xTool P3 Review: A New Era of Industrial Productivity
80 Watts, LiDAR Automation, and Class 1 Safety: Is This the Ultimate Small Business Laser?
The xTool P3 is a Class 1 certified, AI-powered desktop laser designed for professional creators and small businesses seeking to scale their production with intelligent automation and industrial-grade performance. It represents a fundamental shift from a tool for creatives to a comprehensive productivity solution.
At its core, the P3 boasts a more powerful 80W CO₂ laser, an expansive 36" x 18" (915 x 458 mm) working area, and an optional 5W Infrared (IR) module for direct metal engraving. These features are not just incremental upgrades; they are a direct response to the needs of commercial users who require faster turnaround, larger batch capabilities, and broader material compatibility.
My perspective is based on genuine experience, as I purchase my own tools for review. I invested my own money in the xTool P2, and it remains one of my favorite and most utilized tools in my workshop. xTool is one of the few companies in this space that genuinely excels at both rapid innovation and reliable customer service. They stand behind their products.
With the announcement of the xTool P3, the company isn't just offering an incremental update; they are fundamentally shifting their focus toward maximizing commercial output.
xTool now defines their flagship lineup clearly:
- P2/P2S (Smart Laser): Designed for creative professionals, prioritizing intelligent features for complex designs.
- P3 (Productivity Laser): Engineered for small business production, focusing on raw industrial speed, automation, and efficiency.
The P3 introduces staggering specifications, including an 80W laser tube, doubled speeds, a massive workspace, and unprecedented automation features like LiDAR-mapped rotary engraving. See the full breakdown in our xTool P3 vs P2S vs P2 comparison.
My conclusion is straightforward: The xTool P3 is a game-changing piece of technology. It sets a new benchmark for what a professional desktop laser can achieve. See how it stacks up against other top machines in our comprehensive guide to the best laser cutters of 2025.
Quick Verdict: The Productivity Leap
The xTool P3 represents a comprehensive industrial upgrade over the P2S. While the P2S remains an excellent machine for complex creative work, the P3 is the superior choice for any user prioritizing production volume, speed, and safety.
The jump to 80W and 1200mm/s dramatically reduces job times. Furthermore, the integration of a motorized AutoLift base, an advanced Inverter Water Chiller, and the revolutionary LiDAR-powered Smart RA3 Rotary accessory makes the P3 a true production powerhouse.
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Reserve Your P3 Now & Lock In Your DiscountxTool P3 vs. Glowforge Pro
One of the most common comparisons for potential buyers is between the xTool P3 and the Glowforge Pro. We have a detailed breakdown of these two machines in our xTool P3 vs Glowforge Pro comparison.
xTool P3 vs P2S: Detailed Specification Comparison
The differences between the P3 and P2S are substantial, highlighting the P3's focus on industrial capability. (Note: P3 specifications are based on pre-release data provided by xTool).
xTool P3 Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Laser Type | 80W CO₂ Laser + 5W IR Laser (Optional) |
| Working Area | 915 x 458 mm (36″×18″) |
| Max. Working Speed | 1,200 mm/s (47.2 ips) |
| Max. Cutting (Basswood) | 20 mm (0.79″) in one pass |
| Max. Cutting (Acrylic) | 25 mm (0.98″) in one pass |
| Built-in Cameras | 16 MP SkyView Panoramic Camera, 5 MP Close-range Camera, Side Camera x 2 |
| Focus System | Autofocus with LiDAR Ranging System |
| Safety Certification | Class 1 Laser Safety |
| Product Weight | 105 kg (231.5 lb) |
xTool P3 Supported Materials Matrix
| Material Type | CO₂ Laser | IR Laser (Optional) |
|---|---|---|
| Wood (Basswood, Plywood, MDF) | Cutting & Engraving | Not Applicable |
| Acrylic | Cutting & Engraving (Clear/White) | Engraving (Black) |
| Leather & Fabric | Cutting & Engraving | Not Applicable |
| Metal (Stainless Steel, Brass) | Engraving (with coatings) | Direct Engraving & Cutting |
| Glass & Ceramic | Engraving | Not Applicable |
| Plastics | Not Applicable | Engraving |
The Three Pillars of the xTool P3 Upgrade
The P3 upgrade is substantial, focusing on three core areas: Industrial Performance, Intelligent Automation, and Certified Safety.
