October 28, 2022 15 min read

When it comes to CNC routing software, there are many options out there. They range from free to paid, simple to complex, and each has pros and cons. But what is CNC router software and why is it important?

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at:

  • What CNC software is
  • Free Vs. Paid software
  • CNC router programs: CAD vs. CAE and CAM
  • Which is the best CNC software for woodworking?

We’ll also share some of our favorite programs for different uses, and help you find the right software for you. 

What is CNC Software?

To fully understand why you need software for a CNC router, you need to know that CNCs work in stages. The controller receives input from the computer, translates it into usable instructions, and relays it to the CNC’s working components.

CNC router software is what you use to create designs that you want to develop with your CNC machine. Once you program your design into the software, it turns it into a code called geometric code or G-code. 

G-code is the only language that most CNC routers understand, so this is a fundamental step when it comes to realizing your woodworking dreams. Additionally, CNC software is essential for the design process. Among other things it:

  • Allows you to program the cutting order
  • Lets you assign cutting depths to different parts of the project
  • Helps you to preview cutting patterns so you can determine which cutting tool to use

As you can see, this relatively minor part of the woodworking process has major effects. It’s essential to find the best CNC router software for your business.

Types of CNC Software

While you might find software that covers everything from design to implementation, most CNC software programs cover a specific aspect.

The main types of CNC software include:

  • CAD - Computer-aided design
  • CAM - Computer-aided manufacturing
  • G-code sender software
  • CNC control software
  • CNC simulation software

CAD vs. CAM

CAD and CAM are the two software choices most commonly used by CNC machinists. The main difference between them is that one is used for design, while the other is used for manufacture.

Computer-aided design software allows the user to design intricate models of the item they want to create. While crossover-type programs exist, CAD software typically only has design capabilities.

Computer-aided manufacturing programs, on the other hand, allow the user to control the manufacturing machine. Using CAM software allows you to input the cutting tool, cutting path, and other manufacturing-specific details.

G-Code Sender Software

CNC machines communicate with computer software using something called geometric code, or G-code for short. G-code is the only “language” that these machines understand, and every design needs to be converted into this code.

G-code sender software specializes in sending, and sometimes editing geometric code. These programs allow you to take the code you’ve designed using CAD and CAM software and send it to your CNC machine.

CNC Control Software

CNC control software, as the name implies, allows you to interact with your CNC machine. It can send G-code and covers other interactions as well. This type of software is a viable replacement for G-code sender software.’

CNC Simulation Software

CNC simulation software can be a useful addition to the machinist’s toolbox. It allows you to “test” your cuts digitally so that you can “see” how each cut will go. If, for instance, you made a mistake on one of the long cuts, you’ll be able to see this on the simulator.

This type of software can save you quite a lot in terms of money and materials. Instead of running a design to see if it works out well, you can simply run it through the simulator. It allows you to fix mistakes and change problem programming without wasting any materials.

Is CNC Software Free?

CNC software comes in both free and paid models. However, as with most things, it’s unlikely that the best software for a CNC router will be free. Nevertheless, some of the free versions are wonderfully efficient and can be an excellent stepping stone when you’re starting.

Something else to consider is that many paid software programs offer a free trial. This allows you to test out multiple types before choosing the software that you like best.

What to Look For in a CNC Software

When you’re trying to find the best software for your CNC router, you must know what you’re looking for. We’ve narrowed down the different CNC software elements to make comparisons easier, and to help you find exactly what you need.


When you’re trying to find the quintessential software for your router, consider the following:

Is it Free or Paid?

When your business is just getting started, every penny counts. As such, free options can be incredibly useful. However, free software often doesn’t have all the features that paid software offers.

It’s important to ask whether the software is free or paid. If it’s paid software, consider the cost and work out if you can validate paying that much. Will you be able to cover the cost of the license and still make a profit? If not, you should probably look for a cheaper option.

Is it Easy to Use?

The best CNC software for your business is one that’s easy to use. 

In some cases, you may need the abilities of a complex program. If so, it’s well worth investing in the required training. 

However, for most businesses, the products are relatively uncomplicated. They’ll do best with software that’s easy to use by any of the staff members. Not only does it mean that more of your staff can successfully use the machine, but it saves money on training. 

