Glowforge Spark vs xTool D1 Pro 20W
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 455 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 6 W | 20 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 203 × 305 mm | 430 × 390 mm |
| Max Speed | 8,000 mm/min | 24,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Manual |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | No |
| Air Assist | No | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | No | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | Yes | No |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $899 | $699 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2022 |
| Weight | 4.9 kg | 5.8 kg |
Pros & Cons
Glowforge Spark
What we like
- Easiest laser to get started with — ~30-minute setup
- Free Glowforge Print software works on any device (Mac, PC, tablet, phone)
- Built-in camera with live preview for material placement
- Class 1 enclosed — safe for home and classroom use
- Wide material library with auto-detected settings
Watch out for
- Cloud-dependent — requires internet for every job
- Small 203×305mm cutting area for the price
- Only 6W — limited cut depth and no thick stock
- Subscription costs for premium design catalogue
- Not compatible with LightBurn
xTool D1 Pro 20W
What we like
- Cuts up to 10mm pine in a single pass
- Air assist included in the box
- WiFi and USB control
- Excellent engraving speed at 24,000 mm/min
- Wide material compatibility
Watch out for
- No enclosure — not safe for unattended operation
- Higher price point for a diode laser
- Requires ventilation setup for cutting fumes
Compatible Materials
Glowforge Spark
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
xTool D1 Pro 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberStoneMetal Engraving
The xTool D1 Pro 20W costs $699 (22% less) than the Glowforge Spark, which is priced at $899.
The xTool D1 Pro 20W has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The xTool D1 Pro 20W offers a 63% larger work area (430 × 390 mm vs 203 × 305 mm).
The xTool D1 Pro 20W has a 67% higher maximum speed (24,000 mm/min vs 8,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, Glowforge Spark includes an enclosure, while xTool D1 Pro 20W does not; xTool D1 Pro 20W includes air assist, while Glowforge Spark does not; Glowforge Spark includes a camera, while xTool D1 Pro 20W does not; xTool D1 Pro 20W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Spark does not.