xTool S1 40W vs xTool S1 20W
Spec-by-spec breakdown of the xTool S1 40W and the xTool S1 20W: scores, pricing, cutting performance, software, and what each machine is really best at.
8.1
xTool S1 40WxTool · Diode
The 40W S1 is xTool's high-power enclosed diode. Still not CO₂, but the extra optical power helps on thicker basswood versus the 20W cabinet.
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8.0
xTool S1 20WxTool · Diode
The 20W S1 is the value pick in xTool's enclosed diode line: same cabinet and filters as the 40W, but less cut depth on thick wood. Buy this if safety matters and you mostly engrave.
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xTool S1 40W
3 spec wins
xTool S1 40W wins on
xTool S1 20W
0 spec wins
Overall, the xTool S1 40W takes it: 8.1 vs 8.0 in our scoring.
| Spec | xTool S1 40W | xTool S1 20W |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Brand | xTool | xTool |
| Laser type | Diode (diode + IR) | Diode (diode + IR) |
| Main focus | Built mainly for cutting shapes and parts | Handles everyday engraving and cutting jobs |
| Main objective | Maximum cut speed and depth in the line: engraving remains strong at tuned speeds | Everyday engraving plus reliable light cutting on wood, leather, and dark acrylic |
| Best for |
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| Scores | ||
| Score | Best8.1 | 8.0 |
| Value score | 7.2 | 7.2 |
| Ease of use | 9.2 | 9.2 |
| Capability | Best7.6 | 7.2 |
| Build quality | 9.0 | 9.0 |
| Pricing | ||
| Price | $999 – $3,049 919 € – 2.805 € 40W enclosed SKU | $999 – $3,049 919 € – 2.805 € 20W enclosed SKU |
| Hardware | ||
| Power | Best40W diode (enclosed) | 20W diode (enclosed) |
| Work area | 430 × 390 mm | 430 × 390 mm |
| Precision | 0.01 mm | 0.01 mm |
| Real-world performance | ||
| Sample engrave | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~6–9 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Filled photo or logo on birch plywood ~9–14 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Sample cut | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~3–5 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) | Simple square cut-out from 3 mm basswood ~5–8 min · 10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in) |
| Spot size | ~0.08 mm spot | ~0.07 mm spot |
| Max speed | 400 mm/s | 400 mm/s |
| Materials | ||
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| Software & connectivity | ||
| Software | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, USB | Wi-Fi, USB |
| Verdict | ||
| TL;DR | The 40W S1 is xTool's high-power enclosed diode. Still not CO₂, but the extra optical power helps on thicker basswood versus the 20W cabinet. | The 20W S1 is the value pick in xTool's enclosed diode line: same cabinet and filters as the 40W, but less cut depth on thick wood. Buy this if safety matters and you mostly engrave. |
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“Best” highlights the strongest spec on paper for that row only — not an overall buying recommendation.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better: xTool S1 40W or xTool S1 20W?
In our scoring, the xTool S1 40W comes out ahead with 8.1/10 overall versus 8.0/10 for the xTool S1 20W. The detailed table above shows exactly where each machine wins.
Which is cheaper: xTool S1 40W or xTool S1 20W?
The xTool S1 40W is the more affordable option, starting around $999, versus $999 for the xTool S1 20W.
Which is better for a beginner: xTool S1 40W or xTool S1 20W?
Both are equally approachable: each scores 9.2/10 for ease of use in our database.
What is the main difference between the xTool S1 40W and the xTool S1 20W?
The xTool S1 40W is a Diode laser geared toward cutting, while the xTool S1 20W is a Diode laser geared toward engraving & cutting. That difference drives most of the gaps you see in the comparison table.