Solid-state lasers use a crystal or glass doped with active ions as their gain medium. The category includes sources based on Nd, Nd₄ and other laser crystals, available in continuous-wave or pulsed configurations and at fundamental or converted wavelengths.

These lasers are used in spectroscopy, microscopy, holography, interferometry, optical pumping, fundamental research and precision materials processing. Selection depends on wavelength, average power, pulse energy and duration, stability, noise, beam quality and the requirements of the experiment or industrial process. APEL Laser provides source-selection consultation, integration with existing optics and instrumentation, installation, training and service.