Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Pixen VS Pixel Studio

Compare Pixen VS Pixel Studio and see what are their differences

Pixen logo Pixen

Pixen is a professional pixel art editor designed for working with low-resolution raster art, such as those 8-bit sprites found in old-school video games.

Pixel Studio logo Pixel Studio

The Pixel Art Is Always Fun
  • Pixen Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-09-25
  • Pixel Studio Landing page
    Landing page //
    2019-09-06

Pixel Studio follows the key strong points from all the of the Pixarra TwistedBrush artist software products but with a focus on pixel art. This art, sometimes called retro, makes no attempt to hide pixels and sizes of images are often very small. Useful as utility for creating icons, sprites, and other small images for games and websites but also for art on its own. There is no surprise that pixel art is popular, it is simply fun!

Pixen

Pricing URL
-
$ Details
-
Platforms
-
Release Date
-

Pixel Studio

$ Details
paid Free Trial $39.0 / One-off (1 Computer, Lifetime license within product version.)
Platforms
Windows
Release Date
2018 June

Pixen features and specs

  • User Interface
    Pixen offers an intuitive and user-friendly interface that makes it easy for both beginners and experienced artists to create pixel art.
  • Animation Support
    The app includes robust tools for creating and managing animations, allowing users to create complex pixel art animations with ease.
  • Layer Management
    Pixen provides comprehensive layer management features that help organize artwork, making it easier to edit and keep track of different elements.
  • Tile & Grid Tools
    It supports tile and grid tools that are particularly useful for game developers who are working on tiled environments.
  • Color Palettes
    Pixen comes with customizable color palettes, allowing users to save and reuse specific colors, which is essential for maintaining consistency in pixel art.

Possible disadvantages of Pixen

  • Mac-Only
    Pixen is only available for macOS, limiting its accessibility to users who operate on Windows or Linux systems.
  • Learning Curve
    Despite its intuitive interface, some users might find the array of features overwhelming at first and require some time to get fully accustomed to all its functionalities.
  • Performance Issues
    Some users have reported occasional performance issues, such as lag or crashes, especially when working with very large files or complex animations.
  • Limited Brush Customization
    Unlike some other graphic editing software, Pixen has limited brush customization options, which might be a drawback for artists looking for more advanced drawing tools.
  • Paid Software
    Pixen is not free; users have to purchase the software, which might be a consideration for those who are looking for free alternatives.

Pixel Studio features and specs

  • Specialized Pixel Art Tools
    Pixel Studio is designed specifically for pixel art, offering tools and features that cater to the precise and detailed needs of pixel artists.
  • User-Friendly Interface
    The software boasts an intuitive interface that makes it accessible for beginners while still offering depth for more advanced users.
  • Layer Functionality
    Supports multi-layer work, allowing artists to handle complex projects with ease by separating different elements and manipulating them independently.
  • Animation Support
    Includes features to create animations frame by frame, which is invaluable for artists looking to design sprites and moving graphics.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility
    Pixel Studio works on multiple platforms, providing flexibility for users to work on their projects across different devices.

Analysis of Pixen

Overall verdict

  • Pixen is considered a good choice for those invested in creating pixel art due to its dedicated features and ease of use. While it may not cover broader art requirements like other comprehensive graphic design software, it excels in its niche.

Why this product is good

  • Pixen is a pixel art editor designed specifically for working with low-resolution raster images, typically used in video games and digital art. It offers features like a customizable grid, layers, patterns, frame-by-frame animations, and palette management, making it an ideal tool for artists focusing on pixel art. Its user-friendly interface and specialized tools cater to both novices and experienced artists in the pixel art community.

Recommended for

  • Pixel artists creating low-resolution artwork
  • Game developers in need of a tool for sprite design
  • Artists who prefer a tool focused specifically on pixel art
  • Individuals interested in frame-by-frame animation for pixel graphics

Pixen videos

Mac App Review: Pixen, The Ultimate Pixel Art Design Studio!

More videos:

  • Review - Double Din Android Based Audio Unit Pixen Review
  • Review - Pixen - Instant Video Meetings App (More than zoom)

Pixel Studio videos

Pixel Art on the go, Pixel Studio - Do you need a computer?

More videos:

  • Tutorial - Pixel Studio Tutorials: Layers & animation
  • Review - Pixel Studio Examples: Lightsaber animation
  • Review - Pixel Studio Fx Review | Should You Buy it Or Not?
  • Review - Pixel Studio - Pixel on your phone!

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Pixen and Pixel Studio)
Graphic Design Software
51 51%
49% 49
Digital Drawing And Painting
Art Tools
54 54%
46% 46
Photos & Graphics
46 46%
54% 54

User comments

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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Pixen and Pixel Studio, you can also consider the following products

Aseprite - Aseprite is an art program dedicated to the creation of pixel art.

Grafx2 - GrafX2 is a bitmap paint program inspired by the Amiga programs Deluxe Paint and Brilliance.

Kdan Mobile Animation Desk - Achieve your dream of creating your own animation.

Piskel - Piskel is a website where designers online create sprites or pixel art.

VistaCreate - The VistaCreate is a free and global digital platform which is known for sharing, searching, finding, and creating great art.

Pixel Art Studio - A purpose-built drawing tool for pixel artists