DeskProto
DeskProto: Accessible desktop CAM with a free edition and paid indexed multi-axis options. Ranked #9 of 16 in Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) Software by our editors (7.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for budget-conscious CNC users needing multi-axis toolpaths.
At a glance
- Editor score7.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forBudget-conscious CNC users needing multi-axis toolpaths
- Free planYes
- Paid from€145 one-time
- Simultaneous axes3 axes
- Founded1985 · Utrecht, Netherlands
- Facts checked24 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Imports 2D vectors, STL geometry and bitmaps for machining.
- Supports continuous and indexed 4-axis plus indexed 5-axis toolpaths.
- Includes toolpath preview, part simulation and configurable postprocessors.
Where it doesn't
- Free Edition is limited to one part and one operation.
- 5-axis machining is indexed and limited to rotating-part machines.
- Listed scope focuses on milling; turning and mill-turn support are not documented.
Our verdict on DeskProto
DeskProto is desktop CAM software from Delft Spline Systems for turning 2D vectors, 3D geometry and bitmap images into CNC milling toolpaths and NC programs. It suits designers, jewelers, artists, medical users, moldmakers, woodworkers, educators and hobbyists who need CNC machining without specialist CAM workflows. The software runs on Windows, macOS and Linux, with wizard- and dialog-based interfaces. Its focus is milling rather than a broad collection of manufacturing processes.
The edition ladder makes the price-to-capability tradeoff clear. The Free Edition costs €0 one time and provides basic CAM functionality for one part and one operation, with no time limit. Commercial Entry Edition costs €145 one time and includes a perpetual commercial license. Expert Edition costs €595 one time for all available 3-axis machining features. Commercial Multi-Axis Edition is €995 one time, while the hobby/educational version is €248 one time and restricts use to non-commercial projects. All listed prices are excluding VAT. This structure makes DeskProto worth considering for budget-conscious users who can choose a license around their work and intended use.
Its distinguishing capability is access to several toolpath types: 3-axis, continuous and indexed 4-axis, and indexed 5-axis machining for rotating-part machines. Animated toolpath previews and resulting-part simulation help users inspect the planned cut, while configurable postprocessors and machine libraries support machine-specific output. The 5-axis option is specifically indexed, not a general simultaneous five-axis workflow, and the published scope does not establish turning or mill-turn support. Choose DeskProto when desktop availability, file-format flexibility and a one-time license matter; look elsewhere if your work depends on broader machining processes or a different multi-axis scope.
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DeskProto fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | €145 one-time |
| Simultaneous axes | 3 axes |
| Toolpath simulation | Yes |
| Machine simulation | No |
| Post-processor library | Yes |
| Turning support | Not verified |
| Mill-turn support | Not verified |
| Deployment model | Desktop |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Email, Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | deskproto.com |
| Facts checked | 24 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to DeskProto
- TopSolid'CamDeep multi-axis CNC programming with simulation, collision checks and customizable post-processors.8.9
- SprutCAM XWindows CAM software for CNC and robotic toolpaths, simulation, and G-code verification.8.7
- TebisA deep Windows CAM suite for complex machining teams that can justify a €23,500 package.8.5
See all DeskProto alternatives →
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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