What Software Is Used for Laser Cutting?

Most beginners search for “the best laser cutting software” expecting one program.

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In reality, laser cutting uses a software stack: design (CAD/vector) → layout/toolpaths (CAM or job prep) → machine control (send the job to the laser) — and for production shops, nesting and job management.

In this guide you’ll learn

  • The 4 main categories of laser cutting software (and what each one does).
  • Recommended software combinations for CO₂, diode, and fiber laser workflows.
  • File format and export tips to avoid scaling and cut-order problems.
  • Selection checklist: controller, OS, materials, and production needs.
Tip: Choose software by your controller + laser type, not just by brand names.

Quick answer

Commonly used software includes:

  • Design: Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Inkscape, AutoCAD, Fusion 360
  • Job prep / layout: LightBurn, controller-bundled tools, nesting/CAM suites
  • Industrial nesting/CAM: Lantek, SigmaNEST, ProNest, OEM suites (varies by machine)
  • Machine control: Controller-dependent (DSP/GCode/Galvo ecosystems)

1) Laser cutting uses a software stack (not a single program)

Think of the workflow like a pipeline: you create geometry (vector or CAD), prepare cutting layers and parameters, then send a job to the machine controller. If you run production, you add nesting, quoting, and job tracking.

Rule of thumb:

Your controller type (DSP vs GCode vs Galvo) determines what control software can talk to your machine. Your work type (hobby vs production) determines whether you need nesting and automation.

Stage What it does Typical outputs Common examples
Design (CAD / vector) Create vectors, parts, dimensions, geometry, and assemblies. SVG, DXF, AI, PDF (varies) Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Inkscape, AutoCAD, Fusion 360
Job prep (layout / toolpaths) Arrange parts, set layers, power/speed, cut order, tabs, engraving settings. Project/job files, toolpaths LightBurn; OEM job-prep tools; CAM modules
Machine control Connect to the machine, frame preview, start/pause, send jobs, manage device settings. Sent job / controller file Controller-dependent (DSP/GCode/Galvo ecosystems)
Production (nesting / management) Automatic nesting, material yield, remnant management, batch processing, reporting. NC + production plans Lantek, SigmaNEST, ProNest, OEM suites

2) The 4 main types of software used for laser cutting

2.1 Design software (vector & CAD)

Design software is where you create the shapes, parts, and artwork. For non-engineering projects, vector tools are fast and flexible. For precise parts and dimensioned drawings, CAD is the standard.

Vector design (artwork & templates)

Great for logos, signage, packaging, inlays, and engraving layouts. Export clean vectors and control stroke colors/layers.

Typical: SVG / AI / PDF
CAD design (parts & engineering)

Best for dimensioned parts, fits, assemblies, and sheet metal workflows. Export DXF reliably and keep units consistent.

Typical: DXF

2.2 Job prep software (layout, layers, toolpaths)

This is where “laser-specific” work happens: arranging parts, setting layers (cut/engrave), assigning speed/power/passes, defining cut order, and generating toolpaths. Many creators use all-in-one tools that combine layout + control.

2.3 Machine control software (send and run the job)

Machine control is about device communication and execution: connecting over USB/Ethernet/Wi-Fi, framing the job, sending it to the controller, and running it safely. This layer is tightly tied to the controller ecosystem.

2.4 Production nesting & CAM suites (industrial workflows)

If you cut sheet goods at volume, nesting becomes the ROI driver. Nesting/CAM suites optimize material yield, automate CNC programming, manage remnants, and standardize cut strategies across materials and thickness ranges.

3) Recommended software combinations by laser type

CO₂ lasers (cutting/engraving acrylic, wood, leather, etc.)

A common setup is: vector/CAD design → layout + control software. For many CO₂ workflows, a single layout/control app can handle importing, editing, layer parameters, and sending the job.

Diode lasers (entry-level cutting & engraving)

Diode workflows often use lightweight control options and simple vector design tools. The key is to ensure your control software supports your controller/firmware (many diode systems are GCode-based).

