If you’re looking for a laser cutter that can handle a variety of materials and projects, you might want to check out the Xtool M1 laser cutter. This machine is designed to offer high performance and functionality in a compact and user-friendly package. In fact, it is one of the best laser cutting machines for small business available. In this review, I’ll share my experience with the Xtool M1 laser cutter and evaluate its features, specifications, performance, user experience, safety, and value.
You can also check my detailed review of Xtool D1.
Product Overview
The Xtool M1 is type of laser cutter that is a desktop-sized machine that measures 19.7 x 17.7 x 7.9 inches and weighs 33 lbs. It has a sturdy metal frame with a transparent acrylic cover that allows you to see the cutting and engraving process. The machine has a 40W CO2 laser tube that delivers a high-quality beam with a wavelength of 10.6 microns. The laser tube is water-cooled by an external pump that connects to the back of the machine.
The Xtool M1 laser cutter has a working area of 12 x 8 inches and can cut materials up to 0.2 inches thick and engrave materials up to 0.4 inches thick. It has a dual-axis linear guide rail system that ensures smooth and precise movement of the laser head. The machine also has an autofocus function that automatically adjusts the height of the laser head according to the thickness of the material.
The Xtool M1 laser cutter comes with a USB flash drive that contains the software and user manual. The software is compatible with Windows, Mac OS, and Linux operating systems. The software allows you to import images, texts, logos, or vector graphics from various formats such as JPG, PNG, BMP, SVG, DXF, etc. Its capability is similar to Vevor Laser Cutter.
You can also edit, resize, rotate, or adjust the parameters of your design using the software’s tools. The software also supports camera preview, which lets you see the real-time image of your material on your computer screen.
The Xtool M1 laser cutter also comes with some accessories such as a honeycomb platform, an exhaust fan, an air pump, a water pump, a power cord, a USB cable, a wrench set, and some sample materials.
Xtool M1 Specifications
Here are some of the technical specifications of the Xtool M1 laser cutter:
- Laser power: 40W
- Laser type: CO2
- Laser wavelength: 10.6 microns
- Working area: 12 x 8 inches
- Cutting thickness: up to 0.2 inches
- Engraving thickness: up to 0.4 inches
- Cutting speed: up to 23.6 inches per minute
- Engraving speed: up to 47.2 inches per minute
- Positioning accuracy: ±0.01 mm
- Resolution ratio: 1000 dpi
- Supported formats: JPG, PNG, BMP, SVG, DXF, etc.
- Supported operating systems: Windows XP/7/8/10/Vista/Mac OS/Linux
- Power supply: AC 110V/220V ±10%, 50/60Hz
- Power consumption: ≤250W
- Working temperature: 41°F – 104°F
- Working humidity: 5% – 95%
- Dimensions: 19.7 x 17.7 x 7.9 inches
- Weight: 33 lbs
Setup and Installation
Setting up the Xtool M1 laser cutter was relatively easy and straightforward. The machine came well-packaged and protected with foam and plastic wrap. The user manual provided clear and detailed instructions on how to assemble and install the machine.
The first step was to install the water pump and connect it to the laser tube using the hoses provided. The water pump needs to be submerged in a bucket of distilled water to cool down the laser tube during operation. The second step was to install the exhaust fan and connect it to the back of the machine using the duct provided.
The exhaust fan helps to remove smoke and fumes from the cutting and engraving process. The third step was to install the air pump and connect it to the laser head using the hose provided. The air pump helps to blow away dust and debris from the cutting and engraving area.
The fourth step was to install the honeycomb platform on the bottom of the machine. The honeycomb platform helps to support the material and reduce the reflection of the laser beam. The fifth step was to connect the power cord and the USB cable to the machine and to a power outlet and a computer respectively.
The sixth step was to install the software from the USB flash drive and follow the instructions on the screen. The software required me to enter a serial number that was provided with the machine.
The last step was to calibrate the autofocus function of the machine. This involved placing a piece of paper on the honeycomb platform and pressing the autofocus button on the machine. The machine then moved the laser head up and down until it detected the optimal distance from the paper. The machine then beeped and displayed a message on the screen indicating that the calibration was successful.
The whole setup and installation process took me about an hour to complete. I didn’t encounter any major difficulties or challenges during the process. The user manual and online resources were helpful and easy to follow.
