xTool P3 vs Glowforge Pro
Industrial Power vs. Creative Simplicity
xTool P3
Glowforge Pro
The desktop laser market has matured, and two machines stand at a crossroads: the industrial-focused xTool P3 and the creatively-oriented Glowforge Pro. While both are CO2 lasers, they represent fundamentally different philosophies. The P3 is an 80W powerhouse built for speed, automation, and production, while the Glowforge Pro is a 45W machine prized for its user-friendly software and simple workflow.
This comparison cuts through the marketing to help you decide which machine is the right investment for your workshop or business in 2025.
Quick Verdict: A Clear Winner for Most Users
For small businesses, serious hobbyists, and anyone prioritizing performance, the xTool P3 is the undisputed winner. Its 80W laser, 1200mm/s speed, larger work area, and critical automation features (AutoLift, LiDAR rotary) deliver a professional-grade experience that the Glowforge Pro’s aging hardware cannot match.
The Glowforge Pro remains a viable option for users who value an extremely simple, cloud-based software experience above all else and have lighter-duty cutting needs. However, its premium price is difficult to justify against the P3’s superior capabilities.
Detailed Specification Comparison
| Feature | xTool P3 | Glowforge Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Laser Power | 80W CO₂ | 45W CO₂ |
| Max Speed | 1200mm/s | ~141mm/s |
| Working Area | ~36" × 18" | 19.5" x 11" |
| Safety Rating | Class 1 | Class 4 |
| Automation | Motorized AutoLift, LiDAR | Manual Focus |
| Rotary Engraving | Smart RA3 (LiDAR) | Optional Add-on (Manual) |
| Fire Suppression | Built-in | None |
| Price | $5,999 (Pre-sale) | $4,995 |
Deep Dive: The Key Differences
1. Performance: Power & Speed
The P3's 80W laser is nearly twice as powerful as the Glowforge Pro's 45W tube. This translates to faster cutting through thicker materials. The speed difference is even more stark: the P3's 1200mm/s is over 8 times faster than the Glowforge Pro's ~141mm/s, making it far more suitable for production environments.
2. Automation & Workflow
The P3 is packed with automation features that streamline the workflow. The motorized AutoLift base automatically sets the correct focal height, while the LiDAR-powered rotary accessory makes engraving cylindrical objects effortless. The Glowforge Pro requires manual focus adjustments and its rotary add-on is a more basic, manual process.
3. Safety & Enclosure
The xTool P3 is a certified Class 1 laser device, meaning it's fully enclosed with safety interlocks, making it suitable for more environments with less stringent safety protocols. It also includes a built-in fire suppression system. The Glowforge Pro is a Class 4 laser, which requires a more controlled environment and operator precautions.
4. Software & Connectivity
Glowforge's cloud-based software is famously easy to use, a major draw for beginners. However, it requires a constant internet connection. The xTool P3 works with xTool's Creative Space (which is also very user-friendly) and is compatible with the professional-grade LightBurn software, offering more flexibility and offline use.
Final Verdict: Which Should You Buy?
For small businesses, high-volume makers, or anyone who sees a laser as a productivity tool, the xTool P3 is the clear and superior choice. The investment in automation, power, and speed will pay for itself in time saved and capabilities unlocked.
For the casual hobbyist who prioritizes a simple, hand-held software experience and is willing to accept significant limitations in hardware performance, the Glowforge Pro can still be a good entry point, but it is no longer in the same performance class as the P3. See how the P3 compares to its predecessors in our xTool P3 vs P2S vs P2 comparison.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: Yes, dramatically. The P3 has a maximum speed of 1200mm/s, which is over 8 times faster than the Glowforge Pro's approximate 141mm/s. Combined with its 80W power (vs 45W), the P3 completes jobs in a fraction of the time.
A: The main advantages are industrial performance (80W vs 45W, 1200mm/s vs ~141mm/s), automation (motorized AutoLift, LiDAR ranging), and safety (Class 1 certification, built-in fire suppression). The P3 also has a larger work area and an optional IR laser module for metal engraving.
A: The P3 offers an optional 5W Infrared (IR) laser module specifically designed for directly engraving metals (like stainless steel and aluminum) and plastics. The Glowforge Pro can only mark metal using specialized compounds.
A: The Glowforge Pro's cloud-based software is very user-friendly. However, xTool's Creative Space software is also designed for beginners. The P3's advanced camera system and automation features like the AutoLift base can make setup easier for new users.
A: Both machines require replacement CO2 laser tubes after several thousand hours of use. The Glowforge Pro has a more closed ecosystem with its Proofgrade materials, which can be more expensive than sourcing your own. The xTool P3 is more open, allowing you to use any compatible material, which can lead to lower ongoing material costs.
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