TouchDesigner is a node-based real-time visual programming software widely employed in interactive environments, leveraging live sound or visual inputs as triggers.

But why choose TouchDesigner?

It enables users to craft intricate setups for interactive exhibitions or live event visuals. By utilizing sound, color, or visual input, it facilitates the creation of unique visual outputs.

Similar to Houdini, TouchDesigner operates with channels such as CHOPs, SOPs, and TOPs. Originating from the same company, TouchDesigner shares similarities with Houdini primarily in proceduralism. This feature allows swift creation and modification of designs, which can be adjusted as needed. TouchDesigner excels in providing rapid visual feedback, even with extensive data like point clouds or instancing. However, it lacks dynamic operators, limiting its capability for non-procedural workflows. Despite this, it remains a cornerstone in the interactive world and is an industry standard for events.

Let’s examine a TouchDesigner file to understand its workflow compared to Houdini.