40W xTool S1 - A New Standard For Diode Laser Engravers

[@JamesBiggar]

If you're interested in getting this machine, check out the link below to save $ on your purchase (sale ends after Feb 16th): xTool S1 Valentine's Day sale: www.xtool.com/pages/valentine-special?ref=YIsSROOjDwn2z& xTool P2: www.xtool.com/products/xtool-p2-55w-co2-laser-cutter?ref=YIsSROOjDwn2z&

[@createinspain]

I've had my S1 for a few weeks. Just completed a Book Nook and a load of videos on it. Great fun machine to use and I love it.

[@ParaglidingManiac]

Great video! And just in time, since I need to decide what I'm buying in a few weeks :)

[@hippie-io7225]

Great review! The website is rather obscure on spec sheet comparison. I would like to see the actual cutting area of each machine displayed conveniently. These machines seem to have excellent value, especially compared to earlier CO2 types.

[@JamesBiggar]

Thanks. Specs are all listed in detail, actually. Scroll past the marketing to the bottom of the page - that's where the nerd stuff is located. Here's a link showing a spec comparison between their different models www.xtool.com/pages/tech-specs

[@hippie-io7225]

@@JamesBiggar Thanks!

[@JamesBiggar]

Np.

[@st0mper121]

What is your thoughts on Jtech 44watt laser?

[@bonniesims2114]

Great detailed review! I’m in the process of deciding which one I want to buy. But do you need the smoke purifier machine if you have the hose connected to a window to vent out? And also, will it cut all types of acrylic or just black? Thank you in advance! 😊

[@JamesBiggar]

Thanks! The smoke purifier isn't required if you can vent directly outside. Being a diode laser, the S1 will only cut black acrylic. The P2 is co2 and can cut any acrylic.

[@bonniesims2114]

oh wow! thank you for that valuable information! I had one of those machines and the smoke purifier in my cart and was waiting on your feedback! Most of my items will be acrylic, so the machine needed is significantly more in price. So glad I reached out to you!@@JamesBiggar

[@douglasladley8698]

I watched your reviews of the WeCreat Vision and the Xtool S1. Which is the best of the two? This would be my first purchase of a laser. Thank you for your input.

[@JamesBiggar]

I just got word this morning from my agent that WeCreate has been up to some shady business. I didn't have any problems, but apparently there have been issues for some others and instead of helping to resolve them, WeCreate is trying to hide them and manipulate influencers reviewing their machine. The agency that I work with cut ties with them yesterday. It's a start up company and I don't expect it to last much longer if this is the way they're going to operate. xTool makes great machines and they've been leaders in desktop engraver development and service since 2018. You can buy from them with confidence.

[@douglasladley8698]

@@JamesBiggarThanks for the heads up. I do not want to buy a machine that does not offer support. The xTool looks nice, I just wish it had a camera.

[@CoffeeJake]

So you don’t need the IR module to engrave metal? Your test runs looked awesome but I thought I read you need the IR for metal?

[@JamesBiggar]

IR and fiber can engrave any metal. But diode can only engrave stainless steel. This also makes it susceptible to rust because it removes the chromium oxide layer, so only do it for indoor objects or apply a clear coat after.

[@johnn73]

Where did you find the files to 3d print or did you design them?

[@JamesBiggar]

Depends. If they're for custom projects, then they're usually custom files (e-moto battery enclosure & fairing, for ex). For simple test prints that I do for reviews, I usually just look for something online. Etsy, Thingiverse, Printables.com, etc. Loads of sites to choose from that offer files for both personal and commercial use.

[@johnn73]

@@JamesBiggar you remember where that exhaust hose bracket file was from?

[@MrSharkystuff]

@JamesBiggar I also can't find that cable management adapter anywhere to 3D Print. Do you have a link?

[@dieselwheasel973]

I like the capabilities of this but I would rather use lightburn rather than the propriety software

[@JamesBiggar]

You can. But XCS is better equipped for these machines and more user friendly

[@dieselwheasel973]

I take it you can import images the same as lightburn? I have a 20 w diode laser and im wondering if its worth it as my machine can be slow to engrave certain things.

[@JamesBiggar]

Yes. XCS can do everything that LB does, but you can use LB too. Doesn't really matter. Look closely at the specs, though. Specifically spot size. The 40W module is 0.08x0.1, the 20W module is 0.08x0.06. Compare with what you have now. These machines are faster than most 20W diode machines, but if you're mainly engraving high res images then you'll want a small spot size too. The higher power machines are more for cutting power. The 55W P2 has a spot size of 0.15x0.2, for example, but I can cut 18mm+ thick material with it. I still engraved loads of (large) images too, but the 20W module for the S1 would be the better option. Don't need any more power than that for fine engraving.

[@PatrickKrabbe]

do you know why I can't start again with the blue button? this is after the update...

[@JamesBiggar]

Not sure what you mean, like after pausing and attempting to restart?

[@mtz3843]

like to have one, but cant not until they come down on their prices, really the same prices as the wecreat.

[@JamesBiggar]

I reviewed the (WeCreate) Vision when it was released. It's ok. This is a better machine imo, and relatively affordable when compared to similar commercial machines. Of course, it's not a small investment either. The Vision is expensive for what it is. More of a hobby/home office machine. Small, not expandable, the software's a little glitchy and they're a new start up company. Over 90% fail within their first year of launching. So there's that added risk of losing tech support if they happen to fold. xTool's a reputable brand that's been in business since 2018. I suspect prices will come down some as they recoup investment costs, but if you're running a business, then compare the specs and do a cba. This laser would pay for itself in no time. If you're not looking to make $, then consider something else, for sure.

[@juanperalta-j2k]

Excelente ♥️🌈👽👍

[@I-LOVE-EARTH]

If this is a Class-1 Laser, why do they provide you with goggles when you purchase the riser/conveyor? If you open the front / rear access panel while the laser is operating, does it stop or will the laser keep firing and possibly cause permanent eye damage to anyone near by that happens to look inside...like kids?

[@JamesBiggar]

The front and rear panels need to be open to use the conveyor feed or work long and thick materials without it (there's a ~1/2" material thickness limit for the conveyor, likely to do with load on the motor). Kids and lasers don't mix. They shouldn't be around them unsupervised for any reason.