M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter vs S1 40W Laser Cutter
Technical comparison · Diode laser (405–460 nm)
M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter and S1 40W Laser Cutter are not direct competitors: very different prices (~3.2×). M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter costs less (~€700) 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 |
M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter
xTool
F2 · Intermediate
|
S1 40W Laser Cutter
xTool
F2 · Intermediate
|
|---|---|---|
| Identity | ||
| Launch year | 2022 | 2023 |
| Use tier | F2 — Intermediate | F2 — Intermediate |
| Price | ||
| Price (€) | ~600–800 € | ~2000–2500 € |
| Universal specs | ||
| Dimensions (W×D×H) (cm) | 55.7 × 45.3 × 23 cm | 76.5 × 56.1 × 18.3 cm |
| Weight (kg) | 10 kg | 20 kg |
| Work area (mm) | 385 × 300 mm | 498 × 319 mm |
| Z-axis height (mm) | 22 mm | — |
| Power (W) | 150 W | — |
| Maximum speed | 250 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Declared precision | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Category specs | ||
| Work area (short side) (mm) | 300 mm | 319 mm |
| Rated power (W) | 5 W | 40 W |
| Source technology | Diode | Diode |
| Max travel speed (mm/s) | 250 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Max processing speed (mm/s) | 250 mm/s | 600 mm/s |
| Max cut depth per material | 4 mm basswood | — |
| Wavelength (nm) | 455 nm | 455 nm |
| Min resolution (µm) | 10 µm | — |
| Autofocus | True | True |
| Rotary included/compatible | False | False |
| Passthrough | False | True |
| Supported software | Proprietary | Proprietary, LightBurn |
| Ecosystem | ||
| Cloud dependency | No | No |
| Software notes | Device control relies exclusively on the proprietary xTool Creative Space (XCS) software. This application manages both laser engraving and cutting operations, alongside path planning for the integrated blade cutter. The software incorporates visual alignment features assisted by the internal high-resolution camera, facilitating precise design placement on materials. There is no native support for universal third-party applications like LightBurn, restricting users to the manufacturer's ecosystem. The application is compatible with Windows, macOS, and mobile platforms, requiring an initial connection for updates but supporting offline operation. | 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: M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter 700 € vs S1 40W Laser Cutter 2250 € — M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter wins (+221%)
- Work area: M1 5W Laser & Blade Cutter 385×300 mm vs S1 40W Laser Cutter 498×319 mm — S1 40W Laser Cutter wins (+38%)
Which one to choose
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.