If you're trying to decide between the xTool M1 and the xTool M2, you're in the right place! Although the original xTool M1 has been discontinued and replaced by the M1 Ultra, many crafters are still comparing these two machines to decide whether it's worth upgrading, buying a used M1, or investing in the newer M2.
Having used both the original xTool M1 and the xTool M2, I'll walk you through the biggest differences between them, what has improved, and who each hobby laser cutter is best suited for. I'll also share my personal experience using both machines and explain where the M1 Ultra fits into xTool's current lineup for those considering the latest model.
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At a Glance: xTool M1 vs xTool M2
| Feature | xTool M1 | xTool M2 |
|---|---|---|
| Machine Type | Hybrid laser + blade cutting machine | Enclosed diode laser cutter & engraver (with optional IR and CMYK Inkjet module) |
| Laser Power | 10W / 5W options | 10W / 20W options |
| Cutting System | Laser (Diode Only) + blade cutting | Laser only (Diode or IR) |
| Inkjet Printing | No | Yes (with optional CMYK Inkjet Module) |
| Processing Area | 385 × 300 mm | 400 × 395 mm |
| Max Engraving Speed | ~250 mm/s | ~600 mm/s |
| Camera System | Smart positioning | Dual camera system |
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes (improved) |
| Rotary | Compatible | Compatible |
| Materials | Wood, acrylic, leather, vinyl (laser + blade materials) | Wood, acrylic, leather, glass, metal marking (laser-focused materials) |
| Software | XCS and xTool Studio | xTool Studio |
| Best For | Beginners, Cricut-style users, and mixed-craft workflows | Faster production, small business owners, laser-focused workflows |
Who is the xTool M Series Designed For?
The xTool M series is an approachable entry point to laser crafting, making it a popular craft laser cutter option for makers, crafters, and small business owners who want to expand their creative possibilities with laser cutting, engraving, and printing.
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| xTool M1 |
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| xTool M1 Ultra |
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| xTool M2 |
The biggest difference between the xTool M1 and M2 is the blade-cutting function. The M1 combines a diode laser with a blade cutter, while the M2 focuses on laser-based workflows with interchangeable laser and print modules.
The xTool M Series is best suited for:
- Crafters who want to expand beyond traditional cutting machines like Cricut or Silhouette
- Makers who work with a variety of materials, including wood, leather, fabric, acrylic, paper, and cardstock
- Small business owners creating personalized products, gifts, and handmade goods
- Creators who want an all-in-one desktop machine for engraving, cutting, and (with the M2 print module) full-color printing
What Stayed the Same
Even though the xTool M1 and xTool M2 belong to different generations, they still share a lot of core features. This is important if you're deciding whether upgrading is actually necessary for your workflow.
Core Functionality
- Both machines are enclosed for safer laser use at home or in a small workspace
- Both can engrave and cut a wide range of materials, including wood, acrylic, leather, and coated metals
- Both use the xTool Studio software as their main design software
- Both machines support rotary attachments, making them suitable options if you're looking for a laser engraver for tumblers, glasses, mugs, and other cylindrical products
Beginner-Friendly Setup
- Both machines are designed with guided setup and beginner-friendly controls
- Built-in camera positioning helps with material alignment
- Autofocus features make it easier to get started without manual calibration
Workflow Experience
- Both machines are designed to feel like “all-in-one creative hubs” rather than complex industrial machines
- You can move from design → setup → engraving/cutting within a single software workflow
- Both are designed for home studios and small business environments
Material Versatility
- Both machines support a wide variety of craft materials
- Both can handle detailed engraving work for personalization projects like gifts, signage, and small product lines
While the M2 improves speed and performance, the overall creative experience between the two machines is still very familiar. If you already enjoy working with the M1, the M2 will feel like an upgrade in efficiency rather than a completely different system.
Biggest Improvements in the M2
While the xTool M1 was already a strong entry point into laser crafting, the xTool M2 introduces several meaningful upgrades that focus on speed, precision, and overall workflow efficiency. These improvements are especially noticeable if you're using your machine regularly or running a small business.
Faster engraving and cutting speeds
One of the most noticeable upgrades in the M2 is its significantly faster engraving speed. This makes a big difference when you're working on larger projects or producing multiple items at once.
- Faster engraving means less waiting time per project
- Batch production becomes much more efficient
- Ideal for small business workflows where time matters
Improved positioning accuracy
The M2 improves positioning with a dual camera system, which helps create a more accurate view of the entire workspace. Unlike a single camera system (like on the M1), where objects near the edges can appear slightly stretched or distorted, the dual setup reduces this effect for more consistent alignment across the full bed.
- More accurate placement across the entire work area
- Easier alignment for batch or multi-item layouts
- More reliable on-screen positioning before engraving
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| Distant-view Camera |
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| Close-view Camera |
Inkjet Printing Capability
Unlike the original xTool M1, both the M1 Ultra and M2 include an inkjet printing feature that lets you print full-color designs directly onto a wide range of objects that can't be fed through a standard inkjet printer.
