xTool S1 20W Laser Cutter and Engraver

The xTool S1 20W is a powerful cutting/engraving diode laser machine equipped with a laser module comprising four 5W diode lasers focused on the same spot, which provides the incredible output laser power of 20W. A 10-mm cherry wood or an 8-mm dark opaque acrylic plate can be cut through in one pass.

The machine features a lightning-fast maximum speed of 600 mm/s yet providing high accuracy of both cutting and engraving operations. For better efficiency, the S1 boasts a durable construction featuring a sturdy rail structure for enhanced stability, leveraging the full potential of the high-power laser to deliver rapid movement over a bigger area.

As a new standard for accuracy, the xTool S1 presents an innovative Pin-point Positioning system that utilizes advanced encoders and algorithms to create a precise absolute coordinate layout, displaying the laser module’s position in real time within the software. This ensures a precise replication of the object’s frame, which surpasses camera-based positioning and is free from distortion. There are three ways to align multi-shape objects: Circular, Twin-point, and Polygonal. Apart from this, the S1 model supports positioning multiple objects of different shapes in batches, offering more productivity and flexibility.

One more smart feature of the xTool S1 is its intelligent autofocus system capable of multi-point focus acquisition and automatic 3D model generation. It dynamically adjusts the Z-axis focus during processing, ensuring a uniform engraving effect even for curved surfaces. Moreover, you can adjust focus with a single click in XCS software, no manual tightening or loosening screws is needed.

For a totally safe and comfortable user experience, the xTool S1 is engineered with a number of safety features starting with a fully enclosed design with the high-performance smoke exhaust system that ensures a cleaner and quieter workplace. The eye-friendly lid filters blue and IR lasers making for clear viewing without special goggles. Apart from this, processing halts to prevent laser leakage when the lid is opened. Further safety is achieved due to an emergency stop button and 5 flame sensors. You can also buy an optional smoke purifier or a special fire safety set for additional protection (please refer to the “Add-ons” section for more information).

There are a lot of possible applications for the S1 diode laser cutter and engraver limited only by your imagination.

Credit: @do_it_maself / Instagram

Credit: @_plotter_trulla_ / Instagram

The S1 model is also available in the 40W version that differs slightly in terms of its performance characteristics. For better efficiency and higher cutting requirements, the manufacturer recommends using the 40W version; as for the 20W one, it fits those pursuing fineness and engraving precision. The basic differences between two versions are presented in the table below.

Compatible materials

The xTool S1 can work with a wide range of materials. The machine can be used to cut most kinds of wood, including plywood and composite, paper and cardboard, cork, acrylic, leather, and others. All these materials can be engraved as well. Besides, the S1 model can engrave coated metals, stainless steel, plastic, marble, stone, ceramic tiles, glass, and more. You can find the optimal material settings on the manufacturer’s website.

Credit: @xtool.official / Instagram

Check out the table below to learn more about materials available for each task:

Working area

The working area of 498 x 330 mm allows you to implement large-scale design projects or to engrave multiple smaller patterns at a time, which can be extremely helpful for small businesses.

The maximum workpiece height of 42 mm can be increased with the use of the optional riser base up to 133.5 mm.

In addition, thanks to the proprietary AutoPassthrough™ technology, the xTool S1 is able to process up to 3000 mm of material in one session. To achieve this, the machine comes with an optional automatic conveyor feeder that guarantees precise and easy management of larger projects.

Machine controls

On the back side of the machine, there is a power and a USB port as well as a power switch. On the right side of the front panel, you will find a start / stop button and a light status indicator. On the right panel, there is an emergency stop button. 

The machine can be connected to the PC using Ethernet, Wi-Fi, or USB.

Software

The xTool S1 comes with the proprietary xTool Creative Space software. This free software is user-friendly, functional, and allows for firmware updates. xTool Creative Space is compatible with Windows, macOS, and iPadOS.

Those looking for enhanced functionality can use the third-party LightBurn engraving software which is more powerful and supports more file formats, such as AI, SVG, DXF, PDF, HPGL, and PLT for vector files and PNG, JPEG, BMP, TIFF, TGA, and GIF for raster images. LightBurn is a paid software but it offers a free trial period. It is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.

Lightburn supports basic operations including focusing, framing, processing, and RA2 Pro. However, being a third-party software, it may not provide comprehensive support for all features and lacks functions such as laser module position acquisition, material area measurement, and curved surface engraving mode.

Credit: lightburnsoftware.com

Applications

The xTool S1 is a perfect choice both for hobbyists and small to medium laser engraving businesses. Equipped with a powerful 40W laser, the machine is incredibly efficient and allows for tons of various applications, be it a home-made personalized gift for a friend or batch production in a craft workshop.

The machine can be used to make customized home decorations, like wall hangings or photo frames, accessories, like wallets, bags, belts, or phone cases, jewelry, kitchenware, toys and puzzles, and much more.

Credit: @papierschorsch / Instagram

Credit: @verknuepftundverknotet / Instagram

Credit: @holzwurm2002_official / Instagram

What’s in the box

• xTool S1 laser cutter and engraver
• 20W laser module
• Distance sensor
• Smoke exhaust pipe
• Power cable and adapter
• USB cable
• Screwdriver
• Key x2
• Screw M3 x8
• Parts storage box
• Material pack
• User manual
• Brochure

For some items, package content may change. In case of any questions, please get in touch.

Add-ons

You can extend the capabilities of the xTool S1 and increase safety and convenience of use by purchasing various add-ons provided by the manufacturer.

