Software comparison

Splash vs TouchDesigner

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

SplashTouchDesigner
DeveloperSociété des arts technologiques (SAT)Derivative
CountryCanadaCanada
CategoryOpen sourceReal-time & node-based
PlatformsLinuxWindows, macOS
LicenceFree & open source (GPL)Free non-commercial; paid Educational, Commercial and Pro licences
Skill levelProIntermediate → Pro
First release—2000
Best forDomes and multi-projector immersive spaces on Linux.Interactive installations, generative content and custom show systems.
Key features
  • Multi-projector video mapping
  • Automatic calibration
  • Dome & immersive spaces
  • Real-time blending
  • 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

Only Splash runs on Linux.

Only TouchDesigner runs on Windows, macOS.

Choose Splash for domes and multi-projector immersive spaces on Linux.

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.

Splash alternatives · TouchDesigner alternatives · All software