xTool P2 CO2 Laser Cutting & Engraving Machine Ideal for Small Business. It is able to cut and engrave at high speeds the hardest woods, plastic material ( including acrylic), papers textiles etc. with a fast 55W positioned laser system that includes double cameras and very intuitive software for its end users. Sure, the initial investment is high but on top of its productivity-improving features and possibility to expand further in terms of build volume this might make P2 an interesting pick for a group such as enterprisers looking to modernize their production facilities.
Unboxing and Setup
Right off the bat, it’s clear the xTool P2 means business. This isn’t a small desktop gadget, weighing in at a whopping 99 pounds. There is no way one person is going to be able to unbox and helpfully position this beast. While xTool markets it as a “desktop” machine, that might be a stretch unless you’ve got some serious counter space to spare. At 39 inches wide, you’re looking at dedicating a good chunk of real estate to this laser.
The good news is that the xTool P2 comes largely pre-assembled. You have to remove some protective material, install a few pieces and fill the cooling system with supplied antifreeze mixture. There’s a full-color manual included with xTool and it also has online video tutorials available for step-by-step guidance. Virtually any user can have it up and running in an hour or two.
One thing to keep in mind: To really get the best out of the P2, you’ll probably have to park it on a dedicated stand in an open space. This improved air flow makes it possible to use the pass-through feature when processing long workpieces (more on that later).
Pros & Cons
Pros ✅
+ Versatility: Work with Diverse Materials
+ Speed and Power: Boost Productivity
+ Precision: High-Quality Results
+ Room to Grow: Optional Accessories
+ User-Friendly Software: Simplified Workflow
+ Safety Features: Comprehensive Protection
Cons 📛
– Learning Curve: Mastering Features Takes Time
– Size and Weight: Requires Dedicated Workspace
– Initial Investment: Significant Upfront Cost
– Ventilation Needs: Ensure Proper Airflow
Powerful Performance for Diverse Applications
At the heart of the xTool P2 is a robust 55-watt CO2 laser tube. This powerhouse can slice through 18mm black walnut and 20mm acrylic in a single pass, leaving diode lasers in the dust. To put it in perspective, the P2 can zip through 3mm basswood six times faster than a typical 20W diode laser.
The xTool P2 isn’t picky about materials either. Wood, acrylics, leather (faux and real), MDF, board, rubber and fabric. It also marks on glass, ceramic, slated, coated metal, and anodized aluminum. This flexibility allows small businesses to offer a wide variety of items.
With engraving speeds up to 600mm/s, the P2 is a productivity powerhouse. It can help businesses crank out projects faster and boost their output.
Precision and Smart Features
The xTool P2 comes equipped with two 16MP cameras that make alignment a breeze. The close-range camera works with the laser head to ensure distortion-free imaging and precise detailing. This feature is a game-changer for businesses that need to nail intricate designs or custom work.
One standout feature is the P2’s ability to automatically create 3D models of curved objects. This means you can engrave on curved surfaces without breaking a sweat, potentially opening up new product lines for your business.
Generous Work Area and Expandability
The xTool P2 offers a generous 26.8″ x 14.2″ work area, which is 50% larger than many competitors. This extra space means you can tackle bigger projects or process multiple items at once, ramping up your productivity.
For businesses dealing with extra-long materials, there’s an optional Automatic Conveyor Feeder. This nifty add-on lets you work with items up to 118 inches long – perfect for sign makers or anyone working with oversized materials.
Need to engrave on taller objects? The riser base accessory has got you covered, allowing you to work on items up to 8.4 inches tall. Think custom trunks, briefcases, or chunky decorative pieces.
User-Friendly Software
The xTool P2 comes with its own software called xTool Creative Space (XCS). It’s designed to be user-friendly and efficient, offering one-click operations for importing images, creating outlines, and setting up materials. The software also includes a growing library of pre-set material settings, which can save you time and reduce trial and error.
