xTool MetalFab and xTool P3: Two Laser Tools for Metal and Wood Projects

Introduction

Laser cutting has become a practical tool for makers who want to move from idea to finished part in a single afternoon. Two machines that stand out in this space are the xTool MetalFab and the xTool P3. The MetalFab is a CNC cutter designed for metal, while the P3 is a CO2 laser that handles wood and paper with ease. Together, they cover a wide range of fabrication tasks, from cutting steel face plates to prototyping wooden panels.

This review looks at what each machine does well, where they differ, and what you should consider before adding either to your workshop.

xTool MetalFab: Metal Cutting and Fabrication

The xTool MetalFab is a CNC cutter built specifically for metal. It uses a fiber laser to cut through steel, aluminum, and brass, which sets it apart from CO2 lasers that struggle with reflective materials. In practice, the MetalFab handles thin steel sheets with impressive speed and leaves a clean edge right off the machine.

One of the most striking things about the MetalFab is the lack of cleanup. There is no dross to remove and no sanding required after a cut. The finish is clean and ready to use, which saves a significant amount of time compared to traditional cutting methods like an angle grinder or plasma cutter. For makers who are used to spending hours on post-cut cleanup, this is a major advantage.

The MetalFab is not limited to cutting. It can also weld, engrave, and even remove rust. A software update added metal engraving, a feature that is not possible with a CO2 laser. This makes the MetalFab a versatile tool for a range of fabrication tasks, from creating custom face plates to adding logos and designs directly onto metal surfaces.

xTool P3: Wood and Paper Cutting

The xTool P3 is a CO2 laser that excels at cutting wood and paper. It is ideal for prototyping because paper is cheap and easy to iterate with. The P3 can cut precise shapes out of paper for fit testing, then move on to plywood for more durable prototypes.

In a typical workflow, the P3 handles the wooden and paper components while the MetalFab takes care of metal parts. This division of labor works well because each machine is optimized for its material. The P3 produces clean cuts with sharp corners and consistent edges, making it a reliable choice for detailed work.

The P3 is also useful for creating spacers, templates, and other small wooden parts that support larger projects. Its precision ensures that wooden pieces line up exactly with metal components cut on the MetalFab, which is essential for multi-material builds.

Precision and Workflow

One of the standout features of both machines is their precision. When a wooden piece cut on the P3 and a metal piece cut on the MetalFab are brought together, they line up exactly. This level of accuracy is what you would expect from a professional shop, but it is achievable in a home workshop.

The workflow is straightforward. Designs are created in software like Adobe Illustrator, imported into the machine’s control software, and processed with default settings for most materials. The MetalFab, for example, can cut 3/64 inch steel with default settings and produce a perfect result. This simplicity makes both machines accessible even to makers who are new to laser cutting.

Another advantage is speed. The MetalFab cuts through thin steel quickly, and the P3 handles wood and paper with similar efficiency. This means you can prototype, iterate, and fabricate parts in a single day without waiting for external services.

Engraving and Finishing

The MetalFab’s engraving capability adds another layer of functionality. With a software update, it can engrave directly into metal, a task that is not possible with a CO2 laser. This opens up possibilities for customizing metal parts with logos, labels, or decorative designs.

The engraving quality is crisp and detailed, making it suitable for both functional labels and artistic designs. Combined with the machine’s cutting and welding capabilities, the MetalFab can take a raw sheet of metal and turn it into a finished, professional-looking product.

For finishing, the MetalFab’s clean cuts mean less prep work before painting or coating. The lack of dross and the smooth edges reduce the need for sanding, so you can move straight to the next step in your project.

Buying Advice

Both machines are significant investments, so it is worth thinking about how they fit into your workflow. The xTool MetalFab is the right choice if you work with metal regularly and want to cut, weld, and engrave in-house. Its speed and clean results make it a strong option for makers who need custom metal parts without the wait.

The xTool P3 is a solid addition if you also work with wood and paper. It is ideal for prototyping and creating precise wooden components. If you only need one machine, consider what materials you work with most. The MetalFab covers metal fabrication, while the P3 is better suited for wood and paper projects.

For makers who do both, the combination of the two machines covers a wide range of tasks. The ability to prototype on the P3 and then cut final parts on the MetalFab creates a smooth, efficient workflow.

Conclusion

The xTool MetalFab and xTool P3 are two capable laser tools that handle different materials with precision and speed. The MetalFab excels at cutting, welding, and engraving metal, while the P3 is a reliable choice for wood and paper. Together, they offer a complete fabrication setup that can take a project from prototype to finished product in a single day.

Both machines deliver clean results with minimal cleanup, which is a significant time saver. If you are looking to bring metal and wood fabrication into your own workshop, these two tools are worth serious consideration.