xTool P2 CO2 Laser - One Year Follow-up Review

It's been one year since I got the xTool P2 55W CO2 laser, is it still good? Yes! It's one of my favorite tools and although it's not perfect, it's a good fit for me and for how I use a CO2 laser in my workshop. Obviously everyone's needs will be different, but it's been a really versatile machine that does what I want it to do.

Coupon Code ($80 off) - xToolPartner

00:00 Intro
01:18 Disclaimers!
03:06 How I use the P2
05:01 Pro - Form Factor
06:33 Pro - xTool Software
08:43 Pro - Material Library
10:41 Pro - Camera System
13:04 Cutting and Engraving Performance
15:29 Con - Display and Control Panel
17:14 Con - Flexible, but Fiddly
19:44 Con - Not Standalone
21:51 Who is this for?
24:10 Price and Value?

[alfatech]

Robert, I really appreciate your reviews, especially for their real world relevance. I remember watching the one on the Harbor Freight band saw many moons ago, bought one and have been nicely impressed by its value and quality. Thanks💯

[AR-rpdg]

Hi Robert, thank you for this review. It's exactly my point: the experience with a Chinese laser and the problems that you automatically have at some point. I also use the P2 mainly for prototyping. A really realistic report that is helpful for many users. Thank you!

[georgekabacinski]

Good video, thanks for your input on the P2. Could you tell us more about the stand you have it on, please?

[Zentient]

Note that the XCS 2.0 software now has time estimate and remaining time display on the processing screen.

[Creeds-Creations]

I have had mine since launch very great machine overall. Did have a couple of issues that X-tool resolved by sending replacement parts. Good thing I was still under the 1 year Warranty or it would have been out of pocket cost. I did end up getting a Monport 80w which I love and is faster.

[derekfield]

Great review. I too have had it for a year now. Its an awesome machine. You're spot on about the clunkiness of doing projects bigger than the bed area. My only gripe is no Lightburn support. Like you, i do all designing elsewhere. But man, the xtool software slows my laptop down so much, where as lightburn runs like a charm and has more features.

[DaveKerk]

My 20+ y/o Epilog just died and trying to repair it has cost me several days of trying and could cost over $1, 000. I've been looking at this to replace it and bring me into the modern age. The conveyor for long projects is extremely tempting as making signs for a business would be a breeze. Thanks for the great overview!

[alejandropalacios]

Amazing Video, really cool, new sub here. Just a question, does this machine use air assist? what about the compressor, can you regulate that, also is there any way to control the exhaust of fumes? Because I have heard that modifying these variables you can get better cutting quality and leaving out that brown edges or burns?

[Barbasnoo]

You know when you’re visiting somewhere unfamiliar, and you spot a familiar face that puts you at ease? Well that’s you. I’ve followed your videos all over 3D printing for a while. You guided me well on my Prusa XL Purchasing decision. I was searching around aimlessly for laser cutter videos, and I spot your face on a thumbnail. RELIEF!

[BoldReflections]

How Well Does This Machine Handle Engraving 3D Image Layer Effects In Wood And Acrylics .... Or Would A Fiber Laser Be A Better Fit For Such Projects?
I Thank You For A FACTUAL Video Review About The Long Term Ownership Of This Product.
Maintenance Of CO2 Glass And Inner Tubing ... Please Advise.

[kimmiesrhythms]

Great review! Was wondering if you have a link to the stand you’re using for it?

[jenryall]

Love the table you have for your P2! Can you please share details about it? Does it have wheels? Thanks!

[mikedowney]

Awesome video! Do you happen to have a link to the stand that you put it on?

[firider]

How thick is the thickest material it can accommodate without the riser installed?

[mp]

The biggest question is this: does it work with Lightburn? (a deal-breaker for me)

[SebastienBarrau]

Thanks for this review! Most of the others on YouTube for the P2 are first impressions. Have you had to replace any parts in that first year?

[coffeebreakcustoms]

Hello Robert, how would you rate the ease of cleaning the P2? I am looking for a replacement for my very tired Glowforge Basic.

[zjdoliver]

Hello Robert, just found you during my search for XTool P2 projects. I'm considering purchasing 1/2 inch cast acrylic sheets for a project in which I will be cutting and engraving. I'm curious, if you have experience with 1/2 inch and what settings you use for both cutting/engraving?

Thank you so much for putting this out!

[kenledbetter]

My P2, less than one year old, has had the motherboard replaced, that lasted a few hours of use before the next "communication error". I love the features and SCX software but I'll never buy another xTool.

[ThomasEngelder]

At the beginning of your video the machine is shown on a stand. Is this a custom stand or a stock model? If stock, what brand and size?