The Difference Between Vector and Raster Cutting Explained
The Difference Between Vector and Raster Cutting Explained
Two Laser Processes, One Machine
Every CO₂ laser cutter operates in two distinct modes: vector cutting and raster engraving. Though they use the same hardware, these modes behave very differently. Understanding how they work—and when to use each—will help you design better projects and achieve cleaner, more efficient results.
What Is Vector Cutting?
Vector cutting follows paths and outlines. The laser moves continuously along each line, cutting straight through the material.
Best for:
Shapes, outlines, and parts to be removed from the sheet
Clean edges and precision geometry
Acrylic, wood, and other solid sheet materials
How it works:
The laser beam follows the exact vector path from your file (AI, DXF, or PDF).
Power and speed determine cut depth and edge quality.
Lower speed = deeper cut, higher speed = faster but shallower pass.
Tip: In most setups, red lines indicate cuts, and the stroke width should be hairline (typically 0.001").
What Is Raster Engraving?
Raster engraving is like printing—but with a laser instead of ink. The laser moves side to side, firing rapidly to burn or etch the surface pixel by pixel.
Best for:
Logos, text, images, and textures
Surface engraving rather than full cuts
Achieving shading and grayscale effects
How it works:
The laser scans across the material line by line.
Power, speed, and DPI (dots per inch) control how deep and detailed the engraving is.
Rastering takes longer than vector cutting because the laser must pass over the entire design area.
Tip: Most engraving lines or fills are set in black or dark gray, while cut lines remain red or another assigned color.
Combining Vector and Raster
Most professional laser cutting projects use both modes together—engraving details first, then cutting out the shapes. For example:
A logo is raster-engraved onto a sign.
The sign’s outline is then vector-cut to final size.
Running the raster portion first prevents misalignment or damage that can occur after cutting out smaller parts.
Why File Setup Matters
Software like LightBurn, Illustrator, or CorelDRAW must correctly label each operation so the laser knows what to engrave and what to cut. Submitting a file without clear distinction between raster and vector data can lead to reversed order or incomplete results.
At American Laser Cutter, we review every file before production to confirm layers, colors, and cutting order are optimized for the best results.
Conclusion
Vector and raster cutting each serve distinct purposes—one cuts clean through, the other engraves fine detail. Mastering both allows for precision manufacturing, custom signage, and professional-grade finishes.
If you need help preparing a project that involves both cutting and engraving, American Laser Cutter can process your file and optimize every setting—on-site in Los Angeles or remotely anywhere in the U.S.
Email americanlaserco@gmail.com or visit americanlaserco.com to get your project started.