What it does
Synfig Studio is a free, open-source 2D animation application for Windows, Mac and Linux. It works with vector shapes and bitmap images, using tweening to calculate movement between key positions. Bones and linked parameters can animate cutout characters without drawing every frame.
Choose how the artwork moves
For vector animation, set key positions for a shape and Synfig calculates the frames between them. Its layer types cover geometry, gradients, filters, transformations and distortions.
For a cutout character, the bone system controls separate parts. The Skeleton Distortion layer can also deform a bitmap image. Parameters from different layers can be linked directly or through mathematical expressions, which is useful when several parts need to follow one control.
Free downloads and build choices
Synfig uses GPLv3 and offers a free download alongside an optional paid download that supports development. The download page also provides an anonymous link for people who do not want to give an email address.
Choose the Stable version for ordinary projects. The Development version is intended for trying experimental features and fixes. Neither route is a paid upgrade tier.
Strengths
- Bone controls work with vector artwork and bitmap cutouts
- Parameters can be connected across multiple layers
- Windows, Mac and Linux builds share the same core application
Watch out for
- Development builds contain experimental features
Best for
- Cutout animation from existing artwork
- Vector shapes that need calculated in-between movement
Sources
- Synfig Studio: features and supported platforms (Oct 27, 2026)
- Download the stable version of Synfig Studio (Oct 27, 2026)