xTool P3 vs P2S vs P2: Which CO2 Laser Fits Your Work?
Compare the workspace, workflow, and reasons to upgrade
Buying guidance updated
Article Topics
2026 EXPERT ANALYSIS80W VS 55WLIDAR AUTOMATIONCLASS 1 VS CLASS 4 SAFETYChoose the xTool P3 when its larger 915 × 458 mm work area and automation solve a recurring problem in your shop. P2S covers smaller jobs in a 600 × 305 mm area. If you already own a P2 that handles your work, identify a specific limitation before paying to replace it.
X1 workshop first look · Checked October 19, 2026
Also considering the X1?
The xTool X1 has been in our workshop since September 2026, with 55W CO₂, 20W diode, and 60W MOPA sources installed and weeks of testing so far. xTool sent this early X1 unit for review. xTool has no review or approval of our testing, results, or verdict.
Starting at $3,399 for the X1 Single CO₂ configuration, xTool’s official launch price (USD).
P3, P2S and P2 are the CO₂ machines compared here. X1 uses a modular architecture: Laser Swap™ is xTool’s modular laser-source system.
Quick verdict: buy the capacity you will use
- P3 for larger recurring work: Consider the xTool P3 when its larger bed, 80W CO₂ source, and automated setup address jobs you already need to make. Check the machine footprint, extraction, and complete bundle cost before deciding.
- P2S for work that fits its bed: The xTool P2S is the smaller 55W CO₂ option. A shop whose normal jobs fit its work area may get more use from materials, fixtures, and extraction than from a larger machine.
- Already own a P2? Keep it in the comparison. An upgrade needs a reason such as work size, handling, or a repeated production constraint; a new model and a sale alone do not establish that need.
- Weighing Bambu Lab's new R1? See how the Bambu Lab R1 compares with the xTool P2S and P3 on price and published specs.
Affiliate Disclosure & Editorial Integrity
As an affiliate partner with xTool, we may earn commissions from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you. I purchased my P2 with personal funds. P3 and P2S coverage here is based on published specifications and analysis, with no claim of hands-on testing of either model.
Choose the regional xTool store used by every P2S button on this page.
Preparing P2S store links.
Detailed Specification Comparison: P3 vs P2S vs P2
| Feature | xTool P3 | xTool P2S | xTool P2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Performance | |||
| Laser Power (CO₂) | 80W | 55W | 55W |
| Max Engraving Speed | 1200mm/s | 600mm/s | 600mm/s |
| X-Axis Acceleration | ~19,600 mm/s² (2G) | 6,400 mm/s² | 3,200 mm/s² |
| Workspace & Features | |||
| Working Area | 36"×18" | 23.6"×12" | 23.6"×12" |
| Z-Axis Mechanism | Integrated AutoLift | Manual Riser (Opt.) | Manual Riser (Opt.) |
| Safety & Maintenance | |||
| Safety Rating | Certified Class 1 (Class 4 with the conveyor feeder) | Class 4 or Class 1, by version (Class 1 only without the Riser Base) | Class 4 or Class 1, by version (Class 1 only without the Riser Base) |
| Fire Suppression | Built-in (CO₂ Active; cylinder sold separately) | Optional | Optional |
| Cooling System | Inverter Water Chiller | Standard Water Cooling | Standard Water Cooling |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
xTool lists higher maximum speed and acceleration for the P3, but those specifications do not establish how much faster your job will finish. Material, thickness, detail, settings, and handling time affect the result. We have not run a controlled P3-versus-P2S production test; use a sample of your own work to judge whether the extra capacity is worthwhile.
The main advantages are: Industrial Performance (80W power, 1200mm/s speed, larger work area), Automation (Motorized AutoLift Base, LiDAR ranging), Safety (a certified Class 1 rating, or Class 4 with the conveyor feeder attached; built-in fire suppression, with the CO₂ cylinder sold separately), and Versatility (Optional 5W IR module).
The P3 offers an optional, swappable 5W Infrared (IR) laser module specifically designed for directly engraving metals and plastics. The P2 and P2S cannot cut metal, but xTool says they can engrave coated metal, anodized aluminum and titanium steel; bare stainless steel needs a sprayed coating first.