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- Best overall: xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver
- Best budget: Glowforge Aura Craft Laser
- Best premium: xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver
- xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver: xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine
- The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is a versatile enclosed diode pick for a range of home projects.
- The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser keeps entry-level craft work simple with a 6W diode laser.
- The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver and Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter suit larger projects and faster production.
- Choose a diode, CO2 or dual-laser model based on your materials, workspace and project volume.
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is my pick for most people comparing xTool and Glowforge for Black Friday 2026: its 40W diode laser and 19.6-by-13-inch work area balance project flexibility with an enclosed design. The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is a simpler fit for smaller craft projects, while the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver and Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter target more demanding work.
I researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to sort the main choices by laser type, workspace, material needs and ease of use. Black Friday shopping is a good time to compare complete machines and included accessories, not just headline laser power. The right pick depends on what you plan to make: wood crafts, acrylic signs, detailed metal marking or repeat production.
How We Picked
- Laser type and output: we compared diode, CO2 and fiber options, plus the stated power for each model.
- Work area: we considered the usable engraving space against common craft, sign and batch projects.
- Material fit: we separated machines suited to wood and coated materials from those built for broader cutting or metal marking.
- Workflow: we reviewed enclosure, camera and other setup features described by manufacturers and owners.
- Value and fit: we weighed each machine’s capabilities against its intended user, rather than treating the highest power as the best choice for everyone.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Laser output | Work area | Laser type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver | Versatile home projects | 40W | 19.6 x 13 in | Diode |
| xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver | Larger, frequent projects | 55W | 23.6 x 12 in | CO2 |
| xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine | Multifunction craft rooms | 10W | 11.8 x 11.8 in | Diode |
| xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver | Metal marking | 20W fiber + 20W diode | 8.7 x 8.7 in | Fiber and diode |
| Glowforge Aura Craft Laser | Beginner craft projects | 6W | 12 x 12 in | Diode |
| Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter | Home CO2 projects | 40W | 19.5 x 11 in | CO2 |
| Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter | Frequent Glowforge projects | 45W | 19.5 x 11 in | CO2 |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is the best overall laser engraver for home makers who want a versatile enclosed machine, with a 40W diode laser and a 19.6-by-13-inch work area.
Best for: Home makers who want room for varied craft projects.
- Laser output
- 40W diode
- Work area
- 19.6 x 13 inches
- Laser type
- Diode
- Enclosure
- Enclosed design
- Large work area suits signs and multi-piece jobs.
- Enclosed construction supports a tidier home workspace.
- Higher diode output than entry-level craft models.
- Diode cutting speed and material range do not match a CO2 machine.
Is the xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is a strong Black Friday 2026 choice for makers who want an enclosed diode machine with a roomy 19.6-by-13-inch work area. The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver's 40W output supports varied craft projects.
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#2
xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver is the best premium laser engraver for makers and small shops prioritizing fast, larger-format work, with a 55W CO2 laser and a 23.6-by-12-inch work area.
Best for: Small businesses and frequent project production.
- Laser output
- 55W CO2
- Work area
- 23.6 x 12 inches
- Laser type
- CO2
- Camera
- Dual-camera workflow
- CO2 laser suits cutting and engraving many common materials.
- Wide work area accommodates larger pieces.
- Camera features help position project artwork.
- Higher-capability CO2 systems need more room and setup planning.
Is the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver is worth considering for production-minded makers who need a 55W CO2 laser and a 23.6-by-12-inch bed. The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver's larger format is a better fit for frequent, varied jobs than occasional small crafts.
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#3
xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine
The xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine is the best choice for crafters combining laser projects with other creative work, with a 10W diode laser and an 11.8-by-11.8-inch work area.
Best for: Craft rooms that mix laser work with other projects.
- Laser output
- 10W diode
- Work area
- 11.8 x 11.8 inches
- Laser type
- Diode
- Machine format
- 4-in-1 craft machine
- Combines laser work with other craft functions.
- Compact bed suits small personalized items.
- Useful for makers who want one flexible craft station.
- 10W output and compact work area limit larger or faster jobs.
