Using OM, SEM and X ray diffraction analyses, the investigation into microstructure and hardness profiles of a WC 18% Co hardmetal after laser processing has been conducted. The microstructure can be divided into Co phase, β, remelted zone, WC grains resolved precipitated zone and substrate. By virtue of these changes the highest hardness is 1544 Hv and the increment can be 34～37% compared with the original hardness of the material. From the X-ray diffraction results it follows that the content of face centered cubic cobalt will be varied and the hexagonal close packed cobalt may occur or increase, but their constituent proportions are connected with the laser processing parameters.