xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Which One is Better?

When it comes to laser engravers, xTool is a name that’s hard to ignore. Known for its cutting-edge and user-friendly designs, xTool has earned the trust of over 255,000 users in 62 countries and has helped more than 355,000 crafters complete over 30 million projects.

Among its impressive lineup, the  xTool S1 shines as the brand’s most popular model. But how does it stack up against the Glowforge Aura, another hot Glowforge model?

In this blog, we’ll break down the features, performance, and overall user experience of both machines, so you can make a savvy choice that fits your needs and budget.

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: A Quick Look

Before the detailed comparison, let’s take a look at the profiles of both crafting machines:

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Work Area

The size difference is immediately noticeable. The xTool S1 boasts a working area of 19.6" x 13", which is a substantial 76.94% larger than the Glowforge Aura's 12" x 12" area. See below for a comparison of placing an 11.8" x 11.8" piece of plywood inside each machine.

While both machines can handle a variety of projects, the xTool S1 offers a more versatile solution. The S1 can easily tackle projects that the Aura simply can't, such as large door signs. Plus, you can batch engrave multiple items at once; for example, the S1 can engrave up to 117 pet tags in one go.

In the long run, the xTool S1 is a smarter investment. Its large work area lets you complete more tasks simultaneously, boosting your efficiency. As your skills grow, the S1 keeps up with your needs, providing ample space for all your projects. Instead of constantly upgrading, the xTool S1 offers great value with just one purchase.

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Material Processing Capabilities

Material processing capabilities largely depend on the type of laser and its power. The Glowforge Aura comes with a 6W diode laser, which is great for cutting and engraving common materials like paper, cardstock, leather, and wood. However, its lower power limits its cutting depth.

In comparison, the xTool S1 offers much greater flexibility and processing power. It features four variants: 40W, 20W, and 10W diode lasers, plus a switchable 2W infrared laser module (sold separately). This versatility means the xTool S1 can handle all the materials the Glowforge Aura can, but with the added advantage of cutting thicker materials thanks to its higher wattage options.

Additionally, the 2W infrared laser on the xTool S1 expands its capabilities even further, enabling it to process a wider range of materials, including plastics, metals, and opaque acrylics.

The xTool S1 also offers better upgrade potential compared to the Glowforge Aura; as your needs evolve, you can simply purchase different wattage laser heads rather than investing in an entirely new machine.

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Performance

In addition to laser optical power, the speed at which a laser machine completes its cutting and engraving tasks is crucial for performance.

The xTool S1 excels in this area. The 10W module can engrave materials at speeds up to 400mm/s, and the more powerful 20W and 40W module can reach speeds of 600mm/s. In contrast, Glowforge hasn’t provided specific speed details for their machines. To understand real-world performance, we conducted a test.

We engraved a cat design on basswood using the xTool S1 10W model, and it took just 3 minutes and 46 seconds to finish. In comparison, the same task on the Glowforge took a substantial 20 minutes and 18 seconds. The xTool S1 is 81.5% faster than the Glowforge Aura.

xTool S1

Glowforge Aura

Importantly, the results from the xTool S1 were also more precise (see figure).

xTool S1 10W

Glowforge Aura

Moreover, Glowforge users often need to manually experiment with various power and speed settings to achieve the best results, unless they use the official materials. In contrast, the xTool S1 streamlines this process by providing optimal engraving parameters directly within its software. With the EasySet Library, which offers over 400+ preset material parameters and is constantly updated, users can easily find the optimal settings for their projects.

xTool EasySet Library

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Software

Carrying on that software discussion – Glowforge works with Glowforge print, their custom software designed for Glowforge craft machines. It’s subscription-based software, which requires you to pay $50/month or $239 annually. Although engraving functionality is free, you still have to subscribe to unlock basic editing and customization features and the cutting operation.

