xTool F1 Ultra

So, you’re eyeing the xTool F1 Ultra and wondering if it’s really worth that hefty price tag—over 2.5 times more than the original xTool F1. Well, the answer isn’t a simple yes or no; it really depends on your specific needs. After putting both machines through their paces, I’ve pinpointed four major differences that you should consider before making your purchase. Let’s dive in!

What the xTool F1 Ultra Isn’t

First off, let’s clarify what the xTool F1 Ultra isn’t. It’s not a machine like the xTool S1, which is primarily designed for cutting wood. One of the main reasons for this is that the F1 Ultra lacks air assist, which is crucial for cutting thicker materials. While the F1 Ultra does come with a tray that allows cut pieces to fall through for better airflow, the absence of air assist can lead to issues when working with thicker materials, like 3mm birch plywood. You can see in my tests that while it can cut, you’re pushing the limits, and flames can become a problem. If you’re looking to cut thicker materials, I’d recommend checking out the xTool S1 or the xTool P2 instead.

What the F1 Ultra Excels At

Now, let’s talk about what the F1 Ultra is fantastic at—engraving! Just like the original F1, this machine is an engraving powerhouse. One of my favorite materials to test with is black aluminum cards. When you crank the DPI up to 800 (or even higher), the results are stunning. Both machines deliver excellent engraving results, but the F1 Ultra does it much faster, which is a game-changer if you’re in the business of selling engraved products.

Power: The Heart of the Machine

Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of power. The F1 Ultra features two different power sources: a traditional 10-watt diode laser and a 20-watt fiber laser. This dual setup is unique to the xTool F line and opens up a world of possibilities, especially for metal engraving. The fiber laser on the F1 Ultra is 20 watts, compared to just 2 watts on the original F1. This increased power means you can run the machine faster and cut deeper into materials.

For example, I’ve been experimenting with embossing engravings on brass coins, and the results are impressive. The software converts grayscale images into depth maps, creating intricate designs layer by layer. While this process can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour and a half, the increased power allows you to achieve results that the original F1 simply can’t match.

Speed: Get It Done Faster

Speaking of speed, the F1 Ultra can run at a whopping 10,000 mm/s, compared to the original F1’s 4,000 mm/s. This is a significant boost, especially for those of you who need to crank out products quickly. The F1 Ultra uses a galvanometer system, which allows for rapid movement and precise engraving. Plus, the preview feature lets you outline your designs at speeds up to 24,000 mm/s, making alignment a breeze.

Size Matters

Another key difference is the overall size of the machines. The F1 Ultra has a usable work surface of 220 x 220 mm, while the original F1 is just 115 x 115 mm. This larger area means you can fit more items in the work bed, which is a huge advantage for batch processing. Whether you’re engraving business cards or small jewelry pieces, the ability to run multiple items at once can save you a ton of time.

Integrated Camera: A Game Changer

Now, let’s talk about the integrated camera. The F1 Ultra has a built-in camera that the original F1 lacks. This feature is a big deal because it helps with focusing and positioning your materials. The camera allows you to see exactly where your design will be placed, which is super helpful for ensuring everything is aligned perfectly.

When you pair the camera with the optional conveyor belt accessory, you can set up automated workflows for batch processing. This means you can load multiple items, and the machine will automatically detect and position them for engraving. It’s a real time-saver and can significantly boost your productivity.

Build Quality and User Experience

Let’s not overlook the overall build quality of the F1 Ultra. When I unboxed it, I was genuinely impressed by how well-thought-out the design is. The color touchpad is a nice touch, allowing you to run files directly from the machine without needing a computer. You can easily adjust settings, run framing operations, and access recent files—all from the touchpad.

The exhaust system works exceptionally well, keeping the workspace clean and free of fumes. Even without an external extractor, the built-in fan does a great job of removing debris and keeping the air clear. Safety is also a priority; the enclosed design protects your eyes from the laser, and the emergency stop button is easily accessible.

Portability: A Trade-Off

Now, let’s talk about portability. The original F1 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport to craft shows or client sites. The F1 Ultra, on the other hand, is larger and heavier, which may be a consideration if you need to move it around frequently. While it’s still manageable, it’s not as convenient as the original F1.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

So, is the xTool F1 Ultra worth the extra $2,400? It really comes down to what you need. If you’re primarily working with softer materials like wood or acrylic, the original F1 might be the better choice for you. However, if you’re looking to engrave tougher materials like metal or slate, the F1 Ultra’s dual laser setup and increased power make it a fantastic investment.

For businesses focused on maximizing productivity, the F1 Ultra’s speed, integrated camera, and optional conveyor belt can significantly enhance your workflow. The time and labor savings can quickly justify the higher price tag.

Ultimately, if you’re serious about taking your engraving game to the next level, the xTool F1 Ultra is definitely worth considering. With its impressive capabilities and thoughtful design, it could be the perfect tool to help you achieve your creative goals.

Key Takeaways

• The xTool F1 Ultra features a dual laser setup (20W fiber and 20W diode) for enhanced engraving capabilities.
• It boasts engraving speeds of up to 10,000 mm/s, nearly double that of the original F1.
• The larger work area (220 x 220 mm) allows for batch processing of multiple items.
• The integrated camera aids in autofocus and material positioning, streamlining the engraving process.
• The optional conveyor belt accessory enables automated workflows for high-volume production.
• While less portable than the original F1, the F1 Ultra’s features may outweigh this drawback for serious users.

If you’re ready to explore the xTool F1 Ultra further, check out the xTool F1 Ultra product page. And if you want to compare it with other options, take a look at the original F1, the xTool P2, and the xTool S1. Until next time, go make or break something in your shop!

‍