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- Best overall: Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
- Best budget: Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver
- Best premium: xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
- Best for portable engraving: xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver
- Choose the xTool F1 for portable, detailed engraving on small projects; its dual lasers include a 10W diode and 2W infrared laser.
- Choose the Glowforge Pro for larger CO2 projects and a 45W laser, with a passthrough slot for longer materials.
- The xTool P2S and Glowforge Pro suit buyers who prioritize enclosed CO2 cutting over portability.
- Compare work area, laser type, material compatibility and ventilation needs before choosing a Black Friday 2026 machine.
The xTool F1 and Glowforge Pro serve different laser-project needs: the portable xTool F1 has a 10W diode and 2W infrared laser, while the Glowforge Pro has a 45W CO2 laser and a passthrough slot. We researched and compared specs, reviews and owner feedback to help identify the better fit for your materials, workspace and budget priorities.
My pick for most people depends on the work: choose the xTool F1 for small, detailed engraving across varied materials, or the Glowforge Pro for larger projects that benefit from a CO2 machine. This guide also compares five alternatives, from entry-oriented desktop models to higher-powered machines. For Black Friday 2026, match the machine to your actual project list rather than buying extra power or capacity you will not use.
How We Picked
- Compared laser type and stated output, including diode, infrared, CO2 and fiber configurations.
- Reviewed work-area dimensions and passthrough features to assess the size and shape of projects each machine can handle.
- Considered material range, with attention to engraving and cutting requirements rather than treating all lasers as interchangeable.
- Compared portability, enclosure, ventilation and software workflow as practical ownership factors.
- Used manufacturer specifications, published reviews and owner feedback; recommendations reflect product fit, not research.
Comparison Table
| Product | Best for | Laser output | Work area | Laser type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver | Portable engraving | 10W diode + 2W infrared | 115 × 115 mm | Diode + infrared |
| Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver | CO2 cutting and passthrough projects | 45W | 20 × 12 in | CO2 |
| xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver | Metal marking and varied engraving | 20W fiber + 20W diode | 220 × 220 mm | Fiber + diode |
| xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver | Larger workshop projects | 55W | 600 × 305 mm | CO2 |
| Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver | Enclosed desktop CO2 work | 40W | 19.5 × 11 in | CO2 |
| Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver | Small home craft projects | 6W | 12 × 12 in | Diode |
| xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver | Enclosed diode projects | 40W | 498 × 319 mm | Diode |
XTool F1 vs Glowforge Pro Black Friday Deals 2026
#1
xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver
The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver is the best portable dual-laser pick for makers who need quick, detailed work on small objects. The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver's 10W diode and 2W infrared sources address different engraving materials.
Best for: Portable engraving and small-format projects
- Laser output
- 10W diode + 2W infrared
- Work area
- 115 × 115 mm
- Maximum speed
- 4,000 mm/s
- Two laser types in one compact machine
- Fast engraving speed
- Small footprint suits flexible workspaces
- Small work area limits project size
- Open-frame use calls for careful safety planning
Is the xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver is a strong buy for small-format makers who value portability and material flexibility. The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver's dual 10W diode and 2W infrared setup is more versatile for engraving than a single-source compact machine.
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#2 · Top pick
Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver is the best premium CO2 pick for makers who need an enclosed desktop workflow and room for larger projects. The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver's 45W CO2 laser and passthrough accommodate a broad range of project shapes.
Best for: Enclosed CO2 cutting and larger materials
- Laser output
- 45W CO2
- Work area
- 20 × 12 in
- Passthrough width
- 20 in
- CO2 laser handles many cutting and engraving jobs
- Passthrough supports longer materials
- Enclosed desktop design
- Requires more dedicated workspace than a portable engraver
- CO2 operation needs a suitable exhaust plan
Is the Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Pro 45W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver suits buyers who want enclosed CO2 cutting, a 20 × 12-inch work area and passthrough capacity. Choose it over the xTool F1 when project size and cutting capability matter more than portability.
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#3
xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver
The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver is the best premium portable option for businesses and makers who need both metal marking and broader material engraving. The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver's 20W fiber and 20W diode sources add capability beyond the xTool F1.