Does it Offer Plenty of Versatility?

The best CNC software for you is one that offers versatility. Preferably, you should be able to do a wide array of things with the software, without paying a high premium for every ability.

If you’re only doing a few basic things, then you might be able to use software with little versatility. However, if you decide to expand in the future, you’ll need to invest in more substantial software.

Isn’t it much better then, to buy software with high levels of versatility that allows you to expand whenever you’d like? We think it is.

Will You Have Access to Reliable, Professional User Support?

When you’re learning to use new software, having access to professional user support is essential.

If the software seems to be glitching, you need to be able to ask someone what to do. If you think you’re doing something wrong, but you’re not sure what, you need access to tech support.

It’s essential to look into any software’s reviews and ratings. Other users’ experiences will tell you whether the software’s user support is terrible, okay, or fantastic.

Another thing to consider is whether the user support is a paid service. While excellent service may come with corresponding charges, you don’t want user support that’s too expensive to use. If something goes wrong, you need to be able to contact support without worrying about the expense.

Which Operating Systems is it Compatible With?

Not all CNC software programs work on every operating system. The best CNC software for both beginners and experts will work on a wide array of operating systems.

The best software for you, at the very least, should work on your operating system of choice. It’s best to get one with diverse abilities, so you can use your software no matter which computer you’re using.

Which Features Does it Have?

Possibly the most essential element of any software program, including CNC software, is which features it offers.

While an incredibly versatile program is ideal, you may not be able to afford one with all the abilities you’d like.

So, preferably, you should know which features you want as a bare minimum. Then, look for a software program that covers the things which you consider most essential.

CNC Software in a Nutshell

We’ve put together this handy reference sheet so you can see what each program does, whether it’s paid software, and where to find it. Enjoy.

Software Name

Uses

Free/Paid

Compatible Operating Systems

Get it at:

Easel

CAD, CAM, Control, Simulation

Free/Paid Versions

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Inventables.com

Fusion 360

CAD, CAM, 

Free/Paid Versions

Windows, MacOS

Javelin-tech.com

Carbide Create

CAD, CAM, Simulation, Control (of Carbide CNCs)

Free/Paid Versions

Windows, MacOS

Carbide3d.com

VCarve

CAD, CAM

Paid

Windows

Vectric.com

CarveCo Maker

CAD, CAM

Free/Paid Versions

Windows

Carveco.com

AutoCAD

CAD

Paid

Windows

Autodesk.co.za

Openbuilds CAM

CAM

Free

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Software.openbuilds.com

FreeMILL

Simulation, Send G-code

Free

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Mecsoft.com

Denvi/Candle

Control (sends G-code)

Free

Windows, Linux

Github.com

Universal G-Code Sender (UGS)

Control

Free

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Winder.github.io

OpenBuilds Control

Control

Free

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Software.openbuilds.com

CNC.js

Control

Free

Windows, Linux, MacOS

cnc.js.org

eCAM

CAD, CAM

Free

Windows

V4.e-cam.it

G-Wizard Editor

G-code editing and simulation

Free

Windows, MacOS

Cnccookbook.com

Linux CNC

Control

Free

Linux

Linuxcnc.org

Planet CNC

Control

Free when using licensed Planet CNC controller, paid for everyone else

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Planet-cnc.com

Mach4

Control

Paid

Windows

Machsupport.com

TurboCNC

Control

Paid

Windows, Linux, MacOS

Dakeng.com

NC Viewer

Simulation

Free

Browser-based

Ncviewer.com 

CNC Simulator Pro

Simulation

Free

Windows

Cncsimulator.com

Which CNC Software is Best for All-in-One?

When it comes to the best CNC software for beginners, most novices prefer all-in-one software. These programs cover the design, manufacture, and control aspects needed to use a CNC machine.

In some cases, the software only covers the CAD and CAM aspects or doesn’t work particularly well at control. Even so, these can be treated as all-in-one when used in conjunction with free control software.

Below, we’ll take a closer look at some of the most popular and commonly used all-in-one CNC software programs.

Easel

Easel is potentially the most famous CNC software out there. Almost every CNC machinist has tried Easel at some point.

