Alder is a soft wood, sometimes with knots present. It works great for laser cutting and engraving and produces and nice dark burn. Alder darkens a good bit when a finish is applied and looks similar to Cherry.
As a soft wood Basswood is very easy to work with and cuts well. Great for laser engraving and cutting as well as carving and woodburning/pyrography. Can easily be painted, stained and finished.
Cherry has long been a popular wood for cabinet and furniture making in the United States. Cherry is known as one of the best all-around woods for workability. Easy to cut. Laser engraves well. Takes nails and screws well.
Atomstack A5 M40 is an entry-level product from ATOMSTACK, a reputed company producing laser engravers for DIYers. Packed with all the necessary features and a low price point, it’s an excellent machine for wood engraving.