In my view, the Thunder Laser is for people who need a production-capable machine, or makerspaces/classrooms where you need that robustness and self-maintainability. The Glowforge is a little more delicate and even needs sending back to the manufacturer for things like tube replacements.

These machines are built like tanks, and are very user-serviceable.

You can also switch out the honeycomb to use the blade style option, or not use a bed at all.

One of the cool things about the Thunder Laser Nova series is the motorized Z has an automated sensor, plus you can focus the laser head or z height manually to give those extra engrave effects, and there is a choice of lenses, for fine detail or greater cut depth. There is the option of using a camera system like on the Glowforge also. Having the ability to use the red laser dot and to dry run the outline of the workpiece means we can accurately line up projects and save materials. Of course I do my actual designs in Adobe Illustrator and OnShape, but having the drawing tools in there is a big help for quick cuts too. You have all the features and control right where you need it, and all local to your own network.

Those who read my K40 laser articles will recall that this is my favourite software for laser cutting and engraving. The software that comes with your Thunder Laser is LightBurn.

Lightburn cheat sheet