Is the xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine is a good Black Friday 2026 fit for crafters who value multiple creative functions in one compact machine. The xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine's 11.8-inch-square work area suits small projects, not large-format production.
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#4
xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver
The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver is the best laser engraver for makers who mark metal and work with other materials, with separate 20W fiber and 20W diode lasers.
Best for: Metal marking and compact mixed-material projects.
- Fiber laser output
- 20W
- Diode laser output
- 20W
- Work area
- 8.7 x 8.7 inches
- Laser type
- Fiber and diode
- Fiber laser supports detailed metal marking.
- Diode laser adds flexibility for other project materials.
- Compact work area fits small personalized products.
- Small bed is not suited to large signs or sheet projects.
Is the xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver is a distinctive pick for makers who need both metal marking and diode engraving. The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver's 8.7-inch-square work area favors small items and detailed jobs over large-format projects.
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#5
Glowforge Aura Craft Laser
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is the best entry-level laser engraver for beginners focused on smaller craft projects, with a 6W diode laser and a 12-by-12-inch work area.
Best for: Beginners making small, personalized craft items.
- Laser output
- 6W diode
- Work area
- 12 x 12 inches
- Laser type
- Diode
- Machine format
- Enclosed craft laser
- Compact format fits a home craft space.
- A focused option for small personalized projects.
- Enclosure makes the machine feel approachable for a craft room.
- Lower power and a smaller project range than larger CO2 models.
Is the Glowforge Aura Craft Laser worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is worth considering for beginners who want an enclosed machine for small craft projects. The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser's 6W diode laser and 12-by-12-inch work area make it a focused choice, rather than a match for intensive production.
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#6
Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter is the best Glowforge choice for makers who want a midrange CO2 machine for home projects, with a 40W laser and a 19.5-by-11-inch bed.
Best for: Home makers who want a CO2 machine for varied projects.
- Laser output
- 40W CO2
- Work area
- 19.5 x 11 inches
- Laser type
- CO2
- Machine format
- Enclosed laser cutter
- CO2 laser gives it a broader project role than a small diode machine.
- Bed size accommodates signs and craft batches.
- Enclosed format suits a dedicated indoor workspace.
- Less bed width than the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver.
Is the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter is a strong fit for home makers who want an enclosed CO2 system and a 19.5-by-11-inch bed. Consider it for varied craft work, and compare its workspace with the xTool P2S before choosing.
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#7
Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter
The Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter is the best Glowforge laser cutter for makers who need a higher-output CO2 system, with a 45W laser and a 19.5-by-11-inch bed.
Best for: Frequent makers who prefer Glowforge’s CO2 workflow.
- Laser output
- 45W CO2
- Work area
- 19.5 x 11 inches
- Laser type
- CO2
- Machine format
- Enclosed laser cutter
- Higher stated output than the Glowforge Plus.
- CO2 platform suits regular cutting and engraving work.
- Enclosed design supports a dedicated indoor setup.
- Work area is narrower than the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver.
Is the Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter is a good fit for frequent makers who want a higher-output Glowforge CO2 machine. The Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter's 19.5-by-11-inch bed supports many craft projects, while the xTool P2S offers a wider work area.
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Which is better, xTool or Glowforge?
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is a strong all-around pick, while the Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is better suited to simple, smaller craft projects. The right brand depends on your materials, preferred workflow and need for cutting power.
xTool’s lineup spans diode, CO2 and fiber-plus-diode machines, so shoppers can match a model to a more specific job. Glowforge offers an approachable Aura option alongside CO2 machines such as the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter. Compare bed size as carefully as output: a powerful laser does not help if your work will not fit. For wider projects, the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver has a 23.6-by-12-inch work area.
Which laser engraver is best for wood and acrylic?
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver is the strongest fit here for frequent cutting and engraving work, with a 55W CO2 laser and a 23.6-by-12-inch area. The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter are also CO2 choices for makers who prefer Glowforge.
Diode machines such as the xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver and Glowforge Aura Craft Laser suit many wood crafts and engraving tasks, but material compatibility varies by type and thickness. Check manufacturer guidance for each material before cutting. Avoid assuming every acrylic is suitable for a diode laser; clear acrylic is a common reason buyers select a CO2 system instead. Ventilation and safe operation matter for any laser.
