F1 Portable Laser Engraver vs S1 20W Laser Cutter

Technical comparison · Diode laser (405–460 nm)

In brief

S1 20W Laser Cutter leads on the measurable specs (starting with work area), while F1 Portable Laser Engraver shows no advantage of its own. Choose S1 20W Laser Cutter, unless non-technical factors (availability, support, ecosystem) tip the balance.

Parameter
xTool S1 20W Laser Cutter S1 20W Laser Cutter xTool F2 · Intermediate
Identity
Launch year 2023 2023
Use tier F2 — Intermediate F2 — Intermediate
Price
Price (€) 1499 € ~1300–1600 €
Universal specs
Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) 17.9 × 23.5 × 33.4 cm 76.5 × 56.1 × 18.3 cm
Weight (kg) 4.6 kg 20 kg
Work area (mm) 115 × 115 mm 498 × 330 mm
Z-axis height (mm) 113 mm 42 mm
Power (W) 120 W
Voltage (V) 24 V
Maximum speed 4000 mm/s 600 mm/s
Declared precision 0.00199 mm 0.01 mm
Category specs
Work area (short side) (mm) 115 mm 330 mm
Rated power (W) 10 W 20 W
Source technology Diode Diode
Max travel speed (mm/s) 4000 mm/s 600 mm/s
Max processing speed (mm/s) 4000 mm/s 600 mm/s
Max cut depth per material 8 mm basswood, 6 mm acrylic 10 mm wood
Wavelength (nm) 455 nm 455 nm
Min resolution (µm) 30 µm
Autofocus True True
Rotary included/compatible False False
Passthrough True True
Supported software Proprietary, LightBurn Proprietary, LightBurn
Ecosystem
Cloud dependency No No
Software notes Machine control is primarily handled by the proprietary xTool Creative Space ecosystem, an intuitive application that enables native management of both laser sources and supports autofocus and camera-assisted positioning functions. For advanced users requiring more granular control over processing parameters and complex workflows, the unit offers compatibility with LightBurn. Integration with the latter requires a specific initial configuration for galvanometer systems, but it unlocks professional vector programming features, optimizing execution times across both Windows and macOS operating systems. The machine is managed through dual software compatibility that expands the user's operational possibilities. The proprietary program, developed directly by the manufacturer, provides an accessible interface and simplified positioning functions via sensors, facilitating workflow management even for less experienced operators. For professional contexts or advanced customization needs, the unit fully supports LightBurn, the industry standard for laser cutting. This integration allows the management of detailed parameters, complex vectorization, and customized material libraries. The machine operates primarily in local mode via USB connection or Wi-Fi network, reducing dependency on external cloud services and ensuring operational continuity even in the absence of a stable internet connection.

The differences that matter

  • Work area: F1 Portable Laser Engraver 115×115 mm vs S1 20W Laser Cutter 498×330 mm — S1 20W Laser Cutter wins (+1143%)

Which one to choose

Choose F1 Portable Laser Engraver if…

it shows no measurable advantage over S1 20W Laser Cutter on the available specs: consider it on price or availability.

See the F1 Portable Laser Engraver sheet →

Choose S1 20W Laser Cutter if…

you value work area.

See the S1 20W 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.