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xTool · Hybrid (fiber + diode)
xTool F1
Original compact fiber + diode: metal marking in a portable box
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Last updated How we evaluate
Released April 2023
Compact dual-source engraver
F1 combines 10W fiber marking with 10W diode engraving. Different product class from modular S1 heads.
- 10W fiber
- 10W diode
Listed as hybrid because two laser technologies share one machine, not because you pick 10W vs 40W on the same diode head. Modules vs hybrid vs power tiers →
TL;DR
The F1 started the compact dual-laser category. Slower than F1 Ultra but often cheaper on sale. Still a metal-marking specialist with small bed: not a general workshop laser.
Compare the xTool F1 to…
Popular side-by-side matchups with full specs, scores, and an honest verdict.
Best for
What makes this machine stand out
Hardware and workflow features worth understanding before you buy : not just wattage on a label.
Dual laser sources
Two laser technologies share one machine (for example diode + infrared or hybrid CO₂/IR). You switch modes in software instead of owning separate boxes : great for mixed shops, but read which materials each source actually handles.
LightBurn compatible
LightBurn support means advanced layers, camera tools, and workflows many makers outgrow the stock app with. Confirm your exact controller board before assuming full features : some machines need a paid license separately.
Our verdict
Ideal if you
xTool F1 10W suits makers who sell marks, photos, and gifts more than daily panel cutting. Reasonable open-frame entry price.
Skip if you
Skip if you already quote 4 mm+ cutting in production. Not for cast acrylic or bare metal without spray.
Pros
- 10W on xTool F1: engraving-first: photo fills and leather at moderate speeds
- Software listed on the profile: test your workflow (LightBurn or maker app) on scrap first
Cons
- Clear cast acrylic and thick production cutting still favor CO₂, not diode power alone
- Confirm optical wattage on the listing before you buy
What this machine is for
Compact metal marking plus light diode engraving for small items
Entry compact dual-laser for metal personalization and small organic-material engraving.
Laser spot size
~0.03 mm fiber spot
Motion precision: 0.01 mm
Sample engrave job
~4–8 min
10 × 10 cm (4 × 4 in)
Sample cut job
Not a cutter
Reference benchmark: same job size on every machine so you can compare times fairly. Times are estimates for the reference job above; your design complexity and settings will change them.
Materials
- · Stainless steel
- · Aluminum
- · Brass
- · Wood
- · Leather
Accessories & add-ons
Typical inclusions and add-ons for this profile : confirm your SKU.
- Optional
Enclosure / cabinet
Third-party enclosure improves smoke control and safety
- Recommended
Laser safety glasses
~450 nm diode: OD rated for your wavelength
- Recommended
Fire extinguisher
Editorial guidance : not a live parts list. See also: Ventilation setup · Safety basics
Practical notes
Beginner notes
This profile covers xTool F1. Read the TL;DR and benchmarks before buying, then compare nearby models on the Compare page.
Pro tips
Use rotary for rings. F1 Ultra is worth the upgrade if you run production metal batches.
Pro / technical specsRaw numbers for experienced users comparing machines.
- Max speed (spec)
- 10,000 mm/s
- Avg engrave speed
- 300–1,500 mm/s marking
- Avg cut speed
- N/A
Alternatives to the xTool F1
Machines in the same space, picked from our database by type, price, and score.
xTool · Hybrid · $3,499 – $3,999
A compact desktop machine combining a 20W fiber laser and 20W diode. The fiber module marks bare metal: stainless steel, aluminum, brass: without spray. Ideal for jewelry, knives, and metal gifts. Premium price for a small work area.
xTool · Hybrid · $1,799 – $2,199
xTool F2 (2025) upgrades the F1 formula with more power, a 50MP alignment camera, and up to 6,000 mm/s galvo speed. Dual-source (diode + infrared) for metal marking and organics in a compact box: xTool Studio only, no LightBurn.
xTool · Hybrid · $3,999 – $4,599
xTool's updated dual-laser desktop builds on F1 Ultra with improved speed and workflow. Still a metal-marking specialist with small default bed. Premium price for jewelry, tools, and batch metal personalization: not a general workshop replacement.