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xTool P3 with IR module : xTool

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xTool · Hybrid (CO₂ + IR)

xTool P3 IR · 5W IR

5W 1064 nm IR head on the P3 chassis : metal marking without a separate fiber box

Last updated How we evaluate

Released August 2025

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5W IR

TL;DR

The optional P3 IR module adds 5W 1064 nm marking on stainless, aluminum, and many plastics while keeping the same 80W CO₂ cabinet, automation, and software stack. Buy it when metal jobs are recurring revenue : not a replacement for the CO₂ tube.

Best for

Metal gift linesP3 shops adding steelTool & knife markingPlastics that diode/CO₂ struggle with

What makes this machine stand out

Hardware and workflow features worth understanding before you buy : not just wattage on a label.

  • Autofocus / height sensing (Z-style)

    The machine measures material height (autofocus, LiDAR, or probe-style sensing) so the lens sits at the right distance before the job starts : you are not dialing focus by hand on every new thickness. Huge time saver on mixed scrap, warped boards, and CO₂ beds with varying acrylic sheets.

  • Swappable laser module

    You can upgrade optical power (or add an infrared module on some lines) by swapping the laser head on the same chassis : not buying a whole new machine. Check connector compatibility and firmware before assuming your future 40W module fits today’s 10W purchase.

  • Dual laser sources

    Two laser technologies share one machine (for example diode + infrared or hybrid CO₂/IR). You switch modes in software instead of owning separate boxes : great for mixed shops, but read which materials each source actually handles.

  • LightBurn compatible

    LightBurn support means advanced layers, camera tools, and workflows many makers outgrow the stock app with. Confirm your exact controller board before assuming full features : some machines need a paid license separately.

Our verdict

What you gain in real use

The IR module lets sign shops that already standardized on P3 add jewelry, tools, and stainless gifts without learning a second vendor stack. You keep ACS vision, nesting, and safety features instead of bolting on an open fiber bench.

What to plan for (costs, space, safety)

It is an accessory, not a standalone laser. Throughput and depth on tough metals will trail dedicated MOPA fiber boxes. Budget-only buyers should not buy P3 plus IR if they never needed CO₂ cutting in the first place.

Pros

  • Metal marking on the same P3 bed and ACS workflow
  • No second enclosure or exhaust run for a fiber bench
  • Pairs with P3 cameras and autofocus for repeat jobs
  • Cheaper entry to metal than buying a separate fiber galvo

Cons

  • Requires full P3 purchase first
  • Not as fast or deep as industrial fiber on thick stainless
  • Still need CO₂ module for acrylic and wood revenue
  • Accessory pricing pushes total shop cost higher

What this machine is for

Bare-metal and plastic marking on the P3 platform without a second machine

Optional 1064 nm marking module for P3 owners who need repeatable metal work on the flagship CO₂ chassis.

Laser spot size

~0.03 mm IR spot

Motion precision: 0.01 mm

Sample engrave job

~4–8 min

10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)

Sample cut job

Not a cutter

Reference benchmark: same job size on every machine so you can compare times fairly. Times are estimates for the reference job above; your design complexity and settings will change them.

Materials

  • · Stainless steel
  • · Aluminum
  • · Brass
  • · Titanium (light)
  • · Black plastics
  • · Some coated metals

Accessories & add-ons

Typical inclusions and add-ons for this profile : confirm your SKU.

  • Enclosure / cabinet

    Third-party enclosure improves smoke control and safety

    Optional

  • Laser safety glasses

    ~450 nm diode: OD rated for your wavelength

    Recommended

  • Fire extinguisher

    Recommended

Editorial guidance : not a live parts list. See also: Ventilation setup · Safety basics

Practical notes

Beginner notes

Choose this profile if you already own or plan a P3 and metal is more than occasional spray-mark tests. If metal is your only job, compare dedicated fiber engravers before buying CO₂ plus IR.

Pro tips

Run stainless parameter libraries on scrap first. Keep CO₂ and IR jobs as separate material presets : swapping heads takes downtime.

Pro / technical specsRaw numbers for experienced users comparing machines.
Max speed (spec)
600 mm/s
Avg engrave speed
IR marking speeds
Avg cut speed
N/A