Although very similar in respect to end-results, the technological aspects of etching vs. engraving also share many bold dissimilarities. For example, laser engraving cuts a cavity through the material’s surface, leaving a cavity that reveals an image or writing at eye level that is noticeable to the touch as well. Laser etching, on the other hand, basically sweeps away a top layer of material without cutting into the metal and creating a crevice.