Laser cutting and engraving have become increasingly popular among makers, small business owners, and DIY enthusiasts. Whether you’re creating custom gifts, engraving wood and metal, or launching a small Etsy shop, having a reliable laser machine can completely change how you work.
Among the many brands on the market, xTool has quickly gained a strong reputation for offering powerful, user-friendly, and affordable laser machines. But are xTool laser cutters really worth the hype?
In this in-depth xTool review, we’ll take a close look at the brand, its most popular machines, key features, pros and cons, and who xTool is best for—so you can decide if it’s the right investment for you.
Table of Contents
What Is xTool?
xTool is a laser machine brand under Makeblock, a well-known company in the maker and education space. xTool focuses on desktop laser cutters and engravers designed for:
- Hobbyists and DIY creators
- Small business owners
- Designers and artists
- Woodworkers and crafters
- Beginners who want professional-level results
Unlike many industrial laser brands, xTool emphasizes ease of use, safety, and compact design, making their machines accessible even to first-time users.
Popular xTool Laser Machines Overview
xTool offers several laser models, each designed for different needs and budgets. Here are some of the most popular ones:
xTool D1 Pro
The xTool D1 Pro is one of the brand’s best-selling diode laser cutters.
Key highlights:
- Power options up to 20W or 40W
- Large working area
- Excellent cutting accuracy
- Ideal for wood, leather, acrylic (dark), and coated metals
This model is popular among small businesses because it balances power, price, and flexibility.
xTool P2 (CO₂ Laser)
The xTool P2 is a professional-grade CO₂ laser machine.
Key highlights:
- 55W CO₂ laser tube
- Cuts clear and colored acrylic
- Built-in camera for precise alignment
- Enclosed design with strong safety features
If you need clean acrylic cuts and higher production speed, the xTool P2 is a serious upgrade.
xTool M1 (Hybrid Machine)
The xTool M1 combines laser cutting and blade cutting in one machine.
Key highlights:
- Laser + blade cutter combo
- Compact and beginner-friendly
- Great for vinyl, paper, fabric, and light engraving
This model is perfect for crafters who want versatility in a small workspace.
Key Features That Make xTool Stand Out
1. User-Friendly Software
xTool machines work with xTool Creative Space (XCS) and also support popular software like LightBurn.
Even beginners can:
- Import SVG, PNG, and DXF files
- Adjust power and speed easily
- Preview designs before engraving
The learning curve is much gentler compared to industrial laser systems.
2. Build Quality and Precision
xTool machines are known for:
- Solid metal frames
- Smooth motion rails
- Accurate laser positioning
This results in clean engravings, sharp lines, and consistent cuts, even during long projects.
3. Safety-Focused Design
Safety is one of xTool’s biggest strengths, especially for home users.
Common safety features include:
- Enclosed designs (on models like P2 and M1)
- Emergency stop buttons
- Fire detection and motion sensors
- Protective laser shields
This makes xTool machines suitable for home workshops and small studios.
4. Material Compatibility
Depending on the model, xTool machines can work with:
- Wood (plywood, MDF, hardwood)
- Leather
- Rubber
- Paper and cardboard
- Acrylic (especially with CO₂ models)
- Stainless steel (engraving with coating)
- Anodized aluminum
This wide compatibility makes xTool ideal for product customization and small-scale manufacturing.
Performance and Real-World Use
In real-world use, xTool machines perform consistently well for their price range.
- Engraving speed is fast enough for small businesses
- Cut quality is clean with proper settings
- Repeat accuracy is reliable for batch production
Many users successfully use xTool machines for:
- Etsy shops
- Personalized gifts
- Sign making
- Jewelry engraving
- Branding items (logos, tags, packaging)
For most creators, xTool delivers professional-looking results without industrial complexity.
Pros and Cons of xTool Laser Machines
Pros
✔ Beginner-friendly setup
✔ Excellent value for money
✔ Strong community and tutorials
✔ Compact designs for home use
✔ Good customer support and documentation
Cons
✘ Diode lasers struggle with clear acrylic
✘ Higher-end models can be expensive
✘ Not intended for heavy industrial use
Overall, the pros clearly outweigh the cons for hobbyists and small business owners.
Who Should Buy xTool?
xTool is an excellent choice if you are:
- A beginner looking for an easy entry into laser engraving
- A small business owner needing reliable production
- A DIY creator upgrading from basic tools
- A crafter who wants precision and versatility
- Someone who values safety and design
However, if you run a large-scale factory or need continuous industrial production, a high-end industrial laser might be more suitable.
xTool vs Other Laser Brands
Compared to many competitors, xTool stands out by offering:
- Better software experience
- Stronger safety features
- More polished hardware design
- Competitive pricing for the feature set
Brands like Glowforge, Ortur, or Atomstack may compete in certain areas, but xTool often provides a better balance between performance, price, and usability.
Is xTool Worth the Investment?
If you’re serious about laser engraving or cutting—whether as a hobby or business—xTool is absolutely worth considering.
You’re not just buying a machine; you’re investing in:
- Time-saving workflows
- Creative freedom
- Professional-quality output
- Long-term reliability
For many users, xTool machines pay for themselves quickly through product sales or custom projects.
Final Verdict: xTool Review
xTool has successfully positioned itself as one of the best laser cutter brands for creators and small businesses. With a strong lineup of machines, thoughtful design, and excellent usability, xTool offers a powerful solution without overwhelming users.
Pros: reliable performance, ease of use, safety, and value
Cons: not industrial-grade, higher-end models cost more
If you’re looking for a dependable laser cutter that grows with your skills and business, xTool is a smart choice.