xTool F2: Unboxing and first impressions
With dimensions of just 175 × 237 × 334 millimeters, the xTool F2 is significantly more compact than the manufacturer's larger systems. For example, the xTool S1, which we have already tested (here to testSince it requires a fixed place in the workshop, the F2 disappears easily into the cupboard or shelf after the work is done.
The scope of delivery includes the device itself, the power supply, a removable work surface, a positioning bracket, material samples, and the necessary accessories for exhaust ventilation. The workmanship makes a high-quality impression. The housing is made primarily of aluminum, all controls appear robust, and the integrated carrying handle emphasizes the laser's portability.
Another positive aspect is that the F2 is delivered fully pre-assembled. After removing the transport locks and connecting the power supply, setup can begin immediately.
xTool F2: Two lasers, diode and IR
To be able to process different materials, the xTool F2 uses a 15 watt diode laser and an additional 5 watt infrared laser with a wavelength of 1064 nanometers.
The diode laser handles classic tasks, including engraving on wood, leather, paper, slate, or dark acrylic materials. Small cutting jobs are also possible.
The infrared laser expands the range of applications to include metals such as stainless steel, aluminum, and brass, as well as various plastics that the diode laser cannot process. Complicated and time-consuming modifications to switch between the lasers are unnecessary. Both lasers are integrated, and the switchover is automatic.
xTool F2: Small workspace, deliberately chosen
At 115 x 115 millimeters, the work area initially seems disappointingly small. Anyone who has previously worked with an open frame laser or a larger system like the xTool S1 will have to adjust. Larger signs, decorations, or extensive cutting projects simply cannot be realized on the standard work area.
However, the F2 shouldn't be judged by the same criteria as a classic workshop laser. The working area is easily sufficient for typical engraving objects. Dog tags, keychains, knives, pens, metal cards, jewelry, or business cards all fit within its working area without any problems.
Optionally, xTool offers a slide extension that expands the working area to 400 x 115 millimeters. This allows for the processing of longer workpieces. However, the focus remains clearly on smaller objects.
xTool F2: Software remains a strength
The software remains one of xTool's greatest strengths. The user interface of xTool Studio is clearly structured and suitable for both beginners and experienced users. Windows and macOS are supported, while Linux is not.
There is currently no alternative software, such as LightBurn, that would also run under Linux. Anyone who chooses this device will therefore inevitably have to work with xTool Studio, which is why I like to draw a comparison with Apple. xTool devices are particularly impressive in terms of quality, but this convenience and simplicity come at the cost of limited openness.
On the other hand, xTool Studio offers a range of functions that often require multiple programs from other manufacturers. Project management, material library, camera positioning, device control, and basic image editing are all combined in a single application.
In addition, there is an extensive material database with pre-configured settings for numerous materials, as well as a large template library that makes it particularly easy for beginners to get started and provides inspiration. Personal projects can be conveniently organized, saved, and later accessed again.
Newer AI features further expand the range of functions. For example, backgrounds can be removed, motifs enhanced, or simple graphics created via text input. In practice, these tools work quite well and can speed up the workflow.
It's a bit of a shame that the AI features aren't included in the purchase price. Instead, credits are required, which must be purchased separately. Given the F2's not exactly cheap price, I would have at least expected a generous free allowance or permanent basic usage.
The connection between the laser and the software is made via WLAN or wired via USB.
xTool F2: Camera and Autofocus
While many cheaper laser engravers still rely on eyeballing when positioning workpieces, the F2 uses a 50 MP camera to create a high-resolution preview image of the work area. Graphics and text can then be placed directly on the camera image.
Instead of measuring positions or conducting test runs, the design is simply dragged to the desired location on the screen. The additional autofocus automatically adjusts the laser optics to the workpiece height. This combination saves an enormous amount of time, especially for individual pieces and varying materials.
xTool F2: Practical test
As already mentioned, the xTool F2 is primarily designed as an engraving laser. Accordingly, the focus of the practical test was less on cutting projects and more on engraving different materials.
