xTool M1 Ultra Beginner’s Guide and Review

xTool is known for making user-friendly craft laser machines, and now they have released the ultimate machine for crafters: the xTool M1 Ultra! It’s a 4-in-1 craft machine that combines blade cutting, laser cutting, pen drawing, AND inkjet printing! Get my honest review from testing the machine, and learn what you need to know in this Beginner’s Guide to the xTool M1 Ultra!

xTool M1 Ultra Machine

It is no secret that I am a HUGE fan of xTool’s line of craft laser machines. I have tested their whole line of machines, including the xTool S1, xTool P2, and the xTool F1 and F1 Ultra machines. From diode lasers, CO2 lasers, to Infrared and Fiber lasers, xTool has an answer for all of your crafting needs! And just when I thought I had see it all, xTool released the M1 Ultra 4-in-1 Laser!

What is the xTool M1 Ultra?

The xTool M1 Ultra is the latest machine from the Makeblock xTool brand. Unlike their previous machines, it combines 4 different functions: diode laser engraving and cutting, blade cutting, pen drawing, and inkjet printing. That’s right – there’s a PRINTER module for the xTool M1 Ultra!

The M1 Ultra is the most versatile machine that I have ever seen. With ONE machine, you can print and cut stickers, engrave tumblers, cut HTV and vinyl, engrave cutting boards, address envelopes, and MORE!

If you have a small craft space and haven’t considered a craft laser machine yet, this just might be the machine that you have been waiting for!

New to Laser Craft Machines? DON’T MISS my FREE eBook to get started with your crafting journey!

What Kind of Laser is the M1 Ultra?

The M1 Ultra has a diode laser module. The diode laser is available in two powers: 10W and 20W modules. A diode laser is not the most powerful kind of laser on the market, but it’s perfect for most crafters! (The highest diode laser power that xTool offers is the 40W S1 laser module.)

Diode lasers are the most affordable craft laser on the market – plus they are durable and long-lasting. But they do come with limitations! Most notably, diode lasers do not interact well with clear materials. You are unable to cut clear acrylic and most transparent acrylics with a diode laser. (If you are reading this and you are saying “Oh! I want to cut clear acrylic!” take a look at my review for the xTool P2 laser. It’s a CO2 laser!)

Because diode laser are so much more affordable than CO2 lasers, you can get a lot of power for your dollars and start crafting professional looking projects with a smaller investment!

What is Included with the xTool M1 Ultra?

• User Manual
• Multifunctional Cartridge
• Basic Cartridge for Pens/Fine Point Blade
• Laser Module (either 10W or 20W; I have the 10W machine)
• Smoke Exhaust Module with Hose and Filters
• Power Adapter
• USB Cable to Connect to your Computer
• Pack of Sample Materials
• Cutting Mats (Light Grip and Fabric Grip)
• Triangular Prisms and Holder
• Fine Point Blade
• Pen Set (8 Colors)
• Pen Adapter
• Tool Kit
• Safety USB Key

What is NOT Included with the xTool M1 Ultra Machine?

• Inkjet Printer Module
• Rotary Blade for Fabric
• Knife Blade for Thick Materials
• Foil Transfer Tip
• M1 Ultra Riser Base
• RA2 Pro Rotary Attachment for Tumblers and other Cylinders
• Smoke Filter System

Although the basic machine package does not include any of these “extras,” xTool has great bundle offers that you can purchase right off the bat to use your machine to it’s full capability.

Does the xTool M1 Ultra Pre-Assembled?

Yes! The xTool M1 Ultra arrives already assembled in a well-secured box. You just need to remove the shipping materials and accessories and take out a couple of screws that keep the module from moving during shipping. Within just a few minutes, you can make your first project with the M1 Ultra!

Do You Need to Vent the xTool M1 Ultra Laser Out a Window?

Yes, the smoke and fumes that are created when laser cutting or engraving materials need to be vented out a window. Alternatively, you can also purchase the desktop air purifier that also fits the xTool F1.

I have used the air purifier as well as have vented my machine out the window. When operating, the filter machine does a great job of containing the dust and smell, but sensitive individuals should consider wearing protective breathing masks. To avoid the cost of buying air filter refills, you should vent out a window.

xTool M1 Ultra Technical Specs & Measurements

How Big is the xTool M1 Ultra?

