The xTool M1 Ultra is a versatile machine that sits between beginner-friendly options like Cricut and more powerful home laser engravers like Glowforge. It can handle a variety of projects, thanks to its large cutting and engraving area of 300mm x 300mm. And if you need to print, it has a slightly smaller space of 294mm x 298mm. The M1 Ultra is perfect for home offices or garages because it’s enclosed. Plus, you can add a smoke purifier to make it even better for indoor use.
Quick Overview
- Size: 24.41″ x 19.61″ x 7.01″ (620mm x 498mm x 178mm)
- Weight: 12KG
- Max Working Speed: 400mm/s
- Laser Power: 10W or 20W diode laser
- Working Area: 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm) for most modes
- 4-in-1 Functionality: Laser, Blade, Inkjet, Pen
- Max Cutting: 10mm basswood (20W version)
- Connectivity: USB and Wi-Fi
- Software: xTool Creative Space (XCS)
- Safety: Class 1 Laser Safety, smoke extraction system
Right out of the box, the xTool M1 Ultra is ready to go with its blade cutting capabilities. However, to get the most out of the M1 Ultra’s laser and other features, you might want to consider some extra accessories. These include a riser base for more space, a rotary attachment for round objects, an air assist for better cuts, and a smoke purifier. While these add-ons make the M1 Ultra even more useful, they also cost more.
One of the standout features of the xTool M1 Ultra is the xTool Creative Space (XCS) software. xTool’s intuitive design and wealth of project ideas, organized by material, offer a great starting point for beginners. Its comprehensive documentation ensures that even those new to digital crafting can easily learn how to use it.
One of the most flexible xTool laser engraver/cutter, ThexTool M1 Ultra lasers is unique in many ways. All in one machine — laser engrave, blade cut, inkjet print & pen draw all inside with an enclosed frame. It is perfect for hobbyists and small businesses with its integrated solution. If you are looking to push the limits of your creativity or speed up the way your work gets done, and of course willing to shell out a little more for the privilege, then M1 Ultra is definitely worth considering. But without further delay, let’s dive into the detailed review.
Pros ✅
+ Versatile 4-in-1 functionality
+ High-quality output across all functions
+ User-friendly software with helpful presets
+ Excellent safety features
+ Expandable with useful accessories
+ Compact design considering its capabilities
Cons 📛
– Higher price point compared to single-function machines
– No built-in camera (though the positioning system works well)
– Software can be demanding on older computers
– Learning curve for utilizing all functions effectively
First Impressions and Setup
Right out of the box, the xTool M1 Ultra makes a statement. Measuring 24.41″ x 19.61″ x 7.01″ and weighing in at a substantial 12KG, it’s clear this machine means business. The mostly metal internal structure feels robust, while the hard plastic enclosure gives it a sleek, professional look that wouldn’t be out of place in a high-end makerspace or a cozy home craft room.
Setting up the xTool M1 Ultra was surprisingly straightforward. This crafting machine is a breeze to assemble. Its color-coded parts snap together easily, like building a high-tech LEGO set. The modular design is fantastic – switching between the laser, blade, inkjet, and pen modules is as simple as clicking them in or out. Even a complete beginner can have this machine up and running in just 10 minutes.
One thing to note: while the machine doesn’t have a built-in camera like some competitors, it compensates with a clever Snapshot Preview and Pin-point Positioning system. More on that later, but spoiler alert: it works surprisingly well.
The 4-in-1 Experience
Now we will look at how these four key components of the xTool M1 Ultra actually perform in day to day use.
Laser Engraving and Cutting
The xTool M1 Ultra comes with 10W or 20W diode laser module. I tested with a claimed maximum cutting capability of up to (basswood) respectively. Skeptical? I was skeptical as well, but I have tested them over a few occasions and it works.
I started with a simple engraving project on a piece of pine. The detail was impressive, capturing fine lines and subtle shading with ease. Moving on to cutting, I pushed it with a 5mm piece of basswood. The xTool M1 Ultra sliced through it like a hot knife through butter, leaving clean, precise edges.
