xTool S1 40W

Buying notes: xTool S1

Who it suits

Hobbyists and small shops who want an enclosed diode machine that cuts wood and acrylic and engraves some metals, and who have room for a heavy machine. Tom's Hardware found unpacking takes two people.

Known issues and quirks

No camera, so placement is manual with a probe and crosshairs. CNCSourced reports the riser base can cause distance-sensor errors on thin material, and Tom's Hardware notes the riser won't run with the pass-through door open unless the conveyor is fitted. Tom's also reports a persistent burnt-wood smell with the riser, fixed by weather stripping.

Common upgrades and accessories

Air assist pump, honeycomb panel, riser base, rotary, conveyor feeder, a 2W infrared head for metal and an air purifier. The 20W and 40W diode heads swap; CNCSourced puts a swap at about 2 minutes with 2 screws.

Tips

Run a test cut even with the software presets, and add extra probe points to improve placement. Skip the riser for thin material if you can. Never leave a job unattended.

Based on: Tom's Hardware review · CNCSourced review