Performance and Functionality
The Xtool M1 laser cutter performed well and delivered on its promises of being a powerful and versatile machine. I tested it on various materials such as wood, leather, acrylic, fabric, paper, and cardboard, and I was impressed by its accuracy and precision in cutting and engraving tasks.
The machine was easy to use and operate. I simply imported my design into the software, adjusted the parameters such as power, speed, and resolution, and clicked on start. The machine then started to cut or engrave my design on the material. The software also allowed me to pause, resume, or stop the process at any time.
The machine also had some notable features that enhanced its usability and versatility. One of them was the camera preview function, which let me see the real-time image of my material on my computer screen. This helped me to align my design with my material and avoid any errors or waste. Another feature was the rotary attachment, which let me cut or engrave cylindrical objects such as bottles, glasses, or mugs. This opened up more possibilities for creative projects.
The machine also had some limitations or drawbacks that I encountered while using it. One of them was the noise level, which was quite loud during operation. I had to wear ear protection or use headphones to block out the noise. Another limitation was the size of the working area, which was relatively small compared to other laser cutters. This limited me to smaller projects or required me to cut larger materials into smaller pieces.
User Experience
My personal experience using the Xtool M1 laser cutter was positive and enjoyable. I had fun creating various items such as coasters, bookmarks, keychains, signs, ornaments, jewelry, etc. using different materials and designs. I also learned a lot about laser cutting and engraving techniques and tips from online tutorials and forums.
Some of the positive aspects that impressed me were:
- The quality and durability of the machine
- The ease and convenience of using the software
- The accuracy and precision of cutting and engraving
- The versatility of handling different materials and projects
- The safety features implemented in the machine
Some of the challenges or difficulties I faced were:
- The noise level during operation
- The size of the working area
- The maintenance requirements of cleaning and servicing
- The learning curve of mastering laser cutting and engraving skills
Some of the specific projects or applications where the laser cutter excelled were:
- Personalizing gifts for friends and family
- Making custom decorations for home or office
- Creating prototypes or models for hobbies or work
- Engraving logos or texts on products or packaging
Safety
The Xtool M1 laser cutter has some safety features implemented in its design and operation. One of them is an emergency stop button that lets you instantly stop the machine in case of any emergency or accident. Another feature is a lid sensor that automatically pauses or stops the machine when you open or close the lid. This prevents accidental exposure to the laser beam or damage to the machine.
However, these safety features are not enough to guarantee your safety when using the laser cutter. You also need to follow some recommended safety precautions such as:
- Wearing protective eyewear when operating or observing the machine
- Wearing gloves when handling hot or sharp materials
- Keeping flammable or combustible materials away from the machine
- Keeping children or pets away from the machine
- Ventilating your workspace well when using the machine
Maintenance
The Xtool M1 laser cutter also requires some maintenance to keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan. Some of these maintenance tasks include:
- Cleaning the lens regularly with a soft cloth or cotton swab
- Cleaning the honeycomb platform regularly with a brush or vacuum cleaner
- Cleaning the water tank and replacing the distilled water regularly
- Checking the water level and temperature of the water pump regularly
- Checking the air flow and noise level of the exhaust fan and air pump regularly
- Lubricating the guide rails and screws regularly
- Replacing the laser tube or other parts when they wear out or break down
The user manual and online resources provide more detailed information and instructions on how to perform these maintenance tasks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my overall experience with the Xtool M1 laser cutter was positive and enjoyable. I was impressed by its quality and durability, its ease and convenience of use, its accuracy and precision of cutting and engraving, its versatility of handling different materials and projects, and its safety features implemented in its design and operation.
The Xtool M1 laser cutter also had some limitations or drawbacks that I encountered while using it. One of them was the noise level during operation, which was quite loud. Another limitation was the size of the working area, which was relatively small compared to other laser cutters. The machine also required some maintenance to keep it in good condition and extend its lifespan.
My final verdict on the product is that it is a powerful and versatile machine that can handle a variety of materials and projects. It is suitable for hobbyists and professionals who want to create personalized and unique items using laser cutting and engraving techniques.
I would recommend the Xtool M1 laser cutter to anyone who is looking for a high-performance and functional laser cutter that offers good value for money.
Reference:
