1.5 Software Overview & Compatibility¶
The YUMI Laser (L-A4 / L-A3 / L-A2) is a standard GRBL machine: it can be controlled by any GRBL-compatible software over USB (baud rate 115200).
This page compares the three recommended options so you can quickly pick the right one for your computer and your needs.
1.5.1 Compatibility & Price Comparison¶
| Software | Windows | macOS | Linux | Price | Setup Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| LightBurn | ✅ | ✅ | ✅ | Paid license (free trial) | 1.6 LightBurn Setup |
| LaserGRBL | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | Free (open source) | 1.7 LaserGRBL Setup |
| OpenBurn Laser | ✅ | ❌ | ❌ | Free | 1.8 OpenBurn Laser Setup |
💡 Whatever your OS, you can also control the laser from any web browser (PC, Mac, smartphone, tablet) using the built-in Web Control Interface — see 1.9 Wireless Control.
1.5.2 LightBurn¶
The most powerful and complete laser software on the market. Full vector editing, image processing, material library, camera support.
- OS: Windows, macOS, Linux — the only option for Mac and Linux users
- Price: paid license, with a free trial period
- Best for: regular users and professionals who want the most complete tool
➡️ Setup guide: 1.6 LightBurn Setup and Usage
1.5.3 LaserGRBL¶
The reference free and open-source software for GRBL laser engravers. Excellent raster image engraving (line to line, dithering), simple and reliable.
- OS: Windows only
- Price: free and open source
- Best for: beginners on Windows, image engraving
➡️ Setup guide: 1.7 LaserGRBL Setup and Usage
➡️ Tutorials: LaserGRBL step-by-step · Cork engraving with LaserGRBL
1.5.4 OpenBurn Laser¶
https://www.m3d-formation.com/openburn/
A free alternative to LightBurn developed by M3D-FORMATION, with a similar intuitive interface: image import, vector drawing tools (rectangles, circles, lines, hexagons, text), multiple machine profiles, and a Frame preview function.
- OS: Windows only
- Price: free
- Best for: Windows users who want a LightBurn-style interface without buying a license
➡️ Setup guide: 1.8 OpenBurn Laser Setup and Usage
1.5.5 Which Software Should You Choose?¶
| Your situation | Recommended software |
|---|---|
| I use a Mac or Linux computer | LightBurn (only desktop option) or the Web Control Interface |
| I'm on Windows and want a free tool | OpenBurn Laser (LightBurn-style) or LaserGRBL (image engraving) |
| I mainly engrave photos and images | LaserGRBL or LightBurn |
| I do advanced vector work or use the laser professionally | LightBurn |
| I want to control the laser from a smartphone or tablet | Web Control Interface |
All three programs use the same machine settings: work area per model (L-A4: 210 × 297 mm, L-A3: 420 × 297 mm, L-A2: 420 × 594 mm), USB connection at 115200 baud, and the same recommended power ranges per laser module (see each setup guide).