The output performance of a domestic Yb:YAG ceramic laser is studied. The laser diode-end-pumped Yb:YAG ceramic is doped with atomic fraction of 1%, with one end face of high transmission at 940 nm and 1030 nm and the other of high transmission at 1030 nm. The near infrared laser output at 1031 nm is obtained. The output performance of Yb:YAG ceramic laser under different transmissivities (4%, 8%, 10%) is experimentally tested. The maximum output power of 1.63 W is obtained with output transmissivity of 10%, absorbed pump energy of 9 W, and slope efficiency of 23.2%.