Opening and previewing a LightBurn file (.lbrn2)
By the PandaFile team · · 4 min read
You've received or dug up a .lbrn2 file and you're wondering how to open it — or just see what's inside. This format is central to laser cutting, but it has its quirks. This article complements the maker's file formats overview.
What is a .lbrn2 file?
The .lbrn2 is the native project format of LightBurn, the most widespread laser-control software (.lbrn is its earlier version). It contains the line art, but also the cutting and engraving settings: power, speed, passes, layers. It's far more than just a drawing.
What do you open it with?
To edit it, you need LightBurn. You can often start over from an SVG or a DXF if you don't have the software, but you'll lose the settings saved in the .lbrn2.
Viewing it without opening LightBurn
The classic problem: Windows Explorer shows no preview of .lbrn2 files. There's no way to tell two projects apart without opening them one by one. A visual library like PandaFile generates a thumbnail of the project, so you can recognize it at a glance — just as with missing previews on Windows in general.
To keep these projects tidy, see organizing your laser cutting files.
Frequently asked questions
What is a .lbrn2 file?
It's the native project format of LightBurn, the laser-control software. It contains the line art and the cutting and engraving settings (power, speed, passes, layers).
Can you open a .lbrn2 without LightBurn?
To edit it, no: you need LightBurn. You can often start over from an equivalent SVG or DXF, but without the settings saved in the project.
How can I see a preview of a .lbrn2?
Windows Explorer doesn't show one. A visual manager like PandaFile generates a thumbnail of the project, so you can recognize it without launching LightBurn.
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