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xTool · Diode (diode + IR)
xTool S1 · 40W diode
Enclosed 40W diode: top home cutting in xTool's cabinet line
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Last updated How we evaluate
Released March 2024
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Showing module: 40W diode
TL;DR
The 40W S1 is xTool's high-power enclosed diode. Still not CO₂, but the extra optical power helps on thicker basswood versus the 20W cabinet.
Compare the xTool S1 40W to…
Popular side-by-side matchups with full specs, scores, and an honest verdict.
Best for
What makes this machine stand out
Hardware and workflow features worth understanding before you buy : not just wattage on a label.
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.
Open-frame : plan safety first
There is no factory enclosure: you wear OD-rated glasses, control smoke, and keep kids/pets away. You trade cabinet convenience for price and access : fine in a dedicated workshop, stressful in a living room without a plan.
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.
Galvo speed class
Galvo mirrors move the beam instead of a heavy gantry : engraving speeds that feel instant on small fields. Trade-off: tiny work area versus a flatbed diode; ideal for jewelry, tags, and batch marking, not large signs.
Our verdict
Ideal if you
The 40W diode module is the most cut-focused head on xTool S1: thicker basswood and faster fills than entry modules on the same chassis.
Skip if you
Overkill if you only do fine engraving. Still a diode: clear cast acrylic means CO₂. Plan glasses and exhaust if the chassis is open-frame.
Pros
- Strongest cut headroom in the line: about 10 mm basswood-class stock in benchmarks
- Swappable head on the same chassis: upgrade power without replacing the whole machine
- Integrated cabinet helps contain the beam and everyday smoke versus open-frame diodes
Cons
- Clear cast acrylic and thick production cutting still favor CO₂, not diode power alone
- Confirm optical wattage on the listing before you buy
What this machine is for
Maximum cut speed and depth in the line: engraving remains strong at tuned speeds
40W module · xTool S1
Laser spot size
~0.08 mm spot
Motion precision: 0.01 mm
Sample engrave job
~6–9 min
10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)
Sample cut job
~3–5 min
10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)
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
- · Wood
- · Leather
- · Slate
- · Anodized aluminum
- · Stainless (with spray)
Accessories & add-ons
Typical inclusions and add-ons for this profile : confirm your SKU.
- Optional
Enclosure / cabinet
Third-party enclosure improves smoke control and safety
- Recommended
Laser safety glasses
~450 nm diode: OD rated for your wavelength
- Recommended
Fire extinguisher
Editorial guidance : not a live parts list. See also: Ventilation setup · Safety basics
Practical notes
Beginner notes
This profile is the 40W SKU on xTool S1. Read the TL;DR and benchmarks above, then compare other modules via the chips before buying.
Pro tips
Treat engraving and cutting as separate profiles. Push cut speeds only after test squares on your material. Compare CO₂ only when clear acrylic or all-day production enters the picture.
Pro / technical specsRaw numbers for experienced users comparing machines.
- Max speed (spec)
- 400 mm/s
- Avg engrave speed
- 80–180 mm/s fill
- Avg cut speed
- 4–12 mm/s on 3 mm wood
Common questions
Is the xTool S1 safer than an open-frame laser?
Yes. The enclosure blocks direct beam exposure and contains smoke. You still follow safety rules, but accidental exposure risk is much lower than open-frame diodes.
Can the S1 replace a CO₂ laser?
No. It is still a diode laser with the same acrylic and cutting limits. Buy CO₂ (like xTool P2) if clear acrylic and thick wood cutting are your main work.
Alternatives to the xTool S1 40W
Machines in the same space, picked from our database by type, price, and score.
xTool · Diode · $999
The 40W D1 Pro module swaps onto the same frame as 5W–20W heads. Best cut headroom in the line; verify optical power on the listing.
xTool · CO₂ · $4,799 – $5,499
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.
WeCreat · Diode · $999 – $1,299
WeCreat's enclosed diode laser adds a camera and AI features for material detection and visual preview. Appealing for beginners who want guidance. Core laser performance is comparable to other enclosed diodes: you pay for the smart features.