xTool M2: Laser engraver cuts wood and prints in color

xTool, a company that manufactures smart laser cutters, engravers and craft machines, has just launched the M2. Advertised as a multifunctional tool for makers that comes in various packages, including one with an inkjet module, the starting price is $549. According to the manufacturer, the fully equipped M2 is particularly versatile and can be used not only for laser engraving and cutting, but also for CMYK inkjet printing.

Diode lasers with a power output of 10 or 20 watts are used for cutting and engraving. For engraving metal, an infrared laser with a power output of 3 watts is on board. An inkjet module can also be installed as an add-on. The 20-watt diode laser is said to be capable of cutting 10 mm thick basswood and 8-mm-thick black acrylic. According to the manufacturer, the inkjet module can be used to print not only on paper and cardboard, but also on wood and canvas. A single ink cartridge costs a hefty $99.

The model measures 610 x 569 x 180 millimeters, so it should fit relatively well on a desk. Weight is 2.3 kilograms. The maximum working area measures 426 × 320 millimeters, but this is smaller when using the IR laser and the inkjet module. Thanks to two cameras with live preview, material recognition and intelligent alignment, operation is designed to be straightforward. The positioning accuracy (or, more specifically, the deviation) is up to 0.2 millimeters, with a measurement accuracy of 0.1 millimeters.