3 HUGE Upgrades in the xTool D1 Pro!

The xTool D1 was my favorite diode laser cutter and engraver in 2021. Let's see if the D1 Pro can take the crown for 2022!
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 - Intro
01:17 - Overall Build
02:21 - Limit Switches
03:55 - Electronics and Speed
04:44 - 20W Laser
06:03 - Focus Process
07:38 - Laser Dot Size
08:08 - Risers
08:39 - Work Area
09:09 - Connection Options
11:28 - Tests
14:12 - Thick Cutting
15:01 - D1 vs D1 Pro
16:07 - xTool D1 Pro vs Atomstack X20 Pro
17:15 - My Recommendation
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[@jakerazmataz852]

I'm really new to this, still in the planning stages. These vids, yours and others, make me feel so confident in the xTool and it's capabilities and I'm no spring chicken.

[@thanemakes5377]

Brandon, how does the laser dot size (.08 x .1) or any of the others, compare to the size of the dot on a k40 or larger co2 lasers…. I would love to see the dot size compare to each other including co2…

[@jimnugent1143]

My wife bought me an XTool D1 for Father's Day. I can't get anyone at XTool to get back to me to upgrade to the D1 Pro. I haven't taken the unit out of the box, in case they get back to me. I've tried every email I can find to reach XTool, but they haven't responded. Damn!

[@ArmyHulk]

Absolutely the best and most informative video on this xtool model. Thank you.

[@s-yvonne5182]

I heard that sculpfun will also produce 20w machine, are you planning to make a comparison video?

[@-vermin-]

I already put my money down on the Atomstack! Good to hear that the differences aren't too substantial.

[@csq530]

I would had definitely wanted to see the last comparison with D1 Pro USING the AIR ASSIST. Seeing that would have been DECISIVE!!!

[@totallldigital]

The number of ppl asking questions that were literally answered in the video that they didn't watch is astounding. But I watched, great vid brother!

[@jameslong1644]

How many of the guys in the comments section are using this for business? I have a graphics/sign business and want to add laser engraving to my product line just wondering if this will get it done.

[@precisionarc]

A 30L/min air pump can be had for much less $$ than their $139, this model would be my first but haven't made a decision yet. Kind of surprised you would do a review without having the air assist in place and working, still you obviously have a great deal of experience and will be checking back for more info

[@Puyax01]

I bought the 10w D1 Pro as me being a first timer during the launch stream. Thanks for this review.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@Puyax01]

@@makeorbreakshop thanks, the plan is a second source of income for the moment

[@Lucas-yg8rn]

How about the problems with the machine kicking back into the limit switches and not allowing to get to the same position?

[@holgerwinkelmann6219]

Hi, nice review! Would you recommend Xtool D1Pro over the Atomstack 20W? I personally like the Filter the Atomstack has (for security reasons) but from the actual performance and accuracy of the results, would you go Xtool or Atomstack ?

[@holgerwinkelmann6219]

looking to then end helps ;-)

[@darrinswan5503]

Great review. I have purchased the X-Tool D1Pro with all the attachments. Half of the order is in and the other half will be here early next week. Can't wait to get it all set up. My question is, what do you put under the honeycomb mat? I am thinking that it would be a sheet of metal.

[@AdamMclardy]

I use a silicone sheet meant for pet food bowls cheep and can handle the heat

[@Dancopymus]

Hello friend, I bought my xTOOL D1 Pro but, it has not arrived yet and, I have a question: Do the Limit Switches have to do with the laser functions > Current Position > User Origin > Absolute Coordinates? In other words, is there anything that needs to be configured before running the machine, so that the laser head does not collide with the machine's Frames? Thanks

[@PCJ52]

Thanks for the very informative video. I hope you can answer a question about the increased laser dot size. What are the practical results of this? For example, if you're burning text onto a piece of wood, will the result look less crisp? I'm thinking about purchasing one of these and that is one concern. Thanks.

[@nateslocum9950]

Ordered mine on launch. Very excited to get it. I love my D1 and can't wait to start using the 20w Pro.

[@makeorbreakshop]

It’s great!

[@TheMessenger012]

How long did they say delivery will take... Planning to get this in addition to my Ortur

[@nateslocum9950]

@@TheMessenger012 the 5 and 10w should be going out now. The 20w is planned to start around the 26th.

[@TheMessenger012]

@@nateslocum9950 cool... Looking to get the 20w

[@jordantaylor6396]

Hello, I’m looking for a great machine to engrave metal, stainless steel, copper, wood, plastic, acrylic etc… what would be your recommendation?