- Print full-color designs onto materials like wood, fabric, canvas, and other ink-compatible surfaces
- Expand beyond engraving into print + craft workflows
- Great for signage, gifts, and detailed multicolor designs
Expanded Capabilities
The original xTool M1 was limited to blue diode laser engraving and cutting. The M2 expands on those capabilities with optional processing modules, allowing you to tackle a wider variety of projects without needing a separate machine.
- Add a 3W infrared (IR) module to engrave and mark metals like stainless steel, aluminum, brass, and jewelry-grade metals
- Swap to the CMYK inkjet module to print full-color designs directly onto a variety of materials
- Easily switch between modules depending on the type of product you're creating.
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To compare the IR and Diode laser modules, I engraved the same thing onto two identical stainless steel heart blanks. Seeing them side by side, the IR engraving had noticeably better contrast and sharper details.
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| Made with 10W Diode Laser |
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| Made with 3W IR Laser |
Where the M1 (or M1 Ultra) Still Has an Advantage
Since the original M1 has been discontinued, many shoppers may also be considering the M1 Ultra as an alternative. While I haven't personally tested the M1 Ultra, this section is based on my experience with the original M1 and how the Ultra expands on its core capabilities within the same product line.
Blade Cutting (M1 and M1 Ultra Advantage)
The original xTool M1 still stands out for its built-in blade-cutting system, which is ideal for vinyl, cardstock, and other soft materials. This makes it a great option for crafters who want both laser engraving and Cricut-style cutting in one machine, without needing a separate device.
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| Laser and Blade on the xTool M1 |
Multi-Craft Flexibility (M1 Ultra Advantage)
The xTool M1 Ultra expands on the original M1 by turning it into a more multi-functional crafting system. In addition to laser engraving and blade cutting, it also supports inkjet printing, pen drawing, and foiling, giving creators more ways to personalize and decorate their projects. Aside from inkjet printing, these are capabilities the M2 does not have, as it focuses purely on laser engraving and cutting performance.
Ink System and Running Costs (M1 Ultra Advantage)
The M1 Ultra uses an inkjet system compatible with HP cartridges, making replacement ink more affordable and easier to obtain. Conversely, the M2’s inkjet module uses a proprietary cartridge specifically designed for the system and cannot be refilled. This can lead to higher costs or limited availability depending on the region.
My Experience with the xTool M Series
The xTool M1 was my very first laser and blade-cutting machine, and honestly, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. However, I quickly discovered how much fun it was to create personalized gifts at home. Over the years, I've used it to make customized projects for family and friends. I also love that it fits comfortably in my home and can be used indoors without needing a dedicated workshop.
One feature I didn't think I would miss until switching to the M2 was the blade-cutting function. While I didn't cut vinyl often, I appreciated having the option, such as for my "A Lot Going On at the Moment" sweatshirt. Because the M2 has a modular design, I was a little surprised that xTool didn't offer a blade-cutting module as an optional accessory. Without it, there are a handful of materials and project types that I now need another machine to complete.
On the other hand, I really appreciate the inkjet printing capability on the M2. It opens up creative possibilities with materials like wood, fabric, and other items that can’t be put through a traditional printer, enabling more flexible personalization and product design than the original M1 offered.
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Which Machine Should You Buy?
Buy a used xTool M1 if...
- Budget is your biggest concern
- You're just starting out with laser crafting
- You mainly make occasional or hobby-level projects
Consider the M1 Ultra if...
- Blade cutting is a major part of your workflow
- You want features like pen drawing, inkjet printing, or foiling in one machine
- You value an all-in-one crafting system with multiple creative methods
Buy the M2 if...
- You're starting fresh and want the latest xTool laser system
- Speed and workflow efficiency matter to you
- You're looking for the best laser engraver for small business products and personalized items
- You want the latest hardware and ongoing software support
- You're looking for a laser-focused machine and don't need a multi-tool system
- You require an IR laser to engrave onto metal and jewelry
Final Verdict
If I already owned an xTool M1, I wouldn't necessarily rush to upgrade unless the improvements align with the kinds of projects I make. However, if I were buying my first enclosed xTool machine today, I'd likely choose the xTool M2. It offers the latest laser technology, faster workflow, and ongoing software support, all at a significantly lower price than the M1 Ultra. Plus, as a current-generation machine, you'll have the added peace of mind of a manufacturer's warranty.
That said, the xTool M1 Ultra is still an excellent choice for crafters who want an all-in-one creative system. If features like blade cutting, inkjet printing, pen drawing, and foiling are an important part of your workflow, the added investment may be well worth it. Ultimately, the best machine comes down to the type of projects you create and whether you value laser performance or multi-craft versatility more.
More to Love...
- My xTool M1 Review: See how the original M1 compares and why the blade-cutting function made it such a versatile machine.
- Laser Cut Personalized Name Keychains: Learn how to use an xTool laser to create custom engraved keychains that were perfect for classroom gifts.
- Laser Cut Minnie Mouse Rings: Make adorable laser-cut Minnie Mouse rings using free SVG files and basswood
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