LightBurn
LightBurn is a macOS laser cutting and engraving app for designing artwork, preparing jobs, and controlling many compatible laser machines.
What is LightBurn?
LightBurn is a laser cutting and engraving application for macOS that helps users create artwork, prepare machine jobs, and send them to supported laser systems. It is used by hobbyists, makers, small businesses, and workshop users who need one place to design shapes, edit text, arrange layouts, and manage engraving or cutting settings. The app combines vector drawing and image handling with machine control features, so users can import designs, position objects, preview jobs, and organize layers with different output settings. LightBurn is commonly used for signs, crafts, prototypes, personalization work, and other laser projects. It supports Mac workflows alongside Windows and Linux releases, making it a common cross-platform choice in mixed-device shops. LightBurn is published by LightBurn Software LLC.
Key features
- Create and edit vector shapes, text, and layout elements for laser projects
- Import artwork and prepare images for engraving and cutting
- Arrange designs on the workspace and assign different layer settings
- Preview job paths before running a cut or engraving task
- Connect to compatible laser machines and send jobs from the app
- Adjust power, speed, and other output settings for different materials
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Inspect caches, support files, containers, and login items before cleaning.
Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
LightBurn is legitimate laser control software, but it can drive real cutting and engraving hardware, so mistakes in settings or job placement can waste material or damage a workpiece. Access to connected devices and project files is normal for this kind of app. Use machine-specific settings carefully, preview jobs before starting, and supervise laser work according to your hardware maker's safety guidance.
Recommendation: Keep LightBurn if you use a compatible laser cutter or engraver on your Mac. Remove it only if you no longer use the software or the machine it controls; deleting it may also remove saved preferences and interrupt existing laser design workflows.
Common paths
/Applications/LightBurn.app
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