Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OpenToonz

OpenToonz is an animation program that is a free software version of Toonz, the animation software...

OpenToonz

OpenToonz Reviews and Details

This page is designed to help you find out whether OpenToonz is good and if it is the right choice for you.

Screenshots and images

  • OpenToonz Landing page
    Landing page //
    2021-10-18

Features & Specs

  1. Free and Open Source

    OpenToonz is completely free and open source, which makes it accessible to anyone without any cost. The open source nature also means that the community can contribute to and improve the software.

  2. Professional Quality

    It offers tools and features that are comparable to professional animation software, allowing users to create high-quality animations suitable for professional use.

  3. Customizable

    Developers can modify the software to meet specific needs, thanks to its open-source nature. This includes adding new features or improving existing ones.

  4. Wide Range of Features

    OpenToonz includes a variety of features such as drawing tools, animation capabilities, and effects that support a comprehensive animation workflow.

  5. Active Community and Support

    There is an active community of users and developers who contribute tutorials, plugins, and support, making it easier to learn and troubleshoot.

Badges

Promote OpenToonz. You can add any of these badges on your website.

SaaSHub badge
Show embed code

Videos

Opentoonz Review - Is it Worth it?

Opentoonz News: New Version of OpenToonz, V1.4 is now out

Learn to Animate in Opentoonz 1.3 [FULL GUIDE WITH TIMESTAMPS]

Social recommendations and mentions

We have tracked the following product recommendations or mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you see what people think about OpenToonz and what they use it for.
  • Synfig Studio โ€“ Open-Source 2D Animation Software
    I've used this in the past and worked like a charm: https://opentoonz.github.io/e/. - Source: Hacker News / almost 2 years ago
  • Need advice on a good computer for animation
    I know a coworker that uses clip studio. Also if you're adventurous, Blender with grease pencil might be a great option. See also: Https://animationpaper.com/ Https://opentoonz.github.io/e/ neat! yt. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Csp good for long Animations?
    OpenToonz is a free open source program that branched off the premium version in 2016, and has a few well-known movies and TV shows made with it (including a number of Ghibli films, SpongeBob SquarePants, and Steven Universe). Source: about 3 years ago
  • I make educational videos but I want to animate my content like The Infographics Show or Kurzgesagt for better visuals
    For 2D animations you could have a look at OpenToonz. As the name suggests, it is a free OpenSource software. It obviously has a bit of a learning curve, but I had fun with it. Source: about 3 years ago
  • The mistake that killed Japanโ€™s software industry
    Another example is OpenToonz[0], which is one of the animation tools used by Studio Ghibli and developed in collaboration with Studio Ghibli, another Japanese company called Dwango, and an Italian company called Digital Video. Although, Digital Video does have a premium, paid version called Toonz[1]. 0: https://opentoonz.github.io/e/ 1: https://www.toonzpremium.com/. - Source: Hacker News / over 3 years ago
  • Is this normal?
    As long as youโ€™ve downloaded it from the main website: https://opentoonz.github.io/e/ then you should be good. Source: over 3 years ago
  • hey guys can you suggest any 2D animation apps?
    OpenToonz. Free and open-source. You can download here: https://opentoonz.github.io/e/. Source: over 3 years ago
  • Krita ain't exactly working for me, any other alternatives for frame-by-frame animation?
    Check out opentoonz. it's opensource and free. And somehow affiliated and/or used by studio ghibli. Source: almost 4 years ago
  • anime_irl
    It's Toonz, which was made opensource in 2016 and is now OpenToonz. Source: about 4 years ago
  • WIP first jab at animation. just making sure Iโ€™m on the right track โœจ
    Yeah, keyframing + improv in the inbetweens as well as the little delay you're talking about are classical animation techniques, I think you're doing well! I can't really help you for CSP, it's not the best for animating, I know that there is an open source animation software similar to the one used by Ghibli themselves, named OpenToonz , but it might be a steep learning curve. Anyway, I happen to have a pdf of... Source: over 4 years ago
  • Software to use with a drawing tablet?
    Opentoonz and Blender have great 2d programs that are very similar to animate. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Why isn't flash more easily emulated?
    For Flash alternatives I would recommend Wick Editor for creating interactive content and Synfig Studio or OpenToonz for 2d animations. Source: over 4 years ago
  • My 13-year-old wants to animate, and I'm clueless how to help him get started. Advice? What does he need?
    There are plenty of free 2d animation softwares to download if he wants to give it a try https://opentoonz.github.io/e/ is one and Blender has a decent 2d program for beginners https://www.blender.org/download/ There are tons of YouTube tutorials for both. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Im noobโ˜น๏ธ
    You should try using a software that has an onion skin view, helps a lot. Https://opentoonz.github.io/e/. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Easiest software to draw & animate anime-style?
    If you want a a free software for anime animation, I heard a lot about OpenToonzOpenToonz. It's the same studio Ghibli uses. Try a look, I think is one of the best free of the anime softwares I found in my researches. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Animation on Chromebook?
    4- OpenToonz(This one is free and open source professional 2d style animation software and intended to run in studio computers so it will stutter and do not run well). Source: over 4 years ago
  • Can I use GIMP to create anime characters and backgrounds ?
    And for many tasks (animation & compositing) you can also use OpenToonz which is also used for anime production by Studio Ponoc: https://opentoonz.github.io/e/. Source: over 4 years ago
  • Does anyone know where to get these?
    2- OpenToonz (Pretty much all around free(as in freedom) and open source animation software, used by lots of anime studios including Studio Ghibli). Source: over 4 years ago
  • Animation program help
    Opentoonz is Free and Opensource has a lot of the features adobe animate has I suggest you look into it. Source: almost 5 years ago
  • Free animation software suggestions
    Open Toonz  His choice for best free alternative to Adobe Animate.  Download Open Toonz. Source: almost 5 years ago
  • Tired of vocrehab counselors telling me what to do and where to go
    Another thought could be get your degree in cyber security, get hired and use any education benefits from your employer to pick up computer animation classes. Studio Ghibli released their animation software back in 2016, so you could start there. From O*Net, I couldnโ€™t find computer animation, but I did find special effects artist . The download link is here for OpenToonz. Source: about 5 years ago

