Glowforge Pro HD vs xTool P2S
Verdict
On our scores the xTool P2S comes out ahead, 82 to 66. The Glowforge Pro HD is a 45 W co2 laser with a 495 × 279 mm work area; the xTool P2S is a 55 W co2 laser with 600 × 308 mm. The xTool P2S costs about $5,000 less at list price.
The Glowforge Pro HD is best for
Small businesses, schools and makerspaces that will pay a large premium for the easiest browser-based CO2 workflow.The xTool P2S is best for
Makers and small businesses who want a real CO2 cutter for wood and acrylic products without building a dedicated laser room.Specs and scores side by side
| Glowforge Pro HD | xTool P2S | |
|---|---|---|
| Laser type | CO2 laser | CO2 laser |
| Form | Enclosed | Enclosed |
| Optical power | 45 W | 55 W |
| Work area | 495 × 279 mm | 600 × 308 mm |
| Max speed | n/a | 600 mm/s |
| Air assist | Built in | Built in |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Autofocus | Yes | Yes |
| Safety | Enclosed with lid and rear door interlocks, but rated Class 4 because of the passthrough slot; UL certified, no emergency stop button | Enclosed with automatic lid lock, AI flame detection and emergency stop; sold as a Class 1 version (lid and baseplate interlocks) and a Class 4 version |
| Weight | 25 kg | 45 kg |
| Price | $7,999 | $2,999 |
| Overall score | 66 | 82 |
| Power score | 76 | 82 |
| Speed score | 60 | 66 |
| Ease score | 93 | 88 |
| Safety score | 82 | 85 |
| Value score | 38 | 80 |
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, the Glowforge Pro HD or the xTool P2S?
On our scores the xTool P2S comes out ahead, 82 to 66. The Glowforge Pro HD is a 45 W co2 laser with a 495 × 279 mm work area; the xTool P2S is a 55 W co2 laser with 600 × 308 mm. The xTool P2S costs about $5,000 less at list price.
Which is cheaper, the Glowforge Pro HD or the xTool P2S?
At list price the xTool P2S ($2,999) costs less than the Glowforge Pro HD ($7,999).
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).