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NestIQ vs Deepnest
Deepnest is a free, open-source nesting program that you install on your computer. NestIQ is a browser-based service with projects saved in a workspace. Here is how they differ, and when Deepnest is the better choice.
About Deepnest
What we know about Deepnest.
Deepnest is free and open source and runs as a desktop install. The original project stopped at v1.0.5 in 2021. A fork called deepnest-next is maintained (v1.5.6, May 2025). DXF import can have problems with modern CAD output.
| Feature | NestIQ | Deepnest |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free plan, then Pro and Business plans in INR | Free |
| Licence | Commercial service with a free plan | Open source |
| Where it runs | In the browser, no install | Desktop install |
| Maintenance | See the changelog for what has shipped | Original stopped at v1.0.5 (2021); deepnest-next fork at v1.5.6 (May 2025) |
| DXF import | DXF, SVG and ZIP batches, with automatic repair and import diagnostics | DXF import can have problems with modern CAD output |
| Projects and teams | Saved in the cloud per workspace, with owner, admin, operator and viewer roles | Files on your own computer |
| Layout check | Independent final validation of every layout for overlaps and containment | Not described on its public pages |
| Exports | DXF, SVG, PNG, JSON, PDF job report, generic G-code and PLT | See the Deepnest project pages |
Information about other products is from their public pages as of October 2026 and may change.
Choose Deepnest if...
- You want free software and do not mind installing it.
- You want to read, change or build on the source code.
- You work on one computer and do not need shared projects or roles.
- You are comfortable checking DXF files yourself before you nest.
Choose NestIQ if...
- You want to open a browser and start, with nothing to install.
- Your DXF files come from different CAD programs and you want problems found and repaired on import.
- More than one person works on nests and you want projects, roles, materials and plates in one workspace.
- You want a PDF job report with material saved and cost and time estimates.
Bring a drawing. Leave with a better layout.
Upload a DXF or SVG, set the sheet size and kerf, and see the first layout in your browser.