I was pleasantly surprised at how compact this machine is! The dimensions are 24.41 x 19.61 x 7.01 inches (620mm x 498mm x 178mm). It weighs a little over 26 pounds (12kg). I was able to lift it easily and get it set up on a workbench in my office with with brand new xTool HeatPress – which you will see a post on soon!

What is the Working Area of the xTool M1 Ultra?

Each of the modules has a slightly different working area, but they are all between 11 and 12 inches. The cutting mats and inside of the machine are designed to fit a 12×12″ piece of material.

Here are the exact working areas for the M1 Ultra Modules:

• Laser Mode: 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm)
• Fine Point Blade: 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm)
• Knife Blade: 11.61″ x 11.61″ (295mm x 295mm)
• Pen Mode: 11.81″ x 11.81″ (300mm x 300mm)
• Inkjet Printing Mode: 11.65″ x 11.26″ (296mm x 286mm)

Unique Features of the xTool M1 Ultra

Multitasking Capability

With the M1 Ultra’s unique 4-in-1 design, you can seamlessly combine the processes within xTool Creative Space to complete your projects. For example, you can use the inkjet printer module to print stickers, and then use the fine point blade to cut them out. Or, use the printer module to print a photo on wood, and then cut it out with the laser module.

xTool Creative Space has been updated to include Multitasking so you can set each mode and adjust the settings for each process. Then Creative Space will prompt you with all of the steps you need to add or switch out modules. I have used the update and have found it to work really well.

Multi Functional Cartridge

This is one of the more exciting features of the M1 Ultra. Right now, the multifunctional cartridge can use the Rotary Blade, Knife Blade, and Foiling Tip. BUT, the best part is that xTool can add new tools and updates in the future with this cartridge! I am excited to see what upgrades they will design next!

Pin Point Positioning System

Similar to the xTool S1, the M1 Ultra uses a coordinate system to show the real-time position of your laser module. This method determines the processing range of the material by the position of the laser module. There are 3 methods of positioning within xTool Creative Space to use with every project: twin-point, circular, and polygonal positioning.

Rotary Processing

The popular xTool rotary accessory – the RA2 Pro – is able to be used with the M1 Ultra! (The S1 Riser Base is required.) Make engraved tumblers, ornaments, cups, and more with this optional accessory.

xTool M1 Ultra Safety Features

Safety Key

The M1 Ultra comes with a USB Safety key that must be inserted for the machine to operate. If the key is removed, your children or clients can’t use the machine. And don’t worry, it comes with an extra key!

Laser Blocking Lid

The laser and cutting surface is completely enclosed within the M1 Ultra. The lid is light blocking (you don’t have to use goggles!) and seals in smoke and particles to be exhausted by the fan. (Note: if you are sensitive to smells or dust particles, you still may want to consider a mask.)

In addition, the lid has an automatic sensor that engages while you are processing your design. If the lid is moved or opened during the cut or engrave process, the machine will stop.

Smoke Extraction System

The M1 Ultra comes with a built in fan that effectively removes the smoke and particles during the cutting process. You can vent the machine out a window or into the Air Purifier Accessory that can be purchased on the xTool website.

You can also purchase a Fire Safety accessory – and it is currently being offered with bundle deals! (At the time this article was published).

What Design Programs Work with the M1 Ultra?

The xTool M1 Ultra is designed to work with xTool Creative Space (XCS), due to the multifunctional design.

You Can Download xTool Creative Space HERE.

The most often question asked is: Can I Use the M1 Ultra with Lightburn? LightBurn is a popular 3D party laser design program, and will NOT support all functions of the M1 Ultra.

xTool is constantly updating the features of XCS, and I have been super excited to watch this program develop and grow. Although I still import almost all of my designs, Creative Space is definitely a program that beginners can use to create projects. And one feature of XCS that is different from other laser software is the ability to create basic vector designs as well as use AI to create unique designs.

If you would like to design your own projects to import, I would recommend a design program such as Adobe Illustrator. You can also definitely import free SVGs (like those on my site) or purchased files from places such as Creative Fabrica or Design Bundles. I have a whole list of sites where you can find free SVGs to download as well as a post dedicated to laser ready design projects.

What Types of Files Work with xTool M1 Ultra?

You can upload designs in SVG, DXF, JPG, PNG, BMP, and other common file types. The most important thing to know here is that you can upload both vector and raster files.

