LXi vs SignMaster

LXi 26 is Windows software for designing and producing vinyl cuts, signs, and large-format graphics. Its design tools cover text and shapes, bitmap editing, tracing, and Fit-to-Shape operations. Every edition reads SVG files and can import and edit older Flexi raster and vector files. An Adobe CC plugin sends Illustrator vectors to LXi and Photoshop raster work to LXi RIP Design. RIP Design also transfers files from CorelDraw, Illustrator, and Photoshop to Visual Production Manager. The maker lists support for more than 1,000 cutter models across 97 brands, including Vinyl Express, Graphtec, Roland, and GCC. Expert costs $595, paid once, Master Plus $1,095, paid once, and RIP Design $2,495, paid once. A 15-day trial is described on product pages, while the FAQ says one week. LXi runs on Windows 10 and 11; Mac installation through Parallels or Boot Camp is unsupported.

SignMaster is Windows desktop software for creating signage and graphic artwork for vinyl cutting and print workflows. It is intended for work such as vinyl lettering, logos, decals and posters, and comes in five levels: CUT, CUT+ARMS, PRO, XPT and ART. CUT provides text, curve and object tools, vinyl cutting, and import and export for AI, DXF, EPS, PDF and SVG files; specific format availability varies by level. The Contour Cutting Wizard makes outlines and registration marks for print-and-cut work across two or more devices. XPT adds Cut Documents for high-production output, while ART includes lower-level toolsets along with 3D shading, a mask editor and Font Detective with OCR. SignMaster is designed to work with vinyl cutters and some printers, but not all equipment is supported. The maker lists Windows 8.1, 10 and 11 in 32- and 64-bit versions. A free demo is available, but the maker says the product is sold with a cutter and advises buyers to contact a local dealer. Upgrade prices vary by level and license type.