seasoned engraver or just getting started.

“This is the kind of machine that works for both beginners and experienced makers,” Taran said. “It’s just solid.”

Watch the full interview:

Final Thoughts

We’re incredibly grateful that the team at Bearded Builds CO, Wright’s Woodworks, and Hooks Design Co. took the time to share their experience. As more creators consider buying a laser engraver, it’s these honest stories that matter most.

Whether you're cutting wood signs, engraving leather patches, or scaling a business from your barn after hours—Hydra 9 is built to help you get there faster, with better results.

Ready to Buy a Laser Engraver?

If you're like Taran—looking to upgrade, expand your workflow, or start something new—explore what makes the OneLaser Hydra Series different:

✅ Dual-laser design: CO₂ Glass Tubes (80W-150W) and RF Metal Tubes (38W-75W)
✅ Arrives pre-aligned and ready to run
✅ U.S.-based support & 3-year limited warranty
✅ Community-driven development
✅ Financing and sales consultations available

Schedule the free consultation and join a growing community of makers who are building, creating, and thriving with OneLaser.

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