Makerfern vs VectoSolve
Both turn images into SVG and cutting files. They are built very differently: VectoSolve sends images to an AI vectorization service, and Makerfern traces them in your browser. That one difference drives most of the rest.
| Makerfern | VectoSolve | |
|---|---|---|
| Where the image is processed | In your browser. Nothing is uploaded. | On servers. Their privacy policy names Recraft AI as the sub-processor for "AI image vectorization". |
| Free use | Unlimited SVG, no account, no watermark | One free conversion (home page, checked 16 September 2026) |
| Paid plans | Pro adds DXF, EPS, layers and batches (see our pricing page) | Starter $7.99/month (25 conversions) or $49/year; Pro $14.99/month (500). Their site also offers single-file and pack purchases from $6.99. |
| Conversion limit on paid plans | None | Per-month conversion allowance |
| Physical cut size | Every limit set in mm/in at your cut width | Not part of the conversion settings we found |
| Tiny-piece cleanup at cut size | Yes | No equivalent found |
| Thin-spot warnings | Yes, marked on the preview | No equivalent found |
| Automatic stencil bridges | Yes | No equivalent found |
| Stacked vinyl layers | Yes | No equivalent found |
| Formats | SVG, PNG (free); DXF, EPS, per-layer files, batch (Pro) | SVG, DXF, EPS, AI, PDF, PNG, G-code, and embroidery DST, PES, JEF |
| AI tracing for photos and painterly art | No, deterministic tracing | Yes |
| Extras | None beyond conversion | Background remover, upscaler, logo generator, API, browser extensions, 10 languages |
"No equivalent found" means we looked through their public site and settings and didn't find the feature. Products change; if something here is out of date, tell us and we'll fix it.
When VectoSolve is the better choice
- You need embroidery files or G-code. VectoSolve exports DST, PES and JEF, and G-code. Makerfern doesn't.
- Your images are photos, watercolors or detailed illustrations. An AI vectorizer is designed to interpret texture and shading. Makerfern's tracing is at its best on flat-color art: logos, clipart, lettering and sticker designs.
- You want an API, a browser extension or a language other than English.
When Makerfern is the better choice
- You cut vinyl, cardstock or stencils and want the file checked at the size you'll cut: specks removed, thin spots flagged, bridges added, layers stacked.
- You convert often. Free SVG has no counter, and Pro has no monthly allowance.
- You can't or won't upload the artwork, like client logos under NDA or designs you sell.
Try both on the same image
Makerfern is free and needs no account, so the comparison costs nothing.
More converters, side by side on price, free limits and whether the file is ready to cut: the best free PNG to SVG converters for Cricut, compared.
Sources
- VectoSolve privacy policy, "Data Sharing" (last updated 9 July 2026): https://vectosolve.com/privacy
- VectoSolve home and pricing pages: https://vectosolve.com/pricing