Take a closer look at the xTool M1, a hybrid laser/blade cutting machine that will change the way you craft!
What is xTool M1?
The xTool M1 - 10W machine is like if a laser cutting machine and a Cricut had a baby. In fact, this is the first desktop hybrid laser/blade cutting machine in the world! This means that with just ONE machine, you can create your favorite electronic cutting machine crafts using the blade (like shirts and tumblers), and the laser allows you to cut and engrave all kinds of projects. The crafting possibilities are endless!
Unboxing xTool M1
Now that you know what the machine actually is, it's good to know what's included when you open the box. Luckily, the xTool comes pre-assembled, so you don't have to do much to get it up and running. There are two different M1 machines, 5W or 10W.
xTool M1 10X Basic Package:
- xTool M1 10W Machine
- Power Cord
- USB Cord
- Exhaust Pipe Kit
- 10 Triangular Prism Risers
- Blade Housing
- Package of (5) 45-degree replacement blades
- 2 Cutting Mats (Light Grip - Blue and Strong Grip - Pink)
- Basic Materials Package (PU Leather, Vinyl, 3mm basswood, metal bone dog tag)
xTool M1 10X Deluxe (RA-2) Package:
- Everything in the basic package, plus:
- RA-2 Pro
- Premium Materials Package
xTool M1 Measurements and Features
The machine measures 22x18x9 inches, and weighs about 22 lbs. Connect your computer to the machine via USB or wifi, and can be used on both Windows and iOS operating systems.
There is a built-in fan with ventilation pipe help disperse smoke and dust out a window. However, if you need to place the machine in an area without a window, you can use a smoke purifier accessory. It is recommended to always use the machine in a well-ventilated area.
The laser spot has a 0.08mm diameter and a carving precision of 0.01mm. The xTool M1 also has a 16-pixel high-resolution camera, 500dpi image resolution, real-time preview, and auto-focus adjustment to help ensure accuracy in cutting and detailed engraving on all your projects.
Safety Features:
- Class I (FDA Certified) Rating
- Blue light filtering lid - protect your eyes while viewing projects in progress
- Auto-stop feature - machine automatically turns off if the lid is lifted while a project is in progress
- Built-In Ventilation System
- Push-Button Start - machine won't start without pushing it
xTool Creative Space Software
xTool has their own free software, Creative Space (XCS), which I found it to be quite similar to Cricut Design Space. It's user-friendly and simple to create using basic shapes, text, and other design elements and can customize to your heart's content. You can also upload your own designs and images into XCS, which I will be elaborating on in a future post.
As I mentioned in the features section, there is a real-time camera in the machine. This is extremely helpful to visually arrange your design in XCS onto the material already in the machine so that you get the most use of your space!
What materials can xTool M1 cut?
Using the blade, you can cut a lot of the same types of materials that can be cut with a Cricut Maker machine, like vinyl, HTV, paper, cardstock, leather, felt, and more. The reason you would use the blade and not the laser for these materials is because the laser cuts by burning through the material. These thinner types of materials will have cleaner cuts using a blade.
The M1 10W laser can engrave and cut through many materials, like wood, leather, opaque acrylics, PVC, slate, metal, and so much more! I'm excited to test out as many materials as I can to see what's possible.
If you have any questions about the machine, or suggestions for future xTool projects, please leave me a comment! Be sure to follow along with me on this new adventure as I will be sharing a lot more M1 projects that include laser engraving and cutting as well as how to create projects with that pair the laser and blade.
