What Software For Cnc Router

Common Software for CNC Router (there are 3 categories: CAD/CAM Design, Machine Control, Free Beginner Tools)
CNC router software is divided into design (CAD/CAM for drawing & enerating G-code), Controller(operate machine directly) and free starter programs.

• ① Vectric Series (The most popular software in woodworking and signage making)

Cut2D / VCarve Desktop/Pro: Best suited for beginners and small studios; supports 2D cutting, V-shaped engraving, 2.5D relief carving, lettering engraving, and nesting of plywood/MDF/acrylic sheets. The desktop version is suitable for hobby cnc router machines, while the professional version is suitable for industrial-grade 1325 machines(Standard 4x8 Wood Cnc Machine).

Aspire: A top-tier art carving software that inherits all the features of VCarve and adds complete 3D relief carving, grayscale image to 3D model conversion, and four-axis rotary circular carving (wooden crafts, furniture reliefs).

Applications: Cabinet door carving, wooden signs, art crafts.

• ② Fusion 360 (Autodesk)

Free for personal/hobby use; commercial factories require a paid license. An all-in-one solid CAD + CAM software; ideal for mechanical parts, aluminum cutting, complex 3D models, and 2-4 axis machining. If you need to create custom wooden jigs and metal prototypes, this software is ideal.

• ③ Mastercam Router

Industrial-grade heavy-duty CAM software suitable for large furniture factories; supports batch nesting, multi-axis, 2D~5-axis cutting, and mass production of composite boards and solid wood.

• ④ ArtCAM (Classic Retro Carving Software)

Renowned for high-precision 3D relief carving, jewelry and craft carving, it was widely used in traditional wood carving factories (now largely replaced by Aspire).

G-code exported from CAD/CAM for use:

• ① DSP Offline Controller: Most 6090/1325 industrial routers are equipped with a handheld screen; no computer required, files can be saved directly to a USB flash drive (most commonly used in domestic woodworking CNC machine tools).
• ② Mach3 / Mach4: PC control software based on Windows systems, suitable for desktop 3040/6040 cast iron routers, connected via parallel port/USB.
• ③ NCStudio(Weihong Controller): A traditional domestic industrial control system for the 1325 woodworking cnc router machine.

• ① Carbide Create: Super simple 2D design and CAM, zero learning cost for beginners, directly outputs G code.
• ② FreeCAD + Path Workbench: Completely open-source and free 2D/3D CAD+CAM software, permanently free.
• ③ Easel (Web-based): Online browser software, no installation required, ideal for small desktop engraving machines.

• ① Hobby mini CNC engraving machine (3040): Free → Carbide Create / Fusion360 Personal;
• ② Small woodworking workshop (6090): VCarve Pro;
• ③ Artistic relief/crafts: Aspire;
• ④ Industrial furniture mass production: Mastercam + DSP control.