xTool’s new modular laser platform can swap between CO2, diode, fibre, MOPA and UV lasers. For photographers, that means engraving images onto wood, slate, metal and more, with framing, packaging and studio props in the same machine.

xTool has launched the X1, a flagship desktop laser engraver and cutter that is on sale and shipping now. On paper it’s a maker and small-business machine. We think it’s worth a closer look for photographers too, particularly anyone who sells prints, runs a small studio or wants to turn their images into physical products.

Two motion systems in one

Most desktop lasers make you choose between a fast galvo head with a small working area and a slower gantry with plenty of space. The X1 combines both. A high-speed “Flying-Galvo” system is mounted on a large-format gantry, and the two are driven together through a synchronised four-axis linkage. xTool quotes galvo speeds of up to 6,000mm/s and a 615 x 320mm working area for surface engraving. The frame is a die-cast aluminium chassis designed to remove the micro-vibrations that can leave visible seams in large engravings.

The big idea is what xTool calls LaserSwap. Every X1 includes a 55W CO2 laser, which is ideal for cutting wood, acrylic and leather. A 20W diode galvo module can be added, and that in turn opens up optional 30W fibre, 60W MOPA and 5W UV laser sources that clip on as “backpack” modules.

Why photographers should care

This is where it gets interesting for us. A CO2 laser can engrave photos onto wood, slate and leather and cut bespoke mounts, frames and presentation boxes. A fibre or MOPA source adds deep metal engraving and colour marking on stainless steel, so you could make metal prints, branded tags and equipment ID plates. The UV source is a non-thermal option for delicate surfaces, which makes it better suited to fine photographic detail on materials that would scorch under a hotter beam.

xTool’s Automated Creation System also helps. A triple-camera system locates your material with sub-millimetre precision, and an AutoLift base sets the bed height automatically. Lining up a portrait on an oddly shaped piece of slate should be much less of a guessing game.

It isn’t small, though. The main unit measures 1000 x 580 x 420mm and weighs 60kg, so you’ll need a dedicated space. We have an xTool review machine on the way and will be testing its photo-engraving abilities in particular.

xTool X1 specifications

xTool X1 price and availability

The xTool X1 is available now from the xTool UK store, with limited-time launch pricing: