High Power Violet Laser Pointers (405 nm)

High power violet laser pointers at 405 nm

Violet lasers, often searched for as blue or purple laser pointers, emit light at 405 nm, right at the edge of what the eye can see. That has two consequences. First, a violet beam looks dimmer than its output suggests, so the visible range is shorter than with green: indicatively approx. 50 m in daylight, approx. 300 m at dusk and approx. 1 km in the dark for the Pro models. Second, 405 nm light makes many fluorescent materials glow brightly, which is why violet lasers are popular for demonstrations and specialist work.

The AVP-1 Pro (18650 cell, safety keys) and the compact AVP-2 Pro Mini (16340 cell, no safety keys, one-press on/off button) deliver 50–500 mW, class 3B. The VEX-1000 Pro is a 500 mW high-power professional laser in a sturdier 10 × 4 × 4 cm housing, intended for experienced users only.

Violet Pro models compared

Important: violet looks weaker than it is

Because the eye responds weakly to 405 nm, it is easy to underestimate a violet laser. The hazard to the eye is determined by the output, not by how bright the dot appears. Always wear laser safety goggles rated for 405 nm; our guide to laser safety glasses explains how to choose them.

Violet or green?

For maximum visible range, bird control or star pointing, choose a green Pro laser. Choose violet when you specifically want the 405 nm wavelength or a third colour in your kit. Lower-powered violet: the AV-1 violet laser pen (5–50 mW).

Safety: class 3B lasers can injure the eye instantly, also via reflections. Never aim at people, animals, vehicles or aircraft, wear suitable laser safety goggles and keep the laser away from children. As the buyer you are responsible for complying with UK law. Read our laser safety guide before first use.