You can use Easel for CAD, CAM, and control. However, some machinists claim that the control aspect of the program is a bit buggy.

This is an excellent program to use when cutting your teeth on CNC machining because they offer a free array of basic tools. If you wish to learn more advanced skills and have access to more tools, you can simply upgrade to the paid version.

Easel sports a plethora of features, including:

  • Design tools
  • Trace images
  • Basic font library
  • Two-stage carving
  • Project downloads
  • Basic design library
  • Import and export G-code
  • Workpiece organization tools
  • Easy-to-use toolpath automation
  • Interactive tools and applications
  • Work with scalable vector graphics
  • Detailed three-dimensional previews
  • Integrated bit libraries and material libraries (includes recommended cut settings)

When you upgrade to Easel Pro, you unlike even more features, such as:

  • V-Carving
  • 3D Carving
  • Advanced toolpaths
  • A professional design library (Over 3,000,000 designs)
  • A font library with over 300+ fonts and effects (fully customizable)
  • A toolbox where you can add custom bits and materials
  • Saveable custom cut settings
  • Profiles for multiple machines

If you decide to go the paid route, you’re looking at a cost of either $24 per month (before taxes) or $233 per year.

Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is another popular CNC software, that features a large array of different tools and abilities. Not only can you use CAD functions on this program, but it has CAM, control, and simulation abilities as well.

Among other things it hosts:

  • Design features include:
    • Sketching
    • Assemblies
    • Mesh modeling
    • Direct modeling
    • Surface modeling
    • Freeform modeling
    • Parametric modeling
    • Realistic rendering
    • PCB design integration
    • Tools for designing sheet metal components
    • A platform that allows three-dimensional design and modeling
  • Manufacturing features, including:
    • CAD to CAM conversion
    • Two-dimensional and 2.5D toolpaths
    • Multi-point machining for up to five axes
    • Simultaneous milling with four axes and five axes
    • Combine turning and milling for more complex workpieces
    • Buy a paid machining extension to unlock extra features
  • Simulation features such as digital and cloud simulation

This is one of the best CNC software options on the market. As such, it can be considerably more expensive than some of the other programs.

If you decide to use this program long-term, you’re looking at a fee of $70 per month or $409 per year.

Carbide Create

Carbide Create is arguably one of the most versatile CNC software choices on the market, although it doesn’t have control functions.

Among the many features it offers, Carbide Create allows you to create and use various design features like:

  • Basic geometric shapes
  • Splines
  • Text
  • Alignment
  • Background images
  • Booleans
  • Offset vectors
  • Automatic image tracing
  • DFX and SVG imports
  • Integrated design element library

In manufacturing terms, it allows you to use:

  • V-Carving
  • Engraving tools
  • A comprehensive tool library
  • 3D simulation
  • Adjustable speeds and feeds
  • Use pockets and contours

The paid version of this software has even more to offer. Carbide Create Pro boasts all the standard features, as well as:

  • Ramped entry
  • STL import options
  • Texture application abilities
  • Rest machining
  • 3D rough machining
  • 3D finish machining
  • Create your own engraving toolpaths
  • Save your standard g-code for projects
  • Load different images as heightmaps
  • Combine components
  • Create 3D elements from vectors

Unlike many of the other software options for CNC, Carbide Create doesn’t offer a monthly purchase option. Instead, you can pay for either a yearly or perpetual (lifetime) license.

Annual licenses cost $120 per year, and perpetual licenses cost $360. It’s worth noting that, if you buy a perpetual license, you’ll only receive software updates for one year. After that time, you’ll still be able to use the software, but updates cost an additional $120 per year. 

Best CNC Design Software for Beginners

Design is the first, and arguably most essential, part of the CNC creation process. A versatile software program with plenty of abilities is essential in this regard. The following software options are some of the best free and paid CAD-specific programs on the market.

VCarve

VCarve is a popular, and well-known, design software that offers plenty of features for both beginners and professionals. These include:

  • Importing and editing 2D images
  • Customizing and controlling individual toolpaths
  • Importing 3D models
  • Applying roughs and finishes to 3D renderings
  • Machining parts on two sides
  • Assembling multiple 3D models into comprehensive assemblies
  • A full set of design and drawing tools. 

