What We’ll Cover

• VCarve vs Easel at a Glance
• Vectric VCarve Overview
• Easel Overview
• Feature-by-Feature Comparison
• Which CNC Software Should You Choose?

VCarve vs Easel at a Glance

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of VCarve Desktop, VCarve Pro, Easel Free, and Easel Pro.

Vectric VCarve Overview

Vectric VCarve is a professional CNC design and CAM tool used by woodworkers, sign shops, and serious hobbyists. It is installed locally on Windows and runs fully offline.

Key Strengths

• Full 2D/2.5D toolpath suite: profiling, pocketing, drilling, texturing, and inlays.
• Industry-leading v-carving: clean, precise lettering and sign-making.
• 3D carving support: import STL/OBJ and generate roughing & finishing toolpaths.
• Accurate toolpath simulation: preview cuts before running them.
• Advanced production features (Pro): nesting, templates, rotary, job sheets.
• One-time purchase model: own the software permanently.

Desktop vs Pro

• VCarve Desktop: Affordable, but limited to a ~24" × 24" job size.
• VCarve Pro: No size limits + advanced production tools and full rotary support.

VCarve is perfect for makers who want full control over toolpaths and plan to grow into more complex CNC work.

Easel Overview

Inventables Easel is a browser-based, beginner-friendly CNC software with zero installation required. It combines design, CAM, and machine control in one interface. For a more detailed overview of Easel Software, check out our article on Easel Free Vs Easel Pro

Easel (Free)

• Cost: Free with basic 2D tools.
• Design: Simple shapes, text, SVG import.
• Toolpaths: Basic pockets and outlines.
• Platform: Works on Windows, Mac, Chromebook.

Easel Pro

• Pricing: Monthly or yearly subscription.
• V-carving: Full v-bit support (Pro only).
• 3D carving: Import STL files and generate simplified 3D toolpaths.
• More fonts & tools: Additional shapes and Pro-only features.
• Fast workflow: Great for quick project turnaround.

Easel shines when you want a simple workflow and fast design-to-cut experience.

Feature-by-Feature Comparison

Ease of Use

• Easel: Extremely beginner-friendly with a short learning curve.
• VCarve: Steeper learning curve but much more powerful.

Toolpath Control

• VCarve: Deep control over feeds, ramps, stepovers, and strategies.
• Easel: Simplified toolpaths aimed at casual users.

3D Carving

• VCarve: Imports STLs and performs detailed 3D roughing & finishing.
• Easel Pro: Supports basic 3D carving with fewer controls.

Machine Compatibility

• VCarve: Works with nearly all GRBL-based CNC routers.
• Easel: Especially strong integration with X-Carve; supports many hobby CNC machines.

Pricing & Long-Term Value

• VCarve: One-time payment, long-term value, no subscription.
• Easel Pro: Affordable subscription, good for part-time makers.

Which CNC Software Should You Choose?

Choose VCarve if:

• You want detailed toolpath control.
• You plan to run a CNC business or production workflow.
• Your projects include v-carved signs, 3D reliefs, or detailed woodwork.
• You need rotary support or nesting features.
• You prefer a one-time purchase over monthly fees.

Choose Easel if:

• You’re a beginner learning CNC for the first time.
• You want the simplest, fastest workflow.
• Your projects are mainly 2D/2.5D (signs, nameplates, trays).
• You like monthly pricing instead of buying expensive software upfront.
• You use an X-Carve or similar DIY CNC.

Many CNC makers start with Easel to learn quickly, then move to VCarve once they want more power, precision, and advanced project control. If you are thinking about choosing VCarve, consider bundling the software with a TwoTrees CNC router like the TTC 6050 to get a discount on the software!