Side by side
Aseprite vs Lightcube
Both stand on pixel art software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial LinuxMacWindows
Aseprite focuses on pixel-art drawing, animation, and export workflows, with local storage and automation options. The trial’s save restriction and paid entry point matter when evaluating it.
Visit Aseprite Free trial Windows
Lightcube provides drawing, layering, tile-map, animation, palette, and export tools in one Windows editor. The demo lets you use the editor but not save, while the full version requires a one-time purchase.
Visit LightcubeThe facts
| Aseprite | Lightcube | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Aseprite: $19.99, paid once | Lightcube Pixel Art Editor: $14.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | aseprite.org | lightcube.art |
| On pixel art software | #56 of 70 | #60 of 70 |
Aseprite: what it does well
- Animation tools include layers, frames, and onion skinning
- Exports PNG, GIF, JSON, and sprite formats
- Command-line image conversion support
- Extensions support themes, palettes, and plugins
- Creations may be used commercially
What to know first
- Trial version cannot save files
- Minimum listed pledge is $19.99 a month
- No cloud or remote-server functionality
- Compiled versions cannot be redistributed
Lightcube: what it does well
- Tile map editor provides a live fit preview
- Frame animation includes optional onion skinning
- Supports 2D, 2.5D, and isometric styles
- Exports sprites to Godot
- Opens Photoshop PSD files
What to know first
- Windows only
- Demo cannot save files to disk
- Paid plan costs $14.99, paid once
- Animation video export is GIF or MPEG-4
Alternatives to Aseprite Alternatives to Lightcube The whole list