Abstract: A unique laser cladding-assisted high-frequency vibration device was applied to prepare the 316L cladding layer by laser cladding on the surface of the 316L stainless steel substrate. The macroscopic morphology, microstructure, microhardness, and wear resistance of the cladding layer were analyzed by optical microscope, scanning electron microscope, Vickers microhardness tester, friction and wear tester, and three-dimensional optical profiler. The laser cladding-assisted high-frequency vibration device uses a high-frequency oscillator with a fixed frequency (20 kHz) to transfer vibration energy through the probe in contact with the substrate and close to the molten pool. Effect of different laser powers on the dilution rate of the cladding layer were explored. The cross-sectional morphology and microstructure of the cladding layer with and without high-frequency vibration the reasons for the different results. The results indicate that high-frequency vibration can homogenize the heat distribution in the molten pool, reduce the dilution rate, break and inhibit the growth of dendritic or columnar crystals, increase the nucleation rate, and achieve grain refinement. In addition, high-frequency vibration can improve the microhardness of the cladding layer and enhance its wear resistance. Finally, the mechanism by which high-frequency vibration improves the performance of the cladding layer is analyzed.