Recommended Software for Marking Non-Metal Materials

The author examines the characteristics of non-metallic materials, and recommends three laser marking software programs, explaining the differences between their core functions.The article compares the performance of EzLaser, MarkingTools, and LightBurn in terms of their compatibility with laser marking machines, and provides a list of important considerations for material testing and tips on how to avoid common pitfalls, to help users select the most suitable laser marking software to meet their processing needs.

Why do you need special labeling software?

The absorption of the laser beam, and the precision of the carving, are very different for non-metallic materials such as acrylic, wood, or leather, as compared with metals.The problem with generic software is that it produces blurry edges and unevenly cut grooves, like using a regular kitchen knife to cut frozen meat. You can do it, but it's not as easy as using a special knife for that purpose.

Mainstream software function comparison.

The user interface of EzLaser.

The software comes with a library of parameters for different materials, so that once a material has been selected, the power and speed settings will be automatically matched.Beginners can quickly get up to speed, but advanced functions require a subscription to the professional version.I prefer the real-time preview, which can prevent mistakes in carving that would waste material.

Compatibility of tools.

It supports 90 % of the domestic laser equipment on the market, and is especially suitable for use with multiple machines.Tests have shown that this machine is best suited for carving wood and bamboo, and that occasionally it gets stuck when working with silicone. This may be due to a need for an upgraded graphics card driver.

LightBurn is a high-performance, low-cost product.

The buyout system is very popular, and it comes with 20 patterns.Even though the interface is all in English, there is a Chinese language pack available for download.In practice I discovered that its layering capabilities are especially practical and convenient for making three-dimensional effects.

A guide to buying a car.

The compatibility of equipment interfaces.

Don't just look at the software functions, remember to check the model of the control panel on your own machine.Last week a friend bought some software that turned out to be incompatible with his system, so he could only use it for drawing. It's like buying a high-performance car and filling it up with low-grade gasoline.

Material compatibility test.

I suggest that you first try the trial version and do some tests on materials that are frequently processed.For example, when engraving canvas shoes, you have to pay attention to whether the software can adjust the laser power so it won't burn through the canvas.I've seen some stores that have fixed their parameters to the point where they've made limited-edition sneakers into "hollow editions.