SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W vs xTool S1 40W
Verdict
On our scores the xTool S1 40W comes out ahead, 78 to 76. The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is a 20 W diode laser with a 400 × 400 mm work area; the xTool S1 40W is a 40 W diode laser with 498 × 319 mm. The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W costs about $1,000 less at list price.
The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is best for
Home users who want a 20W diode in a real Class 1 enclosure with camera and air assist in the box.The xTool S1 40W is best for
Hobbyists and small sellers who want a powerful diode cutter for wood and dark acrylic that is safe to run in a shared space.Specs and scores side by side
| SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W | xTool S1 40W | |
|---|---|---|
| Laser type | Diode laser | Diode laser |
| Form | Enclosed | Enclosed |
| Optical power | 20 W | 40 W |
| Work area | 400 × 400 mm | 498 × 319 mm |
| Max speed | 40,000 mm/min (about 667 mm/s) | 600 mm/s |
| Air assist | Included | Included |
| Camera | Yes | No |
| Autofocus | No | Yes |
| Safety | Class 1 enclosure with door sensor, flame sensor, tilt protection, emergency stop and key switch | Class 1 enclosure with lid-open stop, 5-direction flame detection, emergency stop and key lock; becomes Class 4 with the Class 4 riser base and conveyor |
| Weight | not published | 20 kg |
| Price | $699 | $1,699 |
| Overall score | 76 | 78 |
| Power score | 65 | 80 |
| Speed score | 72 | 66 |
| Ease score | 82 | 84 |
| Safety score | 90 | 90 |
| Value score | 80 | 76 |
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W or the xTool S1 40W?
On our scores the xTool S1 40W comes out ahead, 78 to 76. The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W is a 20 W diode laser with a 400 × 400 mm work area; the xTool S1 40W is a 40 W diode laser with 498 × 319 mm. The SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W costs about $1,000 less at list price.
Which is cheaper, the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W or the xTool S1 40W?
At list price the SainSmart Genmitsu L8 20W ($699) costs less than the xTool S1 40W ($1,699).
How we rank: by our own scores for power, speed, ease of use, safety and value, from the maker's published specs and independent tests where they exist. Some links earn us a commission (for example TwoTrees, SainSmart, Gweike and Amazon). That never changes a score or the order of a list (disclosure).