What really impressed me was the machine’s ability to handle more challenging materials. I threw a piece of leather at it for an engraving project, and the results were stellar – deep, consistent lines without any scorching.
The enclosed design is a massive plus for safety, filtering out 99.65% of harmful light. And let’s talk about that ventilation system – the built-in 5400 rpm fan with pre-filters did an admirable job of whisking away smoke and fumes, though for longer sessions, I’d still recommend additional ventilation.
Blade Cutting
Switching to the blade module, I put the xTool M1 Ultra through its paces with various materials. The fine-point blade handled delicate tasks like cutting intricate designs out of cardstock and vinyl with surgical precision. For thicker materials, the cutting blade stepped up, slicing through 2mm craft foam without breaking a sweat.
One standout project was creating a set of leather bookmarks. The heavy-duty cutting blade made short work of the leather, though I found that multiple passes yielded the cleanest cuts. It’s worth noting that while you could use the laser for this, the blade avoids any burnt edges or odors – a big plus for certain projects.
Inkjet Printing
The inkjet module is where the xTool M1 Ultra really sets itself apart from the competition. Using standard Epson cartridges, it opens up a world of full-color printing on a variety of materials.
I started with the basics – printing a vibrant design on cardstock. The colors were rich and saturated, rivaling my desktop inkjet printer. But the real magic happened when I printed directly onto a piece of thin plywood. The result was a full-color image with surprising clarity, something that would typically require multiple steps with transfers or specialized printers.
One clever feature is the automatic ink preservation system. After each use, the module seals itself to prevent the ink from drying out – a small but significant touch that speaks to the thought put into the design.
Pen Drawing
The pen module might seem like a minor addition, but it’s surprisingly versatile. I used it for everything from addressing envelopes to creating intricate mandala designs on paper.
The machine comes with a fine-point pen, but it’s compatible with a range of writing instruments. I experimented with different pen thicknesses and even tried a few brush pens for a calligraphy effect. The results were impressive – consistent pressure and precise lines that would be hard to achieve by hand.
Combining Functions: Where the Magic Happens
While each module performs admirably on its own, the real power of the xTool M1 Ultra lies in combining functions. This is where the machine truly shines, enabling projects that would typically require multiple devices and a lot more time.
My all time favorite test project was the custom jigsaw puzzle. With the inkjet component I was able to print a full-color image directly onto a thin piece of plywood. Then, without removing the material, I switched to the laser module to cut out the puzzle pieces. The result was a professional-looking puzzle that took a fraction of the time it would have with separate machines.
We also had success printing designs on vinyl with the inkjet, then cutting them precisely out of that film using the blade. This means that users could now produce incredibly detailed custom stickers and decals with a level of detail nearly impossible with traditional vinyl cutters.
Performance and Speed
With a maximum working speed of 400mm/s, the xTool M1 Ultra is no slouch. In practice, I found it to be significantly faster than my old Cricut Maker, especially when switching between functions.
The 10W laser module handled most tasks with ease, though for cutting thicker materials (anything over 4mm), you might want to consider the 20W option. The blade and pen modules were consistently fast and accurate across all my tests.
The inkjet module, while not as speedy as a dedicated printer, still impressed with its ability to print directly on various materials. The time saved by not having to transfer prints or use multiple machines more than makes up for any speed deficit.
Software and Ease of Use
The xTool M1 Ultra uses xTool’s proprietary software, xTool Creative Space (XCS). While there’s always a learning curve with new software, I found XCS to be surprisingly intuitive. The Material EasySet Library is a standout feature, offering one-click parameter settings for a wide range of materials. This saved me hours of trial and error, especially when working with new materials.
The software’s multitasking capabilities are impressive. Setting up a project that involves printing, cutting, and engraving is straightforward, with the software guiding you through each step. The AI-assisted design features are a nice touch, especially for those who might not consider themselves artists.
One minor gripe: while the software is powerful, it can be a bit resource-hungry on older computers. If you’re running an older machine, you might experience some lag with complex designs.
