I have had about a dozen of each, WL ships fast, and I think the Core is a fine $40 laser. I am more used to using a 50+ mW these days, but it is safer to own and learn to use care at the beginning with a 5 mW and if you are more careful even a 20 mW is usually O.K. I didn't see a lot of quality difference from the LaserGlow pen to the WL ones. I still have 2 Core lasers that have not ben converted into Blu-ray pens, and about 2 LG's with adjustable dot as well as a pen from LG that has the pocket clip removed. But I really use the higher powered units the most as I said earlier. I have several LED Shoppe units rated as 50 mW and these will light a match if focused to a smaller dot w/ a lens. These are only about $25, and one in 6 or so is >65 mW I even got one that hits 169 mW at <$25 it was a steal! The beam is great on them, but yes, use them with a lot of care. I have found many ways to make light effects with lasers, it's great fun! Eventually almost everyone wants the powerful ones, imho. but taking your time is a good idea too! Best Wishes! -Glenn