Compare software

Carbide Create vs MakeraCAM: catalog facts
Carbide Create	MakeraCAM
Best for: Hobbyists and makers using Shapeoko, Nomad or other CNC routers	Best for: Owners of a Makera Carvera desktop CNC preparing jobs for it
Free + paid options Core is free; Pro is paid with a 14-day free trial.	Free Free download from Makera for use with its CNC machines.
Windows, macOS	Windows, macOS
Design and toolpaths in one program Free Core version covers 2D and 2.5D machining All 4 strengths for Carbide Create Design and toolpaths in one program Free Core version covers 2D and 2.5D machining V-carving, pocketing and 3D simulation Pro outputs standard G-code for any CNC machine	Free to download Combines CAD and CAM steps to produce G-code All 3 strengths for MakeraCAM Free to download Combines CAD and CAM steps to produce G-code Made to match Makera Carvera machines
3D modelling and support for other machines require Pro No Linux version	Built around Makera's own CNC machines Little public documentation of features on the product page
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License not stated
Not stated if an account is needed	Not stated if an account is needed
Not stated if it works offline	Not stated if it works offline
Official website Full listing and sources Sources for Carbide Create carbide3d.com/carbidecreate Catalog checked October 2, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for MakeraCAM makera.com/pages/software Catalog checked October 2, 2026

“Not stated” means we have not confirmed it. Features can vary by device and plan.