Summary of the public mentions of OpenToonz

OpenToonz, an open-source 2D animation software, has garnered significant attention and generally positive public opinion within various online platforms. As a free alternative to many commercial animation software options, OpenToonz is frequently commended for its accessibility and affordability, making it a favored choice among budding animators and independent creators. Derived from the professional Toonz software, OpenToonz appeals largely to those looking for a no-cost, powerful tool to explore their creative pursuits in animation.

Key Features and Use Cases

OpenToonz is often highlighted for its flexibility and array of features conducive to creating high-quality animations. Public mentions frequently stress its effective integration of classic animation techniques and modern digital tools, allowing users to leverage both bitmap and vector artwork. The software is also recognized for its robust bone system for animation controls, enabling natural movements, and for offering a Skeleton Distortion layer for complex deformations, similar to those found in high-end animation suites.

Its capacity for high levels of customization and extendibility, often through the usage of plugins, is another element applauded by users. This allows animators to tweak color, distortion, and other effects to suit their specific needs. The open-source nature of the software encourages a collaborative environment where developers and artists can contribute to and improve upon the existing framework, enhancing its functionalities and user interface over time.

Industry Endorsements and Educational Utility

A significant point of prestige for OpenToonz is its endorsement and use by notable animation studios, particularly Studio Ghibli, which is renowned for creating beloved films such as "Spirited Away" and "My Neighbor Totoro." This association not only enhances the software's credibility but also inspires aspiring animators to utilize the same tools as these industry giants. The software's versatility is further emphasized as it's reported to have been used in the production of internationally recognized programs such as "SpongeBob SquarePants" and "Steven Universe."

Additionally, OpenToonz's suitability for both personal and professional projects is repeatedly acknowledged, making it an invaluable resource for educational institutions and novice animators seeking to build foundational skills without financial barriers. It serves as an excellent introductory platform for individuals eager to delve into animation, complementing traditional educational resources like "The Animator's Survival Kit."

Challenges and Considerations

Despite its many strengths, OpenToonz is not without its challenges. Users often mention the steep learning curve, which can be daunting for beginners unfamiliar with animation software. While ample tutorials are available online, mastering the nuances of OpenToonz requires dedication and time. Furthermore, as with any open-source software, users might encounter occasional bugs or performance issues, which require community-driven updates and fixes.

There are also technical considerations, such as the software's compatibility with various operating systems, which users must account for when integrating OpenToonz into their workflow. Performance may vary across different setups, with some users noting issues on less robust computers, particularly those devices not traditionally designed for animation work.

In summary, OpenToonz stands out as a powerful, cost-free tool in the 2D animation landscape. It is especially suitable for those willing to invest the necessary effort to fully utilize its array of capabilities and integrate it into a broader creative process. Being open-source enhances its adaptability, ensuring it will continue to evolve alongside technological advancements and user needs.

Do you know an article comparing OpenToonz to other products?
Suggest a link to a post with product alternatives.

Suggest an article

OpenToonz discussion

Log in or Post with

Is OpenToonz good? This is an informative page that will help you find out. Moreover, you can review and discuss OpenToonz here. The primary details have not been verified within the last quarter, and they might be outdated. If you think we are missing something, please use the means on this page to comment or suggest changes. All reviews and comments are highly encouranged and appreciated as they help everyone in the community to make an informed choice. Please always be kind and objective when evaluating a product and sharing your opinion.