Material Compatibility
Another quality highlighted in this xTool M1 Ultra review that can easily be described as the most impressive is its application on over 1000 customizable soft and flexible materials. M1 Ultra suits a wide range of materials, from wood and acrylic to fabrics and leather. The compatibility with such a wide range of materials means that it can be used to make a whole host of creative projects and as such, is an attractive choice for crafters everywhere.
The Automatic Material System (AMS)
Although not part of the base kit, xTool M1 Ultra is compatible with its Automatic Material System (AMS). The add-on not only saves time in changing materials, but also enables multi-color laser engraving and cutting up to four different colors in one job. Although this is a handy feature, the downside it increases material losses and print times that you can read on xTool M1 Ultra review analysis conducted by us.
Safety Features
Safety is a crucial consideration with any crafting machine, especially one that involves lasers. The xTool M1 Ultra doesn’t disappoint in this department. The fully enclosed design and lid sensors ensure the laser only operates when the machine is closed. The motion detection feature, which stops the machine if it’s moved during operation, is a nice touch.
For those concerned about fire safety (a valid concern with any laser cutter), xTool offers an optional fire safety set. While I didn’t experience any issues during testing, the peace of mind this offers might be worth the investment for some users.
Price and Value
The xTool M1 Ultra is positioned as a premium crafting machine, with prices starting at $1,299.99 for the 10W basic bundle and going up to $1,949.99 for the 10W deluxe bundle (as of the time of this xTool M1 Ultra review). While this represents a significant investment, it’s important to consider the value proposition of having multiple crafting functions in a single device.
That might be true even for hobbyists or small business owners who would need separate laser engravers, cutting machines and printers otherwise – the xTool M1 Ultra could save money in both dimensions. Well if you only need one or two of these functions, maybe more specialized (and perhaps less expensive) alternatives will be a better pick.
Who Is This Machine For?
After weeks of testing, it’s clear that the xTool M1 Ultra is a versatile tool. It can be used for both personal and professional projects, from crafting hobbies to small business tasks. Its combination of features makes it ideal for those who enjoy exploring different creative avenues without needing multiple machines.
For beginners, the user-friendly interface and comprehensive software make it easy to start crafting digitally. Experienced makers will appreciate its versatility and the ability to combine features for complex projects.
Small business owners, especially those in the personalized goods market, will find the xTool M1 Ultra to be a valuable asset. The ability to handle everything from design to production in one machine streamlines the process significantly.
Real-World Applications
Throughout our xTool M1 Ultra review process, we explored various applications for this versatile machine. Here are some of the standout use cases:
Home Decor: The xTool M1 Ultra excels at creating custom signs, maps, and decorative items. Combining full-color printing with laser engraving greatly expands the range of mixed media projects.
Gift Making: For personalized photo frames or custom-engraved jewelry boxes, the xTool M1 Ultra creates unique gifts like this one.
—— Small Business Production ——
Craft businesses can offer a wide variety of offerings without having to purchase multiple machines thanks the versatility that xTool M1 Ultra brings with itself.
- Paper Crafting: The combination of cutting and printing capabilities makes the xTool M1 Ultra a powerhouse for creating intricate cards, invitations, and scrapbooking elements.
- Fabric Projects: By its fabric cutting and design applying features alone, the M1 Ultra would be a great asset for quilters or fashion designers.
- Educational Projects: With the many diverse capabilities of this machine, it really is perfect for STEAM education as students an explore so many different manufacturing processes.
Comparison with xTool M1
It’s worth noting the differences between the xTool M1 Ultra and its predecessor, the xTool M1. While both machines offer multi-functional capabilities, the M1 Ultra brings several upgrades to the table:
- Larger working area for laser and blade modes (11.81″ x 11.81″ vs. 15.16″ x 11.81″ for laser mode on the M1)
- Higher maximum working speed (400mm/s vs. 250mm/s)
- Inclusion of inkjet printing and pen drawing modes
- More powerful laser options (up to 20W vs. 10W max on the M1)
However, the xTool M1 Ultra lacks the built-in camera found in the original M1, opting instead for a snapshot preview and framing preview system.
