Laser Software


Laser Control Software

These are specialized for controlling the laser engraver, setting up your project parameters, and sending the design to the machine.

LightBurn

  • Best For: Both beginners and professionals

  • Compatibility: Wide range of laser engravers

  • Price: Paid, free trial available

  • note: just buy it, nothing better

LaserGRBL

  • Best For: Hobbyists and DIYers

  • Compatibility: Primarily for diode lasers

  • Price: Free

RDWorks

  • Best For: Users of Ruida controllers

  • Compatibility: Ruida controllers specifically

  • Price: Free with Ruida controllers

  • Cons: Steeper learning curve and setup

T2Laser

  • Best For: Beginners, simple projects

  • Compatibility: Primarily for diode lasers

  • Price: Paid, free trial available

LaserWeb

  • Best For: Advanced users

  • Compatibility: Variety of laser engravers

  • Price: Free


Design Software

These are primarily for creating and editing the designs that you'll then send to the laser engraver using laser control software.

CorelDRAW

  • Best For: Professionals, advanced design capabilities

  • Price: Paid, various licensing options

Inkscape with Laser Plug-In

  • Best For: Budget-conscious users, beginners

  • Price: Free

GIMP

  • Best For: Those looking for a free alternative to Photoshop

  • Price: Free

  • Note: Great for raster image editing, but you'll need to pair it with laser control software

Adobe Tools (Illustrator, Photoshop)

  • Best For: Professionals, extensive design capabilities

  • Price: Paid, subscription-based

  • Note: Illustrator is excellent for vector designs, while Photoshop is better for raster images