RoutPath
FAQ

RoutPath questions and answers

What RoutPath does, what it doesn’t, and how the closed beta works.

Frequently asked questions

What is RoutPath?

RoutPath is simple 2D and 3D CAM software for hobby and small-shop CNC routers. You draw or import a design, make toolpaths, simulate the cut and export G-code for a GRBL or FluidNC machine. It is in closed beta, open to approved beta testers only.

Is RoutPath browser-based?

Yes. Approved beta testers use RoutPath in a current web browser (Chrome, Edge, Firefox or Safari) at app.routpath.com, with nothing to install. The app runs on your own computer, inside the browser: your designs and G-code stay on your computer and nothing is uploaded to a server.

Does RoutPath control my CNC machine?

No. RoutPath is a CAM app and G-code generator, not a machine controller. It does not connect to your machine, control it or jog it, and it is not a G-code sender. Save the G-code from RoutPath and run it with the controller or sender software you already use. You stay in charge of machine setup, zeroing and safety.

Which controllers and senders does RoutPath work with?

RoutPath exports G-code for GRBL and FluidNC controllers, with proper tool changes. To run the job, load the file into your sender, for example gSender, UGS, Candle or the FluidNC web UI. Those are examples of common senders, not tested integrations or endorsements.

What files can RoutPath import and export?

You can import SVG and DXF artwork, STL and OBJ 3D models, and a greyscale image to turn into a carved relief. RoutPath saves its own project files, can export your design as SVG, and saves G-code files for GRBL and FluidNC.

Which toolpaths does RoutPath have?

Contour (inside, outside or on the line), pocket, V-carve, drill and engrave, plus 3D carving with layered roughing and a ball-nose finishing pass. You can leave stock on a roughing pass and add a cleanup pass, and check every job in a real-time 3D cutting simulation first.

How do I join the RoutPath beta?

Fill in the beta application (about 2 minutes) and click the confirmation link we email you. We review each application and email the testers we select. Not every application can be accepted.

Is there a Windows app?

A Windows desktop app is coming soon. For now RoutPath runs in the browser. If you are interested in the Windows app, tick the box on the beta application form.

How much does RoutPath cost?

Pricing hasn’t been announced. RoutPath is in closed beta for approved testers.

Are there tutorials?

Yes. There are 27 short, captioned video tutorials, one feature per video, in the RoutPath Tutorials playlist on YouTube.

Comparison

How does RoutPath compare to VCarve, Carbide Create and Easel?

Each tool takes a different approach. VCarve, Carbide Create and Easel are established, released products; RoutPath is still in closed beta, so its features can change. This is a short summary from each product’s own website, not a full comparison.

  • RoutPath (closed beta)

    • Browser-based CAM that runs locally in the browser; a Windows app is coming soon.
    • Generates G-code for GRBL and FluidNC; it doesn’t control the machine, so you run the file in your own sender.
    • 2D toolpaths, V-carving and 3D carving from STL, OBJ or an image.
    • Pricing hasn’t been announced.

  • VCarve (Vectric)

    • Desktop software for Windows; on a Mac it needs Parallels, with limited support.
    • Desktop edition for jobs up to 24″ × 24″; the Pro edition has unlimited job size.
    • 2D and 2.5D toolpaths including V-carving, plus 3D toolpaths.
    • Sold as a licence you own; the free trial does everything except save toolpaths.

  • Carbide Create (Carbide 3D)

    • Desktop software for Mac and Windows that runs locally; Carbide 3D says it is not a cloud application.
    • The core version is included with Carbide 3D machines and isn’t compatible with other machines.
    • Carbide Create Pro adds 3D modelling, STL import and standard G-code for other machines, with a 14-day free trial.

  • Easel (Inventables)

    • Browser-based design and CAM.
    • Also sends the job to the machine and controls it, so you don’t need a separate sender.
    • Supports a catalog of machines and most GRBL machines; plans start at $0.

Sources, checked on 23 October 2026:

Still have a question?

Email betatester@routpath.com, or apply to test RoutPath on your own machine.

Apply for the betaWatch the tutorials