xTool M2 Color Craft Laser vs xTool S1 20W
Spec-by-spec breakdown of the xTool M2 Color Craft Laser and the xTool S1 20W: scores, pricing, cutting performance, software, and what each machine is really best at.
8.3
xTool M2 Color Craft LaserxTool · Diode
Launched May 2026, the M2 packs laser engraving, cutting, and integrated inkjet color printing into one enclosed desktop at $599. Built for everyday crafters and Etsy sellers who want color + laser without a pro CO₂ budget: not a metal-marking or production cutter.
View full profile →
8.0
xTool S1 20WxTool · Diode
The 20W S1 is the value pick in xTool's enclosed diode line: same cabinet and filters as the 40W, but less cut depth on thick wood. Buy this if safety matters and you mostly engrave.
View full profile →Our verdict
xTool M2 Color Craft Laser
4 spec wins
xTool M2 Color Craft Laser wins on
xTool S1 20W
5 spec wins
xTool S1 20W wins on
Overall, the xTool M2 Color Craft Laser takes it: 8.3 vs 8.0 in our scoring.
| Spec | xTool M2 Color Craft Laser | xTool S1 20W |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Brand | xTool | xTool |
| Laser type | Diode | Diode (diode + IR) |
| Main focus | Built mainly for cutting shapes and parts | Handles everyday engraving and cutting jobs |
| Main objective | Affordable enclosed laser + color print for home crafters and small shops | Everyday engraving plus reliable light cutting on wood, leather, and dark acrylic |
| Best for |
|
|
| Scores | ||
| Score | Best8.3 | 8.0 |
| Value score | Best8.1 | 7.2 |
| Ease of use | 9.0 | Best9.2 |
| Capability | Best7.9 | 7.2 |
| Build quality | 8.2 | Best9.0 |
| Pricing | ||
| Price | Best $499 – $1,229 459 € – 1.131 € Official xTool store, Oct 2026: $499 to $1,229 depending on bundle | $1,299 – $2,599 1.195 € – 2.391 € Official xTool store, Oct 2026: $1,299 to $2,599 depending on bundle |
| Hardware | ||
| Power | 10W diode | Best20W diode (enclosed) |
| Work area | 300 × 300 mm | Best498 × 330 mm |
| Precision | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Real-world performance | ||
| Sample engrave | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~10–14 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~9–14 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Sample cut | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~6–9 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~5–8 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Spot size | ~0.08 mm spot | ~0.07 mm spot |
| Max speed | 400 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Materials | ||
| Engraves |
|
|
| Cuts |
| Best
|
| Cannot do |
|
|
| Software & connectivity | ||
| Software | xTool Creative Space | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, USB |
| Verdict | ||
| TL;DR | Launched May 2026, the M2 packs laser engraving, cutting, and integrated inkjet color printing into one enclosed desktop at $599. Built for everyday crafters and Etsy sellers who want color + laser without a pro CO₂ budget: not a metal-marking or production cutter. | The 20W S1 is the value pick in xTool's enclosed diode line: same cabinet and filters as the 40W, but less cut depth on thick wood. Buy this if safety matters and you mostly engrave. |
| Pros |
|
|
| Cons |
|
|
“Best” highlights the strongest spec on paper for that row only — not an overall buying recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: xTool M2 Color Craft Laser or xTool S1 20W?
In our scoring, the xTool M2 Color Craft Laser comes out ahead with 8.3/10 overall versus 8.0/10 for the xTool S1 20W. The detailed table above shows exactly where each machine wins.
Which is cheaper: xTool M2 Color Craft Laser or xTool S1 20W?
The xTool M2 Color Craft Laser is the more affordable option, starting around $499, versus $1,299 for the xTool S1 20W.
Which is better for a beginner: xTool M2 Color Craft Laser or xTool S1 20W?
The xTool S1 20W is the easier machine to start with: it scores 9.2/10 for ease of use, versus 9.0/10 for the xTool M2 Color Craft Laser.
What is the main difference between the xTool M2 Color Craft Laser and the xTool S1 20W?
The xTool M2 Color Craft Laser is a Diode laser geared toward cutting, while the xTool S1 20W is a Diode laser geared toward engraving & cutting. That difference drives most of the gaps you see in the comparison table.