Best for: Metal marking and versatile production work
- Laser output
- 20W fiber + 20W diode
- Work area
- 220 × 220 mm
- Maximum speed
- 10,000 mm/s
- Fiber and diode sources cover distinct tasks
- Larger work area than the xTool F1
- High stated engraving speed
- More machine than occasional hobby projects require
- Project material compatibility still depends on laser type
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 worth considering for frequent work that includes metal marking and varied engraving materials. The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Fiber and 20W Diode Laser Engraver's 20W fiber and 20W diode setup offers a broader toolset than a compact single-purpose engraver.
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#4
xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver is the best high-capacity desktop pick for makers who want CO2 cutting with a larger work area. The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver's 55W CO2 source and 600 × 305 mm work area suit substantial sheet projects.
Best for: Larger CO2 cutting and workshop production
- Laser output
- 55W CO2
- Work area
- 600 × 305 mm
- Camera
- Built-in
- Larger work area than compact engravers
- 55W CO2 laser for cutting-oriented work
- Camera supports project positioning
- Needs dedicated space and exhaust planning
- Not a portable option
Is the xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool P2S 55W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver fits makers who need a larger CO2 work area and higher stated output than compact machines provide. Compare its 600 × 305 mm bed with your material dimensions before prioritizing its added capacity.
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#5
Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver is the best enclosed desktop choice for makers who want CO2 capability without stepping up to the Pro model. The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver's 40W laser pairs with a work area close to 20 × 12 inches.
Best for: Enclosed desktop CO2 projects
- Laser output
- 40W CO2
- Work area
- 19.5 × 11 in
- Machine type
- Enclosed desktop
- Enclosed CO2 design
- Work area suits many craft projects
- Lower-output alternative to Glowforge Pro
- No Pro-style passthrough feature
- Still needs an exhaust setup
Is the Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver is a practical fit for enclosed desktop cutting and engraving when a passthrough is not essential. The Glowforge Plus 40W CO2 Laser Cutter and Engraver's 19.5 × 11-inch area handles many projects, while the Pro is the better match for longer stock.
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#6
Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver is the best compact craft pick for beginners who want a small enclosed machine for lighter-duty projects. The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver's 6W diode laser and 12 × 12-inch work area fit a home craft setup.
Best for: Small craft projects and beginner workflows
- Laser output
- 6W diode
- Work area
- 12 × 12 in
- Machine type
- Enclosed desktop
- Compact format for home craft spaces
- Enclosed design
- Work area accommodates common small projects
- Lower output than the CO2 machines here
- Not intended for every material or cutting task
Is the Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The Glowforge Aura 6W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver makes sense for small craft projects, a compact workspace and an enclosed machine. Choose a CO2 model instead when regular cutting of thicker or larger stock is a priority.
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#7
xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver
The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver is the best enclosed diode pick for makers who want a larger work area without moving to a CO2 machine. The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver's 40W diode source and 498 × 319 mm bed support bigger projects.
Best for: Enclosed diode work and larger craft pieces
- Laser output
- 40W diode
- Work area
- 498 × 319 mm
- Machine type
- Enclosed diode
- Large work area for a diode machine
- Enclosed design
- Higher stated diode output than compact models
- Diode and CO2 lasers serve different cutting needs
- Requires a clear ventilation plan
Is the xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver worth buying on Black Friday 2026?
The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver is a good fit for larger diode projects that need an enclosed machine. The xTool S1 40W Diode Laser Cutter and Engraver's 498 × 319 mm work area is substantially larger than the xTool F1, but the Glowforge Pro remains a CO2 alternative for different cutting needs.
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Which is better, the xTool F1 or Glowforge Pro?
The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver is a portable choice for small objects. The Glowforge Pro is a 45W CO2 laser for larger projects and compatible-material cutting.
The xTool F1 has a 115 × 115 mm work area; the Glowforge Pro has a 20 × 12-inch work area and a passthrough for longer stock. Plan for suitable ventilation and safety precautions with either machine.
For Black Friday 2026, compare your project dimensions and materials with each machine’s capacity.
What materials can the xTool F1 and Glowforge Pro handle?
The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver combines diode and infrared sources. The Glowforge Pro uses a 45W CO2 laser. Check manufacturer guidance before each job.
The xTool F1 diode handles many wood, leather and coated-surface engraving tasks; its infrared source marks compatible metals. The Glowforge Pro cuts and engraves compatible materials such as wood, acrylic, leather and paper. Bare metal generally needs a compatible marking method.
Material composition, coating and thickness affect results. Avoid unknown plastics and materials that release hazardous fumes. Use suitable ventilation and follow fire and eye-safety instructions.
Which laser engraver is best for a small workspace?
