Novelty Laser Pointers

Multi-Shape Lasers

• While most laser pointers are only capable of projecting a single dot, certain novelty items allow you to choose whether to project a dot or multiple free form shapes. Shapes cannot project as far as a single dot can; their range is capped at around 45 feet, as opposed to the single dot's range of 1,500 to 2,500 feet. Some novelty laser pointers come with a set of heads that can be switched for multiple shapes and effects, while others are equipped with a single head capable of casting a variety of projections.

Multi-Color Lasers

• Besides projecting an assortment of shapes, novelty laser pointers also can produce a variety of colors. Standard laser pointers come in blue, green and red. However, violet and yellow also are available, but rare, options. Some laser pointers can project two different colors, one out of each end, effectively providing two lasers in one device. This is particularly useful for people wishing to provide a distinguishing factor in a teaching or business presentation.

Greater Wattage

• Most laser pointers are categorized as Class IIIa, on a scale where Class I represents laser printers and CD players and Class IV represents high-power military, medical and industrial lasers. Class IIIa lasers project 1 to 5 milliwatts of light, and most presentational lasers fall on the higher end of this scale. However, some specialty laser pointers can produce even greater amounts of focused light, some up to 20 milliwatts.

Compact Size

• While laser pointers have never been particularly unwieldy, they are now more compact and travel-friendly than ever before. Specialty laser pointers are now being sold on keychains for easy access and portability. Laser pointers are becoming slimmer and smaller while maintaining and even increasing the expected wattage power.