I am so excited to be back with another review! Having spent a lot of time with the xTool M1 over the last 3 years, my family and I have used it to create countless personalized gifts and projects. When xTool reached out for another collaboration to test the new xTool M2, I couldn't wait to see how they upgraded a machine I already loved.
This review is specifically for makers, small handmade business owners, and craft creators looking for an affordable laser engraver for home use that can simplify their workflow. If you're wondering if it's time to move beyond the xTool M1, or just get started with your very first laser cutter, the answer lies in the xTool M2's new all-in-one approach to printing, cutting, and engraving.
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xTool M2 at a Glance
The xTool M2 is a versatile all-in-one craft laser cutter that combines laser cutting, laser engraving, and optional full-color printing into a single device. Its modular design and dual-camera positioning make it easy to switch between different types of projects without sacrificing precision.
The xTool M2 is especially well-suited for crafters, makers, and small handmade business owners looking for a versatile laser engraver for small business applications. It can create everything from personalized gifts and home décor to stickers, wooden signs, and engraved products.
While the xTool M2 isn't a traditional print-and-cut machine, its print-then-cut workflow streamlines the process. It combines full-color printing, camera alignment, and laser cutting into a single, efficient operation that would normally require multiple machines.
I recommend the xTool M2 if you enjoy creating personalized gifts, home decor, craft projects, or products to sell online or at craft fairs. This hobby laser cutter won't replace a high-powered CO2 laser for heavy-duty production work if that's what you're looking for. However, it offers an impressive combination of ease of use, versatility, and professional-looking results in a desktop-sized machine.
Is the xTool M2 the Best Laser Engraver for Beginners?
If you're searching for the best laser engraver for beginners, the xTool M2 is a strong option because it removes many of the barriers that can make laser crafting feel intimidating. Unlike open-frame machines that require more setup knowledge and workspace considerations, the enclosed design, built-in cameras, autofocus, and guided software make it approachable for first-time users.
This laser cutting and engraving system is particularly appealing to hobbyists looking to create personalized gifts, home decor, and small business products without investing in multiple separate machines. As you gain confidence in laser cutting, engraving, and full-colour printing, the M2 gives you room to explore more advanced projects.
Unboxing the xTool M2
xTool sent me their xTool M2 10W Deluxe Bundle, which is a comprehensive package designed to provide a full creative workflow. In the box, you'll find the following:
- xTool M2 Machine: The fully enclosed desktop laser unit.
- 10W Diode Laser Module: The primary tool for cutting and engraving organic materials like wood and leather.
- CMYK Inkjet Printing Module: Includes a print head and a dedicated blank-ink reservoir for vibrant full-color prints.
- RA3 Rotary Attachment: A specialized accessory that turns the M2 into a laser engraver for tumblers, mugs, rings, and other cylindrical items.
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| Everything is packed so well!!! |
While not included in the xTool M2 10W Deluxe Bundle, xTool also sent me the following items that can be purchased separately:
- 3W Infrared (IR) Laser: A specialized module designed for high-quality engraving and marking on materials that standard diode lasers cannot handle, such as various metals (including jewelry and stainless steel), plastics, and silicone.
- Desktop Air Purifier: Designed to filter smoke, particulates, and odors produced during laser cutting and engraving, allowing you to safely operate the M2 in an enclosed indoor space like a home or small apartment without needing to vent the exhaust hose directly out a window.
First Impressions
My first impression of the xTool M2 was just how sleek and modern it looked. It feels more like a premium crafting machine than a piece of industrial equipment, and I especially love the larger amber viewing lid. It gives you a much better view of your project while it's running, making it fun to watch your creations come to life.
The xTool does have a somewhat large footprint. It's about as deep as the desk where I previously kept my M1, so I had to rearrange my workspace and move it closer to the window to leave enough room for the exhaust vent at the back. It's something to keep in mind when planning where you'll place the machine.
Not going to lie, my initial setup wasn't completely smooth. I kept getting a distant-camera error that took me several hours to troubleshoot. After working through the recommended steps, I eventually discovered that the cable connecting the overhead camera to the motherboard hadn't been fully seated from the factory. Once I unclipped the ribbon cable, firmly pressed it back into place until it clicked, and reassembled the machine, the error disappeared completely. I had a really proud moment there!
