Laser diode prices vary widely, ranging from under $1 for basic consumer models to tens of thousands of dollars for high-power or specialized devices.

Price Range Overview

The cost of a laser diode depends heavily on wavelength, output power, spectral properties, package type, and quantity. Basic consumer-grade diodes, such as red lasers used in pointers or optical mice (630–670 nm), can cost less than a dollar, while high-power, narrow-linewidth, or specialized diodes for biomedical or telecommunications applications can reach tens of thousands of dollars .

Factors Affecting Price

• Wavelength: Common wavelengths in high-volume markets (red, near-IR for telecom) are cheaper due to economies of scale, whereas rare or specialized wavelengths (e.g., 375–488 nm for biomedical imaging) are more expensive .
• Output Power: Higher power diodes generally cost more, though packaging and mode type can influence this .
• Spectral Properties: Narrow linewidth, single-mode, or distributed feedback (DFB) diodes command higher prices due to precision requirements .
• Package Type: Standard diode packages are cheaper, while hermetically sealed or specialized packages increase cost .

Examples from Suppliers

• Farnell UK and Mouser UK offer a wide range of laser diodes with prices varying by specifications, often providing datasheets and technical support for selection .
• Amazon UK and eBay UK list consumer and hobbyist laser diodes, with prices ranging from a few dollars for low-power diodes to hundreds for high-power blue or infrared diodes .

Summary

In short, laser diode costs can range from under $1 for basic consumer models to tens of thousands for specialized, high-power, or narrow-linewidth devices. When budgeting, consider the intended application, required wavelength, power, and spectral characteristics, as these factors significantly influence the final price .