[@stewartmarshall4112]

Will either of those 20w machines, which you discussed here, engrave brass sheet to any depth? I would like to be able to etch clock dials , with the engraving to such a depth that I can fill the etched numbers and markings with paint. Don't necessarily need speed, in case it would require multiple passes. Just want to know if it is possible at all. before purchasing a machine. Thanks in advance for any advice.

[@vcmel4028]

Atomstack 20W or Xtool 20W!? Can’t decide which one to invest in 🥴

[@alexroquesanchez2670]

You mentioned fiber for cutting metal, which one would you recommend that cuts metal, leather, wood, plastic etc.? Thanks

[@stink-a-lynx6571]

What would you recommend for engraving tumblers?

[@robertprice9052]

In about to buy the Atomstack. I have a cnc with an old 2.8w laser. I already run Lightburn, so the addition of the air assist pushes me in that direction. I’m actually an electrical engineer, and I’m thinking the next level will be 8 LEDs in a circular array.

[@DesirableComedy]

What would be my best option (engraver) for stainless steel cups?

[@SoulReaperAdam]

The Atomstack s20 pro has this claim about using 256-bit color scale on their amazon page: "Upgraded Atomstack self-developed 32-bit motherboard built-in 256-bit color scale. It achieves a finer engraving result and a higher contrast effect." Could someone help me understand this claim? Does it only matter if you aren't using a computer, or is it completely bogus? If it's true to an extent it'd be neat to see a side by side of a detailed engraving.

[@CraftedbyCharles]

I ended up with a YoraHome 6050-Pro, larger size, plus air assist is included!

[@playamytrumpet]

This is a little off subject but I sure could use some assistance, I have a XTool D1 pro 10watt, I then purchased separately the 1064 infrared laser head. My question is can I use the power brick that came with the infrared also with the 10watt? It’s kind of a pain switching back and forth. I’ve sent this question to XTool quite a while ago and have still not received a reply. Thanks in advance.

[@VuTran-h3l]

Do you know how the fine adjustment (up and down 6 mm) screw tighten? Mine is out and I can't seem to tighten the laser module.

[@rudyvargas2846]

What would you suggest in regards to this vs the atomstack 20w? I'm looking into doing overall everything possible. Wood cuts and burns also sheet metal/stainless pictures And general use. What's the better buy?

[@jaison7828]

I’ll go with Atomstack … it comes with air assist and I like how the air tube is connected w atom. But the build is d1 pro is really great but I’m more of performance than looks…a bit more cheaper with Atom

[@andyanand9459]

Hi Thank you for the tutorial. Can this cut colored and Transparent Acrylic?

[@DanielCastillo-hv9co]

I have a 5w and looking to upgrade. Can I just switch the module to a 20w? Is it really that easy?

[@angwest248]

I’m stuck deciding between the omteck k40 for $430 and the Ortur Laser Master 3 for $750? I want to make basic signs, no business. I want to make sure I get something that will cut out large lettering. Am I completely on the wrong track?

[@tesselabkee7296]

Any chance that the xtool d1 pro 20w could do 2mm engraving of a brass stamp with multiple passes?

[@Chugoooo]

I have the xTool D1 and I just recibe the 20w module that I bought at the early bird, and have the power but not the small adjustment nor the air assist nozzle. That’s the worst combination posible

[@kevinstrickland6314]

I was initially going with xtool but tried purchasing during launch the codes provided did not work, emailed xtool and never heard back plus didnt want to wait to most likely mid Aug before they actually start rolling out. My big thing was air assist I know its only 150ish but something with that amount of power should be included IMO. Also planned on using lightburn so software wasn't an issue for me, although I do like xtools platform better.

[@lamsmiley1944]

I ordered the D1 during the livestream and am still waiting. They said they will be shipped mid Aug and they upgraded me to the pro.

[@adamcolville2057]

HI Brandon , excellent review as always , im torn between the D1 PRO and the Sculpfun s10 or the atomstack equiv . been looking at these for ages now to integrate these into my little airsoft business mainly for engraving but as far as i can tell the D1 and the Sculpfun s10 will allow the laser unit to be positioned higher where as the atomstack needs to be a lot lower down for focus . what im really torn over is wether or not i need the 20w or would a 10w suffice. any advice would be grateful thanks

[@gordonbelfort7176]

Greetings from Germany. I would suggest to buy the D1Pro if you can afford it. I tested both and for my Uses the D1 is not only sufficient but also future-ready. The Atomstack is just fine but the build-in Diodes are better integrated and the engraving on metal (uncoated) looks just a little bit better. If you just want to engrave airsofts (Polymer /Metal) the Atomstack can do it but in my opinion the d1 does it faster and still in great quality.

