xTool has launched a countdown to the April 5 release of its P2 55-watt “smart” desktop CO2 laser cutter. The machine is the latest in xTool’s typically affordable, “premium” line of laser cutters, which has made inroads recently.

At first glance, the P2 is comparable to Glowforge’s range of desktop laser cutters in terms of power, size, features, and price. (The new OmTech Polar also fits neatly into this space and is worth a look.) The P2 boasts a 55 W laser tube that can cut hundreds of materials such as acrylic, wood, metal, and glass; a 600 mm/s working speed; and a 680 x 360-mm bed. There are also dual smart cameras, and, like Glowforge’s largest machine, the Glowforge Pro, a passthrough slot for engraving larger objects. The P2’s compatibility with xTool’s RA2 Pro rotary attachment, meanwhile, means you’ll be able to engrave spherical, cylindrical, and round objects, such as mugs or rings.

The P2 carries an MSRP of $4,999, but would-be buyers based in the United States can take advantage of a “super early-bird” discount, via which a $100 deposit will get you a $500 discount and a shareable link. Each person who uses that link to reserve a P2 of their own will knock another $100 off the price up to a total possible $1,000 discount on the machine’s MSRP.

The xTool P2 will launch on April 5 at 6 PM PST. For full specs – or to reserve a machine of your own – visit xTool’s website.

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