From that point on, everything worked exactly as expected. Camera calibration was quick and straightforward, and I haven't experienced any further issues. Although the setup was more frustrating than I had anticipated, I'm glad the fix turned out to be simple.
My First Projects on the xTool M2
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| Lilypad Shaker |
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| Mini Koi Fish Guitar |
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| Superfine Necklace |
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| M1 Triangle Prism Spacers |
xTool Features I Love
The Dual Camera System: Precision Perfected
I was very happy to know that the xTool M2 has a camera system similar to the M1. However, this time, it's not just a single camera; it's a dual camera.
The M1 had a single camera at the top center that suffered from optical distortion, the further the object is. The M2 uses a wide-angle lid camera for a general workspace overview and a second high-resolution camera mounted directly on the tool head.
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| Distant-view Camera |
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| Close-view Camera |
This tool head camera provides sub-millimeter accuracy (within 0.2 mm), allowing you to position your designs with incredible precision on even the smallest material scraps. It provides a true "what you see is what you get" live preview, completely removing the guesswork that used to lead to wasted materials.
Magnetic Interchangeable Modules
One of the biggest selling points of the M2 is its tool-less modular design, which can print, cut, and engrave on various materials. Rather than owning separate machines, you simply swap magnetic modules depending on what you're creating.
- Diode Laser Module: Ideal for cutting and engraving materials like wood, leather, cardstock, felt, and certain acrylics.
- Infrared Laser Module: Designed for high-quality engraving and marking on materials that standard diode lasers cannot handle, such as various metals (including jewelry and stainless steel), plastics, and silicone.
- Print Module: Inkjet module that produces rich, vibrant full-color prints directly onto wood, fabric, paper, and cardstock. This turns the M2 into more of a color craft laser, allowing creators to combine traditional laser engraving with vibrant printed designs.
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I was surprised by how quick and easy it was to change the modules. They simply snap into place with magnets, so switching from printing to engraving only takes a few seconds instead of feeling like a chore. This makes cleaning the lens protector so much easier!
Safety and Design
One of the biggest reasons I was so excited to try the xTool M2 is that it's designed with home crafters in mind. In the past, I've actually had to turn down opportunities to review other laser machines because they were open-frame designs that required a dedicated workshop or garage. Since my craft room is inside my home, that simply wasn't a practical or safe option for me.
I also appreciate that the M2 doesn't look like an intimidating piece of industrial equipment. Its sleek design fits naturally into a craft room, and the large amber viewing lid lets you (and your children) watch your project come to life while the machine is running. It's a small detail, but the kids love watching the engraving and cutting process in action!
Built-in Air Assist: Cleaner Cuts by Default
One thing I really appreciate about the xTool M2 is that the air assist is built right into the machine. Air assist helps reduce scorching and produces cleaner cuts, especially on wood, and it's often an extra accessory that has to be purchased and installed separately.
One challenge I did notice, however, is that without a honeycomb bed or the triangular prisms (that came with the xTool M1), smaller cut pieces can sometimes be blown underneath the material by the airflow. If the laser passes over them again later in the job, they can become damaged or leave unwanted marks.
The Atomm Community and Design Tools
One thing I've really enjoyed about the xTool ecosystem is the Atomm community. It's a dedicated space where xTool users and creators share their projects, which makes it easy to find inspiration and see what others are making.
There is also a growing number of free community-shared project files you can download and use right away, along with optional design tools you can use to help create or refine your own projects (some of which are paid). It's a nice mix of inspiration, ready-to-use files, and creative tools, depending on how you like to work.
What Could Be Improved
No Blade Cutting Function
Unlike the M1 and the M1 Ultra, the xTool M2 does not include a blade-cutting option, which means it's limited to laser-based cutting and engraving only. This also means it isn't designed for materials like standard vinyl or PVC, which can release harmful gases when lasered and may damage the machine. As a result, the M2 is no longer a direct replacement for a Cricut or other blade-cutting machine.
A blade-cutting module would have been an interesting and inexpensive addition, especially for users who work across both laser- and vinyl-based crafting tools. Even as an optional add-on, it could have added another layer of versatility without changing the core design.
