Quick Overview
- 1#1: EFI Flexi - Enterprise-grade RIP and production software for managing print, cut, and plotter workflows in sign-making.
- 2#2: VinylMaster - Comprehensive design and vinyl cutting software optimized for professional plotters and contour cutting.
- 3#3: CorelDRAW - Professional vector graphics suite with native support for plotter drivers and large-format output.
- 4#4: Adobe Illustrator - Industry-standard vector design tool with plugins for HPGL and plotter-compatible exports.
- 5#5: Inkscape - Free open-source vector editor with extensions for direct HPGL output to pen plotters.
- 6#6: Easy Cut Studio - Cross-platform vinyl cutting software supporting over 500 plotter models with advanced nesting.
- 7#7: Sure Cuts A Lot - Versatile cutting software for vinyl plotters featuring rhine stone templates and auto-kern.
- 8#8: Roland CutStudio - Design and production software tailored for Roland vinyl cutters and plotters.
- 9#9: Graphtec Studio - Integrated CAD/CAM software for precise cutting on Graphtec plotter devices.
- 10#10: SignCut Pro - Professional contour cutting software compatible with most vinyl plotters and ARMS systems.
We ranked these tools based on key factors including feature robustness, compatibility with diverse plotter hardware, user-friendliness, and overall value, ensuring every entry delivers exceptional performance for both professionals and enthusiasts.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores top plotter software tools, from EFI Flexi and VinylMaster to CorelDRAW, Adobe Illustrator, Inkscape, and more, to help users identify the right fit for their projects. It highlights key features, usability, compatibility, and unique strengths, guiding informed decisions based on specific needs.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | EFI Flexi Enterprise-grade RIP and production software for managing print, cut, and plotter workflows in sign-making. | enterprise | 9.7/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.4/10 |
| 2 | VinylMaster Comprehensive design and vinyl cutting software optimized for professional plotters and contour cutting. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.4/10 | 8.2/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | CorelDRAW Professional vector graphics suite with native support for plotter drivers and large-format output. | creative_suite | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 4 | Adobe Illustrator Industry-standard vector design tool with plugins for HPGL and plotter-compatible exports. | creative_suite | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 6.9/10 |
| 5 | Inkscape Free open-source vector editor with extensions for direct HPGL output to pen plotters. | creative_suite | 8.1/10 | 8.7/10 | 6.9/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 6 | Easy Cut Studio Cross-platform vinyl cutting software supporting over 500 plotter models with advanced nesting. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.3/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 |
| 7 | Sure Cuts A Lot Versatile cutting software for vinyl plotters featuring rhine stone templates and auto-kern. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Roland CutStudio Design and production software tailored for Roland vinyl cutters and plotters. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 9 | Graphtec Studio Integrated CAD/CAM software for precise cutting on Graphtec plotter devices. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | SignCut Pro Professional contour cutting software compatible with most vinyl plotters and ARMS systems. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
Enterprise-grade RIP and production software for managing print, cut, and plotter workflows in sign-making.
Comprehensive design and vinyl cutting software optimized for professional plotters and contour cutting.
Professional vector graphics suite with native support for plotter drivers and large-format output.
Industry-standard vector design tool with plugins for HPGL and plotter-compatible exports.
Free open-source vector editor with extensions for direct HPGL output to pen plotters.
Cross-platform vinyl cutting software supporting over 500 plotter models with advanced nesting.
Versatile cutting software for vinyl plotters featuring rhine stone templates and auto-kern.
Design and production software tailored for Roland vinyl cutters and plotters.
Integrated CAD/CAM software for precise cutting on Graphtec plotter devices.
Professional contour cutting software compatible with most vinyl plotters and ARMS systems.
EFI Flexi
enterpriseEnterprise-grade RIP and production software for managing print, cut, and plotter workflows in sign-making.
Automatic Registration Mark Sensing (ARMS) for seamless, high-precision print-and-cut operations across multiple plotter brands
EFI Flexi is a leading RIP and production workflow software suite tailored for large-format printing and cutting applications, including vinyl plotters, inkjet printers, and cutters. It excels in color management, job nesting, tiling, RIP processing, and automated print-and-cut workflows for the sign and graphics industry. With robust integration for hardware like Roland, Mimaki, and Summa plotters, it streamlines high-volume production from design to output.
Pros
- Advanced RIP engine with superior color accuracy and profiling
- Integrated print-and-cut functionality with ARMS for precise contour cutting
- Scalable workflow automation and hotfolder processing for high-volume shops
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users despite intuitive interface updates
- High initial cost and ongoing maintenance fees
- Requires significant hardware resources for optimal performance
Best For
Professional sign shops and print service providers handling complex, high-volume plotter and cutter workflows.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses start at ~$2,000 for basic editions, up to $5,000+ for Pro/XP versions; annual maintenance ~20% of license cost, with subscription options available.
VinylMaster
specializedComprehensive design and vinyl cutting software optimized for professional plotters and contour cutting.
