The xTool S1: A Buyer's Guide from Someone Who Actually Tracks the Numbers

Thinking About an xTool S1? Here's What I Learned Tracking Every Penny.

I'm the person who audits our procurement spreadsheets for fun – not kidding. Over the past six years managing capital equipment budgets for a 15-person maker studio, I've analyzed over $180,000 in cumulative spending. So when we evaluated the xTool S1 for our shop, I didn't just read the spec sheet. I ran the numbers. This FAQ covers the questions I asked – and the answers I actually found, not just the marketing claims.

1. What exactly is the xTool S1, and what's the real cost?

The short answer: It's a modular diode laser engraver/cutter system. The base unit starts around $1,200, but the real total cost of ownership (TCO) depends on which laser module (10W, 20W, or 40W) and accessories (like the rotary bundle or air assist) you choose. I built a cost calculator after getting burned on hidden fees twice – once with a different printer where the base price didn't include essential software licenses. Based on our analysis for a 20W kit with air assist and a honeycomb bed: expect a TCO of roughly $1,800–$2,200 (prices as of January 2025; verify current rates at xTool).

2. The 20W laser module for the S1 – is it worth it?

From a cost-benefit perspective: Yes, for most shops. The 20W module is the sweet spot for us. It can cut 6-8mm basswood plywood and engrave anodized aluminum. We saved $450 by not opting for the 40W module right away (which would have been overkill for our current work). But – and here's the kicker – I regret not upgrading to the 20W from the 10W initially. The 10W was cheaper by $300, but we ended up spending that difference on a rush upgrade three months later when a client project needed thicker acrylic. The 'budget module' choice looked smart until the job specs changed. Net loss: rework time.

3. What about the xTool S1 lens – do I need a different one?

The S1 comes with a standard lens, but you can swap for options that offer different focal lengths (e.g., a shorter focal length for fine engraving, a longer one for cutting thicker materials). After comparing quotes for a $4,200 annual accessory contract across three suppliers, I found that buying a third-party lens (compatible, but not xTool branded) cost 40% less. To be fair, the OEM lens had a better warranty. But for hobbyists, the third-party option is fine. Just verify the specs.

4. Can it really engrave metal? (And what 'engraving in metal' actually means)

Yes, but with a huge caveat. The diode laser can engrave coated or anodized metals (like tumblers or nameplates) and mark stainless steel with a marking spray. It will not cut sheet metal. This is where I see the biggest misunderstanding. I still kick myself for not clarifying this for one client – they saw 'can engrave metal' and assumed we could cut 2mm steel. The re-education process cost us a week of back-and-forth. The fundamentals haven't changed – diode lasers are for marking, not cutting, most metals. That said, for laser enthusiasts, the ability to mark metal is a huge win for personalizing products.

5. xTool S1 vs. CO₂ laser for cutting wood – which is better for 'co2 laser holz schneiden'?

If you're searching for 'co2 laser holz schneiden' (CO₂ laser wood cutting), you're likely thinking of a 40-100W CO₂ system. The S1's 20W diode can cut wood, but at a slower speed and thinner material. For 3mm plywood, the S1 is fine. For 12mm hardwood, a CO₂ system is necessary. What was best practice in 2020 – assuming you needed a CO₂ for any woodwork – may not apply in 2025, because the 40W module now cuts 10mm plywood. But for thick 'holz schneiden,' CO₂ is still king. I'd argue the S1 is better for detailed engraving on wood, but for heavy cutting, wait for the xTool P2 (CO₂) or use an alternative. (Per FTC guidelines, we can't recommend a specific competitor, but the choice is clear.)

6. What are the best selling laser cut products I can make with the S1?

Based on our shop data and industry trends (Source: major online maker marketplaces, 2024), the top-selling items for diode laser users are:

• Personalized drinkware (coasters, cups, tumblers) – using the rotary attachment.
• Keychains and luggage tags – small, fast, high margin.
• Home decor (wooden signs, layered 3D art).
• Small gift items (custom puzzles, photo frames).

The most frustrating part of product selection: you'd think any complex design would sell, but simple, fast-to-make items with high perceived value are the cash cows. Our best-selling product is a simple engraved wooden coaster set. Low time investment, high repeat orders.

7. A final piece of advice from my cost tracker

If you're investing in an xTool S1, budget for the rotary bundle and air assist upfront. After tracking 6 orders over 3 years in our procurement system, I found that 40% of our 'budget overruns' came from adding accessories individually after the initial purchase – paying higher shipping and missing bundle discounts. The 'add-on later' plan cost us an extra $200 on average. (Note to self: always recommend the total package to clients.)