Compact laser emitting diodes of gallium-aluminium-arsenide are now available for incorporation into clinical lasers in ophthalmology. These lasers are cheap and have low running costs. They are portable and their wavelength of emission (810 nm) may be advantageous in certain clinical situations. Clinical trials in retinal vascular disease, trabeculoplasty, and cyclophotocoagulation, have been encouraging. Recent advances allow laser delivery through binocular indirect ophthalmoscopes, endolaser and contact transscleral probes in addition to slit lamp mounted versions. Laser delivery in situations which were previously impossible has immense implication for prevention of blindness due to glaucoma and retinal vascular disease throughout the world.