Short answer

Choose xTool P2S or OMTech Polar when clear acrylic is central to the work: both use a CO₂ source. xTool S1 is relevant for dark or opaque acrylic and mixed diode work, but it is not a substitute for CO₂ on clear acrylic.

Source type decides clear-acrylic support

CO₂ wavelengths are absorbed by clear acrylic, while common blue-diode machines generally need dark, opaque or specially formulated acrylic. Do not infer compatibility from the word acrylic alone.

Compare the installed workflow

Extraction, cooling, bed type, camera alignment and fire-safe placement matter as much as nominal laser output. Include filters, ducting and material testing in the setup budget.

  • Confirm the largest sheet and usable work area.
  • Check edge-finish requirements before promising finished products.
  • Never process PVC or unidentified plastics.

Where the shortlist stops

We checked source type, work area, enclosure, positioning workflow and independent assessments. Throughput still needs testing with your exact thickness and material supplier.