PandaFile vs CutVault
CutVault and PandaFile both organize your files offline, with machine settings attached. The core difference: CutVault today specializes in laser cutting (LightBurn, xTool), while PandaFile covers laser, CNC, 3D printing and graphic design. Here's the detail.
At a glance
| Criterion | PandaFile | CutVault |
|---|---|---|
| LightBurn / xTool, SVG, DXF previews | ✓ | ✓ |
| 3D previews (STL, 3MF) | ✓ | Not stated |
| Graphic previews (PSD, AI, EPS) | ✓ | Not stated |
| 100% offline | ✓ | ✓ |
| Preview inside ZIP archives | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fabrication settings tied to the file | ✓ (+ photo) | ✓ (+ reference photo) |
| Search, tags, collections | ✓ | ✓ |
| Process scope | Laser + CNC + 3D + graphic design | Laser (CNC/3D announced) |
| Platforms | Windows | Windows + macOS |
| Price | €69.90 | $169 |
| Devices per license | 3 | 3 |
Comparison compiled in September 2026 from CutVault's official site (cutvault.app). Check details with the vendor — an announced "Studio" version is set to add CNC and 3D.
What they have in common
- ✓A visual library, 100% offline, with previews of laser files (LightBurn, xTool, SVG, DXF).
- ✓Machine settings (power, speed, passes…) and a photo attached to the file.
- ✓Preview inside ZIP archives, search, tags and collections.
- ✓One-time purchase (no subscription), license for 3 computers.
What PandaFile emphasizes
- ✓Multi-process right now: CNC, 3D printing and graphic design, not just laser.
- ✓Previews of 3D models (STL, 3MF) and graphic files (PSD, AI, EPS).
- ✓A lower price: €69.90 vs $169.
- ✓French-speaking vendor and support, native bilingual FR / EN interface.
What CutVault emphasizes
- •macOS support in addition to Windows.
- •A mature laser specialization, designed end to end for LightBurn / xTool.
- •Categories with cover images and projects illustrated with reference photos.
How to choose
If you only do laser cutting (LightBurn / xTool) and/or are on Mac, CutVault is built for that. If you work across several processes (laser + CNC + 3D printing + graphic design) or want to preview STL and PSD files, PandaFile covers more, at a lower price. Both offer a free trial.
Does CutVault handle CNC and 3D printing?
As of now, CutVault focuses on laser cutting (LightBurn, xTool); an announced "Studio" version is set to add CNC and 3D. PandaFile already covers laser, CNC, 3D printing and graphic design.
Which one is cheaper?
PandaFile is €69.90 (lifetime license, 3 devices). CutVault is $169 (3 devices). Both are one-time purchases, no subscription.
Do both keep machine settings?
Yes: CutVault and PandaFile both attach settings (power, speed, passes…) and a photo to the file. PandaFile does it for every process, not just laser.