10 Best Portable Laser Engravers 2025 in the United States

The xTool F1 Ultra 20W laser engraver is a powerful machine that excels in both metal and wood engraving, making it suitable for hobbyists and small businesses looking to produce high-quality items. One of its standout features is the dual laser system, which offers impressive speeds of up to 10,000mm/s and the ability to handle a wide range of materials, from metals like stainless steel to softer materials like wood and fabric. Its capability for 3D embossing and deep engraving adds versatility for creating intricate designs.

Portability is a mixed bag; while the machine is designed for easy use in various settings, it weighs 51 pounds, which might make it less portable than some users expect. However, the enclosed design includes safety features such as an emergency stop button and smoke extraction, making it safer for use in public spaces.

The user-friendly software and the community-driven design projects provide additional support, making it easier for beginners to get started. The large engraving area of 220mm x 220mm, expandable with additional accessories, is a plus for those looking to work with larger pieces. This product is ideal for those invested in jewelry making, crafting, or small-scale customization, offering both speed and versatility. However, potential buyers should consider the weight and the additional costs for optional accessories before purchasing.

The xTool S1 is a 40W laser engraver designed for those looking for a powerful and user-friendly machine for various crafting projects. One of its standout features is its impressive laser power, which allows it to easily cut through materials like wood and engrave on metal, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced users working on larger projects. The spacious engraving area of 23.93" x 15.16" gives you plenty of room to create, whether you're making personalized gifts or detailed designs on tumblers. Additionally, it can engrave at high speeds of up to 600mm/s, which enhances productivity.

Portability is a bit of a mixed bag; while it’s relatively easy to set up and use, its weight of 79.2 pounds makes it less ideal for frequent transport. However, the machine's design includes safety features like a protective cover that filters most laser light and built-in flame sensors, making it safer for environments with kids and pets.

The xTool Creative Space software is another strong point, offering an intuitive interface for creating designs without requiring extensive prior skills. The AI design feature is particularly useful for those who might struggle with graphic design. The xTool S1 is a robust option for hobbyists and small business owners who want a versatile laser engraver that balances ease of use with powerful capabilities, though it may not be the most portable choice for on-the-go projects.

The xTool S1 Laser Engraver is a strong choice for anyone looking to start or upgrade their engraving projects, especially if you want to work on larger items thanks to its generous 23.93" x 15.16" engraving area. Its 10W laser power delivers very fine detail, making it great for photo-realistic engravings and precise work on materials like wood, leather, acrylic, and even some metals. The included air assist and honeycomb bed improve cutting and engraving quality by reducing smoke and heat buildup.

One standout feature is its beginner-friendly design. The machine comes mostly ready to use out of the box with autofocus and intuitive software called xTool Creative Space. This software supports over 400 material settings and even helps create designs using AI, which is perfect if you’re new to laser engraving or don’t have design skills. The machine’s safety is also impressive, with a Class 1 laser enclosure that filters most laser light and stops automatically if flames are detected or the lid is opened, making it safe around children and pets.

On the durability side, the aluminum frame is solid and built to last, and the product has been through extensive testing for reliability. It’s somewhat portable at about 44 pounds, but it isn’t super lightweight, so it’s best suited for a dedicated workspace rather than frequent travel. Some useful accessories like the riser base, rotary attachment, and more powerful laser modules need to be bought separately, which can add up. Also, while it handles many materials well, very thick or highly reflective metals might require additional equipment. The xTool S1 is well suited for hobbyists and semi-professional users who want a precise, safe, and easy-to-use engraver for a variety of materials, especially if working on medium to large projects. Its balance of power, safety, and user-friendly features makes it a solid pick in the portable laser engraver category.