[@redlightson]

I’ve bought the S10 and saved 500 euros to upgrade to a 40w laser which is coming next year.

[@ДиректорЮтуба-м2ь]

Я фанат Sculpfun, гравировка более чёткая, лазерный луч более тонкий, поэтому для гравировки лучше Sculpfun S9 или Sculpfun S10. Я купил Sculpfun S9 для гравировки, результат прекрасный, даже на нержавеющей стали могу гравировать, хотя у меня всего 5,5W, я уже хочу модуль Sculpfun S10

[@Lolikuki-g3]

Can you please mention how noisy it is and what about the smell

[@hangar88]

Hello and thank you for the video. I just bought the Xtool D1 Pro 20w. I am entirely new to all of this. I downloaded your test file but I still don't fully understand the laser or lightburn. Do you have a test file you used on the D1 cutting 3mm Birch? Or is there a magical setting I don't know about in lightburn that will cover these parameters for me? Any advice would be greatly appreciated and thank you in advance.

[@southerntommygun1353]

It would seem the next evolution could be a permanently elevated unit with a bed that moves up and down like some of the 3D printers do now.

[@tjcullen2366]

Hey love your videos! just had a quick question hopefully you can help me out I’ve been trying to find out if one of these cheaper lasers can do a decent job at putting possibly a three letter logo on borosilicate glass or even possibly quartz without spending $4,000 to $10,000 and getting a UV laser Which everybody recommends me doing? I just don’t wanna buy one of these and it not work at all so I figured get an opinion from the expert and see what you would think

[@zakspop]

Atomstack for sure. They have a coupon right now for $100 off. So it is $999 compared to this at $1169 and $139 for air assist. $308 is a significant difference.

[@mikewilliams719]

Saving $$$ and waiting for the dust to settle on the new models from Atomstack and Xtool. The price will come down and others can Guinea pig it for a few months while I wait. 10 watt models will be even cheaper.

[@evilta711]

Would really love to see a comparison of the modules for size that you have tested on these various machines over the past many months. Laser dot size was a critical for me as I do mostly engravings.

[@seansersmylie]

Tha atomstack can also make use of an extension kit, is the build quality that inferior? I'm considering one of these machines in the next 2 months.

[@robbylatham]

Brandon, I don't know if you've covered this or not. But I have the 10W D1 machine, had it since launch. Would it be more advantageous to upgrade my entire machine to the new one (really loving the colors) or just upgrade my current D1 to a 20W module?

[@its4michael]

Just upgrade the laser

[@Hamiora_art]

how is the exhaust? If I run this in my bedroom will it smoke up the room or is there a way to redirect the fumes!

[@makeorbreakshop]

You would need to get an enclosure as an add on.

[@tox4704]

optical output power? Or, as usual, the power consumption of the module xD ..A laser power meter to check the manufacturer's specs would be nice.

[@makeorbreakshop]

It's optical output power for the 20W. I'm looking at getting a power meter to check these machines in the future. xTool is one of the few that don't advertise the machine power which is nice.

[@chris76579]

How do they compare in terms of noise?

[@rabenfuerst7332]

The one here in the vid, atomstack x20 pro or neje max 3 - which one of those would you recommend, and why?

[@makeorbreakshop]

Atomstack, better overall build and higher wattage. Neje is great though if you need the increased size, that thing is massive!

[@rabenfuerst7332]

@@makeorbreakshop thank you

[@ChambersWrestling]

I just binge watched a lot of your videos after looking at the Atomstack and trying to learn about the different variables and stuff to consider. If I was going to start with the 20w laser I'd probably lean toward the Atomstack, but if I want to start out with the 10w or maybe even the 5w and then upgrading to the 20w or something down the line, which would you go for? Looking to mostly cut out board game components, so a recommendation for initial power would be helpful as well.

[@makeorbreakshop]

I still lean towards xTool, but Atomstack is going to let you extend the size of the machine which is awesome. Either of those companies you’ll be pretty happy with. xTool does coke with software that is simple to use, Atomstack you’ll jump into something like Lightburn which is awesome but has a learning curve.

