Nova Alpha 45 vs. 65?

Howdy, y'all. I'm trying to decide on my next toy. My WL died, so I want something stable and reliable. I also want something US legal without having to rob a bank.

I'm not planning on burning anything, I just want a good bright beam to tinker with (and show off, of course). Will there be much difference for my uses between the Alpha 45 and the Alpha 65? I'm thinking the $20 difference could go toward some accessories or batteries. However, if the 65 is going to be significantly brighter, it's worth the extra cash.

I looked around and haven't seen much feedback on this power range. Seems like most people have a 5mw for tinkering and then 100+mw killing machines. Any thoughts from the wise folks here would be much appreciated.

I have a 105 and I love it to pieces  ;D ;D ;D

also the 65 should have a brighter beam, and should be visible in a lit room while the 45 wouldn't

darmom said:

I'm not planning on burning anything, I just want a good bright beam to tinker with (and show off, of course).  Will there be much difference for my uses between the Alpha 45 and the Alpha 65?  I'm thinking the $20 difference could go toward some accessories or batteries.  However, if the 65 is going to be significantly brighter, it's worth the extra cash.

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I currently find myself in that same quandary trying to select which Alpha to buy myself for Christmas. I am leaning toward the 65mw myself, but am even pondering moving up to the 85.  I already have some labby type lasers that I can use if I want to play around with burning or anything that requires high power.  Now I just want a nice reliable, portable laser with a visible beam that I can whip out when in a foggy area, etc.  The way I see it is this:  If I settle for something lower power like the 45, just to save a few bucks, I will probably end up regretting it since I will wish I had a brighter beam later.  Since the lower power Nova lasers are still rather expensive (compared to DIY options or a good AixiZ labby) then why not spend a bit more and have a nice powerful, portable beam.

I'd recommend going 65mw and up.  I will review mine when I get it, but I can tell you right now it's probably going to be a 65 or an 85 here.

-Brett

Thanks maxkillz and Brett. Being visible in a lit room is a neat plus. My WL was supposedly a 55mw, and it was NOT visible in a lit room. Sounds like the Alpha 65 is the way to go. I can't step up to the 85 because that would put it in a price range that would require financial committee approval (wife).

Brett, I will post a review once I get familiar with my soon to be new toy. Looks like you and I are on the same page.

Alpha 65 ordered... in case anyone cares.

Nice one