Glowforge Spark vs xTool M2 Color Craft 20W
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 455 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 6 W | 20 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 203 × 305 mm | 426 × 320 mm |
| Max Speed | 8,000 mm/min | 36,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Autofocus | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | Yes | Yes |
| Air Assist | No | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | No | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | Yes | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $899 | $599 |
| Release Year | 2024 | 2025 |
| Weight | 4.9 kg | 12.3 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 M2 Color Craft 20W
What we like
- Industry-first: diode laser + CMYK inkjet color printing in one enclosed machine
- Dual cameras and ACS for automatic material detection and placement
- 20W diode handles wood, acrylic, leather, and fabric
- Optional 3W IR module adds metal engraving capability
- Beginner-friendly enclosed design — safe for home or office
Watch out for
- CMYK inkjet module is an optional add-on (extra cost)
- Color print area (300×294mm) smaller than laser work area (426×320mm)
- Diode laser produces inferior cut edges on acrylic vs CO2
- New 2025 product — long-term reliability unproven
Compatible Materials
Glowforge Spark
WoodLeatherAcrylicCardboardFabricPaperRubber
xTool M2 Color Craft 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberFoam
The xTool M2 Color Craft 20W costs $599 (33% less) than the Glowforge Spark, which is priced at $899.
The xTool M2 Color Craft 20W has 70% more optical power (20W vs 6W).
The xTool M2 Color Craft 20W offers a 55% larger work area (426 × 320 mm vs 203 × 305 mm).
The xTool M2 Color Craft 20W has a 78% higher maximum speed (36,000 mm/min vs 8,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, xTool M2 Color Craft 20W includes air assist, while Glowforge Spark does not; xTool M2 Color Craft 20W includes rotary attachment compatibility, while Glowforge Spark does not.