[@ChambersWrestling]

@@makeorbreakshop Do you lean Xtool because of build quality mostly? Or just kind of personal preference because of company familiarity? Which of the models from either company would you recommend I start out with if I plan on upgrading to the 20w further down the line?

[@jaison7828]

Great choice with Atomstack …. I had their a5 pro with 400x800 work area then this m100 20w laser came out then I simply bought the module and it came with air assist … just buy Atomstack x20 pro you’ll like it… yes built of xtool is better but performance and price are far more important for me

[@mickeymallette2663]

@@makeorbreakshop I’m wondering if Black Friday will bring any price reductions on either of these?

[@MrRorschach28]

I've been waiting for your review of this great job! but I'm still torn about weather to go with the atom stack version.. what does xtools air assist look like as far as size compared to the atom stacks.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Size they are about the same, Atomstacks is nicer though since you can use twin compressors and change the speed. But the xTool still will get the job done.

[@gersonrenesol]

I already had de d1 10w model will be possible to buy just the laser???

[@kenspaceman3938]

Can you get an extension kit for this one? Ti make the cutting bed larver?

[@TylerAvakian]

Head to Head video? xTool D1 Pro vs Atomstack X20 Pro?

[@theLorax]

I'm new to lasers and learned a lot through this channel. I'm curious your thought on Xtool's new enclosure for the D1 Pro. If laser cutters are vented out a window is that sufficient enough?

[@sued877]

this would be interesting to know.

[@1vekeller]

This isn't directly related to the D1 Pro. Does anyone know the center to center distance between the riser legs on the x axis and the y axis? I just ordered a metric ruler but it hasn't come in yet. I'm designing a mounting system for the laser. Thanks.

[@jetindoacrylic4493]

this diode laser cant cut transparant acrylic ?

[@vincentstoffels784]

I just bout the Atomstack X20pro. I looked at both units and both are great. Xtool I think the build seems better however the fact air assist is not included for a high end model was what turned me off. Also I think the Atomstacks laser cover is better at protecting the eyes.

[@makeorbreakshop]

I forgot to mention the laser cover. xTool is better for filming, but Atomstack is nearly impossible to see the laser beam which is great for safety!

[@JossWhittle]

@@makeorbreakshop It's an openframe 20W laser, increased safety is the selling point. Atomstack X20 also comes with air assist and a control interface for the same price as the D1 Pro which does not have those. It's also disingenuous for xTool to claim "The World's Most Powerful 20W Diode Laser" when the Atomstack X20 was there first and is also a quad diode laser at the same power output.

[@vincentstoffels784]

@@makeorbreakshop love the show mate. Always watch. Keep up the great work.

[@zack_anderson]

Sweet been waiting for this!

[@makeorbreakshop]

Ha was about to comment on your other comment on the S10 video, figured I should just finish the video.

[@sebumgold3108]

Now that they have the emergency flame shutoff, does this mean we can pause and restart jobs? Very frustrating on old D1.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Yep you can pause and restart.

[@sebumgold3108]

@@makeorbreakshop thank you.

[@Grimm0ne]

Hi, could you clarify that the limit switches actually work for homing and not just bumpers to avoid grinding? I've been unable to get an answer out of Xtool, and none of the videos so far show the machine homing to the limit switches. Also, are you able to change your homing corner in Lightburn given the additional switches?

[@geraldlamothe6091]

They are not really limit switches, and more like a bumper switch to avoid bumping into the rails...People like myself who own lasers with limit switches will confirm what I am saying. Influencers are provided with free with stuff they get to keep to give a positive review in return.

[@astedino]

Hi, are you using the lightburn or the program that follows with xtool?

[@makeorbreakshop]

I've used both but really like Lightburn.

[@CreatureCribs]

Atomstack wins hands down. Also comes with air assist. Xtool feels like your getting mugged right off paying extra for accessories. Someone please tell me if I’m taking crazy pills

[@TylerAvakian]

What can one argue is the benefit of the xTool over the Atomstack really? I'd love for him to make a comparison video.

[@denniskramer9788]

With the rectangular spot size depth of cut varies horizontal vs vertical. So machine performance us really limited by the larger dimension. In this case .1mm is pretty sloppy. Best would be .o6 mm Sq. Spot.

[@cuomosrevenge947]

is it just me or are the 4 individual beams clearly visible in the video?

