Choosing the right laser engraver brand depends on your needs, budget, and intended use—whether you're a hobbyist, small business owner, or professional. Glowforge, xTool, and Epilog are among the top brands in 2025, each excelling in different areas. This comparison breaks down their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases to help you decide.

Overview of Each Brand

Glowforge

• Best For: Hobbyists, educators, and small-scale crafters.
• Key Strengths: User-friendly cloud-based software, plug-and-play setup, and built-in camera for precise design alignment.
• Standout Model: Glowforge Aura ($1,199) and Glowforge Pro ($5,995).
• Price Range: $1,200–$6,000.

xTool

• Best For: Hobbyists, small businesses, and semi-professionals.
• Key Strengths: Versatile machines with high precision, affordable pricing, and compatibility with advanced software like LightBurn.
• Standout Model: xTool D1 Pro ($499–$1,500) and xTool P2 ($4,499).
• Price Range: $400–$5,000.

Epilog

• Best For: Professionals and industrial users.
• Key Strengths: Premium build quality, unmatched precision, and dual-source (CO2 and fiber) options for diverse materials.
• Standout Model: Epilog Fusion Pro 48 ($20,000+).
• Price Range: $8,000–$30,000+.

Comparison Breakdown

1. Ease of Use

• Glowforge: Easiest for beginners. Its cloud-based software is intuitive, requiring minimal technical knowledge. The built-in camera allows drag-and-drop design placement, ideal for non-tech-savvy users. However, reliance on cloud software means an internet connection is necessary.
• xTool: User-friendly with xTool Creative Space (free) or LightBurn ($60–$150) for advanced users. Setup is straightforward but requires some learning for optimal results, especially with diode lasers like the D1 Pro.
• Epilog: Geared toward professionals, Epilog’s Job Manager software is powerful but has a steeper learning curve. It’s less beginner-friendly but offers extensive control for experienced users.
• Winner: Glowforge for beginners; xTool for balanced usability.

2. Performance and Power

• Glowforge: CO2 lasers (30W–45W) handle wood, acrylic, leather, and fabric well. Engraving speeds are moderate (up to 1,000mm/s), but cutting depth is limited (~0.5" for wood). Not suited for metals without upgrades.
• xTool: Offers diode (D1 Pro, 5W–20W) and CO2 (P2, 55W) options. The P2 delivers faster engraving and deeper cuts (up to 0.7" wood) than Glowforge, while the F1’s IR laser engraves metals. High precision (0.01mm spot) makes it versatile.
• Epilog: Industry-leading performance with CO2 (30W–120W) and fiber laser options. Engraving speeds reach 165 inches/s, with superior resolution (up to 1,200dpi). Excels at cutting thick materials and engraving metals.
• Winner: Epilog for professionals; xTool for versatility.

3. Material Compatibility

• Glowforge: Engraves and cuts wood, acrylic, leather, paper, and fabric. Limited metal engraving with specific upgrades. Best for organic materials.
• xTool: Broad compatibility, including wood, acrylic, leather, glass, and some metals (with F1 or P2). The dual-laser F1 (diode + IR) is unique for hobbyist-level metalwork.
• Epilog: Handles nearly all materials, including wood, acrylic, glass, metals, and plastics, thanks to dual-source CO2/fiber lasers. Ideal for specialized applications like industrial parts or jewelry.
• Winner: Epilog for diverse materials; xTool for budget-friendly metal engraving.

4. Price and Value

• Glowforge: Mid-range pricing ($1,200–$6,000). The Aura is affordable for hobbyists, but premium features (e.g., faster speeds) require a subscription, adding costs over time.
• xTool: Best value, with entry-level models like D1 Pro starting at $499 and high-end P2 at $4,499. No subscription fees, and LightBurn compatibility adds flexibility without extra costs.
• Epilog: High-end pricing ($8,000–$30,000+), reflecting industrial quality. Expensive for small businesses but cost-effective for high-volume production.
• Winner: xTool for value; Glowforge for affordable entry.

5. Work Area and Scalability

• Glowforge: Compact work areas (Aura: 12”x12”; Pro: 20”x11”). Suitable for small projects but limited for larger items.
• xTool: Varies by model (D1 Pro: 17”x16”; P2: 23.6”x12.1”). The P2’s larger bed and passthrough slot support scaling for small businesses.
• Epilog: Large work areas (up to 48”x36” for Fusion Pro 48). Designed for high-volume production and oversized projects.
• Winner: Epilog for large-scale work; xTool for small business growth.

6. Support and Community

• Glowforge: Excellent customer support and a large online community with tutorials and forums. Cloud software updates are frequent but require a subscription for full access.
• xTool: Strong support via email and tutorials, with an active community on social media (e.g., xTool Facebook groups). Free software updates enhance longevity.
• Epilog: Professional-grade support with training options for businesses. Smaller community due to its professional focus but highly reliable technical assistance.
• Winner: Glowforge for community; xTool for accessible support.

Ideal Use Cases

• Glowforge: Perfect for hobbyists, educators, or small-scale crafters making gifts, home décor, or classroom projects. Choose if you value simplicity and don’t need metal engraving.
• xTool: Ideal for hobbyists transitioning to small businesses or semi-professionals needing versatility. Great for personalized products (e.g., cutting boards, jewelry) on a budget.
• Epilog: Best for established businesses or professionals with high-volume or specialized needs, such as industrial parts, signage, or metal engraving.

Pros and Cons Summary

Which Brand is Right for You?

• Choose Glowforge if: You’re a beginner or educator prioritizing ease of use and small-scale crafting. The Aura ($1,199) is great for home use, but consider subscription costs.
• Choose xTool if: You’re a hobbyist or small business owner seeking value and versatility. The D1 Pro ($499–$1,500) is perfect for starters, while the P2 ($4,499) suits growing businesses.
• Choose Epilog if: You’re a professional needing top-tier performance for high-volume or specialized projects. The Fusion Pro series ($20,000+) is ideal for established operations.

Conclusion

For most users, xTool offers the best balance of price, performance, and versatility, making it suitable for both hobbyists and small businesses. Glowforge shines for beginners who want a seamless experience, while Epilog is the go-to for professionals with demanding projects. Assess your budget, material needs, and production goals to choose the brand that aligns with your vision. If possible, test machines at trade shows or request demos to confirm your choice.