Top 10 Best Laser Cut Software of 2026

LightBurn is a comprehensive laser cutting and engraving software that enables users to import, edit, layout, and send designs directly to a wide array of laser cutters and engravers from various manufacturers. It supports CO2, diode, and fiber lasers with controllers like Ruida, Trocen, and GRBL, offering tools for nesting, tracing, welding shapes, and precise camera-based alignment. Known for its efficiency and power, it eliminates the need for manufacturer-specific software in most cases.

LaserGRBL is a free, open-source Windows application tailored for GRBL-based diode laser engravers and cutters, enabling users to convert raster images and basic vectors into G-code for precise engraving and light cutting. It offers intuitive image processing tools like brightness/contrast adjustments, dithering algorithms (e.g., Jarvis, Floyd-Steinberg), and line-interval scanning for high-quality results on materials like wood and leather. The software provides real-time previews, jogging controls, and firmware flashing, making it a lightweight alternative to more complex CAM suites.

RDWorks is the official control software from Ruida Technology designed specifically for laser engraving and cutting machines equipped with Ruida DSP controllers, commonly found in affordable CO2 lasers. It supports importing DXF, PLT, HPGL, and bitmap files, allowing users to configure multi-layer jobs with precise control over power, speed, frequency, and scan modes. Key functionalities include automatic nesting, array copying, job optimization, and optional camera-based visual alignment for accurate positioning.

EZCAD2 is a specialized control software for laser marking, engraving, and light cutting, primarily designed for fiber, CO2, and UV laser systems from manufacturers like those using BJJCZ or compatible controllers. It provides tools for importing and processing images, vectors, text, barcodes, and PLT/DXF files, with precise parameter control for power, speed, and hatch patterns. Widely used in industrial settings, it excels in high-precision marking tasks but supports basic cutting on compatible machines.

Luban is the official all-in-one software developed by Snapmaker for controlling their 3-in-1 machines, with robust support for laser engraving and cutting tasks. It allows users to import SVG, DXF, PNG, and other formats, apply image processing effects, set power/speed parameters, and generate G-code optimized for Snapmaker laser modules. The software features a live camera preview for alignment and a detailed simulation mode to visualize cuts before execution.

Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor primarily designed for creating and editing scalable vector graphics (SVG) files, which are widely compatible with laser cutters. It provides robust tools for drawing paths, applying boolean operations, tracing bitmaps, and exporting to formats like SVG, DXF, and PDF suitable for laser cutting workflows. While excellent for design preparation, it lacks dedicated CAM features such as nesting, kerf compensation, or cut simulations, making it a strong choice for pre-processing rather than full laser control.

CorelDRAW is a professional vector graphics editor widely used for designing intricate artwork and cut paths suitable for laser cutting machines. It excels in creating precise vector files like SVG, DXF, and PDF that can be directly imported into laser software such as LightBurn or RDWorks. While not a dedicated CAM solution, it provides robust tools for illustration, tracing, and path optimization tailored to laser fabrication workflows.

Adobe Illustrator is a professional vector graphics editor renowned for creating scalable artwork, logos, and illustrations. For laser cutting, it excels at designing precise vector paths, shapes, and complex designs that export seamlessly to formats like SVG, DXF, and PDF compatible with most laser cutters. While not a dedicated CAM solution, it serves as an powerful pre-processing tool in laser workflows, especially for intricate artwork.

JobControl is a specialized laser production software from Trotec Laser designed for preparing, managing, and executing jobs on laser cutters and engravers. It supports importing files in formats like AI, PDF, SVG, and PLT, with tools for automatic nesting, job queuing, and precise control over Trotec machines. The software includes a material database for optimized settings and barcode integration for efficient repeat production workflows.

VisiCut is a free, open-source laser cutting software designed for preparing and controlling jobs on a wide range of hobbyist and entry-level laser cutters from various manufacturers. It supports importing SVG, PDF, and raster files, offering tools for job layout, nesting, power/speed optimization, and live preview via webcam alignment. Cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, Linux) makes it accessible for users avoiding proprietary software.