Specifications Chart
| Specification | xTool M1 Ultra | xTool M1 |
|---|---|---|
| Dimensions | 24.41″ x 19.61″ x 7.01″ (620mm x 498mm x 178mm) | 21.93″ x 17.83″ x 9.06″ (557mm x 453mm x 230mm) |
| Weight | 12 KG | 9.8 KG |
| Processing Modes | Laser Mode, Blade Mode, Inkjet Printing, Pen Drawing, Multi-module Processing | Laser Mode, Blade Mode, Multi-module Processing |
| Laser Power Options | 10W / 20W Diode Laser | 5W / 10W Diode Laser |
| Working Area (Laser Mode) | 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm) | 15.16″ x 11.81″ (385mm x 300mm) |
| Working Area (Blade Mode) | 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm) | 14.37″ x 11.81″ (365mm x 300mm) |
| Working Area (Pen Mode) | 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm) | N/A |
| Working Area (Inkjet Mode) | 11.65″ x 11.26″ (296mm x 286mm) | N/A |
| Maximum Working Speed | 400mm/s | 250mm/s |
| Max Laser Cutting Capacity (10W) | 6mm Basswood Board | 6mm Basswood Board |
| Max Laser Cutting Capacity (20W) | 10mm Basswood Board | N/A |
| Max Blade Cutting Capacity | Fine-point Blade: 1.5mm, Cutting Blade: 2.5mm | Fine-point Blade: 1.5mm |
| Built-in Camera | No | Yes |
| Preview Options | Snapshot Preview, Framing Preview | Camera Preview, Framing Preview |
| Positioning System | Pin-point™ Positioning | Camera Positioning |
| Safety Classification | Class 1 Laser Safety | Class 1 Laser Safety |
| Connectivity | USB / Wi-Fi | USB / Wi-Fi |
| Compatible Systems | Android / iOS / iPad / Windows / macOS | Android / iOS / iPad / Windows / macOS |
| Supported File Formats | SVG, DXF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, BMP, etc. | SVG, DXF, JPG, JPEG, PNG, BMP, etc. |
Expandability and Accessories
Versatility is one of the biggest draws for the xTool M1 Ultra. Featuring built-in storage for tools and accessories, the optional riser base will create extra height if you have larger projects. This clever feature helps keep your workspace tidy and organized.
I also test the rotary attachment, to make cylindrical object engraving. You can easily etch your own design onto a stainless steel tumbler. The machine handled the curve perfectly, and the results were surprisingly precise.
For those looking to dive into heat transfer projects, xTool offers compatible heat presses in various sizes. I experimented with the full-sized press for some t-shirt designs, and the results were on par with professional heat press setups I’ve used in the past.
Final Thoughts
The xTool M1 Ultra comes in a range of configurations to meet individual use-cases and budgets. The entry-level 10W package’s $1,699.99 retail price is currently discounted to an even $1,299.99. The price jumps to $1,399.99 when you step up for the advanced bundle with added modules including an inkjet printer, rotary blade and foil transfer tip that is currently selling at a discount from its normal listing of $1,899.99. For those wanting the full experience, the deluxe bundle, complete with the riser base, honeycomb panel, and rotary attachment, retails at $2,499.99, with a current sale price of $1,949.99.
As a standalone unit, the xTool M1 Ultra offers an excellent experience as a versatile crafting machine, combining laser engraving, blade cutting, inkjet printing, and pen drawing capabilities. At under $1,500 USD to get started with a base-model M1 Ultra, Apple could melt some ice out there for anyone between DSLR and LV. However, to bring out its full potential especially for laser engravings, you may have to purchase extra accessories such as an air assist or perhaps a smoke purifier and also rotary attachment. Although these add-ons give a boost to the machine, they only uplift the price altogether.
