A CNC machine is an amazing tool for anyone that likes to make, well, stuff. From decorative engravings to functional parts, they can create just about anything. These clever little machines can also work with a wide range of materials: from soft options like foam to some harder (but still relatively soft) options like aluminum.
CNC 3018s (and “Pro” versions) are some of the cheapest CNC machines on the market. They’re generic CNC router setups that are a great choice for many people getting their first introduction to CNC machining.
If you’ve already purchased and built your CNC 3018, you’re probably going to be wondering what software you should use to get the most out of your machine. There are many different programs that can be used to control a CNC 3018, and quite of few of them are user-friendly and free.
Before looking at our top choices, let’s go over how we made the call.
Getting the Right Cut
When looking for CNC control software, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Most importantly, you want to make sure the software has the functionality you need. Some of these programs will generate G-code for you and run it on the machine, while others just control the machine.
Apart from functionality, there are a few other items one should consider when looking into CNC software:
- Simple user interface: An intuitive, easy-to-use, and easy-to-learn user interface goes a long way in facilitating the execution of your CNC projects.
- GRBL compatible: CNC 3018s run the popular open-source GRBL firmware, which means the software you choose must be compatible with GRBL.
- Reliable: A software tool that functions properly for the duration of a project is essential to the creation process.
With these considerations in mind, here’s our list of the best software programs for your CNC 3018.
Easel
Easel is a browser-based CNC control program and G-code generator that provides tools for creating your own designs and running the cuts on your machine. Given its simplicity and user-friendly interface, it’s a great program for easy projects, such as simple engravings, and beginners.
The program walks you through the setup of your machine and CNC operations. There are multiple built-in tools and customization settings for generating G-code, but you can also just import your own.
Easel is available to use for free after the completion of a free trial of Easel Pro, an upgraded version of the software that boasts extra features for a price of $12.99 a month. If you’re new to the game of CNC though, stick to the free software until you’ve learned the ropes a bit and save yourself some money.
- Cost: Free
- Intended purposes: CNC control, G-code generation
- Notable features & functions: Compatible with multiple CNC firmware options, works in a browser, very simple interface
- Operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux
Universal GCode Sender
Universal GCode Sender (UGS) is a CNC control software program that’s very popular among makers because it’s free, open source, and regularly updated.
The program has a very intuitive interface with tons of built-in functionality. Though the program runs G-code, it will not generate it. Nevertheless, UGS is a versatile choice for controlling your CNC machine.
UGS has a helpful setup wizard for configuring your machine and settings. This program is very easy to get up and running, and there are many plug-ins you can add to get specific functionality like auto-leveling.
- Cost: Free
- Intended purpose: CNC control
- Notable features & functions: Compatible with GRBL firmware, well documented and open source, easy setup, excellent interface
- Operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux
OpenCNCPilot
OpenCNCPilot is a lesser-known CNC control program, but it packs in a lot of functionality and is a very concise tool. With just a few clicks, you can have your machine running.
Similar to UGS, OpenCNCPilot controls only the machine. The user interface is slightly less intuitive than alternatives in this list but the program does at least incorporate an easy-to-use auto-leveling system, which lends itself very well to PCB carving. The auto-leveling, together with the probing system, makes this program very attractive to people looking to mill PCBs.
- Cost: Free
- Intended purpose: CNC control
- Notable features & functions: Compatible with GRBL firmware, auto-leveling, well documented and open source, simple interface
- Operating system: Windows
ChiliPeppr
ChiliPeppr is a browser-based CNC controller that works with multiple CNC firmware options, including GRBL. In order to get it to work with your CNC machine, you’ll have to install a simple driver to connect to the machine through your browser.
In comparison to Easel, the other browser-based option on this list, ChiliPeppr is better suited to advanced users. While Easel is an easier program to use, ChiliPeppr has a few additional features that Easel leaves out, including auto-leveling and probing. There’s also the ability to create your own workspaces, with video tutorials available towards the bottom of the site’s main page explaining how to do so.
- Cost: Free
- Intended purpose: CNC control
- Notable features & functions: Compatible with multiple CNC firmware options, auto-leveling, well documented and open source
- Operating systems: Windows, Mac, Linux
LaserGRBL
LaserGRBL is a CNC control program and G-code generator that’s unique on this list as it’s specifically designed for laser engravers. In order to be compatible with your CNC 3018, your machine will need to be equipped with a diode laser engraver toolhead.
With this software, you can use images and vector designs to easily create laser engraved items. The software automatically converts your images and designs into G-code, then runs them on your machine. Additionally, it has many options to customize your projects, from rastering images to cutting functional pieces – though cutting power is extremely limited with diode lasers.
- Cost: Free
- Intended purpose: CNC control, G-code generation
- Notable features & functions: Compatible with GRBL firmware, laser cutter control, well documented and open source, simple interface
- Operating system: Windows
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is a full CAD and CAM suite with tons of functionality. Many people already use Fusion 360 to create designs for 3D printing. If you’re one of those people, it might be worth exploring the CAM side of the program for your CNC machine.
Although Fusion 360 won’t run your device, it’s a very powerful tool for creating G-code for advanced projects. You can generate almost any cutting operation and create very complex parts.
This functionality does have its drawbacks, though. There are tons of settings to fine-tune, so learning to create the cutting operations takes a lot of trial and error. It’s probably best to consult a beginner’s guide when you start to experiment with Fusion 360’s CAM capabilities.
Given the steep learning curve with this software, it’s more appropriate for advanced users.
- Cost: Free for personal use – though some changes have been made to this
- Intended purpose: General purpose CAM and CAD
- Notable features & functions: Generates G-code (CAM/CAD), useful for designing parts, very versatile
- Operating systems: Windows, Mac
License: The text of "CNC 3018 (Pro) Software: The Best Programs" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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