Pillar 1: Industrial Performance (Power, Speed, and Size)
The most obvious upgrade is the sheer capability of the P3.
The 80W Powerhouse and Advanced Cooling
Moving from 55W (P2S) to 80W (P3) provides a 45% increase in power. This allows the machine to cut thicker materials in a single pass (like 20mm of basswood or 25mm of acrylic) and complete standard jobs significantly faster.
To support this high-power output, the P3 includes a built-in Inverter Water Chiller. This is far superior to standard cooling, actively managing the temperature to ensure stable performance during all-day operation, regardless of ambient conditions.
Doubled Speed and Massive Workspace
The P3 doubles the maximum speed to 1200mm/s (from 600mm/s) and significantly increases acceleration. Combined with a working area of 36" x 18" (2.3 times larger than the P2S), the P3 drastically cuts job times and allows for much larger batch production or bigger projects.
The Dual Laser Option (5W IR Module)
The P3 introduces an optional 5W Infrared (IR) laser module, making it the first CO2 laser from the company that can process metals directly. This is critical for businesses. While the CO2 laser handles wood and acrylic, the IR laser excels at directly engraving metals (stainless steel, aluminum, brass) and various plastics. This "limitless material" capability opens up new product lines that the P2S cannot handle natively.
Pillar 2: Intelligent Automation (The ACS™ Workflow)
The P2S introduced smart features, but the P3 integrates them into a seamless, automated workflow called ACS™ (Automated Creation System). What truly sets the P3 apart is its focus on intelligent automation. The goal is a **“place your material and go”** workflow that frees users from tedious manual setups.
Key Features of the ACS™ System
- Auto-Positioning: When you close the lid, a dual-camera system, including a 16MP panoramic camera and a close-range camera, instantly provides a live preview of the entire workspace. This allows you to place designs with pinpoint accuracy directly in the software.
- Autofocus: An advanced LiDAR Ranging System measures the material’s height, and the built-in, motorized AutoLift Base automatically adjusts to the perfect focal point, completely eliminating the need for manual tools or measurements. This is a massive quality-of-life improvement, as the base provides 8.66" (220 mm) of vertical space as a standard feature.
Integrated Automatic Conveyor
The P3’s Automatic Conveyor Feeder is now integrated with a quick-release mechanism. This allows for rapid switching between the standard bed and large-format passthrough, unlike the P2S conveyor which requires manual assembly for each use.
Pillar 3: Certified Safety (The Leap to Class 1)
Recognizing its target audience includes schools and makerspaces, safety is a cornerstone of the P3's design. The P3 makes a significant leap here, achieving a certified Class 1 laser safety rating. This is a major selling point, as a Class 1 device is fully enclosed and safe for use in public environments without the need for special protective eyewear or a dedicated safety officer, which is required for a Class 4 device like the P2S.
The P3 achieves this top-tier safety through several layers:
- Advanced Perception System: The P3 uses an Upgraded High-Precision Perception System, combining 8 Infrared (IR) sensors, temperature sensors, and side cameras with an advanced vision algorithm (a significant upgrade over the P2S's reliance on basic camera recognition).
- Built-in Fire Detection & Suppression: Critically, the P3 comes standard with an integrated active fire detection and CO₂ suppression system. Using camera feeds and advanced algorithms, it actively monitors for hazards and can respond automatically. On the P2S, this requires the separate purchase of an optional Fire Safety Set.