[@stacynalder9065]

Brandon- can this cut 1/8th mdf? Or does it only cut the basswood

[@its4michael]

It will cut most wood. You will need to play with speed and air assist for best results. Make sure you have good ventilation when cutting plywood, the glues are pretty nasty.

[@sandybanker3213]

How does this compair to ortur master laser3

[@AndTheCorrectAnswerIs]

A 20W diode laser ALREADY exceeds the capability of 40-50W CO2 machines on cutting. That is because of the smaller dot size. Typical CO2 machines will have a dot size of .1mm to .15mm diameter compared to the dot size of .08mm x .1mm on the diode machines. A smaller dot size means the power is concentrated more. You will NOT be cutting 10mm plywood in a single pass on a 50W CO2 machine (I have one). Also, engravings will not be as crisp, although the larger CO2 machines offer faster engraving output from better rails and more powerful stepper motors.

[@bokiam]

Does the xtool sell extension to cut larger material?

[@makeorbreakshop]

Not currently that I can tell

[@soggybottomboys2792]

What would your recommendation(s) for a machine that can engrave business card size blanks? One requirement I have is that it’s possible to make this machine automatic so it needs to be open so I can fabricate some kind of mechanism to place and remove pieces

[@sigung01]

How do you lose a compressor?

[@makeorbreakshop]

you should see my shop....

[@ДиректорЮтуба-м2ь]

😀

[@1vekeller]

I have the Xtool D1 10 watt.

[@aggoonR]

atomstack 👌

[@khubfhd4332]

About the Ortur Laser Master 3 in a video comparison with the D1 ( kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqLRqHtjaqtoi5o ) the picture appears really better for the Master 3. Have you had the opportunity to compare the D1/D1 pro to the Master 3?

[@vivi-tang1403]

How are you my friend-Vivi

[@user-ct8my8rv9c]

I just bought the 10 watt version a few weeks ago. Sad face

[@makeorbreakshop]

20W might be overkill for what you need. The 10W version is still an awesome machine!

[@markferrick10]

With the cost of this unit being 1200 usd, I'm starting to think co2 laser vs diode.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Yeh the price is getting up there

[@thomasmartinez9393]

A fact that is quite frustrating: you order a product that the privileged KZbinrs, who got these machines first, advertised as high end and state of the art and when you get it half a year later it‘s outdated. When I order today this 20W module there will be 100% a 40W module when I finally get it.

[@makeorbreakshop]

Totally get that, if it helps I don’t even know this thing existed until about 3 weeks ago and right now it looks like they have a 2 week delivery window. So hopefully a 40w unit won’t get released before August…

[@rdwil182]

Agree. I also wish they would tell people that just purchased the D1 if/how we can upgrade to the same function as a D1 Pro without repurchasing the entire machine. I know you can supposedly upgrade the laser but I don’t think we can update any of the other new functions. Check their return policies and they are very unforgiving so if you want the pro at this point, you need to repurchase because they won’t help. The customer support offered by XTool is not super great and that is also something to take into account if you are new to the product.

[@RankinImagery]

I am VERY new to this and considering my first purchase. Will there really be a newer version out in 6 months?

[@Able_Cylon]

@@RankinImagery there’s always a new version waiting in the wings.

[@GeekBuildersNet]

@@RankinImagery We don't really know their release schedule. All the diode lasers companies are trying to outdo each other which is why the products and upgrades are rolling out so quickly. Try to find the one that best fits your needs and go for it.

[@wgatcheesesmeoff1750]

Please stop saying "Laser Diode" It's a "Diode Laser" It sounds picky, but there's a big difference between the two. Also you're showing upgrades to the D1, not the D1 Pro, it already has those upgrades.

[@lumanation2032]

neje is still best and biggest diode, you are leaving this out

[@makeorbreakshop]

I might be missing it but the highest laser output I’m seeing from them is 10W. Is there a higher one?

[@lonniedupont]

Too much money. It's a diode laser.

[@bestyoutubernonegraternumber1]

Sent back a genmitsu jensoku lc-40 because it is only 5 watts. If the work area on the lc-40 was the same as Xtool d1 or larger & it had a 10 or 20w laser option, it would be the far superior machine. For ENGRAVING, genmitsu jensoku lc-40 is superior. I want to cut thin wood & use rotary, though. So I was forced to by d1 pro 10w since 20w is way too expensive right now. Speed trade off, right? If lc-40 had 10 or 20w, I definitely would have bought that. If I was ONLY engraving, it would be the best laser for that, hands down. Build is just that much better. Linear rails, no brainer.