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- Best overall: xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter
- Best budget: Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser
- Best premium: Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser
- Best for enclosed diode projects: xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter
- The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter offers more power and a larger work area than the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser.
- The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser suits smaller craft projects and shoppers who want an enclosed desktop machine.
- CO2 machines handle a broader range of materials, while diode models are a fit for wood, leather and coated surfaces.
- Compare work area, laser type, ventilation needs and software before choosing a Black Friday 2026 laser cutter.
Choosing between the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser comes down to project size, materials and workspace. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to build this Black Friday 2026 guide, then added alternatives for different craft rooms and production needs. The xTool P2 has a 55W CO2 laser and a 23.6-by-12.1-inch work area; the Glowforge Aura has a 6W diode laser and a 12-by-12-inch work area.
My pick for most people who need versatility is the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter, while the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is a more approachable fit for smaller projects. Browse the picks below, then match the machine to the materials you plan to cut or engrave. Black Friday is a useful time to compare bundles, included accessories and warranty terms alongside the machine itself.
How We Picked
- Compared laser type and rated power to identify the kinds of projects each machine suits.
- Checked work-area dimensions to distinguish compact craft machines from larger-format cutters.
- Considered enclosure design, ventilation requirements and the amount of room a machine needs.
- Reviewed software and machine features that affect setup, alignment and repeatable project work.
- Prioritized products with clearly stated specifications and distinct strengths for different budgets and use cases.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Laser power and type | Work area | Machine format |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter | Versatile cutting and engraving | 55W CO2 | 23.6 x 12.1 in | Enclosed desktop |
| Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser | Small craft projects | 6W diode | 12 x 12 in | Enclosed desktop |
| Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser | CO2 crafting | 40W CO2 | 11 x 19.5 in | Enclosed desktop |
| Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser | Long materials and frequent work | 45W CO2 | 11 x 19.5 in | Enclosed with passthrough |
| xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter | Enclosed diode projects | 40W diode | 498 x 330 mm | Enclosed |
| xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine | Multi-tool crafting | 20W diode | 300 x 300 mm | 4-in-1 craft machine |
| Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver | Large-area diode work | 40W diode | 400 x 415 mm | Enclosed |
Best Picks Reviewed
#1 · Top pick
xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter is the best overall choice for makers who need material versatility and a generous work area. The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter's 55W CO2 laser and camera-assisted setup suit detailed projects and repeat jobs.
Best for: Versatile cutting and engraving
- Laser type
- 55W CO2
- Work area
- 23.6 x 12.1 in
- Camera
- Dual-camera system
- Powerful CO2 laser
- Large work area
- Camera aids material positioning
- Requires more room and ventilation than a compact diode machine
Is the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter is worth considering for frequent makers who need a larger work area and broad material options. The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter's 55W CO2 laser and 23.6-by-12.1-inch workspace make it more capable for substantial projects than a small desktop diode model.
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#2
Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is the best compact pick for beginners and crafters working with smaller materials. The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser's 6W diode laser and 12-by-12-inch work area keep projects suited to desktop use.
Best for: Small craft projects and compact workspaces
- Laser type
- 6W diode
- Work area
- 12 x 12 in
- Design access
- Glowforge app
- Compact enclosed design
- Straightforward app-based workflow
- Fits small craft projects
- Lower laser power than CO2 alternatives
Is the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is worth considering for hobby crafters who value a compact enclosed machine and app-based workflow. The 12-by-12-inch area suits smaller projects, while the 6W diode laser is less suited to buyers prioritizing higher-power cutting.
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#3
Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser is the best fit for crafters who want a CO2 machine with a familiar desktop workflow. The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser's 40W laser and 11-by-19.5-inch bed provide room for longer project pieces.
Best for: CO2 crafting with an extended work area
- Laser type
- 40W CO2
- Work area
- 11 x 19.5 in
- Machine class
- Enclosed desktop
- CO2 laser supports varied project materials
- Long work area
- Enclosed desktop format
- Needs suitable ventilation and setup space
Is the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser is worth a look for crafters who want more material flexibility than a small diode machine provides. The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser's 11-by-19.5-inch work area accommodates longer pieces, and its enclosed desktop format suits a dedicated craft space.
