xTool Unveils Modular Laser X1 Supporting Five Laser Types

xTool has unveiled its next-generation laser machine, the “X1.” It features a modular design that supports five types of lasers in a single unit: CO2, diode, UV, fiber, and MOPA. At its core is the integration of large-area processing via a gantry system and high-speed processing via a galvo system within a single enclosure.

According to reporting by Denise Bertacchi of Tom’s Hardware, the machine will feature the company’s first flying galvo mechanism. The announcement was made at The Next Level Maker Conference held in Grapevine, Texas. The event combined a retreat and exhibition for makers, featuring lectures by experts who have turned their hobbies into businesses.

xTool says its new X1 laser will be the last one you’ll ever need.

The company positions the X1 as “the last machine you will ever need.” The modular design envisions switching between laser types depending on the application.

Modular Support for Five Laser Types

The X1 is designed to allow all laser types manufactured by xTool to be added to a single system. It supports five types: CO2, diode, UV, fiber, and MOPA. Conventional hybrid machines were limited to switching between diode and infrared lasers with different power outputs. The X1 expands the range of materials and creative expression by switching between lasers with different frequencies.

This expansion is enabled by an interchangeable backpack mechanism. Lasers of different frequencies generated on the backpack side are directed to the galvo head. This allows the galvo head to function as a diode laser for wood processing, a UV laser for crystal engraving, or a MOPA laser for metal engraving. The concept of switching material compatibility with a single head reduces the burden of owning multiple dedicated machines. It also helps reduce workshop footprint and initial investment costs.

The concept of modularization has also become common in the software field. As illustrated by Inspired by GNOME OS Test Center and Apple TestFlight, approaches that share a common platform while extending functionality improve development efficiency. Similar expandability is demanded in hardware. The X1’s backpack system can be seen as an implementation that meets this demand.

Integration of Gantry and Galvo Technologies

The technological core of the X1 lies in the fusion of gantry and galvo systems. The gantry system secures a wide processing area with a movable gantry, while the galvo system excels in drawing speed through high-speed mirror scanning. The “flying galvo” configuration integrates the strengths of both into a single enclosure.

The company positions the X1 as its first flying galvo machine. It can maintain a large processing area while performing fine engraving and high-speed marking within the same workflow. Previously, separate machines were required for large-format processing and high-speed fine processing. Integration reduces the need for changeovers and reconfiguration.

The high speed of the galvo head directly contributes to improved throughput in mass production. The ability to complete both prototyping and small-lot production on a single machine offers significant operational advantages for individual workshops and small businesses. Anticipated use cases include continuous processing such as base preparation on large panels followed by fine decorative work.

Dual-Head and Interchangeable Backpack

The X1 adopts a dual-head configuration. The galvo head and the CO2 laser head are arranged in parallel. The control system automatically selects the head to use based on the processing task. It can also operate using both heads in combination when necessary.

This selection mechanism accommodates differences in materials and processing objectives. CO2 is suited for cutting non-metals such as wood and acrylic. The galvo side excels at fine engraving on metal, resin, and glass. By switching heads, cutting and engraving can be completed within a single job.

The backpack mechanism serves the role of frequency conversion. Each laser source is housed in the backpack. The beam path is directed to the galvo head, with final irradiation controlled on the galvo side. Separating the light source from the head achieves both weight reduction and higher speed for the head. Maintenance and future addition of light sources can also be handled on a per-backpack basis. This aims to keep redesign costs low when expanding the system.

Standard Configuration and Outlook for

October Launch

The standard configuration combines a 55W CO2 laser with a 20W diode laser for the galvo head. The high output of the CO2 laser handles cutting of thick materials. The 20W diode provides sufficient power for engraving on wood and leather. This is considered the most versatile combination for initial adoption.

Pricing has not been disclosed at the time of the announcement. The launch is scheduled for October 2026. Detailed specifications, supported materials, and full details on software integration are expected to be revealed as the launch approaches. According to reporting by Denise Bertacchi of Tom’s Hardware, pricing information will have to wait for a future announcement.

