Snapmaker Ray 20W vs xTool S1 40W
| Laser | ||
| Type | Diode Laser | Diode Laser |
| Wavelength | 455 nm | 455 nm |
| Optical Power | 20 W | 40 W |
| Performance | ||
| Work Area | 400 × 600 mm | 498 × 319 mm |
| Max Speed | 30,000 mm/min | 36,000 mm/min |
| Focus | Manual | Autofocus |
| Features | ||
| Enclosure | No | Yes |
| Air Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Rotary Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| WiFi | Yes | Yes |
| Camera | No | Yes |
| Physical | ||
| Approx. Price | $1,299 | $2,499 |
| Release Year | 2023 | 2024 |
| Weight | 14.6 kg | 20 kg |
Pros & Cons
Snapmaker Ray 20W
What we like
- Smart Air Assist pump included in box
- Large 400×600mm work area
- Wi-Fi + USB connectivity
- LightBurn compatible out of the box
- Strong Snapmaker community and ecosystem
Watch out for
- No autofocus (manual focus lever)
- No built-in enclosure (sold separately)
- No camera for material detection
- Lower power than 40W model
xTool S1 40W
What we like
- Cuts 18mm wood and 15mm acrylic in one pass
- Can mark and score thin stainless steel
- Full Class 1 enclosure — no safety glasses required
- Built-in camera for precise placement
- Autofocus and air assist included
- Same fast 36,000 mm/min (600 mm/s) speed as 20W
Watch out for
- Significantly pricier than the 20W variant
- Heavier than open-frame equivalents
- Enclosure limits maximum material height
- Diode still falls short of CO₂ for thick acrylic or glass
Compatible Materials
Snapmaker Ray 20W
WoodAcrylicLeatherFabricPaperAnodized Aluminum
xTool S1 40W
WoodAcrylicLeatherCardboardFabricPaperRubberStoneMetal EngravingAnodized Aluminumstainless steel
The Snapmaker Ray 20W costs $1,299 (48% less) than the xTool S1 40W, which is priced at $2,499.
The xTool S1 40W has 50% more optical power (40W vs 20W).
The Snapmaker Ray 20W offers a 34% larger work area (400 × 600 mm vs 498 × 319 mm).
The xTool S1 40W has a 17% higher maximum speed (36,000 mm/min vs 30,000 mm/min).
Feature-wise, xTool S1 40W includes an enclosure, while Snapmaker Ray 20W does not; xTool S1 40W includes a camera, while Snapmaker Ray 20W does not.