Software comparison

HeavyM vs TouchDesigner

HeavyM is a projection-mapping tool, while TouchDesigner is a real-time, node-based environment — they overlap in places but are often used together rather than as substitutes.

	HeavyM	TouchDesigner
Developer	Digital Essence	Derivative
Country	France	Canada
Category	Projection-mapping software	Real-time & node-based
Platforms	Windows, macOS	Windows, macOS
Licence	Free trial; paid plans	Free non-commercial; paid Educational, Commercial and Pro licences
Skill level	Beginner	Intermediate → Pro
First release	—	2000
Best for	First projection-mapping projects, events, shop windows and education.	Interactive installations, generative content and custom show systems.
Key features	Automatic shape detection Built-in effects library Music-synchronised sequences Projector + scanner workflow Simple surface drawing	Node-based real-time 3D & compositing Projection mapping (Kantan, CamSchnappr) Sensor input (Kinect, LiDAR, MIDI, OSC) Python scripting Multi-projector blending Generative & audio-reactive systems

Verdict

Choose HeavyM for first projection-mapping projects, events, shop windows and education.

Choose TouchDesigner for interactive installations, generative content and custom show systems.

Facts are curated and checked against vendor websites; licences and prices change — always confirm on the official sites before buying.

HeavyM alternatives · TouchDesigner alternatives · All software