bCNC vs PlanetCNC

Struggling to choose between bCNC and PlanetCNC? Both products offer unique advantages, making it a tough decision.

bCNC is a Development solution with tags like cnc, gcode, 3d-printing, laser-cutting, milling, machining.

It boasts features such as G-code sender, GRBL compatible, 3D preview, Run from file or manually, Jog controls, Plasma mode, Toolpath simulation, G-code editor, Customizable UI and pros including Open source and free, Cross-platform compatibility, Supports many CNC machines, Good feature set for a free program, Active development and community support.

On the other hand, PlanetCNC is a Development product tagged with cad, cam, cnc, machining, milling, turning, plasma-cutting, laser-cutting, hobbyist, manufacturing.

Its standout features include 2D and 3D CAD design, CAM for milling, turning, plasma, laser, waterjet, G-code simulation and verification, Toolpath optimization, Supports common file formats, Automatic CNC code generation, Material removal simulation, Tool library, Machine tool library, and it shines with pros like Affordable pricing, Intuitive and easy to use interface, Comprehensive feature set for hobby and small manufacturing, Good value for the price, Active user community and support.

Feature	bCNC	PlanetCNC
Overall Score	N/A	N/A
Primary Category	Development	Development

Product Overview

bCNC

Description: bCNC is an open-source CNC machine controller software that allows you to control CNC machines like 3D printers, laser cutters, milling machines, etc. It works on Windows, Linux and macOS.

PlanetCNC

Description: PlanetCNC is an affordable and easy to use CAD/CAM software for CNC machining. It allows you to design parts and toolpaths for milling, turning, plasma and laser cutting. Great for hobbyists and small manufacturing shops.

Key Features Comparison

bCNC Features

• G-code sender
• GRBL compatible
• 3D preview
• Run from file or manually
• Jog controls
• Plasma mode
• Toolpath simulation
• G-code editor
• Customizable UI

PlanetCNC Features

• 2D and 3D CAD design
• CAM for milling, turning, plasma, laser, waterjet
• G-code simulation and verification
• Toolpath optimization
• Supports common file formats
• Automatic CNC code generation
• Material removal simulation
• Tool library
• Machine tool library

Pros & Cons Analysis

bCNC

Pros

• Open source and free
• Cross-platform compatibility
• Supports many CNC machines
• Good feature set for a free program
• Active development and community support

Cons

• Steep learning curve
• Limited documentation
• Some stability issues
• Lacks advanced features of paid options

PlanetCNC

Pros

• Affordable pricing
• Intuitive and easy to use interface
• Comprehensive feature set for hobby and small manufacturing
• Good value for the price
• Active user community and support

Cons

• Limited to simpler 2D/2.5D CAD design
• Not as full-featured as higher priced CAM solutions
• Some limitations on complex 3D surfacing
• Postprocessors need more development

Pricing Comparison

bCNC

• Open Source

PlanetCNC

• One-time purchase