In connection with this announcement, xTool disclosed that travel arrangements were provided, while stating that editorial independence was maintained. The content of the hands-on exhibits and demonstrations at the launch event will be subject to future verification.

SE1 Embroidery Machine and Ecosystem Expansion

xTool also indicated expansion beyond laser machines. It previewed a new embroidery machine, the “SE1.” The model supports regular sewing and single-color embroidery and is positioned as an entry point to the company’s ecosystem. A key feature is its ability to share design assets with the existing xTool product lineup.

The SE1 utilizes xTool’s design suite. It is expected to allow designs for laser processing to be repurposed as embroidery data. Integration with UV printers and other devices is also envisioned. Furthermore, in combination with the “O1 Omni,” a method of coloring thread using a DTG (direct-to-garment) approach was presented. This is an idea to complement multicolor expression with a single-color embroidery machine.

Multicolor embroidery is typically achieved with commercial embroidery machines equipped with multiple needles. Such machines are expensive to introduce and require expertise to operate and maintain. A method that combines a single-color machine with post-process coloring could serve as a more accessible alternative for beginners. The aim is to ensure color expression while avoiding complex machine control.

Ecosystem strategies can be observed in other fields as well. As in the case of LG OLED evo Brings Creator Original Picture Mode to Prime Video, value is enhanced by creating a consistent workflow from video production to viewing. xTool’s move to bundle laser, UV printing, and embroidery within the same design environment can be evaluated as a similar integration-oriented approach.

Positioning and Challenges in the

Professional Market

The X1 targets everyone from individual makers to small-scale manufacturers. Its ability to handle multiple materials and expressions with a single unit helps reduce reliance on outsourcing. It is expected to shorten lead times from prototyping to productization. For educational institutions and fab labs, adoption could reduce the burden of acquiring multiple machines.

Challenges remain, however. Operating with five interchangeable lasers requires thorough optical alignment and safety measures. Because light sources with different outputs and wavelengths are handled, protective equipment, ventilation, and fume countermeasures for each material are essential. On the software side, optimization of processing parameters is also required. There is a learning curve for beginners to master all functions.

Modularity comes at the cost of increased initial complexity in exchange for expandability. Additional purchase costs for backpacks and heads, as well as storage and swapping efforts, are part of the operating costs. The actual retail price after launch, the supply system for interchangeable modules, and the scope of maintenance services will be key to widespread adoption.

AI and software integration will also be a future focus. As seen with Mozilla AI Releases Llamafile 0.10.4, Bundling Speech Recognition into a Single File with Transcribefile, methods that distribute complex functions in a single file lower the barrier to adoption. Alongside hardware modularization, if assistive features that automatically suggest processing conditions are implemented, the difficulty of operating the X1 could be reduced.

Editorial Opinion

In the short term, we expect the X1’s flying galvo and dual-head configuration to influence capital investment decisions for small workshops. If pricing and per-module costs are revealed before the October launch, replacement demand from existing CO2 and fiber laser owners could materialize. In the three to six months immediately following the announcement, pre-order trends and early reviews will likely determine the pace of adoption.

In the long term, we assess that it will accelerate the shift of laser machines from single-function devices to versatile, multi-wavelength fabrication tools. An environment where wood, metal, resin, and glass can be handled with a single unit will expand the expressive range of personal fabrication. If adoption progresses in educational settings and community maker hubs, a cross-material prototyping culture could take root.

As an unverified issue, ensuring optical precision and safety when swapping modules remains a question. Reproducibility when switching beam paths via the backpack system and clarification of safety standards for different wavelengths are essential. Regarding ecosystem expansion as well, the extent to which disparate processes such as laser and embroidery can be integrated within the same design environment will require verification in real-world use.

References

• ” xTool reveals its next generation of lasers — modular X1 supports CO2, Diode, UV, Fiber, and MOPA lasers ”, by Denise Bertacchi — Tom’s Hardware, 2026-09-07T14:05:05.000Z (ARR)
• Source URL: https://www.tomshardware.com/maker-stem/xtool-reveals-its-next-generation-of-lasers-modular-x1-supports-co2-diode-uv-fiber-and-mopa-lasers