First xTool X1 review: 9 out of 10 from CGMagazine, but not for beginners

The xTool X1 has been on sale since 29 October 2026, and the configurations and prices are in our earlier article. The first reviews are now appearing. Canadian magazine CGMagazine published a detailed review on 28 October and gives it 9 out of 10.

What was tested

Brendan Frye tested the X1 with the 55 W CO₂ laser, the galvo module with a 20 W diode and the optional 5 W UV module. According to the review, the machine weighs 60 kg and measures 1,000 x 580 x 420 mm. Unboxing takes two people, and assembly and calibration took around an hour.

Strengths and weaknesses according to the review

The review praises the combination of CO₂ cutting and fine galvo engraving in one machine, the sturdy die-cast build, the swappable laser sources, the software with material presets, camera alignment and automatic height adjustment, and the detail of the engravings.

Criticism goes to the high price, which rises with every add-on module, the weight and space required, and some software quirks. The reviewer calls the X1 a platform rather than a plug-and-play engraver. He explicitly does not recommend it to hobby beginners, but rather to people who have outgrown smaller lasers or are planning a small business. As with any laser: never leave it running unattended.

Further reviews, including from German outlets, are still to come.