Fiber lasers (galvo marking vs cutting)

Fiber marking (galvo) and fiber cutting (gantry) are different ecosystems. Galvo marking focuses on hatch patterns, fill settings, and mark parameters; gantry cutting focuses on nesting, lead-ins, pierce logic, and production throughput.

Industrial sheet metal cutting (high-mix or high-volume)

Typical pipeline: CAD → nesting/CAM → NC output. Many machine makers offer integrated software; third-party nesting platforms are also widely used in the industry.

Selection shortcut:

If you are running batch production, prioritize nesting, remnant management, and post-processor reliability. If you are a studio/maker, prioritize ease of layout, layer presets, and stable machine connectivity.

4) How to choose the right laser cutting software (7-point checklist)

  1. Laser type: CO₂ vs diode vs fiber (and whether you’re marking or cutting).
  2. Controller ecosystem: DSP / GCode / Galvo — this determines compatibility.
  3. Operating system: Windows vs macOS (confirm driver + software support).
  4. File formats: What you need to import/export (SVG/DXF/AI/PDF) and how you manage units.
  5. Job prep features: Layers, cut order, tabs/bridges, kerf, test grids, camera workflow (if used).
  6. Production needs: Nesting yield, remnants, quoting integration, multiple machines.
  7. Learning curve & support: Documentation, community troubleshooting, update cadence.

Common pitfall:

Choosing a design program first and assuming it can “run the laser.” Design tools create geometry; the laser needs control software that can talk to your controller.

5) File formats & export tips (avoid scaling and cut-order issues)

DXF (CAD exchange)

DXF is widely used for parts and dimensioned geometry. To avoid scale problems, keep a consistent unit workflow (mm or inch), and avoid mixed units across CAD and job-prep tools.

SVG / AI / PDF (vector artwork)

For signage and artwork, vectors are ideal. Use closed paths for cutting, keep stroke widths minimal, and separate cut/engrave operations via layers or color mapping.

Cut order and “double lines”

If your machine cuts a line twice, it’s often because there are duplicate vectors (overlapping paths). Use “remove duplicates” or simplify paths before job prep.

6) Practical setup resources (Gweike Cloud users)

If you are using a Gweike Cloud machine and want a fast, stable workflow, start with software and documentation that matches your model and OS.

Laser software overview

Software options and quick entry points for common workflows.

Open: Laser Software
Downloads & manuals

User manuals, Windows/Mac software, and model-specific downloads.

Open: Documentation

Example: connect and configure (Windows)

If you want a step-by-step walkthrough, use the Windows connection tutorial below and follow it in order:

G2 connect LightBurn tutorials (Windows)

Recommendation:

Save a “baseline material preset” library (e.g., wood/acrylic/painted metal), then tune with small test grids rather than changing multiple parameters at once.

Want a clean, repeatable software workflow for your projects?

Use our software & documentation hub to download the right tools and follow model-specific setup steps.

Downloads & Manuals Laser Software

7) FAQ: Laser cutting software

Do I need separate software for design and laser control?
Often, yes. Design software creates vectors/parts, while control software communicates with the machine and runs jobs. Some solutions combine layout + control, but compatibility still depends on your controller type.
Why does my file import at the wrong size?
The most common causes are unit mismatch (mm vs inch) and CAD export settings. Keep units consistent and verify scale with a known dimension.
What’s the difference between hobby workflows and industrial workflows?
Hobby workflows emphasize quick layout, layer presets, and convenience. Industrial workflows emphasize nesting yield, automation, post-processors, and production reporting.
Do I need nesting software?
If you’re cutting high volumes of sheet goods or managing expensive materials, nesting can significantly improve yield and standardize cutting strategies. For one-off projects, a good layout tool may be enough.
Why does the laser cut lines twice?
Usually there are duplicate vectors or overlapping paths. Remove duplicates, simplify geometry, and ensure you don’t have stacked copies on multiple layers.
Where should I start if I’m new to laser cutting software?
Start with your machine’s official documentation and a simple workflow: import a known-good file, assign one cut layer, do a frame preview, then run a small test piece before moving to complex layouts.
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