10 Best Laser Engravers For Beginners 2025 in the United States

The xTool S1 is a robust laser engraver that is well-suited for beginners looking to dive into the world of laser cutting and engraving. With a powerful 40W laser, it can easily cut through materials like cherry wood, making it ideal for various projects, from personalized gifts to signs. The spacious engraving area of approximately 24 x 15 inches allows for larger creations, which could be beneficial for those wanting to work on bigger items or multiple small projects at once.

One of the standout features is the user-friendly software, xTool Creative Space, which simplifies the design process. Its AI capabilities mean you don’t need design experience to create something unique; just enter text and the software generates a design for you. Additionally, the machine comes with extensive tutorials, making it accessible for novices.

Safety is another significant advantage. The machine has a protective cover that filters out laser light, ensuring safety around children and pets. The built-in flame sensors and emergency stop features add extra peace of mind while operating. However, there are a few considerations. The weight of 110 pounds means it may not be easily portable, which could be a drawback for users who need a more mobile solution. Also, while the machine is designed for ease of use, beginners may still face a learning curve when it comes to mastering the software and optimizing settings for various materials, despite the pre-tested settings. The xTool S1 is a powerful and safe option for beginners in laser engraving, offering great support and usability features while standing out for its ease of setup and operation, but potential users should be prepared for some initial learning when it comes to material compatibility and software usage.

The xTool P2S is a powerful 55W CO2 laser engraver designed for beginners who want to explore detailed and versatile engraving projects. It offers a spacious 26" x 14" engraving bed with an optional passthrough feature, allowing you to work on larger or taller items like mugs and rings when paired with add-ons. The machine excels in cutting and engraving a wide range of materials including wood, acrylic, glass, leather, and metals with high precision, thanks to its strong laser output and advanced autofocus system.

Its dual 16MP cameras provide real-time previews, making it easier to position designs accurately, which is a big help for users just starting out. The accompanying software supports batch processing, allowing efficient work on multiple items at once. Safety is well addressed with features like AI fire detection, emergency stop, and an enclosed design that manages smoke and fumes effectively. The machine is relatively heavy and larger than some beginner models, which might require dedicated space. Also, some useful accessories like the conveyor feeder and riser base are sold separately, adding to the initial cost.

The P2S offers strong performance and user-friendly controls, but beginners should consider their workspace and budget before investing. For those seeking a fast, precise, and flexible laser cutter that can grow with their skills, this model is a solid choice with some upgrades that make complex projects more accessible.

The xTool F1 Ultra 20W Laser Engraver is designed for beginners who want a powerful and versatile machine that can handle various materials. One of its standout features is the dual laser technology, offering both fiber and diode lasers, which allows it to engrave metals, woods, and other materials with impressive speed—up to 10,000mm/s. This makes it suitable for creating intricate designs quickly, which can be especially beneficial for those interested in customizing products like jewelry or crafts.

The engraving area is quite generous, measuring 220mm x 220mm, and can expand with an optional auto conveyor, enhancing productivity for batch processing. The inclusion of a 16MP camera helps in precise alignment and management of designs, making it easier for beginners to produce professional-looking results.

However, there are a few considerations. The requirement for an additional auto conveyor for expanded working space may add to the overall cost. While the machine's capabilities are impressive, it might be overwhelming for complete novices who may need time to learn how to fully utilize its features. Moreover, although it has numerous safety features, being a Class 4 laser engraver means that users must take precautions during operation, which could be a hurdle for some. The software compatibility is a strong point as xTool provides a supportive ecosystem for design and production, which can ease the learning curve. However, beginners might still find some aspects of the software challenging initially. Lastly, with a warranty of just one year, potential buyers should consider the longevity and reliability of the machine for their intended use.

The xTool F1 Ultra is a robust option for beginners keen on exploring laser engraving, especially those interested in customization and detailed designs. Its combination of speed, versatility, and safety features makes it an attractive choice, but new users should be prepared for a bit of a learning curve.