Materials That Can Be Used With the xTool M1 Ultra

It would be easier to describe what materials do NOT work with the M1 Ultra haha. Because of the fine point blade, knife blade, and laser, you can process over 1000 materials! Some of the most popular materials to use with the M1 Ultra are:

• Wood
• Acrylic (Opaque only)
• HTV (Heat Transfer Vinyl)
• Vinyl
• Stainless Steel
• Ceramic
• MDF
• Cardstock
• Sticker Paper
• Basswood
• Cardboard
• Fabric
• Leather
• and SO many more!

xTool has a wide range of materials on their website that work great with their lasers!

Projects You Can Make with the xTool M1 Ultra

Here are some example projects I made so that I could test the new modules!

Printed Wood Earrings

I combined the inkjet printing function with the laser cutting function to design these cute patterned earrings.

Print then Cut Stickers

This is another project using the multitasking settings within xTool Creative Space. I used the cutting mat to print small stickers with the inkjet printing module, and then cut out the stickers with the fine point blade!

Card with the Pen Tool

One thing I LOVE about the new drawing function with the M1 Ultra is that you can choose Outline or FILL. This is a single line design but I chose the Fill function – the machine colored the design in as it drew the outline! It was SO cool.

Foil Printed Card Design

I used the same design, but tried out the Foil Transfer Tip with pressure reactive foil. It transferred the design as well as any other machine I have used! I also tried the fill function so I could see if the foil ripped under the pressure – it did not!

Vinyl Project – “Kiss Cut” Vinyl

I tested a simple design on permanent vinyl with the fine point blade. It cut perfectly on the first try! I look forward to using this machine to cut vinyl so I do not have to hook up another cutting machine in my small office.

These are just a few of the projects I tested! I also made wood engraved projects and found the 10W diode laser to be similar to the 10W original M1. I prefer the more powerful diode laser modules of my xTool S1 Laser Craft Machine.

How Much Does the xTool M1 Ultra Cost?

At the time this article was published, the M1 Ultra with the 10W laser module starts at $1699 and is on sale for $1299. The M1 Ultra with the 20W laser module starts st $2299 and is on sale for $1799, and is the best value as it is the advanced bundle! All of these prices are subject to change.

xTool has a variety of bundles to suit every customer’s needs. You can see them all on the xTool M1 Ultra Machine product page.

Plus, I have a personal discount code that you can use!

USE CODE: Charynn100 for an additional $100 off xTool site purchases over $1699.

xTool M1 Ultra Review

I was interested to see how well this machine outperformed the original M1, which I tried and felt that it really needed a lot of testing to replace a Cricut, Silhouette, or other blade cutting machine. The M1 really does a better job, and I think this is because xTool Creative Space is constantly being updated! I really think that the M1 Ultra does a GREAT job with all of the different modules. And for those of you that will inevitably ask, I will definitely recommend this diode laser over the Glowforge Aura.

If you are a beginner and a CO2 laser is way out of your budget, definitely consider this machine. It offers great speed and power for commonly used materials such as wood, leather, and dark acrylic. The multifunctional module and the addition of the printer module and pen drawing tool are SO great. I really enjoyed using those features.

Plus, the xTool accessories are what really make this machine (and other xTool lasers) stand out – the riser base and rotary accessory for this machine in particular.

Like all laser machines that I own, prepare to run test cuts and engraves with the laser module. I recommend using test grids or just very small squares at the corner of your material before committing to your whole design. Keep notes as you make projects, and the more you get to know your machine, the better you’ll get at laser crafting!

About the blade cutting – it actually really impressed me! For vinyl and iron-on vinyl projects confined to the ~12″ size, I would recommend this machine.

If you are still debating, hopefully these thoughts about the xTool M1 Ultra will help: 

If you are a beginner or hobby crafter, and you don’t own a laser machine – the M1 Ultra might be the machine for you. It’s very easy to use, and it is a good machine to introduce you to the world of laser crafting. With the additional modules available, you’ll be able to grow into this machine a little more than other entry level machines.

You’re a pretty experienced crafter, but want to try out laser cutting and engraving. If you want to make personal items or gifts for family and friends (or for a small shop/business) – again, the M1 Ultra is a great machine to consider! With the 4-in-1 design, you can do so many things with it! Plus the xTool accessories like the rotary tool will keep you busy discovering new things to make!

