Sculpfun iCube Ultra vs xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter

Technical comparison · Diode laser (405–460 nm)

In brief

iCube Ultra and S1 40W Laser Cutter are not direct competitors: very different prices (~3.8×). iCube Ultra costs less (~€599) and is the entry-level choice; S1 40W Laser Cutter offers more capability at a higher price (~€2250). Judge them by budget, not head-to-head.

Parameter
Sculpfun iCube Ultra iCube Ultra Sculpfun F2 · Intermediate
xTool S1 40W Laser Cutter S1 40W Laser Cutter xTool F2 · Intermediate
Identity
Launch year 2025 2023
Use tier F2 — Intermediate F2 — Intermediate
Price
Price (€) 599 € ~2000–2500 €
Universal specs
Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) 33 × 36 × 29 cm 76.5 × 56.1 × 18.3 cm
Weight (kg) 20 kg
Work area (mm) 150 × 150 mm 498 × 319 mm
Z-axis height (mm) 80 mm
Maximum speed 10000 mm/min 600 mm/s
Declared precision 0.1 mm 0.01 mm
Category specs
Work area (short side) (mm) 150 mm 319 mm
Rated power (W) 12 W 40 W
Source technology Diode Diode
Max travel speed (mm/s) 166.67 mm/s 600 mm/s
Max processing speed (mm/s) 166.67 mm/s 600 mm/s
Max cut depth per material 10 mm (legno di paulonia)
Wavelength (nm) 455 nm 455 nm
Min resolution (µm) 100 µm
Autofocus True True
Rotary included/compatible False False
Passthrough True
Supported software Proprietary, LightBurn, Other Proprietary, LightBurn
Ecosystem
Cloud dependency No No
Software notes The machine is compatible with major third-party software like LightBurn and can also be controlled via the proprietary Sculpfun app from mobile devices or PCs. Device control is primarily managed through the proprietary xTool Creative Space software, an intuitive and constantly updated application ideal for managing graphic workflows and calibrating cutting and engraving parameters. For users requiring professional features or established workflows, the machine guarantees compatibility with LightBurn, the industry standard. The software integration allows for surface mapping and automatic positioning without the need for traditional cameras, simplifying file preparation in both Windows and macOS environments via USB or Wi-Fi connections.

The differences that matter

  • Price: iCube Ultra 599 € vs S1 40W Laser Cutter 2250 € — iCube Ultra wins (+276%)
  • Work area: iCube Ultra 150×150 mm vs S1 40W Laser Cutter 498×319 mm — S1 40W Laser Cutter wins (+606%)

Which one to choose

Choose iCube Ultra if…

you value price.

See the iCube Ultra sheet →

Choose S1 40W Laser Cutter if…

you value work area.

See the S1 40W Laser Cutter sheet →

MakerSpecs is an independent atlas. We don't sell products: this comparison links to both sheets, where you'll find complete data and official links.