ARMS 6.0 optical registration mark scanning for superior contour cutting accuracy on complex multi-color designs
VinylMaster is a comprehensive vinyl cutting and plotting software suite designed for sign makers, graphic designers, and print shops. It enables vector design, editing, and precise output to over 100 cutter models, with advanced contour cutting capabilities via ARMS technology for print-and-cut applications. The software supports multi-layer designs, rhombus alignment, and efficient production workflows, available in tiered editions from basic lettering to full designer tools.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with 100+ plotter brands and models
- Advanced ARMS contour cutting for precise print-and-cut registration
- Robust vector editing and production tools for high-volume work
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Steeper learning curve for beginners and advanced features
- Limited built-in raster-to-vector conversion capabilities
Best For
Professional sign shops and vinyl production businesses requiring reliable contour cutting and extensive hardware support.
Pricing
Tiered pricing from $99 (Ltr) to $1,495 (Designer Pro), with free trial available.
CorelDRAW
creative_suiteProfessional vector graphics suite with native support for plotter drivers and large-format output.
Advanced PowerTrace AI for converting bitmaps to editable vectors, streamlining plotter-ready file preparation
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite is a professional vector graphics editor widely used for designing logos, signage, and layouts that can be output to plotters for vinyl cutting, engraving, and large-format printing. It provides advanced tools for precise vector drawing, color management, and file exports in plotter-friendly formats like DXF, HPGL, and PDF. While not exclusively plotter software, its robust feature set makes it a staple for sign makers integrating design and cutting workflows.
Pros
- Powerful vector tools and precise path editing ideal for plotter designs
- Excellent support for contour cutting via plugins like Roland CutStudio
- Superior color management and Pantone integration for accurate plotter output
Cons
- Steep learning curve compared to dedicated plotter software
- Subscription model may not suit occasional users
- Resource-intensive, requiring decent hardware for smooth performance
Best For
Professional sign makers and graphic designers handling complex vector artwork for vinyl plotters and large-format cutters.
Pricing
Starts at $269/year for subscription (Graphics Suite); one-time purchase around $669.
Adobe Illustrator
creative_suiteIndustry-standard vector design tool with plugins for HPGL and plotter-compatible exports.
Precision Bézier curve tools and the Pen tool for creating smooth, infinitely scalable paths optimized for plotter pen strokes
Adobe Illustrator is a premier vector graphics editor renowned for creating scalable, high-precision artwork ideal for plotter output. It offers tools for designing intricate paths, shapes, and illustrations that export seamlessly to plotter-compatible formats like DXF, EPS, SVG, and PDF. While primarily a design tool rather than dedicated plotter software, it excels in preparing professional-grade files for large-format pen plotting with minimal distortion.
Pros
- Unparalleled vector precision and path editing tools perfect for plotter paths
- Broad export support for plotter formats like DXF and HPGL via plugins
- Advanced features like gradient meshes and pattern fills for complex designs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-designers focused on plotting
- No native direct hardware control for plotters
- Subscription model adds ongoing costs without plotter-specific optimizations
Best For
Professional designers and illustrators creating detailed vector artwork for high-end plotter production.
Pricing
Single-app subscription at $22.99/month or $239.88/year; included in Creative Cloud All Apps at $59.99/month.
Inkscape
creative_suiteFree open-source vector editor with extensions for direct HPGL output to pen plotters.
Stroke-to-path conversion and Live Path Effects for generating infinitely scalable, plotter-optimized line art
Inkscape is a free, open-source vector graphics editor renowned for creating and editing scalable SVG files, which are ideal for generating precise line art and paths for pen plotters. It offers advanced tools for bezier curves, path operations, and stroke customization, allowing users to design intricate plots that translate seamlessly to plotter output. Extensions like those for HPGL, DXF, and G-code generation make it adaptable for plotter workflows, though it's not a dedicated plotting application.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Powerful vector path tools and precise control over strokes and fills
- Rich extension ecosystem for plotter formats like SVG, HPGL, and G-code
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-designers new to vector graphics
- Not purpose-built for plotters, requiring extensions or post-processing
- Performance can lag with very large or complex files
Best For
Hobbyist makers, designers, and educators seeking a cost-free, versatile tool for crafting vector-based plotter artwork.
Pricing
100% free and open-source (donations encouraged)
Easy Cut Studio
specializedCross-platform vinyl cutting software supporting over 500 plotter models with advanced nesting.
Unmatched support for over 1,400 vinyl cutters from 100+ brands
Easy Cut Studio is a comprehensive vinyl cutting software compatible with over 1,400 plotter models from more than 100 brands, enabling users to design, edit, and cut graphics for signs, decals, apparel, and stickers. It includes advanced tools like auto-tracing, print-and-cut functionality, rhinestone templates, and multi-layer weeding assistance. The software supports vector editing, SVG import/export, and works on Windows, Mac, and Linux without requiring subscriptions.
Pros
- Extensive compatibility with 1,400+ cutter models
- One-time purchase with lifetime free updates
- Robust tools like auto-tracing and print-and-cut
Cons
- Interface feels somewhat dated compared to competitors
- Advanced features have a moderate learning curve
- Occasional connectivity issues with certain cutters
Best For
Hobbyists and small businesses needing affordable, broadly compatible plotter software without ongoing costs.
