Top 10 Best Lasercut Software of 2026

LightBurn is a leading laser cutting and engraving software that provides comprehensive control for a wide range of CO2, diode, and fiber lasers with controllers like GCode, Ruida, Trocen, and more. It enables users to import designs from various formats, edit vectors and images, optimize nesting and job sequencing, and preview cuts accurately. The software excels in workflow efficiency with tools like material testing generators, tracing, and camera-based alignment for precise production.

LaserGRBL is a free, open-source Windows application specifically designed for controlling GRBL-based diode laser engravers and cutters. It excels at converting raster images, vector graphics, and text into optimized G-code with modes like line engraving, grayscale raster, and vector cutting. Popular among hobbyists, it provides real-time previews, job simulations, and fine-tuned laser parameters for precise results on affordable laser machines.

Kiri:Moto is a free, open-source, browser-based slicer supporting 3D printing, laser cutting, and CNC milling from SVG, DXF, and 3D model files. For laser cutting, it excels in generating precise toolpaths with features like auto-nesting, power/speed mapping, fill patterns, and live G-code previews. Its lightweight design makes it accessible for hobbyists without requiring downloads or installations.

xTool Creative Space (XCS) is a free, user-friendly software suite designed specifically for xTool laser cutters and engravers, enabling users to import, edit, and prepare vector and raster designs for cutting and engraving. It features an intuitive visual workspace, camera-based preview and alignment, a comprehensive material library with optimized settings, and tools for nesting, welding, and job simulation. While tailored to the xTool ecosystem, it supports basic workflows for hobbyists transitioning from simple design apps to laser control.

Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor renowned for creating scalable vector illustrations and designs suitable for laser cutting workflows. It excels in path manipulation, boolean operations, and exporting to SVG or DXF formats that integrate well with dedicated laser cutter software. While powerful for design preparation, it lacks native CAM features like nesting, power control, or direct machine interfacing, making it a strong pre-processing tool rather than a full lasercut solution.

CorelDRAW is a professional-grade vector graphics design software that excels in creating precise artwork for laser cutting applications. It provides advanced tools for drawing, editing vectors, text, and shapes, with support for exporting to laser-compatible formats like DXF, SVG, and PDF. While powerful for design preparation, it lacks built-in CAM features such as nesting, job queuing, or direct machine control, making it best as a front-end tool paired with dedicated laser software.

Adobe Illustrator is a professional-grade vector graphics editor excels at creating precise, scalable artwork such as logos, illustrations, and technical drawings. For lasercutting, it is widely used to design intricate paths, shapes, and patterns that export in compatible formats like SVG, DXF, PDF, and EPS for import into dedicated laser software. While it offers no direct hardware control like power/speed settings or nesting, its vector precision ensures clean, high-quality cut files. It's a staple in design workflows but requires additional tools for full lasercut operation.

FreeCAD is a free, open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler that excels in creating precise 2D drawings and exporting DXF/SVG files compatible with laser cutters. It supports unfolding 3D models into flat patterns and generating technical drawings via its TechDraw workbench, making it suitable for lasercut preparation. While not a dedicated lasercut tool, it integrates well into workflows requiring complex geometries from 3D designs.

Fusion 360 is a cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE platform from Autodesk that enables users to design 2D and 3D models and generate toolpaths for laser cutting via its Manufacturing workspace. It supports laser cutting operations like cutting, engraving, and nesting, integrating seamlessly with design workflows. While powerful for complex projects, it's more of a full-spectrum engineering tool than a dedicated lasercut software.

GIMP is a free, open-source raster graphics editor primarily designed for photo manipulation and image editing, which can be adapted for preparing bitmap images for laser engraving or raster-based laser cutting tasks. It offers tools for resizing, color correction, and layering that help optimize images for laser processes, with export options to PNG, JPEG, or SVG via plugins. However, it lacks native vector editing, path optimization, or direct integration with laser cutters, making it unsuitable for precise vector cut paths typical in professional lasercutting workflows.