The 650nm Red Laser Diode

650 nm Red Laser Diodes are the most common and inexpensive visible wavelength laser diodes available. They typically have a wavelength of 650nm, which is a nice deep red color. These red laser diodes are found in 20X or 22X DVD “writers” or “burners.” They have no problem outputting 200mW’s to over 350mW’s and should be supplied with less than 380mA’s of current from a laser diode driver.

If you are looking to construct your first burning laser project, the 650nm red laser diode is a great choice for beginners. It is very inexpensive, yet powerful and more robust compared to other diodes. A downside is the 650nm is not as visible or bright as a comparable 445nm or 532nm laser.

This red laser diode is a great starting diode, for a “beginner” laser hobbyist:

635-640nm Red Laser Diodes

635nm red laser diodes are typically not very powerful, but they are sought out for their unique red-orangish color. This wavelength is about 3 times brighter to the eye than the typical 650nm wavelength. The 635nm red laser diode is much more rare then the common 650nm diode. They cant be found in any DVD “writer” or “burner.” In the standard 5.6mm diode size you will have difficulty finding one above 5-10mW’s. Though higher power c-mount 635nm diodes can be found, but these are unfavorable due to their multi-mode beam pattern and they require expensive optics.