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Carbide Create vs VCarve: catalog facts
Carbide Create	VCarve
Best for: Hobbyists and makers using Shapeoko, Nomad or other CNC routers	Best for: Hobbyists and sign makers cutting carvings and signs on a CNC router
Free + paid options Core is free; Pro is paid with a 14-day free trial.	Paid One-off purchase with a free trial and paid upgrades to higher tiers.
Windows, macOS	Windows
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	Design, toolpath and preview in one program 2.5D and V-carving toolpaths All 4 strengths for VCarve Design, toolpath and preview in one program 2.5D and V-carving toolpaths Imports and machines 3D models Upgrade path to Aspire by paying the difference
3D modelling and support for other machines require Pro No Linux version	Windows only; Mac users need Vectric Spark instead Full 3D modelling requires Aspire
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Not open source	Not open source
License not stated	License: Proprietary
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 VCarve vectric.com Catalog checked October 2, 2026

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