When it comes to desktop laser engraving and cutting, safety, precision, and versatility are key. In 2025, two standout enclosed laser machines dominate the mid-range segment — the xTool S1 Blue + IR Laser Kit and the Creality Falcon A1.
Both are powerful diode-based engravers built for creators, small businesses, and hobbyists. But while Creality’s Falcon A1 offers solid performance, xTool S1 stands out as a more advanced, flexible, and professional-grade solution.
Let’s explore how they compare, what features matter most when choosing a laser engraver, and why xTool is the smarter investment.
In Summary
When it comes to desktop laser engraving and cutting, safety, precision, and versatility are key. In 2025, two standout enclosed laser machines dominate the mid-range segment — the xTool S1 Blue + IR Laser Kit and the Creality Falcon A1.
Both are powerful diode-based engravers built for creators, small businesses, and hobbyists. But while Creality’s Falcon A1 offers solid performance, xTool S1 stands out as a more advanced, flexible, and professional-grade solution.Let’s explore how they compare, what features matter most when choosing a laser engraver, and why xTool is the smarter investment.
Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post – this means that if you click through and order anything through them, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. These commissions help me continue my work here, and I greatly appreciate the support.
💡 1. What to Look for in a Laser Engraver
Before comparing specific models, it’s essential to understand what defines a good laser engraver. Here are the key factors every buyer should consider:
- Laser Power & Type: Determines how effectively the machine can engrave or cut through different materials.
- Engraving Precision: Affects the clarity and accuracy of detailed designs.
- Material Compatibility: The broader the range, the more creative possibilities you have.
- Speed & Efficiency: Impacts production time and overall workflow.
- Safety & Enclosure: Enclosed machines protect users from laser light and debris.
- Software & Ease of Use: Intuitive software and smart camera systems enhance the engraving experience.
With these criteria in mind, let’s see how xTool S1 and Creality Falcon A1 compare.
⚙️ 2. xTool S1 vs. Creality Falcon A1: Key Specifications
| Feature | xTool S1 Blue + IR Laser Kit | Creality Falcon A1 10W |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Power | 40W Blue Diode + 2W IR (1064nm) | 10W Diode |
| Engraving Area | 498 × 319 mm | 400 × 415 mm |
| Engraving Speed | Up to 600 mm/s | Up to 400 mm/s |
| Material Support | Metal, wood, acrylic, glass, leather, plastic | Wood, acrylic, leather, limited metal |
| Focus System | Autofocus with visual preview | Manual focus |
| Enclosure | Fully enclosed with safety lid | Enclosed design |
| Camera/Preview | 16MP Smart Positioning Camera | No built-in camera |
| Software | xTool Creative Space (XCS), LightBurn | Creality Print |
| Special Feature | Dual-laser system for metal & organic engraving | Compact, beginner-friendly |
🚀 3. Power & Versatility
The xTool S1 leads in pure power and flexibility. Its dual-laser setup — combining a 40W blue diode laser with a 2W infrared (1064nm) laser — allows it to engrave both organic materials (like wood, leather, and acrylic) and reflective metals (like stainless steel or gold).
In contrast, the Creality Falcon A1 features only a 10W diode laser, which struggles with metal engraving and deeper cuts on dense materials. While suitable for entry-level projects, it cannot match the S1’s versatility in professional or multi-material applications.
🎯 4. Precision & Speed
When it comes to detail and speed, xTool S1 once again takes the lead. With ultra-fine 0.06 × 0.06 mm spot size and up to 600 mm/s engraving speed, it ensures sharp lines and crisp finishes — ideal for jewelry, logos, or intricate patterns.
The Falcon A1’s 10W module is accurate but slower, making it better suited for light craft work than mass production.
🧠 5. Smart Features & Usability
xTool is known for designing intelligent, user-friendly systems — and the S1 is no exception. It features:
- Automatic focus adjustment
- Integrated camera for real-time design preview
- Smart alignment and batch engraving
- Intuitive software (XCS) compatible with both beginners and advanced users
Creality’s Falcon A1 lacks a camera and requires manual alignment and focusing, which can slow down setup time and reduce precision for detailed tasks.
🧳 6. Safety & Design
Both machines are enclosed, offering protection from laser exposure and fumes. However, xTool S1’s sealed chamber features automatic door detection, smoke filtration, and light-blocking glass, ensuring maximum safety during operation.
The Falcon A1 has a more basic enclosure, lacking the advanced filtration and real-time safety sensors found in xTool’s design.
🪵 7. Material Range
xTool S1 supports an impressive variety of materials, including:
- Wood, acrylic, leather, fabric
- Metal (via infrared laser)
- Glass and plastic engraving
This makes it a truly all-in-one system for makers and small businesses. The Creality Falcon A1 handles organic materials well but cannot engrave metals or glass with the same quality.
💬 8. Software Experience
The xTool Creative Space (XCS) software offers intuitive control, live camera preview, and cross-device synchronization. It’s also compatible with LightBurn, the industry-standard laser software, allowing advanced customization.
Creality’s software, while user-friendly, is more limited in functionality and lacks real-time engraving simulation.
🏆 9. Why Choose xTool
In every major category — from power to safety — xTool S1 outperforms the Creality Falcon A1. It’s built not just for hobbyists but for professionals who demand flexibility, reliability, and top-tier results.
Here’s why choosing xTool is a long-term investment:
- Dual-laser power covers nearly every material type.
- High-speed engraving improves productivity.
- AI-driven camera alignment enhances precision.
- Superior safety features protect users and workspaces.
- Regular firmware updates & global support ensure lasting value.
🧩 10. Final Verdict
If you’re serious about creative engraving, xTool S1 is the clear winner.
While the Creality Falcon A1 offers decent entry-level performance, it lacks the flexibility and intelligence of xTool’s ecosystem.
With its dual-laser innovation, camera-guided workflow, and industrial-grade precision, the xTool S1 stands as the most capable enclosed laser engraver in its class.
👉 Learn more about the product here:
xTool S1 + 1064nm IR Laser Kit: Enclosed Diode Laser Engraver & Cutter
https://www.xtool.com/pages/diy-shopping-guidexTool S1 + 1064nm IR Laser Kit: Enclosed Diode Laser Engraver & Cutter
