xTool P2S: CO₂ Power for Larger Projects

The xTool P2S is a 55W CO₂ laser engraver and cutter known for its ability to handle thicker materials like plywood, acrylic, leather, and even some rubber or foam products. Its enclosed design and built-in ventilation options make it ideal for small businesses or hobbyists working with medium-to-large projects. With a spacious bed (around 23.93 × 15.16 inches), you can create custom signs, intricate cutouts, and detailed engravings without frequent repositioning.

A standout feature is its AI-assisted camera alignment, part of xTool’s Creative Space software. This camera allows you to visually position your designs on the material, reducing trial-and-error. The P2S’s higher wattage also means faster cutting speeds and the capacity to tackle thicker stock than most diode lasers. It is a compelling solution for those who regularly produce wooden décor, acrylic signage, or leather goods and need consistent, professional results.

If you are still deciding between the P2 and P2S, check out our detailed comparison guide to see which model fits your needs best.

xTool F1: Compact Dual-Laser Versatility

The xTool F1 takes a different approach, blending a 10W diode laser with a 2W infrared fiber laser in a single, portable device. Its small footprint and open-frame design make it highly versatile for on-the-go engraving or use in tighter workspaces. While its working area is significantly smaller than the P2S (around 4.33 × 4.33 inches), the F1 excels at metal marking, jewelry engraving, and small craft projects that demand a dual-laser setup.

With the diode laser head, you can still work on wood, leather, and lightweight materials. But the real game-changer is the fiber laser head, allowing you to engrave logos, text, or patterns on metal with remarkable clarity. This makes the F1 a top choice for customizing metal tumblers, kitchen tools, or promotional items where portability and metal-friendly marking are top priorities. If you are looking for a multi-functional laser engraver that does not take up much room and handles a range of materials (including some metals), the xTool F1 offers a unique blend of flexibility and portability.

Wood & Acrylic Crafts: Larger Signs, 3D Layering, and Deep Cuts

If you frequently produce wooden décor—such as laser-cut signs, mandalas, or layered wall art—the P2S offers the bed size and cutting power you need. Its 55W CO₂ laser effortlessly slices through ¼-inch or even ½-inch plywood (with multiple passes), making it a top pick for 3D layer assemblies or furniture prototypes. Similarly, thick acrylic signs or complex inlays benefit from the P2S’s fast, clean cuts.

In contrast, the F1’s diode laser can handle thinner wood or acrylic, but its smaller work area (~4.33" × 4.33") may limit you to smaller crafts—like custom keychains, ornament designs, or coasters. You can still achieve precise detail, but large-format tasks may become tedious unless you tile or reposition the material multiple times.

Metal Marking & Personalized Gifts

For those focused on engraving metal tumblers, flasks, knives, or jewelry, the xTool F1 stands out. Its fiber laser is specifically tuned to mark metals quickly and cleanly, producing crisp, permanent designs without any coating necessary. This makes it ideal for small businesses offering personalized metal gifts or promotional items. Its portability also means you could bring the F1 to events, fairs, or pop-up shops for on-the-spot engraving.

While the P2S can mark coated metals using certain spray treatments or anodized surfaces, its CO₂ laser doesn’t penetrate metal as effectively as a fiber laser. If your workflow revolves heavily around metal customization, the F1 has a clear advantage in speed, simplicity, and marking quality.

Portability & On-the-Go Crafting

One of the xTool F1’s unique selling points is its compact size and open-frame design. Hobbyists or freelancers who move between makerspaces or craft fairs will appreciate how lightweight and transportable the F1 can be. You can set up a quick engraving station almost anywhere—just be mindful of laser safety when operating in public or shared spaces.

The P2S, on the other hand, is larger and enclosed—much better suited for a dedicated workshop or small business where you keep the machine in one spot. It excels at long cutting sessions and thicker materials but is not easy to move around.

Production Runs & Business-Grade Throughput

If you’re regularly fulfilling bulk orders—like a small business laser-engraving wood signs, acrylic plaques, or custom boxes—the P2S stands out for its speed, power, and spacious bed. You can set up multiple pieces in one pass, reducing downtime and increasing profit margins.

Conversely, if your production niche is mostly metal gadgets, tumblers, or small promotional items, you might prefer the F1’s fiber laser. Even though the bed is smaller, metal marking is significantly faster and higher-quality on a dedicated fiber setup, compared to using coatings or lower-powered diode lasers on the market.