Smart Air Assist

The xTool Smart Air Assist module is a plug-and-play solution that is connected directly to the laser cutter and does not require a power charger. It automatically adjusts airflow to remove smoke and protect the laser lens as well as to boost cutting capabilities,and achieve cleaner edges. A steady output of 30 L/min efficiently reduces the temperature on the material surface, preventing discoloration and ensuring a clean result with smooth cut edges.

• Air flow: 30 L/min
• Air pressure: 30 kPa
• Power: DC 24V
• Dimensions: 142 x 135 x 105.4 mm
• Weight: 1.51 kg

Desktop Smoke Purifier

The xTool smoke purifier is fully compatible with the S1 laser engraver. The device is connected to the machine and features a large, 250 x 195 x 390 mm, filter with three-stage filtration including activated carbon and HEPA filters. It efficiently absorbs dust particles, toxic fumes, and unpleasant odors, allows adjusting the suction power, and works very quietly, with the noise level not exceeding 55 dB.

xTool Fire Safety Set

As the world’s first fully automated fire safety system for desktop laser cutters, this add-on boasts such capabilities as auto flame detection, alarm triggering, power cut, and fire extinguishing. All these features effectively minimize the possibility of fire accidents caused by the laser of the machine.

By using 5 fire detection sensors and integrated algorithms of light, temperature, and position inside an enclosed laser cutter, the xTool Fire safety system is sensitive to any possible dangers. Immediately after detecting fire, it will automatically trigger the alarm, shut down the working laser in a few seconds, and automatically release the CO2 gas into the enclosed space to quench the fire with non-toxic and odorless fumes, thus preventing the machine from further damage.

• Compatible with all 455nm blue diode laser or CO2 laser machines that are in a 0.13 m³ enclosed space

Includes:

• Control box 
• Power adapter and cable
• CO2 gas bottle x4
• USB cable
• Tube

1064nm Infrared Laser Module

For even more creative opportunities with quality in mind, xTool offers the additional infrared laser module, which allows one to finely engrave plastic and all metal materials. Apart from customizing jewelry pieces, the module provides clearer and finer results on plastic and acrylic surfaces without any burn marks and smudging effect.

• Laser optical power: 2W
• Laser spot: 0.03 x 0.03 mm
• Wavelength: 1064nm
• Peak power: 15KW

Automatic Conveyor Feeder

To expand the working area of the S1 model up to 118" x 18.5", one can purchase the xTool Automatic conveyor feeder that makes batch engraving and cutting much easier. With its thoughtful, reliable, and ergonomic design, this add-on ensures operational safety while improving processing results. The construction is easy to assemble, disassemble, and store. Furthermore, it allows to extend the range of supported materials from plywood, acrylic, and fiberboard to soft materials like felt, cork, and EVA.

• Dimensions: 628 x 200 x 135 mm
• Weight: 7.8 kg
• Max. speed: 160 mm/s
• Max. processing area: 3000 x 470 mm
• Max. material width: 545 mm
• Min. material width: 65 mm
• Max. material thickness: 14 mm

Honeycomb Panel

The xTool honeycomb panel is a must-have to achieve a clean cutting effect with the S1 laser cutter. It is used for placing the materials to be processed and protects the working surface under the machine. The honeycomb structure speeds up smoke exhaustion and prevents the material from turning yellow. With nine 5 mm steel bars and a 22 mm base, the panel provides a load capacity of up to 5 kg. Thanks to the accurate scales on both axes as well as supplied magnetic pins, it is easy to secure the materials firmly to the panel for precise alignment.

Includes:

• Honeycomb panel (565 x 375 x 27 mm; 2345 g)
• Material pins x4
• User manual

RA2 Pro Rotary Attachment

The RA2 Pro 4-in-1 rotary attachment allows engraving not only on flat objects, but also on spheres, rings, and cylinders and includes roller, chuck, sphere, and ring rotary.

The use of the rotary attachment greatly expands the scope of application for the S1 laser engraver, providing even more room for creativity. With the additional riser base, you can also engrave on larger objects.

• Dimensions: 321 x 138 x 105 mm
• Gear ratio: Chuck 4:1
• Chuck diameter: 50 mm
• Engrave diameter range (with the additional riser base): Roller: 3–106 mm; Chuck: 0–100 mm; Sphere: 25–100 mm; Ring: 11–70 mm
• Software: xTool Creative Space, LightBurn, LightGRBL

xTool S1 Riser Base

To facilitate the engraving of higher objects, especially when using the RA2 Pro rotary attachment, it is possible to increase the height of the machine with the help of the xTool S1 riser base. With this add-on, one can cut ultra-thick materials with up to 133.5 mm thickness. The base plate height can be adjusted at four levels with easy pulling and pushing.

• Dimensions: 106 x 561 x 765 mm
• Weight: 5.8 kg

Please note that when utilizing the S1 riser base, the product no longer complies with Class 1 laser safety certification.

Look and feel

The xTool S1 20W desktop laser cutter and engraver is available in a black or pure white color scheme with a transparent green or orange lid respectively. Its stylish enclosed design makes it ideal for any studio or workshop as well as home applications.

The machine dimensions are 30.1 x 22.1 x 7.2 in (765 x 561 x 183 mm). It weighs approximately 44 lb (20 kg).

Price

The price for the xTool S1 20W laser cutter and engraver is $1,799.00, which is reasonable considering its high speed and ample capabilities.