Rayforge

Rayforge is a control and G-code sending software for GRBL-based laser cutters and engravers. Developed with Gtk4 and Libadwaita, it provides a native interface for Linux and Windows. It offers a complete set of tools for hobbyists and professionals.

★★★★★

5.0(1 ratings)

• Modern interface. Polished user interface built with Gtk4 and Libadwaita. Supports system, light, and dark themes. The interface adapts to the operating system's visual design.
• Multi-layer operations. Assignment of different operations to layers in the design. Each layer can contain specific parameters for engraving or cutting.
• Versatile operations. Support for Outline, Raster Engraving, Shrink Wrap, and Depth Engraving. Each operation type has specific settings.
• Kerf compensation and overscan. Improved engraving quality with overscan. Dimensional precision through kerf compensation. Compensation adjusts the path to maintain exact dimensions.
• 2.5D cutting. Performing multi-pass cuts with configurable stepover between passes. Designed for thick materials requiring multiple cutting passes.
• 3D preview. Visualization of G-code toolpaths in three dimensions. Complete job verification before sending to the machine.
• Multi-machine profiles. Configuration and instant switching between multiple machine profiles. Each profile stores device-specific settings.
• GRBL configuration. Reading and writing of firmware parameters directly from the interface. Full access to controller settings.
• Full 2D canvas. Complete suite of tools: alignment, transformation, measurement, zoom, and panning. Integrated design tools for job preparation.
• Advanced toolpath generation. High-quality image tracing, travel time optimization, path smoothing, and dot size interpolation. Algorithms for enhanced engraving quality.
• Hold-down tabs. Addition of tabs to outline cuts to keep parts in place. Supports manual and automatic placement. Tabs prevent material movement during cutting.
• G-code macros. Execution of custom G-code snippets before and after jobs. Supports variable substitution for parameterization.
• Broad file support. Import from SVG, DXF, PDF, JPEG, PNG, BMP, and Ruida files. Compatibility with vector and image formats.
• Multi-laser operations. Selection of different lasers for each operation in a job. Configuration of multiple laser sources in a single machine.
• Camera integration. Use of a USB camera for workpiece alignment, positioning, and background tracing. Camera calibration for positioning accuracy.
• Cross-platform. Native builds for Linux and Windows. Same feature set on both operating systems.
• Extensible development. Open development model for adding support for new devices. Modular architecture for future expansion.
• G-code dialects. Support for GRBL, Smoothieware, and other GRBL-compatible firmwares. Adaptation to different machine controllers.

Development of Rayforge began in 2024 as a modern alternative to existing laser control software. The developers created the project to address limitations in available applications. The software is written in the Rust programming language, utilizing Gtk4 and Libadwaita for the graphical interface. The development team maintains regular updates with new features and improvements. The software architecture allows integration with different machine controllers. The project follows a community development model with public contributions.

Alternatives to Rayforge:

LightBurn

LightBurn is the software environment for laser cutting and engraving.

Price: Free   Size: 93 MB   Version: 2.0.04   OS: Windows, Linux, MacOS