XCS gets monthly updates, introducing cool new features like AI drawing and image tracing. This means your business will have access to cutting-edge capabilities without having to shell out for additional software.
The xTool P2 plays nice with Wi-Fi, USB, and Ethernet connections, so you can easily integrate it into your workshop setup and even operate it remotely if needed.
Safety First
The xTool P2 takes safety seriously, which is crucial for any business. Here’s what it offers:
- Enclosed design with a light-filtering lid to keep light and smoke contained
- Automatic lid lock during operation
- Optional fire safety set for flame detection and extinguishing
- Emergency stop button for quick shutdowns
- Multiple warning systems for issues like overheating or low cooling water
These safety features provide peace of mind and can be important for insurance and regulatory compliance.e.
Real-World Performance
We put the xTool P2 through its paces with some common materials:
- Wood Engraving: Using 3mm basswood, we etched a detailed photograph. The results were crisp with minimal discoloration, thanks to the built-in air assist.
- Acrylic Cutting: The P2 sliced through clear acrylic like butter, producing a 5-inch star with clean edges in about 5 minutes.
- Metal Engraving: We created a business card on thin metal in roughly 6 minutes. The result was clear and professional, with a working QR code.
- Precision Work: We engraved text on standard pencils to test fine detail capabilities. The results were impressive – clear, legible text completed in under 5 minutes.
These tests show that the xTool P2 can handle a variety of common business applications with speed and precision.
Return on Investment Considerations
For small businesses, the xTool P2 represents a significant initial investment. However, several factors contribute to its potential ROI:
- Increased Productivity: The higher cutting and engraving speeds provide great output in less time so turnaround times are quicker.
- Expanded Service Offerings: The ability to work with diverse materials enables businesses to broaden their product range and target new markets.
- Reduced Labor Costs: Automated features and user-friendly software can decrease the time and skill required for complex projects.
- Quality Improvements: Precise engraving and cutting lead to higher-quality products, potentially justifying premium pricing.
- Lowered Operating Costs: Compared to outsourcing or using multiple specialized machines, the P2’s versatility can reduce overall equipment and maintenance costs.
- Scalability: Optional accessories allow the machine to grow with your business, avoiding the need for complete system upgrades.
Business owners should consider their specific product offerings, production volume, and target market when evaluating the P2’s potential return on investment.
User Experiences and Feedback
Analyzing user reviews reveals consistAnalyzing user reviews reveals consistently positive experiences with the xTool P2:
- Easy Setup: Many users praise the straightforward assembly process, typically completed in under 30 minutes.
- Software Satisfaction: The xTool Creative Space software gets high marks for being user-friendly and regularly updated.
- Quality Results: Users consistently report impressive engraving and cutting quality across various materials.
- Learning Curve: While generally user-friendly, some users note it takes time to fully master the machine’s capabilities.
- Customer Support: xTool’s customer service receives positive mentions, with users appreciating responsive support.
- Air Quality Concerns: Several users recommend additional ventilation or air purification for optimal indoor use.
This feedback underscores the P2’s suitability for small businesses, particularly those new to laser cutting and engraving.
Optimizing the xTool P2 for Business Use
To maximize the xTool P2’s potential in your business, consider these tips:
- Dedicated Workspace: Set up a well-ventilated area for the machine, keeping its size and weight in mind.
- Material Sourcing: Build relationships with suppliers for commonly used materials to ensure consistent quality and cost-effectiveness.
- Template Creation: Create a library of design templates for highly repeatable assets that help to simplify your workflow.
- Regular Maintenance: Set a schedule for maintenance and ensure this machine is kept clean so downtime can be prevented.
- Staff Training: Invest time in thoroughly training staff on both the hardware and software aspects of the xTool P2.
- Project Pricing: Carefully calculate job costs, factoring in material, time, and machine depreciation to ensure profitability.
- Marketing: Showcase the P2’s capabilities through samples and social media to attract customers interested in customized products.
