I want a laser / engraver / router - recommendations?

[Notshortnottall]

I have a modified Ender 3D printer but looking to branch out a bit into making some other things.

I quite like the idea of etching / engraving / routing things onto wood / metal etc. - and I've seen people do some creative things by attaching lasers to their 3D printers, but that feels a bit 'gaffer tape and No More Nails' as an approach - so I'm trying to look at other options and as usual, there's a massive variety of things out there.

Its for non-commercial / hobby use if that helps.

[akirk]

not a huge fan of the multi-combined-do-anything machines...
I have an x-tool D1 and it is very good (and easy to use) (will also cut hardwood up to about 10mm and softwood more than that)
I also have an intro CNC to play with, but that is more challenging to use and it might be necessary to spend more on that...

[Ozzie Dave]

If engraving or cutting then the laser is dictated by what you want to cut, the cheaper ones engrave on 'living' materials and acrylics but are slow and will cut materiala mm thick with a number of passes, I use a CO2 that will cut upto 15mm thick acrylic in a single pass and can also engrave glass etc, for metals you will need to use a fibre laser. listed in price order and depends on the bed size. Try with a small unit and see if its for you as it can get very expensive.