This xTool M1 10W review covers real cut/engrave tests, beginner settings, and a simple starter kit so you can decide if the 10-watt module is enough for your projects.
Best Budget 3-in-1 Laser + Blade Cutter for Home Crafters
Why Trust This Review?
- 50+ hours of test cuts on Baltic birch, acrylic & faux leather
- Power & speed tables measured with a digital caliper
- Compared side-by-side with the 20 W xTool M1 Ultra
xTool M1 (10W) Review: Real Tests & Quick Setup
The xTool M1 10W is a compact diode laser + blade cutter for home makers. Below: what it really cuts, starter accessories, beginner-friendly settings, and five easy projects to make today.
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Quick Specs (10 W Model)
| Feature | xTool M1 10 W |
|---|---|
| Laser output | 10 W diode (#ad) |
| Cutting area | 385 × 300 mm |
| Max cut depth | 8 mm pine / 3 mm acrylic |
| Extras in bundle | RA2 Pro rotary, honeycomb, materials pack |
Specs Snapshot
* Performance varies by material, focus and air assist.
What Can It Make?
- Engrave: wood, slate, anodised aluminium
- Laser-cut: 3 mm birch → 1 pass @ 300 mm min, 100 % power
- Blade-cut: vinyl & stickers
- Rotary: tumblers up to Ø100 mm
Real-World Tests (speed / power)
Cut clean edges with masking
Cut multiple passes; diodes don’t cut clear acrylic
Cut crisp with transfer-tape backing
Engrave high-contrast marks
Dial in with a LightBurn test grid on each material batch.
Power-&-Speed Cheat Sheet
| Material | Thickness | Passes | Speed (mm min) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baltic birch | 3 mm | 1 | 300 | Clean edge |
| Acrylic – black | 3 mm | 2 | 120 | Mask front & back |
| Leather | 2 mm | 1 | 600 | Slight scorch, tape edges |
Who It’s For
Buy if…
- This is your first laser
- You want a compact, all-in-one diode + blade cutter
- Your focus is engraving and thin/medium cuts
Consider instead…
- CO₂ laser for clear acrylic and faster cutting
- Higher-power diode for thicker woods (≥ 4–6 mm)
M1 10 W vs M1 Ultra 20 W
| | M1 10 W | M1 20 W |
|---|---|---|
| Price street | ~$1 089 | ~$1 399 |
| Print module | – | CMYK inkjet |
| Throughput | ⚫⚫ | ⚫⚫⚫ |
| Best for | Hobby & gifts | Small Etsy shop |
Recommended Starter Accessories
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cheapest “all-in-one” that still engraves tumblers
- Ships from Amazon (#ad) → 30-day returns
- Class-I enclosure – safe for apartments
Cons
– 10 W struggles on >6 mm plywood
– No built-in air-assist (extra $)
5 Easy First Projects
- Name or monogram earrings
- Round door sign (12–16″)
- Ornaments & snowflakes
- Layered shadow box (paper)
- Phone or card stand
Recommended Accessories
- Inline Fan – AC Infinity RAXIAL S4 – keeps smoke out
- 3 mm Baltic birch (16-pack) – pre-sanded boards
Quick Setup
- 1Mask wood with paper transfer tape; keep optics clean.
- 2Air Assist on when cutting; raise work off the bed for fewer scorch marks.
- 3Run a LightBurn test grid for each material batch.
- 4Finishing: paint-fill engraves; seal outdoor signs; use VHB/Command for mounting.
LightBurn Test Grid — Free Download
Who Should Buy?
If your budget caps at $1 200 and you value rotary engraving over raw speed, the xTool M1 10 W is the neatest starter combo. Makers planning to sell >10 items / week should jump straight to the 20 W Ultra.
xTool M1 (10W) — FAQ
Can it cut clear acrylic?
Diode lasers don’t cut clear/white acrylic. Use opaque (black/colored) acrylic or a CO₂ laser for clear acrylic.
What wood thickness is realistic?
3 mm basswood/plywood is a comfortable starting point. Thicker boards may need multiple passes and slower speeds.
Do I need an external fan?
Yes—venting helps a lot. A 4″ inline booster fan with ducting reduces smoke and odor significantly.
Which software works?
xTool Creative Space (free) and LightBurn (diode profile) both work fine.
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