xTool S1 20W vs xTool P2S
Spec-by-spec breakdown of the xTool S1 20W and the xTool P2S: 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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8.4
xTool P2SxTool · CO₂
The P2S refines the original P2 with better software and autofocus. Same 55W CO₂ class for acrylic and wood production. Still xTool's main enclosed CO₂ below the P3 flagship: choose P3 if you need 80W and automation; P2S if 55W and budget fit.
View full profile →Our verdict
xTool S1 20W
3 spec wins
xTool S1 20W wins on
xTool P2S
5 spec wins
xTool P2S wins on
Overall, the xTool P2S takes it: 8.4 vs 8.0 in our scoring.
| Spec | xTool S1 20W | xTool P2S |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Brand | xTool | xTool |
| 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 | Next-gen enclosed CO₂ for small businesses cutting acrylic and wood |
| Best for |
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| Scores | ||
| Score | 8.0 | Best8.4 |
| Value score | Best7.2 | 7.1 |
| Ease of use | Best9.2 | 9.1 |
| Capability | 7.2 | Best8.3 |
| Build quality | 9.0 | Best9.2 |
| Pricing | ||
| Price | Best $1,299 – $2,599 1.195 € – 2.391 € Official xTool store, Oct 2026: $1,299 to $2,599 depending on bundle | $2,999 – $5,069 2.759 € – 4.663 € Official xTool store, Oct 2026: $2,999 to $5,069 depending on bundle |
| Hardware | ||
| Power | 20W diode (enclosed) | Best55W CO₂ glass tube |
| Work area | 498 × 330 mm | Best600 × 308 mm |
| Precision | 0.01 mm | 0.01 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 ~3–5 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 acrylic ~1–2 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Spot size | ~0.07 mm spot | ~0.15 mm CO₂ spot |
| Max speed | 600 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Materials | ||
| Engraves |
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| Cuts |
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| Cannot do |
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| Software & connectivity | ||
| Software | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, USB, Ethernet |
| 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. | The P2S refines the original P2 with better software and autofocus. Same 55W CO₂ class for acrylic and wood production. Still xTool's main enclosed CO₂ below the P3 flagship: choose P3 if you need 80W and automation; P2S if 55W and budget fit. |
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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 xTool P2S?
In our scoring, the xTool P2S comes out ahead with 8.4/10 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 xTool P2S?
The xTool S1 20W is the more affordable option, starting around $1,299, versus $2,999 for the xTool P2S.
Which is better for a beginner: xTool S1 20W or xTool P2S?
The xTool S1 20W is the easier machine to start with: it scores 9.2/10 for ease of use, versus 9.1/10 for the xTool P2S.
What is the main difference between the xTool S1 20W and the xTool P2S?
The xTool S1 20W is a Diode laser geared toward engraving & cutting, while the xTool P2S is a CO₂ laser geared toward engraving & cutting. That difference drives most of the gaps you see in the comparison table.