The xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1 is a powerful upgrade designed for makers who want to engrave metals, jewelry, plastics, and fine-detail materials that standard blue diode lasers struggle with.
If you own an xTool S1 and are looking to expand into metal engraving, jewelry customization, or high-precision marking, this infrared (IR) module is one of the most versatile add-ons available.
Table of Contents
In this guide, we’ll cover what it is, what it engraves, how it works, safety considerations, installation basics, and who it’s best for.
What is the xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1?
The xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module is a 2W (2000mW) Class 4 infrared laser designed exclusively for the xTool S1 laser engraver. Unlike blue diode lasers (455nm), infrared lasers operate at a wavelength that is highly absorbed by metals, allowing direct engraving without coatings, marking sprays, or paints.
Despite its modest average power, the IR module uses laser pumping technology, delivering extremely high peak power (up to ~15KW) in short pulses—making it effective for engraving metals with precision rather than brute force cutting.
Key Specifications at a Glance
- Laser Type: 1064nm Infrared (IR)
- Output Power: 2W average (high peak pulse power)
- Compatible Machine: xTool S1 only
- Engraving Speed: Up to 600 mm/s
- Laser Spot Size: 0.03 mm
- Motion Precision: 0.01 mm
- Weight: 0.84 kg
- Laser Class: Class 4 (requires eye protection)
What Materials Can the xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1 Engrave?
One of the biggest advantages of the xTool S1 infrared laser module is multi-material compatibility, especially with metals that blue diode lasers cannot engrave directly.
Excellent for Engraving:
- Metals:
Gold, silver, platinum, copper, aluminum, stainless steel, titanium, iron, zinc, alloys - Jewelry materials:
Rings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants - Plastics:
Opaque plastics, ABS, electronic housings - Acrylic:
Dark-colored, non-transparent acrylic - Leather:
Minimal burn marks compared to blue diode lasers - Stone & slate
- Glass & ceramics (with laser marking paper)
Not Recommended:
- Transparent acrylic
- Cutting plastics (engraving only)
- Deep metal cutting (limited to ~0.05 mm)
Why the xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1 is Ideal for Jewelry Engraving
Jewelry engraving demands extreme precision, minimal heat damage, and clean results. This is where the IR module shines.
Jewelry Benefits:
- Ultra-fine 0.03mm laser spot for micro-details
- Clean engraving on precious metals without coatings
- Minimal thermal distortion
- Excellent for serial numbers, logos, names, and patterns
- Ideal for small curved items like rings and bracelets
If you’re starting or expanding a jewelry engraving or gift personalization business, this module is one of the most cost-effective solutions available.
Plastic, Acrylic, and Leather Performance
The infrared wavelength interacts differently with non-metal materials:
- Plastics: Produces crisp, high-contrast marks without melting edges
- Acrylic: Works best on dark or opaque acrylic
- Leather: Reduced burn marks compared to blue diode lasers, resulting in a cleaner, more premium finish
This makes the module great for customizing electronics, suitcases, mice, switches, and accessories.
Cutting Capabilities (Limited but Useful)
While the IR module is not designed for cutting, it can:
- Cut up to 0.05mm thick aluminum, copper, or stainless steel
- Engrave to a maximum depth of about 0.05mm
For serious metal cutting, a higher-power fiber laser is required—but for engraving and marking, the IR module is highly effective.
Installation Overview: How to Install the xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1
Installing the 1064nm infrared module is straightforward:
- Power off the machine
- Remove the original laser module
- Disconnect the cable and remove the module
- Connect the IR module cable
- Secure the module with the thumb screw
- Replace the power adapter with the one included
- Power on and recalibrate focus
Important: The IR module is not hot-swappable. Always power off before changing modules
Focusing: Why Precision Matters More with Infrared Lasers
The infrared laser has a very shallow depth of focus (about 1mm) compared to blue diode lasers.