There’s a free version of this software, but it has limited abilities when compared to the Pro option. For the paid version, you can expect fees of $699.

CarveCo Maker Plus

CarveCo Maker Plus is the paid version of CarveCo Maker. While the free version is fantastic, Plus offers some additional features. Among others, you can expect the following features:

  • Create reliefs from greyscale 
  • Smooth and edit reliefs
  • Identify vector problems
  • Generate vectors automatically
  • 3D sculpting
  • Turn and edit shapes
  • Cookie cutter function
  • Create and edit designs
  • Set and export toolpaths to the controller software

If you buy this software, you would pay around $50 per month, $600 per year, or $1200 for a perpetual license.

AutoCAD

For many people, AutoCAD is the number one CNC software choice. It offers seemingly limitless tools and abilities, including plenty of 2D design tools like:

  • Pre-set dimensions
  • Text objects
  • Revision clouds
  • Data linking and extraction
  • Dynamic block shape, size, etc.
  • Parametric design constraints

3D design tools include:

  • Model using solid, surface, or mesh tools
  • Apply different materials and lighting effects before rendering
  • Generate 2D models based on selected segments of your 3D drawing

AutoCAD offers much more besides, including tools to facilitate easy collaboration with coworkers and a customizable user interface.

This isn’t free software, and you can expect to pay $235 for a monthly license or $1,865 for an annual one.

Best Computer-Assisted Manufacturing (CAM) Software

After designing your workpiece, you need to program the manufacturing aspects of the design. Computer-aided manufacturing software allows you to program essential aspects like toolpaths, bit choices and cutting speeds. These are some of our favorite CAM software programs.

Openbuilds CAM

Openbuilds CAM is a free software used for setting up the manufacturing aspects of CNC machining. It offers plenty of features, including:

  • Import selected file types
  • Import parts from a built-in library
  • Sending G-code to control software
  • The ability to generate and edit G-code
  • Set up your toolpaths for cutting, routing, and other machining procedures

FreeMILL

FreeMill offers a wide variety of CAM features, including:

  • Set tool axis cutting directions independently
  • Set specific machine coordinates as your zero-point
  • Tools for creating different types of mills
  • Set the cutting feeds & speeds
  • 3-Axis Milling
  • Toolpath Simulation

As its name suggests, FreeMill is 100% free CAM software. You don’t need to pay for licensing, use, or additional features.

Best CNC G-Code Senders

CNC machines only understand G-code and, if your software doesn’t have a built-in G-code sender, you need stand-alone software. We’ve listed some of our favorite free and paid software for this purpose.

Denvi/Candle

Candle is one of the most well-known G-code senders since it’s free to use. It already offers useful features, like:

  • Monitoring your CNC machine
  • Visualizing and sending G-code
  • Controlling your CNC machine using your computer’s number pad

Since this software is cloud-based, no installation is required. However, it only works on Windows.

Universal G-Code Sender (UGS)

UGS is another free G-code sender, that works well in conjunction with most machines and CAD programs.

It’s not merely a sender though, and it lets you:

  • Visualize and process G-code
  • Estimate durations for every process
  • Run on most operating systems
  • Communicate with control software

Since this program is open-source, it’s entirely free to use.

OpenBuilds Control

OpenBuilds Control is free software that runs spectacularly alongside OpenBuilds CAM. It offers a wide array of features to help you run your CNC machine, including:

  • Setting your Zero-point to any coordinates on the machine
  • Use pre-loaded or custom machine configurations
  • Built-in settings for creating and smoothingCNC spoilboards
  • Interfacing with your machine
  • Jogging your machine
  • Viewing and editing G-code
  • 3D viewing

This software has many advantages and, considering that it’s a free service, may be one of the best CNC software options for G-code sending. 

CNC.js

CNC.js is an open-source G-code sender software that’s entirely free to use. Since it’s web-based, it operates on any operating system.