Lack of Honeycomb Bed and Material Stability
The xTool M2 uses these magnetic clips to elevate and secure materials to improve airflow underneath and reduce charring during cutting and engraving. While they work for many projects, they only secure the four corners, so thinner or more flexible materials can sometimes sag in the middle.
I also miss having the option of a honeycomb bed. It would provide better support for delicate materials while preventing small cut pieces from being blown underneath the workpiece by the built-in air assist, where they can be hit by the laser again and become damaged. If you already own the triangular prisms from the xTool M1, they can be a helpful alternative for improving support and airflow.
Ongoing Costs and Consumables
One thing to keep in mind is the cost of replacement ink cartridges. The xTool M2 inkjet module uses a proprietary CMYK cartridge, and because all four colors are contained in a single unit, you'll need to replace the entire cartridge even if only one color has run out. Replacement cartridges are also fairly expensive ($99+), so it's an ongoing cost to factor into your budget.
To help extend the life of the included cartridges, I recommend reserving the M2’s print module for materials unsuitable for traditional inkjet printers, such as wood or fabric. For paper and cardstock projects, using a regular printer first can help you get the most value out of your M2 ink cartridge.
Limited Z-Height Clearance
One limitation of the xTool M2 is its restricted vertical workspace, which features a narrow build height of only 1.02 inches (26 mm). If the laser head comes into contact with the raised surface, the safety system will automatically stop the job, which then requires a manual reset.
Attempting to extend the Z-axis by removing the baseplate is not exactly straightforward because the machine relies on its baseplate for accurate alignment. For most flat materials, this hasn't been an issue, but it's something to be aware of if you plan to work with thicker or uneven surfaces.
Is the xTool M2 Worth It and Who Is It For??
Best For: Hobbyists, Etsy sellers focusing on small items, and teachers who need an approachable, all-in-one platform.
Alternative Considerations: If you need a blade cutter, look at the M1 Ultra. Unfortunately, the xTool M1 has already been discontinued. If you need a larger workspace and more power, consider the S1.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the xTool M2 a diode laser engraver?
Yes, the xTool M2 uses a diode laser module, making it an approachable diode laser engraver for beginners interested in projects involving wood, leather, acrylic, and other craft materials. For those who want to expand their capabilities, the optional 3W infrared (IR) laser module (purchased separately) enables more detailed engraving and marking on materials such as metals, jewelry, plastics, and silicone.
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What is the difference between the 10W and 20W models?
Both models use a blue diode laser, but the 20W version cuts faster and can handle cutting through slightly thicker materials. If you mainly engrave detailed designs, the 10W model is still an excellent choice.
Can I use LightBurn with the xTool M2?
No. The xTool M2, at this time, is designed to work exclusively with the xTool Studio software, which offers a beginner-friendly interface and built-in project tools.
Is the xTool M2's ink waterproof?
No. The print module uses water-based ink, so it's best to seal finished projects or pre-treat your material if they'll be exposed to moisture.
Final Verdict
The xTool M2 prioritizes a simplified creative workflow over raw industrial specs, making "everyday making" easier for everyone.
While there may be cheaper entry-level machines available, the xTool M2 offers a balance between features, ease of use, and reliability that makes it a strong choice for anyone looking for an affordable laser engraver without quickly outgrowing their machine.
For beginners, hobbyists, and small handmade businesses, the biggest advantage of the M2 is that it combines laser cutting, engraving, and optional printing into one compact system. It won't replace a high-powered CO2 laser for large-scale production, but for personalized gifts, craft projects, and small-batch products, it offers a very approachable way to enter the world of laser crafting.
Creative Uses for Crocheters
- Branding: Wooden tags, faux leather labels, logo tags, care instruction tags
- Packaging: Product backing cards, thank-you cards, gift tags, packaging inserts
- Craft Market Displays: Booth signs, price tags, QR code signs, business card holders
- Crochet Tools: Hook organizers, stitch marker holders, yarn bobbins, needle gauge rulers, small trinket boxes for notions
- Photography Props: Seasonal signs, logo displays, product risers, flat lay props
- Personalized Gifts: Name plaques, birth announcement discs, ornaments, gift toppers, and personalized keepsakes such as jewelry boxes, keepsake signs, and personalized accessories
Whether you're looking to add a professional finishing touch to your crochet projects or elevate your small-business branding, the xTool M2 offers plenty of creative possibilities beyond crochet.
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.
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