xTool MetalFab 1200W

I run a small Etsy shop making custom signs and the 33W B1 has been a total workhorse. It cuts through 15mm birch plywood in a single clean pass, which my old 10W laser simply couldn't handle. The integrated air assist is a huge plus and works perfectly – no more sooty edges on my cuts. Assembly took a couple of hours following a video guide, but it was straightforward. For the price, you absolutely cannot beat this level of power.

The machine itself is built like a tank and the frame is very rigid. The high speed is real, and the 33W cutting power is impressive for a diode. I knocked off one star because the included mobile app is very basic. To really unlock this machine's potential, you MUST use LightBurn. Once I got it set up with LightBurn, it was a completely different and better experience. Also, being an open-frame design, make sure you have a solid ventilation plan.

The power is definitely there, no question. But the assembly was challenging for me as a newcomer, and the manual focus is tricky to get perfect every time. I had some initial issues getting it connected to my WiFi network. It feels like a machine designed for experts who are comfortable troubleshooting and have used similar machines before. If you're a total beginner, you might want a model with autofocus and a more guided setup.

I chose the B1 specifically for its large 450x440mm work area. It's been perfect for creating large wooden maps and batch-cutting dozens of smaller items without having to reset the material. The frame is very stable, even at top engraving speeds, so I'm not getting any wobble or skipped lines in my work. The included air assist saves so much time on cleanup. Highly recommend for anyone doing large-format projects on a budget.