Raster images are a different type of graphics to the vectors used in most online laser engraving software. With this, you can load any kind of image, including photos, clip art, pencil drawings, and icons into LaserGRBL and turn it into g-code without any additional software. There’s also the override function, which allows you to speed up or slow down the effective engraving speed and laser power in real-time during the engraving process.Īnother notable feature is the raster image import function. LaserGRBL has some really useful features, such as the jogging feature that allows you to manually position the laser head with two sliders to control the size and speed of steps. It’s a simple yet effective tool that’s user-friendly, so it’s perfect for beginners. Unlike some other software, LaserGRBL is specifically designed for hobbyists, so it doesn’t have the steep learning curve that comes with more professional programs.

LaserGRBL is a very popular, open-source laser engraver software for Windows that’s completely free to download and use.

Best for: Free laser cutter software for Windows.

In a rush? Here’s a quick view of our top laser cutter softwareīest Free Laser Engraver & Cutter Software LaserGRBL See also: our buyer’s guide of the best laser cutters and engravers. We’ve included both free and paid solutions to suit different budgets, and we’ve reviewed the key aspects of each software so that you can easily pick the one that best suits your needs. In this guide, we reveal the best laser engraving software and the best laser cutter software for 2022. You’ll also need software to create and edit your designs prior to the engraving process, but how do you know which laser cutting and engraving software is right for you?

Laser engraving isn’t controlled manually - it relies on laser cutting software that instructs the laser where to move using a CNC (computer numerical control) programming language, such as g-code. It’s much more efficient than methods such as etching, and it can also be used to achieve more complex designs. The technique has several benefits, including unmatched accuracy and consistency, leaving little room for human error. It’s a technique that’s used across a wide range of industries, from engineering to aerospace - as well as by hobbyists at home. Laser cutters can cut, slice, and engrave materials varying from acrylic and wood, to steel and aluminum.

Best laser free engraving software