xTool S1 20W vs Glowforge Aura
Spec-by-spec breakdown of the xTool S1 20W and the Glowforge Aura: scores, pricing, cutting performance, software, and what each machine is really best at.
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.
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8.6
Glowforge AuraGlowforge · CO₂
Glowforge's compact CO₂ laser designed for crafters. Easy software, quick setup, and decent cutting for thin materials. The catch: premium hardware price plus required subscription for full features, and a smaller work area than xTool P2.
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xTool S1 20W
5 spec wins
xTool S1 20W wins on
Glowforge Aura
5 spec wins
Glowforge Aura wins on
Overall, the Glowforge Aura takes it: 8.6 vs 8.0 in our scoring.
| Spec | xTool S1 20W | Glowforge Aura |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Brand | xTool | Glowforge |
| Laser type | Diode (diode + IR) | CO₂ |
| Main focus | Handles everyday engraving and cutting jobs | Handles everyday engraving and cutting jobs |
| Main objective | Everyday engraving plus reliable light cutting on wood, leather, and dark acrylic | Easiest CO₂ setup for crafters who want zero tinkering |
| Best for |
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| Scores | ||
| Score | 8.0 | Best8.6 |
| Value score | 7.2 | Best9.0 |
| Ease of use | 9.2 | Best9.5 |
| Capability | 7.2 | Best8.3 |
| Build quality | Best9.0 | 8.5 |
| Pricing | ||
| Price | $999 – $3,049 919 € – 2.805 € 20W enclosed SKU | $999 919 € Plus mandatory Premium subscription (~$50/mo) for full functionality |
| Hardware | ||
| Power | Best20W diode (enclosed) | 6.8W CO₂ |
| Work area | Best430 × 390 mm | 279 × 241 mm |
| Precision | Best0.01 mm | 0.025 mm |
| Real-world performance | ||
| Sample engrave | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~9–14 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~6–9 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Sample cut | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~5–8 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~3–5 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Spot size | ~0.07 mm spot | ~0.2 mm CO₂ spot |
| Max speed | 400 mm/s | 300 mm/s |
| Materials | ||
| Engraves |
| Best
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| Cuts |
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| Cannot do |
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| Software & connectivity | ||
| Software | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn | Glowforge web app |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi |
| Verdict | ||
| TL;DR | 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. | Glowforge's compact CO₂ laser designed for crafters. Easy software, quick setup, and decent cutting for thin materials. The catch: premium hardware price plus required subscription for full features, and a smaller work area than xTool P2. |
| Pros | Best
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| Cons |
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“Best” highlights the strongest spec on paper for that row only — not an overall buying recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: xTool S1 20W or Glowforge Aura?
In our scoring, the Glowforge Aura comes out ahead with 8.6/10 overall versus 8.0/10 for the xTool S1 20W. The detailed table above shows exactly where each machine wins.
Which is cheaper: xTool S1 20W or Glowforge Aura?
The xTool S1 20W is the more affordable option, starting around $999, versus $999 for the Glowforge Aura.
Which is better for a beginner: xTool S1 20W or Glowforge Aura?
The Glowforge Aura is the easier machine to start with: it scores 9.5/10 for ease of use, versus 9.2/10 for the xTool S1 20W.
What is the main difference between the xTool S1 20W and the Glowforge Aura?
The xTool S1 20W is a Diode laser geared toward engraving & cutting, while the Glowforge Aura is a CO₂ laser geared toward engraving & cutting. That difference drives most of the gaps you see in the comparison table.