Free Download Lightburn 1.6.03 Full Version - Latest Offline Installer - Layout, editing & control software for laser cutters.
Introduction
LightBurn is a laser control software designed for professionals and hobbyists alike who work with laser cutting and engraving machines. The software has earned a strong reputation for its comprehensive set of tools and features that make it easier to design, edit, and manage laser projects with precision. In this review, we’ll take a deep dive into the strengths and weaknesses of LightBurn, focusing on its user interface, features, supported hardware, performance, and pricing.
Overview of LightBurn
LightBurn is more than just a control software for laser machines—it is an all-in-one solution that allows users to design their projects, import various file types, adjust settings for laser output, and control the laser directly. It eliminates the need for users to use multiple programs for designing and cutting, as it integrates design tools, file management, and laser control in one package.
Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux, LightBurn supports a wide range of laser controllers, including Ruida, Trocen, and GRBL-based machines, which gives it a wide appeal to both commercial users and DIY enthusiasts.
User Interface
One of the standout aspects of LightBurn is its user interface (UI). Upon opening the software, users are greeted with a clean and professional layout that is highly intuitive for both beginners and experienced users. The design space dominates the center, with toolbars, layers, and settings positioned around the edges. The software supports docking and undocking panels, allowing users to customize the interface based on their preferences.
For new users, LightBurn offers an array of tutorials and documentation, which make the learning curve easier. The interface itself is reminiscent of popular design software like CorelDRAW or Adobe Illustrator, which can make it easier for experienced designers to adapt quickly. The icons and functions are well-organized, and there are tooltips for every button to explain their functions, reducing the chance of confusion. Additionally, LightBurn provides multi-language support, making it accessible to users around the globe.
Design Tools
LightBurn shines when it comes to its built-in design tools. While some laser control software focuses solely on machine control and requires users to rely on third-party design programs, LightBurn offers a wide range of vector and text editing tools.
Users can create shapes, draw lines, and manipulate text directly in the software. There are standard drawing tools such as rectangles, circles, ellipses, and polylines, and more advanced features like node editing and Boolean operations, which allow for merging, subtracting, and intersecting shapes. These features make it possible to design intricate and precise artwork without needing to use external programs. Furthermore, LightBurn includes grid, snap, and measurement tools, which allow for alignment and scaling of objects with ease.
For users who prefer to design in other software, LightBurn supports the import of a wide range of file types, including AI, SVG, DXF, and PDF, making it highly versatile for integrating existing artwork or designs from other sources.
Laser Control and Device Settings
Where LightBurn truly excels is in its laser control features. Once a design is ready, users can adjust settings like speed, power, number of passes, and focus for different layers and materials. LightBurn’s layer management system is particularly useful, allowing users to assign different settings for different parts of a project, all within the same file.
The software supports both vector cutting and raster engraving, which is essential for users working with a variety of materials. The engraving options are especially noteworthy, with different modes available for dithering, grayscale, and line-based engraving. The wide range of controls makes it possible to achieve different types of finishes, from smooth, photo-like engravings to deep cuts in thicker materials.
LightBurn allows users to manually adjust the focus and positioning of the laser, providing them with full control over how the machine interacts with the material. The camera integration feature is particularly unique. It allows users to align their designs to the material more accurately by placing a camera in their laser system and using the feed to position their cuts in real time. This feature can save time and reduce material waste for users who need precise placement.
For users with Ruida, Trocen, or GRBL-based lasers, LightBurn offers direct control over the device, allowing you to send commands, monitor job progress, and control the laser directly from the software. The ability to control the laser via USB or over a network adds another layer of convenience.
Performance
In terms of performance, LightBurn is fast, efficient, and stable. The software is well-optimized to handle complex vector files, even when there are many layers or intricate paths. Users report minimal lag when working with high-resolution designs or when previewing jobs. The built-in job preview feature is particularly valuable, showing a simulation of the laser’s path before the job starts, which can help prevent mistakes and ensure everything is set up correctly.
The software also supports job-saving functionality, allowing users to pause and resume jobs, or even restart them in the event of power loss, which can be a lifesaver for large or complex projects.
Supported Hardware
LightBurn is compatible with a wide range of lasers, which is one of its greatest strengths. It supports popular brands and controllers, including:
- Ruida
- Trocen
- TopWisdom
- GRBL-based controllers
- Smoothieware
- Marlin
This extensive hardware support makes LightBurn accessible to users with a wide variety of machines, whether they are high-end industrial lasers or DIY setups. LightBurn is continually updated to support more devices, and the active user community frequently provides feedback for new devices or features that can be added.
Pricing
LightBurn is a paid software, and there are a few different pricing tiers depending on the type of laser you own. The basic license for GCode-based lasers is available for around $60, while the DSP license for Ruida, Trocen, and TopWisdom controllers is priced at $120. These licenses come with a year of free updates, and after that, users can continue using the software without restrictions or purchase an additional year of updates for $30.
Given the extensive features offered by LightBurn, its pricing is highly competitive. Many users find that the software quickly pays for itself in terms of time saved and improved precision.
Strengths
- Comprehensive design tools: LightBurn’s design tools are robust, making it a versatile option for both design and laser control.
- Wide hardware compatibility: The software works with many different laser controllers, making it an excellent choice for a broad range of users.
- Camera integration: A unique feature that improves accuracy and reduces material waste.
- User-friendly interface: Intuitive design and helpful tooltips make it easy to learn, even for beginners.
- Active development and support: LightBurn is regularly updated with new features, and its active community is a plus for troubleshooting and ideas.
Weaknesses
- Learning curve for beginners: While the interface is user-friendly, laser operation itself can be complex, and new users may need time to familiarize themselves with all the settings and options.
- Limited 3D engraving features: LightBurn excels at 2D engraving and cutting but lacks advanced 3D engraving tools that some high-end users may want.
Product Information
- File name: LightBurn 1.6.03 Multilingual
- Created by: LightBurn Software
- Version: 1.6.03
- License type: Full version
- Release Date: September 26, 2024
- Languages: Multilingual
What is new
Change log
Conclusion
Overall, LightBurn is an outstanding software choice for anyone working with laser cutters and engravers. Its combination of powerful design tools, extensive hardware support, and precise control over laser settings makes it a highly valuable tool for both professionals and hobbyists. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the feature set and continuous updates. While beginners might face a learning curve, LightBurn’s resources and community support help mitigate that challenge. For anyone serious about laser cutting or engraving, LightBurn is a worthwhile investment.
LightBurn 1.6.03 | 64-bit | File Size: 73 MB
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