This program has a myriad of features, including:

  • Digital readouts (DRO)
  • Desktop apps for all major operating systems
  • Tool path visualization in 3D
  • A customizable workspace
  • Keyboard shortcuts
  • A tool change option

This software has many other features and, since it’s open source, you can always suggest additional features.

eCAM

eCAM is a diverse and versatile G-code sender that allows you to do more than just send code. Among other things, you can:

  • Import designs from DXF or DWG formats
  • Generate or customize G-code
  • Input G-code manually
  • Add and save stock materials
  • Edit CAD designs
  • Simulate toolpaths
  • Preview chosen stock in 3D

Unlike the other software programs on our G-code sender list, eCAM requires a license. You can buy a mill-only or lathe-only license for 150€, a complete license for 200€, or a complete and adaptive license for 350€.

G-Wizard Editor

G-Wizard Editor is free software that offers a surprising amount of features. For example, you can:

  • Compare similar files to find differences in G-code and design
  • Find and replace or jump to specified snippets of G-code
  • Use keyboard shortcuts and insert wizards to expedite processes
  • Name macro variables
  • Convert between Imperial and Metric measurements
  • Customizable code snippets 

Best CNC Control Software

Once you’ve completed the CAD and CAM aspects of CNC software, you need something that allows you to control the machine. The below-mentioned software programs are some of the best easy-to-use options out there.

LinuxCNC

As the name suggests, LinuxCNC operates only on Linux systems. Within Linux, it only works on the Ubuntu and Debian distributions.


LinuxCNC offers a wide array of versatile features, including:

  • Multiple customizable graphical user interfaces
  • A G-code interpreter
  • A motion planning system
  • Easy installation
  • A programmable software PLC
  • Machine electronics operations
  • Operate up to nine axes

This software is under public license, and free for use by anyone.

Planet CNC

PlanetCNC is an excellent software if you’re looking for a program that runs on your operating system. Unlike some of the other programs, it works on almost any of the popular platforms.


It also boasts a broad spectrum of features, such as:

  • Viewing and manipulating G-code
  • Importing and exporting G-code
  • Control machine actions
  • Manipulate speeds and feeds
  • Select tools and bits

This software is free for anyone with a PlanetCNC controller with a valid license.

Best Professional CNC Control Software

If you want to take your CNC control game to the next level, then you might want to consider professional CNC control software. These applications are some of the best professional options and give you all the reach you might need.

Mach4

Mach4 CNC has a host of useful features, such as:

  • Remote controlling and monitoring of CNC machines
  • Accurate screw mapping
  • Backlash control
  • Dynamic tool path display
  • Anti-gouging
  • Manual pulse generator

You can purchase two different versions of this software. The industrial license is $1400, and the hobby license is only $200.

TurboCNC

If you’re looking for a feature-laden program, TurboCNC offers:

  • A built-in code editor
  • No limits on file sizes
  • Simultaneous motion on eight axes
  • Parametric programming
  • Various types of interpolation
  • 60 tool offsets

TurboCNC is a shareware, and the only fee is a $60 registration fee per computer.

Best CNC Simulation Software

If you want to ensure that your projects turn out the way you’ve planned, simulation software is an essential part of the process. We’ve listed some of our favorite software for running CNC simulations, checking cuts, and reviewing results.

NC Viewer

NC Viewer allows you to do many things, including:

  • Viewing and editing G-code
  • Understanding what a G-code does
  • Testing G-code to find problems and ensure smooth operation
  • Estimating run-time for any string of G-code

This is free, cloud-based software with no fees attached. You can use it on any operating system since there’s no need to install it.

CNC Simulator Pro

CNC Simulator Pro is one of the most diverse simulators out there. With it you can access: 

  • A diverse selection of machines
  • View and edit G-code
  • Make gears
  • Make images
  • Basic CAD and CAM abilities
  • Simulate the G-code process to find and fix mistakes

A license for this software comes at $99 per year, with $285 per upgrade to a newer version of the software thereafter. You can also buy a perpetual or lifetime license for $535.

Closing Thoughts 

We hope that this overview of the best CNC software has helped you to find what you’re looking for. Whether it’s design, manufacture, simulation, or control, one of the above software programs will work.

If you’re new toCNC machines, then many different aspects can be a bit overwhelming. We can help you find what you’re looking for.

Our array of TorkCNC3-axis CNC machines is up to almost any task, and we’d love to help you build a package that meets your business needs. If you’re not sure what you’re looking for, have questions, or just want to learn more, please feel free tocontact us.