Tips for Proper Focus:
- Ensure the machine and material are perfectly flat
- Use the focus setting bar correctly
- Take extra time before engraving valuable metals
- Test on scrap material first
Improper focus is the #1 cause of poor engraving results with IR lasers
Safety: Why the 1064nm IR Laser Requires Extra Caution
The 1064nm wavelength is invisible to the human eye, making it especially dangerous.
Critical Safety Rules:
- NEVER look at the beam or reflections
- Always wear certified 1064nm laser safety goggles (OD 5+)
- Restrict access to the work area
- Enclose the beam path whenever possible
- Post proper laser warning signage
Unlike visible lasers, your eyes will not blink or react to infrared exposure—damage can occur instantly and permanently.
- Eye Protection: Effectively protects eyes from laser harm while keeping them comfortable.
- Wide Compatibilities: Compatible with 316nm-450nm & 900nm-1080nm lasers, including xTool F1, F1 Ultra, S1, M1 Ultra, M1, D1 Pro, and D1.
- Lightweight Design: Weighs only 50g, the frame is lightweight and comfortable to wear without any burden.
Overheating Protection & Operating Temperature
The IR module generates more heat than blue diode lasers, which is why it includes:
- Large cooling fins
- Over-temperature protection indicator (yellow light)
Recommended Operating Temperature:
- Best performance: 20°C–30°C (68°F–86°F)
- Do not use above: 35°C (95°F)
If the yellow indicator lights up, stop engraving and allow the module to cool
Infrared Laser vs Blue Diode Laser: What’s the Difference?
Feature | 1064nm IR Module | Blue Diode (20W) |
|---|---|---|
Metal engraving | Excellent | Limited |
Jewelry engraving | Excellent | Poor |
Plastic engraving | Clean | Often melts |
Colored metal marking | No | Yes |
Cutting ability | Very limited | Better |
Detail precision | Extremely high | Moderate |
The two modules complement each other, making the xTool S1 a highly flexible system
Who Should Buy the xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module?
This module is ideal if you:
- Own an xTool S1
- Want to engrave metal without sprays or coatings
- Work with jewelry or small precision parts
- Need high detail rather than cutting power
- Want a cost-effective alternative to fiber lasers
It’s especially well-suited for small businesses, jewelers, gift makers, and serious hobbyists.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the xTool 1064nm Infrared Module engrave metal without marking spray?
Yes. The xTool 1064nm infrared module can engrave bare metal directly without using laser marking spray, paint, or coating. It works exceptionally well on stainless steel, aluminum, copper, brass, gold, silver, and titanium. This makes it ideal for jewelry engraving and permanent metal marking.
Why is the infrared module only 2W, and is that powerful enough?
Although the module is rated at 2W average power, it uses high-peak pulsed laser technology, delivering extremely high peak energy during engraving. This allows it to mark metal effectively while maintaining excellent detail and precision. For engraving, peak power matters more than continuous wattage.
Can the xTool 1064nm infrared module cut metal?
The infrared module is not designed for cutting metal. However, it can cut very thin metal sheets (up to 0.05mm) such as stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. For deeper cuts or production work, a higher-power fiber laser is recommended.
Why is focusing more critical with the 1064nm infrared laser?
The infrared module has a very shallow depth of focus (about 1mm) compared to blue diode lasers. This means the focus must be set very precisely for optimal results. Even a small height error can affect engraving quality, especially on metal and jewelry.
Is the xTool 1064nm infrared laser safe to use?
The module is a Class 4 laser and requires strict safety precautions. The 1064nm wavelength is invisible to the human eye, making it particularly dangerous. Always wear certified laser safety goggles rated for 1064nm (OD 5+), never look at reflections, and restrict access to the engraving area during operation.
Final Verdict: Is the xTool 1064nm IR Module Worth It?
The xTool 1064nm Infrared Laser Module for S1 dramatically expands what the S1 can do. While it won’t replace an industrial fiber laser, it delivers exceptional metal engraving, unmatched detail, and professional-grade results at a fraction of the cost.
If metal engraving, jewelry customization, or fine-detail marking is part of your workflow, this module is one of the best upgrades you can make to your xTool S1.