Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Universal Gcode Sender VS bCNC

Compare Universal Gcode Sender VS bCNC and see what are their differences

Universal Gcode Sender logo Universal Gcode Sender

A full featured gcode platform used for interfacing with advanced CNC controllers like GRBL and TinyG.

bCNC logo bCNC

Development
  • Universal Gcode Sender Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-01-16
  • bCNC Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-02-08

Universal Gcode Sender features and specs

  • Cross-platform compatibility
    Universal Gcode Sender is a Java-based application, which allows it to run on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux. This enhances its usability across different operating systems.
  • Ease of use
    The software features an intuitive user interface that is easy to navigate, even for beginners. It provides clear options and controls for operating CNC machines efficiently.
  • Comprehensive features
    UGS provides a wide range of features and functionalities such as visualizing tool paths, jogging, and machine control that cater to both basic and advanced CNC operations.
  • Open-source
    Being an open-source project, UGS is freely available for use and modification. This allows for community collaboration and development, enhancing the tool's features over time.
  • Community support
    With a robust user community, there are extensive resources and forums available for troubleshooting and peer support when using Universal Gcode Sender.

Possible disadvantages of Universal Gcode Sender

  • Java dependency
    Since UGS is Java-based, it requires a compatible version of Java to be installed on the user's system. This can be a barrier for users unfamiliar with Java setups or those experiencing compatibility issues.
  • Limited advanced functionalities
    While UGS covers basic and some advanced functionalities, it may lack certain features offered by more specialized or commercial CNC software, limiting its appeal to professional users with complex needs.
  • Performance issues
    Some users have reported performance issues with UGS, such as lag or slow response times during heavy operations, particularly on lower-end hardware.
  • Initial setup complexity
    The initial setup and configuration might be complex for new users, especially those unfamiliar with CNC operations and configurations, requiring time and patience to get started.
  • Infrequent updates
    The frequency of updates can be slower compared to commercial software, potentially delaying the introduction of new features, bug fixes, and improvements.

bCNC features and specs

  • Open Source
    bCNC is open-source software, which means that it is free to use, modify, and distribute. This allows users to customize the software to fit their specific needs and contribute to its development.
  • Cross-Platform
    bCNC is compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux, providing flexibility to users across different operating systems and broadening its user base.
  • Rich Features
    It includes a wide range of features such as G-code sender, editor, visualizer, and multiple machine management, making it versatile for various CNC operations.
  • Active Community
    There is an active community of users and developers who contribute to forums and support channels, assisting with troubleshooting and feature development.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    Despite its sophisticated features, bCNC offers an interface that is relatively easy to navigate for both beginners and experienced users.

Possible disadvantages of bCNC

  • Steep Learning Curve
    While it offers a wide range of features, new users may find it overwhelming to learn and set up properly, especially without tutorials or prior CNC experience.
  • Limited Documentation
    The official documentation may not cover all aspects of the software comprehensively, leading users to rely on community forums for more detailed information.
  • Performance Issues
    bCNC may experience performance issues or bugs, especially when dealing with complex or large-scale projects, affecting the smooth execution of operations.
  • Not Professionally Maintained
    As an open-source project, it lacks the professional support and maintenance that commercial software might offer, which may be a concern for enterprise users.
  • Compatibility Limitations
    Some users may encounter compatibility issues with certain CNC machines or require additional configuration to work seamlessly.

Universal Gcode Sender videos

Universal GCode Sender Complete Setup and Starting a Job PLUS Tips and Tricks

More videos:

  • Review - Universal Gcode Sender (UGS) | What To Know | Ooznest
  • Review - CNC Router - Where's The Start Button? Universal Gcode Sender (UGS) - Garrett Fromme

bCNC videos

CNC Beginners Guide : bCNC ( FREE CNC SOFTWARE )

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Universal Gcode Sender and bCNC)
3D
57 57%
43% 43
Photos & Graphics
57 57%
43% 43
Tool
56 56%
44% 44
Development
63 63%
37% 37

User comments

Share your experience with using Universal Gcode Sender and bCNC. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Universal Gcode Sender seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 4 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

Universal Gcode Sender mentions (4)

  • Building a CNC, step one done!
    I don't know what's on screen, but if you're looking for a nice, cross platform program to send some gcode, I really like UGS: https://winder.github.io/ugs_website/. Source: about 3 years ago
  • Lightly Screeching axis motors, will not move.
    Connect the 3018 to a PC, use a gcode sender like Candle or gSender or cncjs or UGS and then type $$ in the console. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Billet Benchy... I got tired of printing the 3DBenchy so I machined it from Aluminum
    I'm a little cheap+lazy and I just use a simple electrical contact probe using https://winder.github.io/ugs_website/ and the probe plugin. Flipping the part I generally butt the stock against a fixed parallel, then probe using the tool for X+Y (offset by the tool radius), and Z probe as well off some of the un-machined stock. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Can't start spindle with offline controller anymore (Sainsmart 3018)
    4 - Can you try to start the spindle from a PC (you will need a gcode sender: Candle, UGS/UGP, cncjs)? Source: almost 4 years ago

bCNC mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of bCNC yet. Tracking of bCNC recommendations started around May 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Universal Gcode Sender and bCNC, you can also consider the following products

Candle - GRBL controller application with G-Code visualizer written in Qt

CNCjs - A web-based interface for CNC milling controller running Grbl, Marlin, Smoothieware, or TinyG. - cncjs/cncjs

LaserGRBL - LaserGRBL for Microsoft Windows is an all-in-one, open-source GCode streamer for DIY Laser Engraver developed using pure C# code.

OpenBuilds CAM & Control - OpenBuilds CAM & Control are two major applications that enable users to connect, manipulate, and convert drawings for use with DragKnife, CNC, Plasma, or Laser devices.

SourceRabbit GCode Sender - Cross platform 3-Axis CNC Machines control software - SourceRabbit/gcode-sender

PlanetCNC - PlanetCNC is an innovative CNC control system.