SVG vs DXF for Laser Engraving: Which Format to Use
Pathhaus exports font files in SVG, DXF, HPGL, and G-Code formats. Choosing the right format for your machine saves time and avoids frustrating import errors. For most laser engravers, the choice is between SVG and DXF.
SVG: the universal option
SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is supported by virtually every laser software: LightBurn, xTool Creative Space, Glowforge app, Luban, and more. SVG files contain both the geometry (paths) and presentation data (stroke color, stroke width). Pathhaus SVG exports use black strokes with no fill — the correct format for single-line laser work. The main risk with SVG is scale: SVG dimensions are defined by a viewBox, and machine software interprets this differently. A 100mm-wide design in Pathhaus may import at a different size in LightBurn if the DPI assumption differs.
DXF: the precision option
DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) is CAD-native. It stores dimensions in explicit units (millimeters or inches), with no ambiguity about scale. What you design at 50mm in Pathhaus imports at exactly 50mm in LightBurn, regardless of display DPI. DXF is the best choice for production work where dimensional accuracy matters: nameplates, precision labels, technical drawings. DXF also has no color information — all paths are imported as geometry only, which is actually preferable for most laser work.
When to use SVG
Use SVG for: Glowforge (its app only accepts SVG); xTool Creative Space; any workflow that includes color-based layer assignment; compatibility with Inkscape and Illustrator; and when you need to preview the file in a web browser before importing. SVG is also the only format supported by all machine software, so it's the safest default if you're not sure what your machine requires.
When to use DXF
Use DXF for: LightBurn (DXF preserves exact millimeter dimensions); Boss Laser, OMTech, and other CO₂ lasers via LightBurn; any production workflow requiring dimensional precision; and when your machine software has shown inconsistent SVG scaling behavior. DXF is also preferred for CNC workflows and any application using Fusion 360 or similar CAM software.
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