Compare software

Rayforge vs LightBurn: catalog facts
Rayforge	LightBurn
Best for: Hobbyists and small workshops running GRBL laser cutters	Best for: Makers and small shops running a laser cutter or engraver
Free Free and open source under the MIT licence.	Paid Paid licence in Core and Pro editions, with a 30-day unrestricted free trial.
Linux	Windows, macOS
Design, path preparation and machine control in one app Parametric 2D CAD sketcher and image tracing All 4 strengths for Rayforge Design, path preparation and machine control in one app Parametric 2D CAD sketcher and image tracing Camera alignment and rotary support Material recipes and toolpath optimisation	Works with hundreds of laser cutters and engravers Design, layout and machine control in one program All 3 strengths for LightBurn Works with hundreds of laser cutters and engravers Design, layout and machine control in one program Full-featured 30-day trial with no watermarks
Targets GRBL-based machines AI generator is an extra that some workshops may not want	Paid licence, with updates tied to a yearly period Focused on lasers; CNC routing needs the separate MillMage product
Downloadable app	Downloadable app
Open source	Not open source
License: MIT	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 Rayforge rayforge.org Catalog checked October 1, 2026	Official website Full listing and sources Sources for LightBurn lightburnsoftware.com Catalog checked October 2, 2026

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