Side by side
Particle Illusion vs TouchDesigner
Both stand on visual effects software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWindows
Pick Particle Illusion for desktop particle-effects work that benefits from simulation, node compositing and 3D camera tracking. The free plan offers a starting point, while Pro adds a paid path at monthly or annual billing.
Visit Particle Illusion Free plan MacWindows
TouchDesigner brings interactive application building, media systems, and projection mapping into one environment. Paid work requires a license other than Non-Commercial; listed paid options range from $300 a month to $2,200 a month.
Visit TouchDesignerThe facts
| Particle Illusion | TouchDesigner | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Particle Illusion Pro Annual: $195 a year | See the plans |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Not published | TouchDesigner |
| Website | borisfx.com | derivative.ca |
| On visual effects software | #22 of 37 | #18 of 37 |
Particle Illusion: what it does well
- Free plan available
- Particle simulation tools included
- Node-based compositing workflow
- 3D camera tracking support
- GPU render engine
What to know first
- Paid Pro access starts at $25/mo
- Supported platforms listed are macOS and Windows
- Annual plan requires $195 a year
TouchDesigner: what it does well
- Combines the application engine and interface.
- Supports multi-projector projection mapping.
- Offers mouse, touchscreen, and gestural controls.
- Lists integrations with Ableton Live and Unity.
- Available for Windows and macOS.
What to know first
- Non-Commercial licenses cannot be used for paid work.
- Windows 10 or 11 is listed.
- macOS 13 or higher is listed.
Alternatives to Particle Illusion Alternatives to TouchDesigner The whole list