Glowforge Software

On the other hand, xTool S1 utilizes xTool Creative Space. It’s free software, available for use on most platforms (Windows, MacOS, iPadOS, IOS, Android). It’s designed for those with no prior experience in laser cutting and engraving.

xTool Creative Space

Most of the setting parameters are recommended by the software – it has over 400+ preset settings. Also, you get access to over 6000 free templates in the xTool DesignFind. Even creating unique laser art and images is possible with the in-built AI tool, AImake.

xTool DesignFind

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Safety

Safety is a key consideration when purchasing a laser machine. Fortunately, both the xTool S1 and Glowforge Aura are fully enclosed and feature Class 1 laser certification, making them safe for regular use.

To further address concerns about accidental fires, xTool includes a Free Fire Safety Kit with any purchase of the xTool S1 20W or 40W models. This exclusive kit, available only from xTool, can quickly put out fires with a burst of CO2.

The xTool S1 also provides multiple layers of safety for added peace of mind. It includes auto-stop functionality when the lid is opened, an emergency stop button, and a UL94 V-0 fire retardant coating— the highest fire safety rating. These features ensure you can use the xTool S1 safely in any environment, including those with children and pets.

xTool Fire Safety Set

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Quality

If you closely examine the Glowforge Aura, you'll notice extensive use of plastic both inside and outside, including on the rails. This reliance on plastic can affect stability and processing speeds.

In contrast, the xTool S1 features a build made from aerospace-grade aluminum with an average thickness of 3mm throughout. This use of aluminum not only makes the frame lightweight but also allows the xTool S1 to achieve higher processing speeds without compromising stability.

Glowforge Aura

xTool S1

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Extensibility

While the Glowforge Aura comes with just an air filter as an accessory, the xTool S1 offers a wide range of add-ons that significantly expand its capabilities.

Expand Your Work Area

The xTool S1 features the AutoPassthrough™ Slot, which supports projects up to 118 inches (3000mm) long. This add-on removes length constraints, allowing you to work on oversized items such as door panels or furniture pieces.

Go Beyond Flat Surfaces

With 3D Curve™ technology, the xTool S1 can flawlessly carve on curved surfaces like spoons, kettles, and plates.

For engraving cylindrical and spherical objects such as tumblers, balls, and rings, the rotary attachment RA2 Pro is the perfect companion. This flexibility makes the xTool S1 a powerful tool for a wide range of projects. In contrast, the Glowforge Aura is limited by its machine size and cannot achieve these capabilities.

RA2 Pro

Create Colorful Art with Ease

S1 can also be used with the xTool Screen Printer. You can use it to create screen printing stencils through laser engraving, then print vibrant designs on almost any material (fabric, wood, glass, paper, stone, etc.). This add-on significantly broadens your creative horizons, enabling you to produce intricate and colorful designs with ease.

xTool Screen Printer

xTool S1 vs Glowforge Aura: Community

When investing in a laser machine, the community support available can make a significant difference in your experience. The xTool S1 boasts an official Facebook group with over 11,000 active members. This vibrant community is a treasure trove of shared projects, tips, and solutions. Anytime you have a question, you’ll find answers quickly, backed by official support and enthusiastic fellow users.

In contrast, the Glowforge Aura lacks an official Facebook group. The available groups are unofficial and less structured, which can make finding reliable information and support more challenging. With the xTool S1, you’re not just buying a machine, you’re joining a thriving community.

Verdict: Which is Better?

The xTool S1 stands out as a more affordable and versatile option compared to the Glowforge Aura. Priced at just $899 for the S1 10W machine (with a material kit), it offers exceptional value. In contrast, the Glowforge Aura costs $1199 and comes with a smaller working space and fewer features.

For a similar investment in the xTool S1, you can get multiple add-ons like a material kit, rotary attachment, honeycomb panel, and air assist, enhancing your machine’s capabilities right from the start.

Additionally, the xTool S1 boasts an upgrade potential that the Aura lacks. Starting with the 10W model, you have the option to purchase higher wattage laser heads, such as the 40W, in the future. This flexibility ensures that your machine can grow with your needs, making it a smarter long-term investment.

The xTool S1 beats the Glowforge Aura in every way, giving you the best value and top-notch performance for your money.

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