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#4
Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser
The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser is the best premium choice for makers handling larger or repeat projects. The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser's 45W CO2 laser, 11-by-19.5-inch bed and passthrough feature support longer material workflows.
Best for: Frequent production and long materials
- Laser type
- 45W CO2
- Work area
- 11 x 19.5 in
- Long material support
- Passthrough slot
- Higher power than the Glowforge Plus
- Passthrough supports long workpieces
- Enclosed machine design
- Premium capabilities exceed occasional crafting needs
Is the Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser is worth considering for frequent makers who value a passthrough slot for longer materials. The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser's 45W CO2 laser and 11-by-19.5-inch bed suit ambitious projects, but casual users should compare simpler machines first.
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#5
xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter
The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter is the best choice for makers who want an enclosed diode machine with a substantial work area. The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter's 40W laser and 498-by-330-millimeter workspace suit larger wood and craft projects.
Best for: Enclosed diode cutting and engraving
- Laser type
- 40W diode
- Work area
- 498 x 330 mm
- Machine format
- Enclosed
- Higher diode power than compact craft models
- Generous work area
- Enclosed design
- Diode laser material range differs from CO2 machines
Is the xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter is worth considering for buyers who want an enclosed diode machine and a larger work area. The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter's 498-by-330-millimeter bed is roomier than the Glowforge Aura workspace, although its diode laser serves a different material range from CO2.
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#6
xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine
The xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine is the best pick for crafters who want several making tools in one system. The xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine's 20W laser module and 300-by-300-millimeter workspace pair laser work with other craft functions.
Best for: Multi-tool crafting
- Laser type
- 20W diode
- Work area
- 300 x 300 mm
- Craft functions
- 4-in-1 system
- Combines multiple craft functions
- Compact workspace for small projects
- Useful for mixed-media crafting
- Smaller work area than the xTool P2
Is the xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine is worth considering for crafters who want laser work alongside other making functions. The xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine's 300-by-300-millimeter area suits smaller projects, while its four-in-one format offers more than a dedicated laser cutter.
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#7
Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver
The Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver is the best alternative for buyers seeking an enclosed diode machine with a broad rectangular work area. The Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver's 40W laser and 400-by-415-millimeter workspace suit substantial craft projects.
Best for: Large-area enclosed diode projects
- Laser type
- 40W diode
- Work area
- 400 x 415 mm
- Machine format
- Enclosed
- Large work area for a diode machine
- Enclosed format
- 40W laser module
- Check software and ventilation fit before choosing
Is the Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver is worth considering for makers who want an enclosed diode model with a sizable work area. The Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver's 400-by-415-millimeter workspace supports larger layouts, and its 40W laser puts it above entry-level diode machines.
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Which is better, the xTool P2 or Glowforge Aura?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter is the stronger choice for larger, varied projects, while the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser suits compact craft work. Their specifications point to different users: the P2 has a 23.6-by-12.1-inch area and a 55W CO2 laser; the Aura has a 12-by-12-inch area and a 6W diode laser.
CO2 power and its broader material compatibility make the xTool P2 a good fit for makers planning frequent cuts and engravings. The Glowforge Aura earns its place with a smaller enclosed footprint and an app-oriented workflow. Skip it if you need the largest work area or a higher-power cutting machine. Compare ventilation arrangements, included accessories and software access before deciding.
What is the difference between CO2 and diode laser cutters?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser show how laser type and power shape a machine’s best use. The P2 uses a 55W CO2 source, while the Aura uses a 6W diode source, with their work areas measuring 23.6 by 12.1 inches and 12 by 12 inches, respectively.
CO2 machines are a strong fit for buyers who want to work across a broader range of common laser materials, including clear acrylic. Diode models suit many wood, leather and coated-surface projects, but material compatibility varies by machine and material. Check the manufacturer’s material guidance before cutting anything, and plan for proper ventilation and safe operation with either laser type.
