PlanetCNC vs bCNC

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

PlanetCNC is a Development solution with tags like cad, cam, cnc, machining, milling, turning, plasma-cutting, laser-cutting, hobbyist, manufacturing.

It boasts features such as 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 pros including 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.

On the other hand, bCNC is a Development product tagged with cnc, gcode, 3d-printing, laser-cutting, milling, machining.

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

To help you make an informed decision, we've compiled a comprehensive comparison of these two products, delving into their features, pros, cons, pricing, and more. Get ready to explore the nuances that set them apart and determine which one is the perfect fit for your requirements.

PlanetCNC

PlanetCNC

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.

Categories:
cad cam cnc machining milling turning plasma-cutting laser-cutting hobbyist manufacturing

PlanetCNC Features

  1. 2D and 3D CAD design
  2. CAM for milling, turning, plasma, laser, waterjet
  3. G-code simulation and verification
  4. Toolpath optimization
  5. Supports common file formats
  6. Automatic CNC code generation
  7. Material removal simulation
  8. Tool library
  9. Machine tool library

Pricing

  • One-time purchase

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


bCNC

bCNC

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.

Categories:
cnc gcode 3d-printing laser-cutting milling machining

BCNC Features

  1. G-code sender
  2. GRBL compatible
  3. 3D preview
  4. Run from file or manually
  5. Jog controls
  6. Plasma mode
  7. Toolpath simulation
  8. G-code editor
  9. Customizable UI

Pricing

  • Open Source

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