It’s easy to recommend the xTool M1 Ultra for those who need a single, versatile machine that can handle a wide range of crafting tasks. This is also a great suit for crafters and small business owners because the 4-in-1 function which eventually will save precious space with just one device. And with its simple software and straight forward directions, they are the perfect way for beginners to try their hands at all sorts of crafting methods.
However, if your primary focus is on high-power laser engraving or you require faster processing speeds, it might be worth considering more specialized machines. The xTool S1, for instance, offers 40W of laser power, capable of cutting through thicker materials in a single pass.
Ultimately, the xTool M1 Ultra shines in its versatility and all-in-one approach. The machine itself promotes creativity by being able to quickly switch between modes of crafting. It might not quite have the laser firepower of other machines, but its various functions and general ease-of-use help make it an appealing option for people looking to branch out in their crafting without committing money into several different boxes. Whether it’s the best option for you will vary depending on what your requirements are, how much you can afford and exactly where in that spectrum of versatility versus specialized performance balance lies.
:FAQs:
What is the working area of different modes?
The working areas are as follows:
● Laser Mode: 300mm x 300mm
● Blade Mode: 300mm x 300mm
● Pen Mode: 300mm x 300mm
● Inkjet Mode: 294mm x 298mm
Does it have a camera? How to align when processing?
The xTool M1 Ultra doesn’t have a built-in camera. Instead, it uses Snapshot Preview and Pin-point Positioning™ technology, which is claimed to be 10 times more accurate than single-camera systems.
What’s the ink type? Is it sublimation or normal ink?
The M1 Ultra uses normal ink (DYE ink). xTool is focusing on direct printing and exploring new solutions for more versatile material printing.
How long can each ink cartridge support printing?
Each cartridge can print patterns that fill approximately 20 sheets of standard A4 paper at the default concentration. The actual lifespan depends on factors like printing color, concentration, and ambient temperature.
Will it work with the xTool screen printer?
Yes, the xTool M1 Ultra is compatible with the xTool Screen Printer small-sized frame (M Series).
Is it compatible with xTool Creative Space Software and Lightburn?
The xTool M1 Ultra is designed to work with the official xTool Creative Space (XCS) software for the best performance and full feature set. While Lightburn might be usable for laser functions, it would disable many features and result in a suboptimal experience.
Which is better, xTool D1 or M1?
The choice between xTool D1 and M1 depends on your specific needs. The D1 is primarily a laser engraver and cutter, while the M1 (and by extension, the M1 Ultra) offers more versatility with additional functions like blade cutting and printing. The M1 series is generally more advanced and offers more features, but it’s also more expensive.
Is xTool better than Glowforge?
xTool and Glowforge both have a meaningful market share, but also their product offering is different. Furthering the versatility more than just a system that creates lasers, and moving into this is only present to use xTool machines like an M1 Ultra Multiple Function Tool. The Glowforge Laser Capabilities and Easy to Use Software Which is a “better” option comes down to your specific criteria, with lighting options being dependent on personal needs and budget.
What can you do with the xTool M1 Ultra?
The xTool M1 Ultra can perform a wide range of tasks, including:
● Laser engraving and cutting on various materials
● Die-cutting paper, vinyl, and thin materials
● Full-color inkjet printing
● Automated drawing and writing
● Multi-color projects with the optional AMS
● It’s suitable for creating custom gifts, home decor, signage, paper crafts, and much more.
Is xTool a Chinese company?
Yes, xTool is a Chinese company. It was founded in Shenzhen, China, which is known as a hub for technology and manufacturing.
What is the lifespan of xTool diode laser?
xTool states that their diode lasers have a typical lifespan of about 10,000 hours of use. However, this can vary depending on usage patterns, maintenance, and environmental factors. Regular cleaning and proper use can help extend the laser’s lifespan.
Robb Koch is a USA tech journalist focused on laser engravers and other tech tools. He delivers concise, insightful reviews that help readers make informed decisions. Koch’s work spans the United States, Europe, and Asia, keeping users up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field.
Feel free to reach out to me at i.robbkoch@gmail.com.
