Resources · File formats
Laser file formats explained
SVG, DXF, PDF, EPS, PNG or G-code? The right format depends on your laser software and whether you are cutting shapes or engraving a picture. Here is what each one is for.
The short answer
- xTool Creative Space, LightBurn, Glowforge, Inkscape: SVG. LightBurn users, see the LightBurn guide.
- CAD, CNC and some industrial laser software: DXF.
- Illustrator, CorelDRAW, print shops: PDF or EPS.
- Photo engraving: PNG at the right DPI.
- GRBL lasers run without design software: G-code.
Vector or raster?
Laser files come in two kinds. Vector files (SVG, DXF, PDF, EPS) describe lines and shapes mathematically. The laser follows them to cut, score or fill-engrave, and they stay sharp at any size. Raster files (PNG, JPG) are grids of pixels. The laser scans them line by line, which is how photos are engraved. Cutting always needs a vector; engraving can use either.
Formats compared
| Format | Type | Best for | Read by |
|---|---|---|---|
| SVG | Vector | Cutting, scoring and fill engraving; keeps colours for layers | xTool Creative Space, LightBurn, Glowforge, Inkscape, Cricut |
| DXF | Vector | CAD and CNC workflows, precise geometry | LightBurn, Fusion, Vectric, Easel, RDWorks and most CAD |
| Vector (can hold images) | Sharing, printing, Illustrator | Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Inkscape, LightBurn | |
| EPS | Vector | Older design workflows | Illustrator, CorelDRAW |
| PNG | Raster | Photo engraving at a set DPI | All laser software |
| G-code | Machine instructions | Running a GRBL laser or CNC directly | LaserGRBL, LightBurn (GRBL), GRBL senders |
What every Laser Generator Studio export does
- Real millimetres. SVG width and height are set in mm, so files import 1:1 in xTool Creative Space and LightBurn.
- Colour by operation or by layer. Red = cut, blue = score or line engrave, black fill = fill engrave; or one colour per layer for LightBurn.
- Presets per machine. xTool, LightBurn, Glowforge, GRBL laser, CNC router, CNC/CAD, UV printer, Cricut/Silhouette, Print/Illustrator, or everything in one ZIP.
- Numbered sheets. Multi-layer projects come out in stacking order with a short readme.
Converting a file you already have
Got an SVG from somewhere else? The Import & Nest studio converts SVG to DXF, PDF or G-code, checks it for problems lasers trip on and can nest parts onto a sheet. See SVG to DXF and SVG to G-code. Got a PNG or JPG logo you need as a vector? Use image to SVG.
Common file problems
| Problem | Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Wrong size after import | Pasted instead of imported, or units mismatch | Use File → Import and set the software to mm |
| Shape won’t fill or cut cleanly | Open path (the outline doesn’t close) | Join the ends, or run Import & Nest’s File Doctor |
| Line cut twice, scorched edge | Duplicate overlapping lines | Delete duplicates (File Doctor removes them) |
| Text missing or wrong font | Text not converted to paths | Convert text to paths/outlines before exporting |
| Photo engraves at the wrong size | DPI lost or changed | Export PNG with the DPI set, and check it on import |
xTool Creative Space, LightBurn, Glowforge, Inkscape, Cricut, Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Fusion, Vectric, Easel, RDWorks and LaserGRBL are trademarks of their respective owners. Laser Generator Studio is independent and not affiliated with them.