Engravings on wood
It all started with engravings on plywood and solid wood using the 15-watt diode laser. Logos, lettering, and intricate graphics are no problem for the xTool F2. It can burn them cleanly and with high contrast onto virtually any type of wood.
The high operating speed of the galvo system is particularly impressive. While conventional diode lasers have to move their laser head along the X and Y axes, the F2's laser beam is guided by mirrors, which is significantly faster. In our test, the F2 produced an engraved key ring from solid wood in less than a minute, making even small production runs quick and easy.
The F2 can cleanly cut through thin plywood up to 1,5 millimeters thick in a single pass, but due to its relatively small working area, this isn't its primary strength. However, the F2's cutting performance is perfectly adequate for small pendants, name tags, or decorative elements.
Engravings on leather
Leather is one of the materials that is particularly well-suited for processing with diode lasers. Regardless of color and surface texture, clean, high-contrast engravings with excellent detail reproduction are achieved. Even small font sizes and intricate designs are rendered with precision.
Even though engraving on wood and leather takes very little time, it produces a noticeable odor. For indoor use, therefore, it is recommended to vent the air to the outside or to use the optional xTool air filter.
Engravings on metal
The 5-watt infrared laser is primarily used for engraving metal. A special feature of the infrared laser is the ability to create so-called tempering colors on stainless steel. By selectively altering the material surface, different color tones are produced depending on the speed and power, without the need for paint or a coating.
Finding the right settings requires some patience and several test runs, but the results are impressive. Depending on the material, various effects are possible, from gold and bronze tones to shades of blue and violet. The templates in xTool Studio help you find the perfect settings.
On anodized aluminum, lettering and logos are displayed with razor-sharp clarity. Even small texts remain easily legible.
Engravings on plastic
The xTool F2 can also be used to process various plastics. The infrared laser is particularly well-suited for marking technical components, tools, or housings.
As with all lasers, not all plastics are created equal. The results depend heavily on the material composition and color. Therefore, it's advisable to test on a scrap piece before every project.
Engraving on glass with the Rotary
To test the optional rotary module, I also engraved a wine glass. As is well known, glass is not a material that can be directly processed with a diode laser. Therefore, a special laser marking film was used, which is applied to the glass before engraving.
Setting up the rotary was straightforward. After connecting it to the F2 and activating it in the software, the wine glass was clamped in place within minutes. While the camera function isn't fully available in this operating mode, positioning was still easy, and the engraving ultimately came out on the glass without distortion.
Anyone who regularly wants to personalize drinking glasses, wine and champagne glasses, bottles, or thermal mugs should definitely consider including the Rotary module in their plans. Especially for weddings, corporate gifts, or events, the extension opens up additional possibilities that perfectly complement the F2's mobile nature.
However, this compact design also reveals a limitation. With a maximum processing height of 120 millimeters, not all containers are easily compatible. Larger drinking bottles or particularly tall glasses may reach their limit depending on their shape.
xTool F2: Accessories
In general, xTool offers a comprehensive range of accessories for the F2. Besides the rotary module, these include a slide extension to enlarge the work surface and an air filter for indoor use. All extensions are supported by xTool Studio and can be used without any modifications.
As with the software, the downside of the closed ecosystem is also evident here. The accessories are high-quality and well-designed, but their prices are comparatively high. Anyone wanting to fully utilize the F2's functionality should therefore factor in the costs of potential expansions from the outset.
xTool F2: Security
Despite its compact dimensions, the xTool F2 is a Class 4 laser. Therefore, the device should not be considered a harmless hobby tool.
Safety is ensured by a closed housing, an emergency stop switch and a USB security key, without which the laser cannot be started.
Once accessories like the Slide Extension or the Rotary Module are used, the protective hood may no longer close completely, depending on the workpiece, so additional precautions should be taken. Certified laser safety glasses are recommended here, suitable for both the 455 nm diode laser and the 1064 nm infrared laser. It's a shame that xTool doesn't include such safety glasses as standard.