Pricing
One-time fee starting at $59.95 for standard license; bundles and upgrades available up to $149.95.
Sure Cuts A Lot
specializedVersatile cutting software for vinyl plotters featuring rhine stone templates and auto-kern.
Universal driver support for hundreds of plotter models across multiple manufacturers
Sure Cuts A Lot (SCAL) is versatile vinyl cutting software designed for use with a wide array of plotters and cutters from brands like Graphtec, Roland, Silhouette, and others. It allows users to import SVGs, fonts, images, and PDFs, then edit designs with tools for welding, shadowing, rhinestoning, print-and-cut, and cut sequencing. Ideal for crafting vinyl, heat transfers, and cardstock, it provides brand-independent control over cutting machines.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with over 400 cutter models from various brands
- Advanced editing tools like rhinestoning, sequencing, and print-and-cut
- One-time purchase with free minor updates
Cons
- Dated user interface compared to modern competitors
- Steep learning curve for complex features like node editing
- No native cloud or mobile app integration
Best For
Hobbyist crafters and small businesses using diverse or non-proprietary plotter machines who need flexible, brand-agnostic cutting software.
Pricing
One-time purchase: $64.95 for Standard (1 machine), $149.95 for Pro (unlimited machines); free trial available.
Roland CutStudio
specializedDesign and production software tailored for Roland vinyl cutters and plotters.
Automatic Registration Mark Sensing (ARMS) for highly accurate print-and-cut contouring
Roland CutStudio is a specialized software for controlling Roland vinyl cutters and plotters, enabling users to import designs from various formats, perform vector edits, and execute precise cutting jobs. It excels in print-and-cut workflows with optical registration mark sensing for accurate contour cutting. Tailored specifically for Roland hardware, it offers tools like overcutting, trapezoid compensation, and segmented display for efficient production.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Roland cutters for reliable performance
- Advanced print-and-cut capabilities with ARMS optical sensing
- Precise control over cutting parameters like blade offset and speed
Cons
- Windows-only compatibility limits accessibility
- Basic design tools require external software like Illustrator for complex edits
- Dated interface feels less modern compared to competitors
Best For
Vinyl cutters and sign shops using Roland hardware who prioritize hardware-specific precision over advanced design features.
Pricing
Bundled free with Roland cutters; standalone license approximately $495.
Graphtec Studio
specializedIntegrated CAD/CAM software for precise cutting on Graphtec plotter devices.
ARMS 6.0 automatic registration mark sensing for multi-layer and segmented contour cutting
Graphtec Studio is a specialized software suite designed for Graphtec vinyl cutters and plotters, enabling users to import, edit, and output vector and raster designs for precision cutting tasks. It supports advanced features like contour cutting with ARMS (Automatic Registration Mark Sensing), job queuing, and pouncing for optimal material handling. Primarily tailored for sign-making, apparel, and graphics professionals, it integrates seamlessly with Graphtec hardware for reliable performance.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Graphtec plotters and ARMS technology for precise contour cutting
- Supports wide range of file formats including SVG, AI, PDF, and raster images
- Efficient job management with queuing and nesting capabilities
Cons
- Interface feels dated compared to modern design software competitors
- Limited advanced design tools; best as a companion to external editors like CorelDRAW
- Steeper learning curve for beginners without Graphtec hardware experience
Best For
Professional sign makers and vinyl cutters who own Graphtec plotters and need hardware-optimized output software.
Pricing
Free with Graphtec plotter purchase; standalone license around $595.
SignCut Pro
specializedProfessional contour cutting software compatible with most vinyl plotters and ARMS systems.
Universal support for virtually any vinyl cutter brand and model
SignCut Pro is a professional-grade cutting software tailored for vinyl plotters and contour cutters in the sign-making industry. It provides extensive compatibility with over 1,000 cutter models from various brands, enabling seamless import of vector files and precise output for vinyl graphics, heat transfers, and sandblasting stencils. Advanced features like optical registration mark detection for contour cutting and integrated RIP functionality streamline production workflows for high-volume users.
Pros
- Broad compatibility with 1,000+ plotter models
- Reliable contour cutting with optical eye
- Integrated RIP for efficient color management
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-experts
- Subscription model adds ongoing costs
- Limited native design editing capabilities
Best For
Professional sign shops and graphics producers requiring versatile multi-brand plotter support.
Pricing
Subscription from €25/month per license; perpetual license €995 plus optional modules.
Conclusion
This roundup of top plotter software shows EFI Flexi as the leading choice, excelling in enterprise-grade print, cut, and plotter workflows for sign-making. VinylMaster and CorelDRAW follow closely, with VinylMaster optimizing vinyl contour cutting and CorelDRAW offering robust vector support for large-format output, ensuring each caters to distinct needs. Whether for professional demands, vinyl expertise, or vector design, these tools deliver exceptional performance.
Take your plotter workflow to the next level—start with EFI Flexi, the ultimate solution for seamless, professional results.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
