M1 Ultra Review and M1 Ultra Projects

xTool sent me the M1 Ultra to review and review it I did. I’m not a “let me tell you” kind of girl, but a “let me SHOW you, so you’ll see what I’ve made using this machine.

What is the M1 Ultra? It The M1 Ultra combines laser cutting and engraving with blade cutting, inkjet printing, and even pen writing. There is nothing like this on the market, so let’s dive in.

RELATED READING: Want to Cut Clear Acrylic? Say Hello to the xTool P2

xTool sent me this product for review. There will be affiliate links within this article which means I could earn a commission if you use those links to purchase.

xTool M1 Ultra Overview

Below are a few key takeaways from this machine and what I’d like to see from it in the future. This machine is aimed at crafters and it will definitely impress.

• the M1 Ultra’s laser module works well with wood, leather, acrylic*, pre-made items, and more and I’ve used it on all of those (and the pin system makes it EASY to clean)
• the 4 blade offerings and pen tool are impressive and work well on paper, thick card stock, leather, mylar, and vinyl (HTV and permanent)
• the printing module (inkjet) is easy to operate and prints on wood!
• the ENTIRE SET UP takes about 15 minutes
• I would love to see a sublimation ink cartridge added

This is a diode laser which means there are limitations on the colors of acrylic which can be processed. Note that this laser cannot CUT clear acrylic; it can ENGRAVE clear acrylic.

xTool M1 Ultra Video Review and Projects

If you want to see this laser in action and more projects than what I can fit in here, watch the M1 Ultra video review. While you’re there, subscribe to the channel for more on this machine.

RELATED READING: Is the WeCreat Vista as Good as the xTool M1?

Getting Started

The unboxing and set up for this craft machine takes about 15 minutes. If you’re using the air purifier and riser base, count on an additional 5 minutes. You can easily install a module and create your first project in under 30.

When setting up the machine, keep the items page open. I would also recommend ordering a good bit of 12×12 inch basswood plywood if you’re new to lasers.

The working size of the machine is 11.8 by 11.8 inches, meaning you can process 12 inch material in it, but not cut a 12 inch circle. The riser base will allow you a greater depth / height of items, but will not increase this working width.

Safety Focus

The M1 Ultra is a class 1 safety rated laser – this is the same class of machine as your electric toothbrush. xTool focuses on safety a few ways:

• the laser will not operate without the USB key
• there is a safety glass which prevents any harm to the eyes (no need for safety glasses)
• a fully-enclosed machine (not air tight) which limits vapors and particulates sent into your working space,
• there is a built-in fire detection system, and
• the machine has multiple safety stops like lifting the lid and software control.

RELATED READING: The xTool M1 is a Fun Crafter’s Laser (See the Original Machine)

How To Run the Machine – xTool Creative Space (XCS)

XCS is the free software (there is NO monthly / yearly subscription required) used to operate this laser. I have shared extensive, detailed tutorials on how I can recreate designs I make in Adobe Illustrator with this software, so it’s not a weak piece of work.

There are free projects shared within the software you can use to get started. Included are some materials lists, tips, and some video / written instruction. Additionally, there are premium projects you can purchase from well-known laser designers – and they are impressive.

My Favorite Features of the M1 Ultra

This machine is designed for crafters who want the ability to do an array of processing work on a variety of materials. And boy, do they know us well.

My favorite feature is the laser head but that is closely followed by the printer function. Printing on wood is a game changer and I was very impressed with how well it worked to print and cut (with the laser) because swapping the modules takes mere seconds.

That said, the functionality of how the machine works is hands-down one of my favorites: Pin-Point Positioning™. I’ve been working with this software for nearly a year (with my xTool S1) and will say that the accuracy I’m able to achieve is far better than with a fish eye lens camera included with most lasers.

The Snapshot feature allows us to use a camera (our mobile device), however, so we’re not left without the option. Just snap, upload, and position items where they need to be to match what is on the laser bed.

My Recommendations

Are you a crafter who wants to dabble but not want 3-4 machines in your space? This is a great machine for you. The printer function is a very fun addition and if you’re working with wood, I will always recommend the riser base and honeycomb (now included as a set)!

Check out the xTool M1 Ultra bundles here. As I stated in my M1 Ultra video review, I absolutely recommend getting a bundle if it fits your interests and budget. The 20 watt laser will work on the same materials as the 10, just a bit faster.

If you want to get this JUST for the laser, I don’t recommend it. The xTool S1 is a much better option and your money will go to the primary feature, the laser, and it has a larger bed / riser base combination. Read my xTool S1 review to find out more (or watch the xTool S1 review video).

If you are new to lasers or cutting machines and want to explore both, add an existing product to your offerings, or want to try to create a plethora of gifts, craft show offerings, and expand your abilities, there is nothing else like this out there.

Check out the bundles and see if this machine is right for you and be sure to ask my any questions.