The portable xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver has a 115 × 115 mm work area. The enclosed Glowforge Aura has a 12 × 12-inch work area for craft projects.
Choose the xTool F1 for portability and small objects, or the Glowforge Aura for an enclosed desktop machine and a larger flat work area. Measure your table, storage space and exhaust route before setup.
The Glowforge Pro and xTool P2S offer more capacity and suit a dedicated workspace better than a crowded desk.
Is a CO2 laser better than a diode laser?
A CO2 laser such as the Glowforge Pro suits cutting compatible nonmetal materials. A diode laser such as the xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver suits portable setups and selected engraving tasks. Choose by material, thickness, work area and workload.
The Glowforge Pro has a passthrough for longer stock; the xTool F1 adds an infrared source for compatible metal marking. Results depend on the machine, material and settings, not output rating alone.
Choose the Glowforge Pro or xTool P2S for regular CO2 work and a larger bed. Check the manufacturer’s material list before buying.
What should buyers prioritize for Black Friday 2026?
Compare laser type, work area, ventilation and project fit. List your regular materials and project dimensions, then rank portability, enclosure, passthrough capacity and laser sources.
The xTool F1 prioritizes portability, the Glowforge Pro offers enclosed CO2 work and longer-material handling, and the xTool P2S provides a larger CO2 work area. Consider workspace, exhaust, accessories and software before choosing.
Compare identical models and configurations across retailers. Review return terms, warranty coverage and support access.
Buying Guide
Choose a laser type for your materials
Match the laser to your materials. The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver combines diode and infrared sources; the Glowforge Pro and xTool P2S use CO2 lasers. Check manufacturer guidance for unfamiliar materials.
Measure the work area you need
Compare your largest regular project with the stated work area. The xTool F1 10W Diode and 2W Infrared Laser Engraver has a 115 × 115 mm bed. The Glowforge Pro has a 20 × 12-inch bed and passthrough for longer stock.
Plan ventilation and safe operation
Arrange a suitable exhaust route and operating area before setup. Enclosed construction does not replace manufacturer safety instructions. Avoid unknown materials and maintain fire precautions.
Compare software and workflow
Review software, file support and setup. Consider material positioning, artwork preparation and repeat jobs, then choose a workflow suited to your projects.
Compare the complete Black Friday purchase
Compare the exact model, accessories, warranty, return terms and support across sellers. Account for ventilation and materials, and avoid buying capacity beyond your needs.
FAQ
Is the xTool F1 better than the Glowforge Pro?
The xTool F1 is better for portable engraving and small objects, with a 10W diode and 2W infrared laser. The Glowforge Pro is better for larger CO2 projects, with a 45W laser, 20 × 12-inch work area and passthrough. Choose based on materials and project size.
What is the main difference between the xTool F1 and Glowforge Pro?
The xTool F1 is a compact dual-laser engraver with a 115 × 115 mm work area. The Glowforge Pro is an enclosed 45W CO2 cutter and engraver with a 20 × 12-inch work area and passthrough. Their laser types and intended project scale differ.
Can the xTool F1 engrave metal?
The xTool F1 includes a 2W infrared laser designed for compatible metal-marking tasks, alongside its 10W diode laser. Material finish and composition affect results, so check xTool’s guidance for the specific metal and use the recommended settings and safety precautions.
Can the Glowforge Pro cut metal?
The Glowforge Pro is a 45W CO2 laser machine intended for compatible materials such as wood, acrylic, leather and paper, not direct cutting of bare metal. Check Glowforge’s material guidance for coated or treated surfaces and never process materials with unknown composition.
Which machine is better for large projects?
The Glowforge Pro and xTool P2S are stronger fits for larger projects than the xTool F1. The Glowforge Pro has a 20 × 12-inch bed and passthrough; the xTool P2S has a 600 × 305 mm work area. Compare project dimensions and ventilation needs.
Which laser engraver is best for beginners?
The Glowforge Aura is a compact enclosed option for smaller craft projects, with a 6W diode and 12 × 12-inch work area. Beginners should also compare setup, software workflow, ventilation and material guidance. Choose a machine sized for planned projects rather than future possibilities.
What should I look for in a laser engraver on Black Friday 2026?
Compare laser type, stated output, work area, compatible materials, ventilation needs, warranty and return terms. Verify the exact model and included accessories. The xTool F1 suits portable engraving; the Glowforge Pro suits larger CO2 projects and longer materials.