Pricing and Value
At $4,499 (often on sale for $4,099), the xTool P2 represents a substantial investment. However, when compared to industrial CO2 lasers with similar capabilities, it offers excellent value. The inclusion of features like the dual-camera system and curved surface engraving at this price point is particularly impressive.
The P2 has the potential to be a productivity accelerator for small businesses too – and that could make it earn its Keep with remarkable speed. For hobbyists, however, the cost would need to be weighed against how much you are likely going to use them and what level results you require.
Be aware that you may need to factor in the cost of some optional accessories if you want all-out performance from a P2, which could take your total investment closer towards $5k-$6K.
Is It Worth the Investment?
The xTool P2 is a significant investment, but it offers several potential returns:
- Increased Productivity: Faster cutting and engraving means higher output and quicker turnaround times.
- Expanded Services: The ability to work with diverse materials lets you broaden your product range and target new markets.
- Reduced Labor Costs: Automated features and user-friendly software can decrease the time and skill needed for complex projects.
- Quality Improvements: Precise engraving and cutting can lead to higher-quality products, potentially justifying premium pricing.
- Lower Operating Costs: Compared to outsourcing or using multiple specialized machines, the P2’s versatility can reduce overall equipment and maintenance costs.
- Room to Grow: Optional accessories allow the machine to scale with your business, avoiding the need for complete system upgrades.
Comparison with some similar models
Thunder Bolt Overview:
The Thunder Laser Bolt is positioned as a high-speed, desktop laser engraver with industrial-grade components. Key features include:
- Power: 30W RF metal tube (comparable to a 60W CO2 tube)
- Speed: 1,000mm/s max engraving speed with 3G acceleration
- Working Area: 20″ x 12″
- Resolution: Up to 2,000 DPI with 1.5″ lens
- Material Capacity: 4.3″ max part height
- Built-in Features: Integrated exhaust, air pump, and camera
- User Interface: 5″ touchscreen control
- Software: Comes with RDWorks, compatible with LightBurn (sold separately)
- Extras: Rotary capability, front pass-through, auto-focus, red dot pointer
The Bolt is designed for durability with its all-metal construction and emphasis on high-quality parts. It’s marketed as being up to 4x faster than competitors like Glowforge or xTool P2. The company offers lifetime USA-based support and a 2-year warranty.
Glowforge Pro Overview:
The Glowforge Pro is marketed as a premium, user-friendly laser cutter and engraver. Its key features include:
- Power: 45W CO2 laser tube
- Working Area: 19.5″ x 11″ (with unlimited length using Pro Passthrough)
- Material Capacity: Up to 2″ thick materials
- Built-in Features: Air assist, internal cooling system
- Camera System: Dual camera system for material recognition and placement
- Software: Cloud-based software accessible from various devices
- Speed: Advertised as 3x faster than the Glowforge Basic model
- Cooling: Enhanced cooling for all-day printing
- Extra Features: Pro Passthrough for infinitely long materials, compatible with a wide range of materials
Glowforge emphasizes ease of use, with features like automatic material recognition when using their Proofgrade materials. The cloud-based software is designed to be intuitive, allowing users to go from idea to finished product quickly. The Pro model offers enhanced cooling and the Passthrough feature for larger projects.
comparison chart of the xTool P2, Thunderbolt, and Glowforge Pro:
| Feature | xTool P2 | Thunder Laser Bolt | Glowforge Pro |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laser Power | 55W CO2 | 30W RF (comparable to 60W CO2) | 45W CO2 |
| Working Area | 23.6″ x 12.1″ | 20″ x 12″ | 19.5″ x 11″ |
| Max Material Height | 2″ (8.4″ with riser) | 4.3″ | 2″ |
| Engraving Speed | 600mm/s | 1,000mm/s | Not specified (3x faster than Basic) |
| Pass-through | Yes | Yes (Front) | Yes |
| Camera System | Dual 16MP cameras | High-resolution camera | Dual camera system |
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Capability | Available as add-on | Yes | Available as add-on |
| Air Assist | Built-in | Yes (Dual stage on Plus/Pro) | Built-in |
| Cooling | Enhanced cooling | Air-cooled | Enhanced cooling |
| Software | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn compatible | RDWorks (LightBurn optional) | Proprietary web-based |
| Warranty | 12 months | 24 months | 12 months |
| Price | $4,995 (often on sale) | Starting at $5,495 | $4,995 (on sale from $6,995) |
—— Bottom Line ——
After comparing the xTool P2, Thunder Laser Bolt, and Glowforge Pro, it’s clear that each machine offers unique strengths for different user needs:
The xTool P2 stands out with its powerful 55W laser, which is the highest in this comparison. It offers a slightly larger working area than its competitors and has an impressive dual 16MP camera system for precise alignment. The P2’s enhanced cooling system allows for extended use, making it suitable for small businesses or heavy users.
