What File Types Work for Each Machine? — STL, DXF, SVG, G-code Explained

Why File Types Matter

Every digital fabrication tool — whether it's a 3D printer, laser engraver, or CNC machine — relies on specific file types to understand what to make and how to make it. Using the wrong format can cause errors, bad cuts, or even total failures.

At Vreman 3D Lab, we often help clients convert or fix file types so they’re compatible with our equipment. This guide breaks down the essential formats, how they work, and when to use them.

File Types by Machine

3D Printers (FDM/FFF)

For 3D printers like the Ender 3, Prusa MK4, or Bambu Lab machines, the design file is typically an .STL, .3MF, or .OBJ file. These contain the shape of the part you want to print. Once that file is sliced in a program like Cura, PrusaSlicer, or Bambu Studio, it gets converted into a machine-readable format called .GCODE. The printer reads this G-code line by line to control the nozzle, temperature, and movement.

Laser Engravers (Diode, CO₂, or Fiber)

Laser engravers use 2D vector files like .SVG, .DXF, .AI, or even .PDF (vector-based). These files define the paths the laser will follow to cut or engrave. The laser software (like LightBurn or xTool Creative Space) interprets those vectors and generates internal instructions for movement and power. You usually won’t deal directly with G-code here unless you're exporting to specific firmware-based machines.

CNC Routers and Mills

CNC routers work best with .DXF, .SVG, or 3D CAD files like .STEP and .IGES depending on whether you're doing 2D or 3D operations. For 2D cuts or profiles, a .DXF is the standard. For complex 3D shapes, a .STEP or .IGES file is ideal. These are processed in CAM software like Fusion 360 or VCarve to generate .GCODE, .NC, or .TAP files — which the CNC machine uses to drive its motion.

STL (Stereolithography) — For 3D Printing Only

• Used by: FDM/FFF 3D printers (Ender, Prusa, Bambu, etc.)

• What it is: A surface mesh file. Represents the shape of a 3D model using tiny triangles.

• Pros: Universally accepted in slicers like Cura, PrusaSlicer, Bambu Studio.

• Cons: No color, units, or internal features. Just a “shell.”

Tip: Always export your models in millimeters, and check for watertight (non-manifold) geometry.

3MF (3D Manufacturing Format) — Better STL Alternative

• Used by: Advanced 3D printers or slicers (Bambu, Prusa, Fusion 360 → PrusaSlicer)

• Why it’s better: Supports multiple materials, print settings, units, and color.

• Cons: Not all slicers support it fully yet.

Use 3MF if you’re slicing multi-color or multi-material prints.

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) — For Laser & CNC

• Used by: Laser engravers (LightBurn, xTool Creative Space), some CNC tools

• What it is: A 2D vector file. Perfect for engraving or outlining cuts.

• Pros: Resolution-independent, supports layers, text, and clean curves.

• Cons: Needs proper scaling; not ideal for 3D machining.

Ideal for laser engraving logos, names, outlines, and art.

DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) — The CNC/Laser Workhorse

• Used by: CNC routers (Fusion 360, VCarve, Carbide Create) and laser cutters

• What it is: A 2D CAD format developed by AutoCAD for precision designs.

• Pros: Very accurate; widely supported in CAM software.

• Cons: Often stripped of colors or fills during export; requires cleanup.

Best for cutting profiles, toolpaths, 2.5D CNC work.

STEP / IGES — For CNC Machining & CAD Modeling

• Used by: CNC machinists, engineers, SolidWorks, Fusion 360

• What it is: Full-featured 3D CAD file including surfaces, solids, and units.

• Pros: Ideal for parametric design, machining, CAM workflows

• Cons: Not used directly in 3D printing or laser — must be converted.

Send STEP files when you want someone else to handle CAM or toolpath creation.

G-code (.gcode / .nc / .tap) — The Machine’s Language

• Used by: All CNC-type machines (3D printers, routers, mills, lasers)

• What it is: A line-by-line set of instructions (move to X, cut here, heat nozzle, etc.)

• Generated by: Slicers (3D printing) or CAM software (Fusion 360, LightBurn, VCarve)

• Pros: Executable, direct machine commands

• Cons: Not editable by hand unless you know what you're doing

Don’t try to "design" in G-code — it’s the result, not the design file.

Workflow Example: From Design to Production

Let’s say a client wants a custom logo coaster:

1. You receive an SVG or DXF from the client

2. You import it into LightBurn or Fusion 360

3. You assign settings (cut/engrave, depths, speeds)

4. You generate G-code

5. You run the file on your laser or CNC router

Best Practices for File Submission (for clients or makers)

• For 3D printing: Send .STL or .3MF (STL is fine for most prints)

• For laser engraving or vector cutting: Send .SVG or .DXF

• For CNC machining: Send .STEP or .DXF, depending on if it’s 2D or 3D

• Always include units and a note if scaling matters

• Avoid sending screenshots or PDFs unless for reference only