If you are considering adding laser crafts to your already successful Etsy shop, website, or craft shows and want to cut clear or light colored acrylic crafts, you really need to look into a CO2 laser machine. No diode laser is going to be the machine for you. You really should look into a 40W or more powerful CO2 laser like the xTool P2. I have seen a couple of workarounds that might work for engraving clear acrylic, but diode laser can not cut clear acrylic, other types of transparent acrylic, or some light colored acrylic. The wavelength of the light beam renders the machine incapable of cutting these materials.

xTool M1 Ultra vs. Cricut and Silhouette

I have used my Cricut and Silhouette machines for YEARS, and I love designing files and crafting with my machines. This is the first machine that I have tested that did a great job with vinyl and paper. The xTool fine point blade worked well on the FIRST TRY with all cutting projects I tested.

Obviously Cricut machines have a great reputation for cutting HTV, Vinyl, Cardstock, as well as pen drawing. Machines like the Cricut Maker are really great machines! So if you love your Cricut or Silhouette, I’m not going to tell you that this machine will totally replace both of those. It’s a great addition to your craft machine line up though!

If you’re looking to level up your crafting, you 100% could add an xTool laser machine to your craft room. I think the M1 Ultra is a great option because of the printer module and laser module, but depending on your experience level or crafting needs, the S1, P2, or F1 Ultra are also great machines.

Here are some of my thoughts:

If you don’t have a Cricut, but you really want to jump into paper or vinyl crafting this could be a great machine for you. You could use this multifunctional system and then potentially upgrade to a larger machine in the future IF you wanted to create larger vinyl projects on (or off) the cutting mat. The only downside to the M1 Ultra is the limiting size of the cutting mat.

If you don’t have room in your budget for both a laser machine AND a blade cutting machine, the xTool M1 Ultra is the perfect way to get BOTH at one time! Then, once you make some projects with the blade and decide you really want to make larger projects, you could invest in a crafting machine just for those projects.

Here are my honest xTool M1 Ultra review notes:

• This machine is a major upgrade from the original M1. I was not frustrated by material testing, and had success on the first try with almost all of my projects.
  I do recommend that you test small shapes (I like using stars, because there are corners) before jumping into your full project, as well as write your settings down for different materials so you can reference them later.
• Multitasking Settings for Projects. I have some more testing to do with the combination of printing and laser cutting function. I prefer to print on the cutting mat because thin wood materials like basswood stick very well to the light cutting mat (blue). But you need the triangular prisms to cut wood, so switching between those set ups caused some alignment problems. I plan to test the “QuickSwap” function more to see if I can eliminate these problems.
• Note on Materials. Larger materials that you can pick up at your local craft store or building supplies store will likely need to be cut down to fit in the xTool M1 Ultra. Just make sure you have the tools to do that! Of course, you can always buy xTool-specific materials on the xTool website.
• I think for the price, the 20W is a good idea. For the reasonable increase in price, you double your power and can cut thicker materials.
• If you are a Cricut owner or have experience using a CO2 laser such as the Glowforge, this machine is considerably different. The speed difference is noticeable, so don’t be surprised by that. Remind yourself that you didn’t just spend $7k on a CO2 laser, and you’ll be VERY happy. But if you want to start a fast paced business with an M1 Ultra, you need to look at more powerful machines. The S1 40W will get you the same speed as a CO2 laser, but you will still have the limitations as all diode lasers.
• For the money, the xTool M1 Ultra is a GREAT BUY for crafters that want to try a variety of projects. The affordable price is the main selling point, in my opinion. It would make an amazing gift for a beginner laser crafter, especially if you’ve been scared off by the price of a Glowforge. You can buy every accessory for the M1 Ultra and a selection of supplies for less than 1/2 of the price of a basic CO2 laser.
  Engraving tumblers and making wood projects are SO popular right now, and the M1 Ultra gets you into those projects really fast!

It’s important to consider your budget, what crafts you would like to make, and what materials you would like to use before purchasing your laser craft machine. Definitely read through my other machine reviews and my Glowforge vs. xTool post, and feel free to email me with any questions!

Learn More About Laser Machines!

• Glowforge vs. xTool
• Small Business Laser Crafts
• xTool P2 CO2 Laser Review
• xTool F1 – Engrave Metals!
• xTool S1 40W Diode Laser

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