The Owner's Perspective: Is the Upgrade Worth It?
I invested my own money in the P2 because I believed in its capabilities. My perspective on the P3 is straightforward: xTool is a company that stands behind its products and consistently innovates, excelling at both customer service and technological achievements. The P3 is a game-changing piece of tech.
For Small Business Production
The P3 is explicitly designed for you. The combination of 80W power, 1200mm/s speed, and the automated ACS™ workflow means you can produce more products in less time with less manual intervention. In a production environment where time is money, the P3 will provide a faster ROI despite the higher initial cost. If your business supports it, the purchase is justified.
For Hobbyists and Creative Professionals
The P2S remains a powerful and intelligent machine. If your work focuses more on intricate design and less on high-volume output, the P2S offers incredible capability at a lower price point. However, if you are a hobby laser enthusiast, the P3 is the new benchmark. The quality-of-life improvements (AutoLift, Class 1 safety, LiDAR) make the laser experience significantly smoother. It's a tempting purchase if you can sell your existing P2/P2S to offset the cost.
For New Buyers
If you are looking to purchase your first high-end CO2 laser and have the budget, the P3 is a top contender. It offers industrial performance in a user-friendly, automated package backed by a reputable brand.
I am personally debating the purchase, as the P3 solves workflow issues I encounter daily in my workshop.
Final Verdict: A New Industrial Benchmark
The xTool P3 is more than just the successor to the P2S; it establishes a new category of desktop laser: the automated productivity powerhouse.
It successfully bridges the gap between high-end "prosumer" machines and full-scale industrial lasers.
Choose the xTool P3 if:
- You run a small business where production speed and volume directly impact revenue.
- You need 80W power for cutting thicker materials or faster throughput.
- You frequently use rotary engraving (the LiDAR Smart RA3 is revolutionary).
- You require Class 1 safety certification and integrated fire suppression.
- You want an automated workflow (AutoLift, integrated conveyor) to minimize manual labor.
Stick with the xTool P2S if:
- You are a creative professional focused on complex design rather than high volume.
- 55W power and 600mm/s speed meet your current needs.
- You do not mind manual adjustments for Z-height and rotary setup.
- The P3's industrial upgrades do not justify the price difference for your use case.
While the P2S remains a flagship creative tool, the xTool P3 is the definitive choice for anyone looking to maximize commercial output and efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Proactive Troubleshooting Guide
- Power Cycle Everything: Turn off the xTool P3 and your computer completely. Wait for 30 seconds before powering them back on.
- Check Drivers: Ensure you have the latest version of xTool Creative Space (XCS) and that all necessary drivers were installed correctly. Sometimes reinstalling XCS can fix driver issues.
- Disable VPNs or Firewalls: Aggressive VPNs or firewall settings can block the connection. Temporarily disable them to see if they are the cause.
- Verify USB Cable and Port: Use the original USB cable provided by xTool. Try a different USB port on your computer, as some ports may not provide a stable connection. Avoid using USB hubs if possible.
- Run Autofocus: Always trust the P3's LiDAR autofocus first. Ensure your material is flat and properly positioned.
- Check Processing Parameters: Ensure your speed, power, and lines-per-cm settings in XCS are appropriate for your material. Settings that are too fast or have low resolution can cause blurriness.
- Clean Mirrors and Lens: A dirty laser lens or mirror is a primary cause of poor engraving quality. Follow xTool's official guide for cleaning all optical components carefully with the correct materials.
- Ensure Focal Lens is Installed Correctly: The focal lens must be installed in the correct orientation. If it was removed for cleaning, double-check that it was re-installed properly according to the user manual.
(Affiliate Disclosure) As an affiliate partner with xTool and other brands mentioned, we earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. I (The Crafty Catsman) purchased my xTool P2 with my own funds and provide authentic, hands-on perspectives. Our primary goal is to offer trustworthy information to help you make informed decisions.