The Best GRBL Controller Software (For CNCs & Lasers)
Nowadays, there are more GRBL software options than there are GRBL settings! With so many to choose between, it can be difficult to pick the best GRBL software for your next CNC ... Read more
Best Free CNC Software (CAD, CAM, Control, and Firmware)
Working with the software side of CNC can be intimidating and expensive. CNC software plays an important role from design to physically controlling your CNC motors every step of the way. You ... Read more
How to Build a CNC Controller: GRBL or G2Core?
The controller is the brain of any CNC, 3D printer, or laser. The CNC controller interacts with the control software to receive the G code and then plans the motion of your ... Read more
Color Laser Engraving: Etching and Marking Explained
Lasers are superb for engraving or marking materials. But laser engraving in color takes that versatility to the next level. You could create color laser engravings on your favorite knife. Or, you ... Read more
Best CNC Shields For Arduino in 2023 (GRBL 1.1, Uno, Due)
There are plenty of CNC shields for Arduino controllers, like GRBL and Marlin. If you are also developing an Arduino controller for your CNC, laser, or 3D printer, finding a good CNC ... Read more
CNC Feeds & Speeds Formula (How to Calculate Feed Rate)
If you are about to cut or mill anything with your CNC machine, understanding feed rates and RPM speeds is vital. They will significantly affect your tool life, surface finish, and machining ... Read more
How to Wire a Stepper Motor (4, 5, 6, and 8 Wires)
You can do several things if you are dissatisfied with your stepper motor’s performance. You can change the stepper motor or the stepper motor driver or modify your stepper motor wiring (unipolar, ... Read more
GRBL vs Mach3 (or Arduino vs Parallel Port) Comparison
The controller is one of the essential parts of any CNC, laser, or 3D printer. If you don’t want to buy industrial controllers, you have two choices: you can either turn an Arduino board ... Read more
Snapmaker vs xTool: Which Laser is Best For You?
Snapmaker’s success with their 3-in-1 laser cutter, 3D printer, and CNC machines with both their current Snapmaker Artisan and 2.0 AT models conjures up a very important question: do you still need ... Read more
How Long Does It Take To Learn AutoCAD? (Beginners)
At first glance, learning AutoCAD seems like a daunting task. The many commands, tools, and menus can make anyone’s head spin. It’s easy for beginners to feel intimidated to the point of ... Read more
Can I Learn CNC Programming Online? (Explained)
In a nutshell, yes, you can learn basic CNC (Computer Numerical Control) programming online. You’ll need a decent understanding of basic mathematics, and an understanding of machining, but you can do it. ... Read more
5 Best Parametric Modeling Software in 2023
In this guide, I review the best parametric modeling software. We’ll cover both free and paid options, as well as options for amateurs and professionals, to help you find the right software ... Read more
Mach3 vs Mach4: Which is Best For You?
In this article, I’ll compare Mach3 vs Mach4 over its current issues, capabilities, intended audience, price, features, support, and more. I’ll go in-depth here, but if you want a quick summary, I’ve ... Read more
Lightburn vs LaserGRBL: Which is Best For You?
Are you looking for a decent software for your laser? Lightburn and LaserGRBL are excellent choices, but they are very different software. In this article, I’ll compare Lightburn with LaserGRBL, across laser ... Read more
Maslow vs MakerMade M2
In my comparison of the Maslow CNC vs MakerMade M2, overall the MakerMade M2 offers significant improvements over Maslow Classic in accuracy, ease of assembly, and speed. However, it’s twice the price ... Read more
Fiber vs CO2 Lasers: Which is Best For You?
Overview Fiber and CO2 lasers are more accessible and affordable than ever – but while they’re both laser cutters, they also differ greatly. They suit very different materials, so if you buy ... Read more
xTool vs Glowforge: All Lasers Compared
Glowforge and xTool are both titans in the laser cutting space. Both companies offer impressive products that are very popular. Within the laser cutting community, there’s a lot of discussion between xTool ... Read more
Best Free DWG Viewer: View AutoCAD Files for Free
AutoCAD is widely used by architects, engineers, and designers, and as a result, many 2D designs are presented in AutoCAD file formats (DWG, DXF, and DWF). In order to interact with these ... Read more
5 Best CNC GRBL Controllers in 2023 (Every Price Range)
GRBL is the most widely used CNC controller among hobbyists and DIYers. Beginner CNCs like Shapeoko, Sainsmart, and OpenBuilds all use GRBL CNC controllers, as well as entry-level lasers since GRBL is ... Read more
SolidWorks vs Onshape: Every Difference Explained
Personally, I lean towards Onshape. Onshape is better than SolidWorks if you have a team that designs together, and Onshape will also save you a lot of money. But, SolidWorks is more ... Read more
6 Best CNC Routers for Sign-Making in 2023
In this article, we’ll cover all the best CNC routers for signmaking – for DIYers, small business owners, and hobbyists looking to make and sell signs. Picking the wrong CNC router can ... Read more
4 Best Cabinet Design Software in 2023 (For All Uses)
In a nutshell, here’s our top recommendations: Top Picks Best Cabinet Design Software – Full Round-Up Cabinet design software assists a wide range of people: homeowners, designers, and cabinet manufacturers all use ... Read more
AutoCAD vs SolidWorks: Which One to Learn?
AutoCAD and SolidWorks are two of the most widely used CAD programs. But, AutoCAD and SolidWorks are very different, so learning their differences is important for anyone who wants to work with ... Read more
SolidWorks vs CATIA: Which is Best For Every Usecase
SolidWorks and CATIA are prominent CAD software with a wide range of applications, both made by Dassault Systemes. But, they target different industries, and there are different job opportunities for CATIA and ... Read more
The Best Mechanical Engineering Software for Every Application
Mechanical engineering is a vast field that covers a range of scales, from nanomechanics at the nanoscale to aerospace at the mega scale. As a result, there are many software packages available ... Read more
Laser Engraving & Etching Anodized Aluminum: Complete Guide
Anodized aluminum doesn’t rust and resists abrasion, making engraving anodized aluminum one of the best materials for laser projects for your home and in industry. Most lasers can engrave anodized aluminum – ... Read more
CNC Shields: Can You Use Arduino (GRBL) With Powerful CNCs?
Assembling a DIY CNC involves putting together its controller. You have three options when choosing a CNC controller – you can: If you want to know how to turn an Arduino board ... Read more
Laser Air Assist: The Complete Guide
Laser air assist blows a stream of gas over your laser’s contact point with the material. This has many benefits, and laser engraver and laser cutter owners are increasingly adding air assist ... Read more
Laser Engraving vs Etching vs Marking: Differences & Which To Use For Every Application
Objects all around us bear markings, such as logos or ID codes, making laser marking ideal for both identification and marketing purposes. Some industries even have regulations that mandate marking tracking information. ... Read more
Glowforge vs Epilog: Should You Buy Glowforge Pro or Epilog Zing 16?
Buying a laser cutting machine opens up many possibilities for a shop or a hobbyist. If you are looking for an entry-level professional laser that can quickly cut through wood and acrylic, ... Read more