

Engraving vector files is faster because the laser directly cuts on the path versus scanning like a printer and making dots when engraving bitmap images (photos). Vector format is preferred format for these machines because it contains the paths around the shape edges on which the laser head tracks. Lightburn supports more formats: AI, SVG, DXF, PDF, HPGL, PLT, and RD for vector formats and PNG, JPEG, BMP, TIFF, TGA, and GIF for image formats. With LaserGRBL you can import vector files (NC, BMP, JPG, PNG, DXF…) and bitmap image files (bmp, jpg, png and gif), For me it was definitely worth it because it saves so much time (which is not free). But, the software offers 1 month fully functional free trial which will help you decide if it is worth it to you. It is not free though, but the license costs 60$.

It is great for some tests, but I chose Lightburn instead which is much more capable software, and it is very intuitive to use. You can use the Atomstack A5 Pro laser engravers with free LaserGRBL software which works OK, but it is a little bit clumsy to use.
