The xTool D1 Pro is one of the most popular hobbyist diode lasers available. Whether you have the 10W or 20W version, this guide gives you tested starting points for the most common materials — so you spend less time doing test burns and more time making things.
The xTool D1 Pro is available in 5W, 10W, and 20W versions. The 10W and 20W are the most common among hobbyists. The 10W handles engraving and light cutting well. The 20W opens up thicker material cuts and faster throughput. These settings are primarily tested on the 10W — for the 20W, reduce power by 15–25% or increase speed proportionally as a starting point.
The D1 Pro works with xTool's own software (xTool Creative Space) and LightBurn. LightBurn gives you more control and is the recommended option for serious hobbyists.
Wood is the most forgiving material on a diode laser and the best place to start. Basswood and plywood cut cleanly. MDF cuts well but produces more fumes. Hardwoods require more power or slower speeds.
| Material | Thickness | Mode | Power (10W) | Speed (mm/min) | Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Basswood | 3mm | Cut | 85% | 300 | 2 |
| Basswood | 3mm | Engrave | 40% | 3000 | 1 |
| Plywood (birch) | 3mm | Cut | 90% | 250 | 2–3 |
| Plywood (birch) | 6mm | Cut | 95% | 150 | 4–5 |
| MDF | 3mm | Cut | 90% | 200 | 3 |
| Hardwood (oak) | 3mm | Cut | 95% | 200 | 3–4 |
| Hardwood (oak) | 3mm | Engrave | 55% | 2000 | 1 |
Cast acrylic cuts much better than extruded acrylic on a diode laser. If your cuts are melting or fusing back together, you are either using extruded acrylic or running too slow. Use air assist for acrylic cuts — it dramatically improves cut quality and reduces flare-ups.
| Material | Thickness | Mode | Power (10W) | Speed (mm/min) | Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cast acrylic (clear) | 2mm | Cut | 80% | 200 | 2 |
| Cast acrylic (clear) | 3mm | Cut | 90% | 150 | 3 |
| Cast acrylic (colored) | 3mm | Cut | 85% | 200 | 2–3 |
| Cast acrylic | 3mm | Engrave | 30% | 4000 | 1 |
Genuine leather engraves and cuts beautifully on the xTool D1 Pro. Faux leather (PU leather) also works but produces more fumes. Never cut PVC-based synthetic leather — it releases chlorine gas. Always verify your material is PU or genuine leather before cutting.
| Material | Thickness | Mode | Power (10W) | Speed (mm/min) | Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Genuine leather | 1–2mm | Engrave | 35% | 3000 | 1 |
| Genuine leather | 2mm | Cut | 75% | 300 | 2 |
| Faux leather (PU) | 1mm | Engrave | 25% | 3000 | 1 |
| Faux leather (PU) | 1mm | Cut | 65% | 400 | 1–2 |
Cardstock and paper cut very quickly and cleanly on the D1 Pro. Use low power and high speed to avoid scorching. Mask the surface with transfer tape to protect against smoke staining.
| Material | Weight | Mode | Power (10W) | Speed (mm/min) | Passes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardstock | 300gsm | Cut | 20% | 5000 | 1 |
| Cardstock | 300gsm | Engrave | 10% | 6000 | 1 |
| Copy paper | 80gsm | Cut | 10% | 6000 | 1 |
Focus is the single biggest factor in cut quality. Even 0.5mm of defocus makes a visible difference in cut edge quality and the power required to cut through. Use the D1 Pro's included focus block or a ramp test to dial in your focus precisely for each material thickness.
Run a material test before every new batch of material. Even the same material from the same supplier can vary between orders. A quick 3x3 power/speed matrix saves you from ruining a full piece.
Use the Hobbyist Laser Calc to get a starting point based on your machine wattage, material, and thickness — then fine-tune from there.
Get instant settings for your xTool D1 Pro based on material and thickness
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