Galvo vs. Gantry: A Detailed Comparison
Shenzhen, China
Published: Jul 3, 2026
Galvo vs. Gantry: A Detailed Comparison
Let’s put the two technologies head to head across the factors that matter for laser marking:
| Specification | Galvo System | Gantry System |
|---|---|---|
| Marking speed (surface) | 7,000–10,000 mm/s | 500–2,000 mm/s |
| Repositioning time | 0.3–1 ms | 30–100 ms |
| Marking precision | ±0.01 mm | ±0.05–0.1 mm |
| Field size | 110 x 110 to 300 x 300 mm | Unlimited (limited by rail length) |
| 3D marking capability | Limited (requires Z-axis or 3D galvo) | Easy (add Z-axis) |
| System footprint | Compact | Large (rail length + margin) |
| Maintenance | Low | Moderate to high |
| Best application | Marking, engraving | Cutting, large-area processing |
When Gantry Still Wins
Galvo isn’t superior in every scenario. Gantry systems are better for:
- Large-area cutting — Galvo field sizes max out around 300 x 300 mm; gantry systems can cut sheets over 1,500 x 3,000 mm
- Deep 3D engraving — Adding a Z-axis to a gantry is simpler and more robust than 3D galvo systems
- Heavy-duty processing — When you need to move focusing optics, gas nozzles, or sensor heads (not just a beam)
But for marking? Galvo wins, and it’s not close.
