If you’ve been eyeing up laser engravers, chances are you’ve come across xTool’s lineup. They’ve built a reputation for making machines that work for both beginners and seasoned makers. But with options like the M1, P2, and F1, it’s easy to feel stuck: which one should you go for?
Whether you’re a hobbyist personalising gifts, a small business owner running a side hustle, or a creator ready to scale up, choosing the best laser engraver comes down to what you need most ease of use, power, portability, or speed. This post breaks it down so you can confidently decide which model is the right fit for your setup.
Quick Comparison: xTool M1 vs P2 vs F1
Here’s a side-by-side snapshot of how the three models stack up:
| Feature | xTool M1 (Hybrid) | xTool P2 (CO₂ Powerhouse) | xTool F1 (Portable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Hobbyists, beginners | Small businesses, heavy use | On-the-go creators |
| Laser type | Diode + Blade cutter | 55W CO₂ | Dual laser (diode + IR) |
| Ease of use | Very beginner-friendly | Advanced but intuitive | Plug-and-play simple |
| Material range | Wood, acrylic, paper, vinyl, fabrics | Wood, acrylic, leather, glass, more | Metals, plastics, wood, leather |
| Workspace | Compact, desktop-friendly | Large bed, professional size | Hand-carry size |
| Speed | Moderate | Very fast | Extremely fast engraving |
| Price range | Entry-level | Premium investment | Mid-range |
xTool M1: The Beginner’s All-Rounder
The M1 is often described as the “starter” xTool, but don’t let that fool you it’s a very capable machine. What sets it apart is its hybrid design: it’s both a diode laser engraver and a blade cutter. That means you can not only engrave on wood, leather, acrylic, and paper, but also cut vinyl and fabric something pure laser machines struggle with.
Why people love it:
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It’s user-friendly, even for first-timers. The software is straightforward, and setup doesn’t require an engineering degree.
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The compact size makes it a great fit for home studios, craft rooms, or even the corner of your desk.
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It’s affordable, making it one of the best laser engraver options for those testing the waters without a huge upfront cost.
Where it falls short:
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Diode lasers are less powerful than CO₂ ones, so thicker acrylics and tougher materials might be out of reach.
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Engraving speed is slower compared to the P2 and F1.
Ideal for: Hobbyists, crafters, Etsy sellers starting out, or anyone who wants a versatile tool without committing to a large machine.
xTool P2: The Professional Powerhouse
If the M1 is for dipping your toes in, the P2 is for cannonballing straight into the deep end. It’s a 55W CO₂ laser cutter and engraver, giving it serious firepower for small businesses and creators who need professional results fast.
Why people love it:
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The engraving speed and precision are in another league compared to diode lasers.
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It can handle a wide range of materials: thick wood, leather, glass, and acrylics in vibrant colours (which diode lasers struggle with).
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The large workspace means bigger projects and batch production become possible.
Where it falls short:
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It’s large and heavy, so you’ll need dedicated space in your workshop or studio.
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The price tag is higher, making it more of an investment.
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For complete beginners, the learning curve is steeper compared to the M1.
Ideal for: Small businesses making products at scale, creators selling premium items, or anyone who needs a high-speed, high-power engraver for professional use.
xTool F1: The Portable Speed Demon
On the opposite end of the spectrum from the P2 sits the F1 a compact, portable engraver that still packs a punch. It’s designed for creators who value speed and portability. With its dual laser system (diode + infrared), it covers a surprising range of materials, including metals.
Why people love it:
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It’s ultra-fast engraving can be done in seconds, which is ideal for events or on-demand personalisation.
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The portable design makes it easy to transport to craft fairs, pop-ups, or even client locations.
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Thanks to the IR laser, it’s one of the few xTool machines that handles metals with ease.
Where it falls short:
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The workspace is small, limiting the size of projects.
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While great for engraving, it’s not built for heavy-duty cutting like the P2.
Ideal for: Makers who travel, live demo artists, or anyone who wants quick, portable engraving capabilities without committing to a full workshop setup.
So, Which xTool Is Right for You?
Here’s the bottom line:
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Pick the M1 if you’re a hobbyist, beginner, or side hustler looking for versatility at a reasonable price. It’s the most approachable entry point and perfect for exploring what laser engraving can do.
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Go for the P2 if you’re running a small business, want to scale up production, or need the speed and power of a professional-grade machine. The higher cost pays for itself if you’re producing at volume.
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Choose the F1 if portability and speed are top priorities. It’s the best option for on-the-go creators, event vendors, or those who want a small but mighty engraver for personalisation.
Final Thoughts
Buying a laser engraver is about more than just specs it’s about finding the machine that fits your workflow, space, and ambitions. The M1, P2, and F1 each serve different needs, and once you’re clear on your goals, the right choice usually stands out.
If you’re still unsure, ask yourself: Do I want versatility at home (M1), high-powered business capability (P2), or portable speed (F1)? Answer that, and you’ll know which path to take.
Ready to explore further? Check out our full range of xTool products on 3D Formatics and see which model is waiting to power your next project.
