Side by side
Leonardo vs PD Howler
Both stand on digital painting software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial Windows
Leonardo focuses on freeform Windows drawing with tablet support, layers, and export options. Its missing text, PDF, recording, and custom-brush features may limit workflows needing those tools.
Visit Leonardo Free trial APIWindows
PD Howler covers painting plus animation, video, 3D, and effects in a single Windows application. Buyers should account for its 32-bit design, paid access, and the upgrade requirement for Howler 2025.
Visit PD HowlerThe facts
| Leonardo | PD Howler | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | A free trial |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Windows | API, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Howler 2027 full version: $19.99, paid once |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | getleonardo.com | thebest3d.com |
| On digital painting software | #37 of 46 | #41 of 46 |
Leonardo: what it does well
- Infinite canvas for unrestricted scrolling
- Perspective tools and stroke stabilization
- Supports layers, pen pressure, and multi-touch
- Exports PSD, JPEG, and PNG
- 15-day free Windows trial
What to know first
- Windows only
- Cannot import or save PSD files
- No text tool or PDF import
- No saveable custom brushes
PD Howler: what it does well
- Customizable brushes, layers, and pressure sensitivity
- Frame-by-frame animation and video editing
- Terrain generation, ray tracing, and OBJ loading
- More than 100 listed filters
- Free demo or trial versions
What to know first
- No free plan
- 32-bit application
- Windows-focused support
- Howler 2025 requires Howler 2024 installed
Alternatives to Leonardo Alternatives to PD Howler The whole list