A free Cut Optimizer alternative for 1D cutting
Cut Optimizer is a capable 1D tool for profiles and tubes — but its free Starter plan stops at 10 items, one project, and a single stock length. NestSolver does the same job — bars, pipe, tube, extrusions, lumber — with up to 1,000 cuts per job, free, and nothing to sign up for.
| NestSolver (free) | Cut Optimizer (free Starter) | |
|---|---|---|
| Parts per optimization | Up to 1,000 cuts, free | 10 items on the free Starter plan |
| Stock lengths | Up to 100 stock rows per job | 1 length on Starter (6 needs Pro, $32/mo) |
| Saved projects | Yes — free | 1 on Starter (5 needs Core, $8/mo) |
| Try without an account | Yes — no sign-up | Demo only; saving needs an account |
| 1D linear cutting | Yes — bars, pipe, tube, lumber | Yes |
| Kerf accounting | Yes | Yes |
| Cut around defects | Yes — mark damaged spans to skip | Not advertised |
When Cut Optimizer is the better fit
NestSolver supports miter cuts on its Shop plan, so angled-cut nesting isn't a missing capability. Cut Optimizer still has splicing logic that works out when welding short remnants together is cheaper than new stock, which NestSolver doesn't offer. If material joining matters to your workflow, it's worth a look.
Switching questions
How large can a free NestSolver job be?+
Each job can contain up to 1,000 part rows and 1,000 expanded cuts, with no daily run limit or obstructive export overlay. No sign-up is needed to run the optimizer; a free account adds saved projects and presets.
Can I bring my cut list over?+
Yes — paste it straight from a spreadsheet. Copy the length and quantity columns, paste them into the parts table, and the rows fill in for you.
What does NestSolver do that Cut Optimizer's free plan doesn't?+
It lifts the Starter limits to 1,000 cuts per job instead of 10 items, accepts multiple stock lengths, and works without an account. It also lets you mark blocked zones to cut around knots or damage.
Cut Optimizer is a trademark of its respective owner. NestSolver is not affiliated with or endorsed by it. Comparison reflects each product's public plans as checked in June 2026; details may have changed since.