xTool P3 vs P2S vs P2: Which CO2 Laser Cutter Is Best for You?

Picking between the xTool P3, P2S, and P2 feels like choosing between three siblings: one’s speedy, one’s smart, and one’s reliable. Short answer: P2 = value, P2S = efficiency, P3 = powerhouse. Keep reading to find out which laser best fits your workshop dreams (and budget).

TL;DR:

The xTool P3 is the newest, fastest, and most powerful laser yet, with 80W power, auto-focus, built-in chiller, and industrial safety features. It’s made for businesses and pros who need speed, safety, and scale.

The xTool P2S improves on the P2 with smarter airflow, better cutting, and faster acceleration — perfect for makers and creative professionals.

The xTool P2 remains the most affordable, dependable option, ideal for hobbyists and first-time laser owners.

Overview – xTool P3, P2S, and P2 at a Glance

Choosing between these three CO2 laser cutters can feel like picking between siblings. They share the same family DNA, but each one is tuned for a different type of user. The xTool P2 is the classic workhorse that made a name for itself as a reliable, affordable 55W laser. The xTool P2S was designed as its “smarter” sibling — faster, cleaner, and more efficient with upgraded airflow. And finally, the xTool P3 is the powerhouse of the family, built for speed, safety, and high-volume production.

Think of it this way: P2 = entry, P2S = pro-maker, P3 = industrial-grade.

Power & Speed Comparison

When it comes to laser cutters, wattage and speed are the two specs most makers look at first.

• xTool P3: With a powerful 80W CO2 laser, the P3 can cut through thick materials faster and with fewer passes. It also offers a blazing 1200mm/s engraving speed with advanced acceleration, making it a beast for batch production and commercial jobs.

• xTool P2S: Equipped with a 55W CO2 tube, the P2S has the same raw power as the P2 but with faster acceleration, meaning you’ll notice smoother handling and quicker project completion compared to the P2. Its top engraving speed is 600mm/s.

• xTool P2: The original 55W CO2 model, the P2 is strong enough for hobby work and small businesses. It handles wood, acrylic, leather, and even some glass engraving, but runs slower compared to the newer siblings.

Takeaway: If speed and cutting depth matter most, the P3 wins. But for everyday makers, the P2S offers a nice balance of power and price.

Automation & Workflow

A big difference between these three machines is how much automation they bring to your workflow.

• xTool P3: Features the AutoLift Base, which self-adjusts focus height automatically. This means you can place materials of different thicknesses and the machine figures it out for you. It also works with the RA3 rotary attachment, which uses LiDAR mapping to engrave curved objects more accurately and even supports batch rotary engraving.

• xTool P2S: Focus is still manual, requiring a riser base if you want to work with taller objects. Rotary engraving is also manual using the RA2 Pro rotary attachment, which works fine but requires extra setup steps compared to the P3.

• xTool P2: Same setup as the P2S. It works well but requires more hands-on adjustments.

Takeaway: If you value speed and time-saving automation, the P3 makes your workflow much smoother.

Workspace & Safety

Your working area and safety rating can make a big difference, especially if you’re working in shared spaces.

• xTool P3: Offers a massive 36" × 18" workspace — over twice the size of the P2S. That’s a game-changer if you’re cutting large sheets or handling high-volume orders. Safety-wise, it’s a Class 1 laser, meaning it’s fully enclosed and safe to operate even in schools, studios, or offices. It also comes with an integrated water chiller and fire safety sensors.

• xTool P2S: Features a solid 23.6" × 12.1" work area, which is plenty for most maker projects. However, it’s classified as a Class 4 laser, which means it requires stricter safety precautions — like goggles and controlled environments.

• xTool P2: Same work area and safety class as the P2S, without the airflow and efficiency upgrades.

Takeaway: If safety is a top concern, or if you want to cut big projects, the P3 is in a class of its own.

Cutting Quality & Airflow

Laser cutting isn’t just about power — airflow and smoke management can make or break your results.

• xTool P3: Comes with professional-grade airflow and smoke extraction, plus built-in cooling. The result? Clean edges, less smoke staining, and less downtime between jobs.

• xTool P2S: Has 33% better air assist and 60% stronger exhaust than the original P2. This makes a huge difference when cutting thick wood or engraving curved surfaces. Less smoke means cleaner edges and fewer finishing steps.

• xTool P2: Reliable, but less efficient airflow compared to the P2S. You may notice more smoke and charring when cutting thicker materials.

Takeaway: For hobbyists, the P2 works fine. But for pros, the P2S and P3 deliver cleaner, more polished results.

Specification Comparison Table

Price & Who Each One Is For

• xTool P3: The premium choice. It costs the most, but delivers unmatched speed, safety, and ease of use. It’s designed for businesses, schools, and professional makers.

• xTool P2S: Mid-range price with pro-level upgrades. It’s best for creative professionals and advanced hobbyists who want cleaner cuts and better efficiency without going all the way up to P3.

• xTool P2: Budget-friendly and dependable. Best for hobbyists, crafters, or anyone starting out in the world of CO2 laser cutting.
  

Final Recommendation

All three xTool CO2 lasers are excellent, but your choice comes down to budget, safety, and speed needs:

• Choose the xTool P2 if you’re a hobbyist or first-timer.

• Choose the xTool P2S if you want a smarter, more efficient laser for pro-quality projects.

• Choose the xTool P3 if you need industrial safety, a bigger work area, and blazing speed.

👉 Bottom line: P2 for hobbyists, P2S for makers, P3 for professionals.