xTool P2 vs xTool P2S: Is The Upgrade Worth It?

On September 12, 2024, xTool launched an upgraded version of their flagship desktop CO2 laser engraver, the xTool P2, releasing the xTool P2S. 

We dive into the details about what the upgrades are and whether they are worth it! 

Our Verdict: The xTool P2S offers enhanced features over the already strong xTool P2, reflecting customer feedback. During the deposit period, it’s a compelling choice at the same price as the P2. Even with a potential price increase after the period, the added features justify the small premium for those scaling their engraving production.

1) What is the xTool P2?

The xTool P2 is a very popular laser cutting and engraving machine designed for both hobbyists and professionals. Equipped with a 55W CO2 laser, it offers excellent precision, making it suitable for a wide variety of materials such as wood, acrylic, leather, and some metals.

Known for its intuitive user interface and compatibility with multiple software options like LightBurn, the xTool P2 allows users to easily bring their creative ideas to life. Whether you're a small business owner or a maker, the xTool P2 offers a balance of power, precision, and affordability.

At a starting price of just under $4,000, the xTool P2 offers compelling value for high performance laser engraving machine that is suitable for a variety of materials and a good entry point for small businesses looking to scale their production. 

2) What makes the xTool P2S different?

While most of the core features of the xTool P2 remain unchanged, the changes and updates in the xTool P2S are highlighted below in red.

Comparing Specifications: xTool P2 vs xTool P2S

3) What do the upgraded features in the xTool P2S mean?

X-Axis Acceleration

The increased X-axis motor acceleration in the xTool P2S significantly enhances engraving efficiency by speeding up the process. This improved acceleration (6,400m/s² vs 3,200m/s²) means that the laser head can move more quickly along the X-axis during engraving, which shortens the overall time taken to complete a project.

According to xTool lab tests, the P2S is capable of increasing engraving speed by up to 40% compared to its predecessor, the P2, under optimized conditions, particularly with slender design projects. The higher acceleration allows for smoother, faster movement across the material without sacrificing precision.

Air Assist Capacity

The xTool P2S introduces an industry-first dual-cylinder air pump, which significantly boosts airflow stability. By doubling the airflow compared to previous models, the P2S ensures a more consistent and powerful stream of air during the cutting process. This increase in airflow stability allows for better material removal and prevents debris from obstructing the laser, leading to sharper, more precise cuts. The P2S achieves an air pressure of 200KPa, which is a notable 33% increase over the P2 model.

This enhanced air pressure results in cleaner cuts and improved overall cutting quality, particularly on thicker materials. The higher air pressure keeps the work area free of smoke and particles, allowing for a more efficient cutting process. For users seeking to achieve finer details and more professional results in their projects, the P2S’s advanced air pump system provides a significant performance advantage over the P2.

Exhaust Fan

The xTool P2S features an exhaust system with a high-performance brushless motor, operating at an impressive 14,000 RPM. This system is equipped with dual fans designed to maximize efficiency by handling both dust intake and exhaust. One fan pulls dust and debris into the system, while the other pushes it out, ensuring that the engraving workspace remains clean. This configuration results in outstanding exhaust performance, comparable to that of a vacuum cleaner.

With up to 200% increased exhaust efficiency, the dual-fan system dramatically enhances airflow during cutting and engraving processes. The high RPM motor, combined with the powerful suction and exhaust capabilities, not only improves air quality around the workspace but also ensures that the laser performs more efficiently. By keeping the work surface free of debris and smoke, the P2S enables cleaner, more precise cuts while extending the lifespan of the machine components.

Optical Path Indicator

The xTool P2S makes setting up your optical path quick and easy with its built-in Alignment Indicator, allowing users to align the laser’s optical path in just five minutes. This system provides clear guidance, helping users achieve precise alignment, a critical step in maintaining laser accuracy and performance. Even beginners with minimal experience can easily follow the indicator's cues to set up the optical path without any prior technical knowledge.

The added value lies in the simplicity and time savings this feature offers. Traditional optical path alignment can be complex and time-consuming, often requiring multiple adjustments to get it right. With xTool’s Alignment Indicator, this process is streamlined, reducing setup time and frustration. As a result, users can focus more on their projects and less on technical fine-tuning, leading to greater efficiency and ease of use for both beginners and experienced laser operators.

Curved Cylinder Engraving

The P2S upgrade enhances the precision of engraving on curved cylindrical objects by improving 3D modeling capabilities. This advancement ensures that rotary accessories can now achieve more accurate and detailed engravings on curved surfaces, offering greater flexibility and quality in custom engraving projects.

Batch Fill 2.0

The P2S introduces a new feature that allows you to process multiple designs in a single batch, streamlining large projects by enabling the simultaneous personalization of various images, names, and numbers. This enhancement significantly boosts efficiency and saves time, making it easier to handle complex and customized tasks all at once.

4) How is the pricing structured for the xTool P2S?

With its launch on September 12, the xTool P2S is offering a limited deposit period until September 17, during which you can secure the lowest rate of $3,999 with a small deposit of $30. This deposit allows purchasers to receive a $300 discount off their final order if the remaining balance is paid between September 18 and September 27. Additionally, xTool is including a complimentary honeycomb panel as a bonus during the deposit period, which adds extra value to the offer.

Our Verdict: The xTool P2 is already a highly versatile and powerful desktop CO2 laser engraver that performs well against competitors. The upgraded features in the xTool P2S demonstrate xTool's responsiveness to customer feedback. Given the enhancements and the opportunity to obtain the xTool P2S for the same price as the xTool P2 during the deposit period, it makes sense to choose the P2S if possible.

After the deposit period, the price of the xTool P2S may increase to $4,299, a $300 premium over the xTool P2. In our opinion, the additional features justify this small premium, especially for those looking to advance their laser engraving production.