Which laser cutter is easiest for a beginner?
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is a sensible beginner option for small craft projects because it has a 12-by-12-inch work area and an enclosed desktop design. Its app-led workflow helps new users prepare designs, while the compact format is easier to fit into a dedicated craft area than a larger machine.
Beginners who want more room to grow should compare the xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter, with its 498-by-330-millimeter workspace, and the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter. A larger or more powerful machine brings more setup considerations, including ventilation, workspace clearance and material settings. Start with the machine whose workflow and supported materials match the projects you already plan to make.
Which materials can these laser cutters handle?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser are the strongest choices in this list for shoppers seeking CO2 material flexibility. The P2 has a 55W laser and the Plus has a 40W laser; both are designed for a broader material mix than a low-power diode craft machine.
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser, xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver are diode options for appropriate wood, leather and coated-material projects. Results depend on material composition, thickness and machine settings. Never assume a material is safe because it is sold for crafts; consult the machine maker’s compatibility list and avoid materials that release hazardous fumes.
What should I compare before buying a laser cutter on Black Friday?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser show why shoppers should compare at least 3 details: laser type, work area and setup needs. The P2 measures 23.6 by 12.1 inches inside its work area, while the Aura offers a 12-by-12-inch space.
Check what comes in the box, software requirements, warranty coverage and ventilation accessories rather than focusing only on the machine name. Confirm the machine fits your available bench space, including room for exhaust connections and material loading. For Black Friday 2026, compare the full bundle and seller terms before checkout. A useful deal is the machine that suits your projects, not simply the largest specification.
Buying Guide
Match laser type to your materials
Choose a CO2 model such as the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter for broader material flexibility. Choose a diode machine such as the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser for suitable wood, leather and coated-material crafts. Always check maker guidance first.
Measure your project and workspace
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter has a 23.6-by-12.1-inch work area; the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser has a 12-by-12-inch area. Measure both typical materials and the room needed for ventilation and loading.
Include setup in your comparison
Compare enclosure, exhaust arrangements, software access and included accessories. The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Creality Falcon2 Pro 40W Enclosed Laser Engraver offer enclosed formats, but each machine still needs safe operation and suitable ventilation.
Evaluate the full Black Friday bundle
Check included tools, warranty terms, seller support and shipping details for every shortlisted machine. Compare the complete package for the xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter or Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser, not just the headline offer.
FAQ
Is the xTool P2 better than the Glowforge Aura?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter is better for larger projects and shoppers who need a more powerful CO2 machine. The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is a better fit for compact craft work. Compare their 23.6-by-12.1-inch and 12-by-12-inch work areas before choosing.
Is the Glowforge Aura good for beginners?
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser is a good beginner option for small projects, with an enclosed desktop design, app-based workflow and 12-by-12-inch work area. New users should still learn safe operating procedures, check material compatibility and arrange appropriate ventilation.
Can the xTool P2 cut acrylic?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter is designed for a broad range of laser materials, including acrylic. Check xTool’s material guidance for the exact acrylic type and thickness, and follow ventilation and operating instructions. Material performance depends on the specific sheet and settings.
Which machine has the larger work area, xTool P2 or Glowforge Aura?
The xTool P2 55W CO2 Laser Cutter has the larger listed work area at 23.6 by 12.1 inches. The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser has a 12-by-12-inch area. The P2 suits larger layouts, while the Aura’s area fits smaller craft pieces.
Is a diode or CO2 laser better for crafts?
A CO2 machine such as the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser suits shoppers who want broader material flexibility. A diode machine such as the xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter suits many wood and coated-material projects. Confirm each material is supported by the machine maker.
What is a good alternative to the Glowforge Aura?
The xTool M1 Ultra 20W Laser and Craft Machine is an alternative for crafters seeking a multi-function setup, while the xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter offers a larger 498-by-330-millimeter workspace. Choose based on project size, workflow and supported materials.