At 1,000mm/s engraving speed, the Thunder Laser Bolt has the fastest on this list – which could allow you to pump out more tasks quicker with your laser cutter. And it has the highest max material height at 4.3 inches, which may give users working with thicker materials an advantage over competing machines (some who have a maximum of just.158mm). The Bolt gets a beefier 2-year warranty – perfect for anxious early adopters.
The Glowforge Pro : A little less in terms of specifications, but an easy-to-use machine thanks to its web-based software ecosystem. It is specifically hailed for being beginner friendly which might come in handy if you are new to all this or looking forward an easy learning curve.
In terms of price, the xTool P2 and Glowforge Pro are similarly priced when the Glowforge is on sale, with the Thunder Laser Bolt being slightly more expensive.
Ultimately, the choice between these machines will depend on specific user needs:
- For raw power and cutting capability, the xTool P2 has an edge.
- For speed and material versatility, the Thunder Laser Bolt is impressive.
- For user-friendliness and ecosystem integration, the Glowforge Pro excels.
All three are machines that can do lots of things. Consumers will need to consider individual needs-what materials they are working with, how complex their projects are and comfort level with technology-as well.
FAQs
What should I do if the baseplate of my xTool P2 isn’t installed correctly?
If you’re experiencing issues with the baseplate of your xTool P2 not being installed correctly, there are a few steps you can take. First, ensure that the baseplate is seated properly in the grooves. Check for any debris or obstructions that might be preventing proper installation. It’s also helpful to consult the user manual for the correct installation steps. If you’ve tried these solutions and are still having problems, it’s best to reach out to xTool customer support for further guidance. They can provide specific troubleshooting steps based on your situation.
How do I maintain the air pump on my xTool P2?
During the installation process it may look like your xTool P2 baseplate not installed correctly. Make sure the base plate is in all the way on top of the two grooves Inspect for anything that could be present blocking the screen from fitting properly. Also, it helps to look at the manual for steps on how to position them correctly. If these tips were still not enough, it is recommended to contact xTool customer support for further assistance. They will be able to provide you with troubleshooting steps applicable for your case.
My xTool P2 isn’t powering on. What should I check?
Here are some things to check if your xTool P2 is not starting. CHECK TO MAKE SURE THE POWER CABLE IS PROPERLY CONNECTED (BETWEEN MACHINE AND WALL OUTLET) You can also try plugging in another device to verify the outlet itself is functioning. Make sure the power switch on the machine is set to “ON”) Make sure you have gone through all of these if P2 still not turning on, then contact xTool support. They can walk you through additional troubleshooting steps, or help determine if the device should be repaired.
How do I set up WiFi on my xTool P2?
Setting up WiFi on your xTool P2 is generally a straightforward process. Start by ensuring your P2 is powered on and within range of your WiFi network. Open the xTool Creative Space software on your computer and look for the WiFi setup option in the software settings. You’ll need to select your network and enter the password when prompted. Follow any additional on-screen instructions to complete the setup. If you encounter any issues during this process, try restarting both your P2 and your router, then attempt the setup again. For persistent connectivity problems, xTool’s customer support can provide more detailed, model-specific guidance to get your P2 connected to your network.
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.