Which xTool or Glowforge model is easiest for beginners?
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is the most approachable pick for small projects, with a 6W diode laser and an enclosed format. The xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine suits beginners who want a broader craft setup.
A beginner should look beyond the laser’s power rating. Consider the design software, setup instructions, material guidance, enclosure and ventilation needs. A smaller machine can be easier to place and learn, but it also limits project size. The Aura is aimed at craft work, while the M1 Ultra combines laser work with other creative functions. For a beginner expecting to grow into larger jobs, the xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver gives more room to work without moving to a CO2 machine.
Which laser engraver is best for a small business?
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver is the best fit for many small shops producing larger or repeat projects, thanks to its 55W output and 23.6-by-12-inch work area. The Glowforge Pro 45W Laser Cutter is a strong alternative for shoppers set on Glowforge.
A business should match the machine to its actual product list and expected batch size. The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver is better for compact metal-marking jobs, while a CO2 machine handles a different set of cutting and engraving needs. Factor in safe ventilation, work-area space, material costs and setup time. Choosing a machine with unused power or a bed that is too small can both undermine its value.
What should I compare before buying on Black Friday 2026?
Compare laser type, work area and included accessories before choosing an xTool or Glowforge machine for Black Friday 2026. The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is a versatile diode option; the Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is a compact craft-focused choice.
Check the exact model and bundle contents, including any rotary tools, risers, filters or material packs. Confirm that the machine fits your workspace and that its software supports your preferred design workflow. Compare warranty and support terms, too. A bundle with useful accessories can be more practical than one centered on a headline specification. Pick the machine for the projects you plan to make, not only the machine with the highest wattage.
Buying Guide
Choose laser type by material
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver and Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter are CO2 options for broader cutting and engraving needs. Diode machines suit many wood and craft projects, while the xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver adds fiber marking for metal.
Match the work area to your projects
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver has a 23.6-by-12-inch work area for larger pieces. The xTool F1 Ultra’s 8.7-inch-square area suits small items. Measure your usual material and leave room around the machine for safe operation.
Plan for setup and ventilation
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser and xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver both use enclosed designs, but every laser still needs a safe operating plan. Review each manufacturer’s ventilation, placement and material instructions before buying, and confirm the machine fits your workspace.
Compare the full Black Friday bundle
The xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine and Glowforge models can appear in bundles with different accessories. Check what is included, confirm the exact model name and compare warranty and support terms alongside the machine’s core specifications.
Buy for the work you actually do
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser fits small crafts, while the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Engraver suits larger, frequent jobs. Choose based on material, project size and expected volume; extra laser power has little value if your work does not call for it.
FAQ
Is xTool better than Glowforge for Black Friday 2026?
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is a versatile overall choice, while Glowforge has approachable craft and CO2 options. xTool offers more laser-type variety across this guide. Compare the exact model, bed size, materials and bundle before deciding.
Which is better for beginners, the xTool M1 Ultra or Glowforge Aura?
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser suits beginners focused on small craft projects, while the xTool M1 Ultra 10W 4-in-1 Craft Machine adds other creative functions. Choose the Aura for a focused laser craft setup and the M1 Ultra for a multifunction machine.
Can the Glowforge Aura cut acrylic?
The Glowforge Aura Craft Laser is a 6W diode craft machine, so material compatibility depends on the acrylic type. Check Glowforge’s current material guidance before cutting. CO2 models such as the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter suit a broader range of acrylic work.
Which xTool laser engraver is best for metal?
The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver is the most targeted metal-marking choice in this guide because it includes a 20W fiber laser. Its 8.7-inch-square work area is suited to compact items, not large sheets.
Is a CO2 laser better than a diode laser?
A CO2 laser is a better fit for many cutting jobs and a broader range of materials, while a diode laser suits many wood crafts and engraving projects. The xTool P2S is CO2; the xTool S1 is diode. Match the laser to your material list.
What is the best overall xTool versus Glowforge pick?
The xTool S1 40W Laser Engraver is the best overall pick for a balance of power, enclosed design and a 19.6-by-13-inch work area. Choose the Glowforge Aura Craft Laser instead for a compact, beginner-focused machine for smaller craft projects.