OpenToonz vs Krita: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OpenToonz and Krita comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: Krita wins this matchup. Pick OpenToonz if you need animation.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OpenToonz
Open-source 2D animation software based on Studio Ghibli's production tool.
Best for you if:
- • You want free and open-source for all types of use
- • You want proven track record in professional animation studios like Studio Ghibli
Krita
Free digital painting and illustration software
Best for you if:
- • You want free digital painting
- • You want professional brushes
| At a Glance | OpenToonz | Krita |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Animation | Graphic Design |
Rating | 3.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose OpenToonz or Krita?
Choose OpenToonz if
Open-source 2D animation software based on Studio Ghibli's production tool.
- You want free and open-source for all types of use
- You want proven track record in professional animation studios like Studio Ghibli
- Your work is animation-shaped, not graphic design-shaped
Choose Krita if
Free digital painting and illustration software
- You want free digital painting
- You want professional brushes
- Your work is graphic design-shaped, not animation-shaped
| Feature | OpenToonz | Krita |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Free |
| User Rating | ★3.5/5 9 reviews | ★4.3/5 147 reviews |
| Categories | AnimationVideo & Media | Graphic DesignUI/UX Design |
In-Depth Analysis
OpenToonz
Open-source 2D animation software based on Studio Ghibli's production tool.
OpenToonz is incredibly generous as it is completely free, offering a professional-grade 2D animation suite without any cost.
Strengths
- +Free and open-source for all types of use
- +Proven track record in professional animation studios like Studio Ghibli
- +Highly customizable through source code modification and SDK
- +Includes specialized tools developed for production environments
- +Active user community and developer forums
Weaknesses
- -GTS scan tool is Windows-only
- -May have a learning curve for new users due to professional features
- -System requirements can be demanding for complex projects
Key features
Krita
Free digital painting and illustration software
Krita's pricing is exceptionally generous, being entirely free and open-source.
Strengths
- +Free digital painting
- +Professional brushes
- +Animation support
- +Cross-platform
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Not for photo editing
- -Resource heavy
- -Learning curve
- -UI overwhelming
- -Tablet issues sometimes
Key features
Pricing: OpenToonz vs Krita
| Plan | OpenToonz | Krita |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free OpenToonz | Free Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OpenToonz pricing and Krita pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are free. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: OpenToonz
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenToonz: 3.5/5 (9 reviews). Krita: 4.3/5 (147 reviews).
Go with: Krita
Value user reviews?
OpenToonz: 9 reviews (3.5/5). Krita: 147 reviews (4.3/5).
Go with: Krita
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are free. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
OpenToonz is a animation tool. Krita is in graphic design. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Krita is rated higher: 4.3/5 vs 3.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Krita
- Higher user rating: 4.3/5 vs 3.5/5
- Larger review base (147 reviews)
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenToonz
- Better fit for animation
The Bottom Line
Krita wins this matchup.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenToonz or Krita better?
Krita is rated in our evaluation. Both are free.
What are OpenToonz and Krita used for?
OpenToonz: Open-source 2D animation software based on Studio Ghibli's production tool.. Krita: Free digital painting and illustration software.
What does OpenToonz cost vs Krita?
OpenToonz is completely free. Krita is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.