Laser assisted machining (LAM) can improve the machinability of materials by locally heating the material prior to its removal. The work presented here is a study of the laser assisted machining of Inconel 718 (NiCr19FeNb at 46 HRc) with carbide and ceramic insert. The tests have shown a reduction in the cutting force, and have highlighted the impact of laser assistance on the integrity surface (roughness, appearance, residual stress) and the tool life