Python GUI Frameworks You Must Know in 2024

Python is versatile enough to be used not only for backend programming but also for GUI (graphical user interface) development. Developers will be able to construct visually appealing and engaging apps in 2024 with the power of a variety of powerful GUI frameworks available to them. Because of the wide variety of options available, Python GUI Frameworks may seem confusing to intermediate or beginning developers, but they are not that hard to get started with.

A developer’s life can be greatly simplified by utilising one of the many frameworks available for Python when creating graphical user interfaces (GUIs). Python GUI frameworks offer a collection of tools and libraries that make it simple for programmers to create interactive, aesthetically pleasing applications. This article will review the top 10 Python GUI frameworks, highlighting their features, advantages, and applications.

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Introduction

Python frameworks are collections of modules and packages that help developers create web applications and services more quickly and easily. Python’s standard library collection and easy coding syntax learning curve make it a popular choice for web technologies. As such, it is the main programming language used by big names like Pinterest, Spotify, and Google.

Python offers a variety of frameworks, including web development and data science frameworks. Micro or asynchronous Python frameworks, GUI frameworks, Testing frameworks, Data Science frameworks, Game Development frameworks, API Development frameworks, Network Programming frameworks, and Automation and testing frameworks are some of the best Python frameworks available.

Introduction to Python GUI Frameworks

A Python GUI, also known as a Graphical User Interface, is a user-interactive visual interface for software. It gives users a collection of graphical elements, such as sliders, dropdown menus, buttons, and checkboxes to accomplish a range of activities and access distinct programme functionalities. Python GUI frameworks give programmers an easier way to design these interfaces by offering pre-built components, libraries, and a collection of tools that make the development process simpler.

With Python GUI Frameworks, creating graphical user interfaces (GUIs) for Python applications is made easier. These frameworks give developers access to tools and resources that support the creation of intuitive, aesthetically pleasing software interfaces that improve user experience overall.

Popular Python Gui Frameworks

Python GUI frameworks offer a robust collection of tools and libraries that make it simple for developers to construct interactive, aesthetically pleasing applications. The choice of framework is influenced by a number of aspects, including the complexity of your application, cross-platform compatibility, touch input requirements, and native look and feel. Top and Best Python GUI Frameworks are listed below.

1. PyGUI

The Python GUI Project, or PyGUI, is a framework for interfacing. Now you could wonder, what’s the point of me stepping in here? By inserting smaller scripts between the applications generated and the core capabilities of this Python GUI Platform, developers can use PyGUI’s interposing ability to construct applications with unique Python features.

• This GUI project can also be used on Windows computers, Unix-based systems, and, finally, other popular macOS device versions.
• In fact, this lightweight framework’s documentation is developed so that programmers or developers may easily create and develop User Interfaces (UIs) without constantly referencing other GUI frameworks.
• Python 2 and 3 can easily access PyGUI when used in SYNC with Python.

2. PySimpleGUI

Mike B created PySimpleGUI in the year 2018, and it has brought great flexibility and ease of use to Python development for beginners who are striving to gain prominence in GUI development. The complexities of the sophisticated GUI development possibilities, which are easily updated for developers and other aspiring Python programmers, don’t require you to spend much time with this hassle-free framework.

• The ease with which this framework has incorporated the best features of four graphical user interfaces (GUIs) TKinter, Remi, Qt, and WxPython.
• And has unquestionably reduced the complexity of implementing boilerplate code, assisting novices in creating User-Interfaces through intuitive element accessibility.

Pros

• Exceptionally simple to understand and apply the framework.
• Cross-platform compatibility, which enables programmes to function properly across a range of operating systems.

Cons

• Less choices for customisation than with more sophisticated frameworks.
• Not fit for feature-rich, sophisticated applications.

3. Kivy

Cython and Python are essentially combined in Kivy. Developers may be able to design intuitive user interfaces with multi-touch capabilities by utilising its open-source framework and the more than 20 widgets that are included in its toolkit. Ascertaining if Kivy is compatible with NUI, or Natural User Interface.

• A user can naturally become familiar with a lot of the mostly unseen interactions offered by this open-source Python GUI Framework.
• Kivy is really excellent news for interface designers as well because it allows them to write scripts only once and deploy them across numerous platforms while making suitable use of strong design and graphics methods.

Pros

• Kivy accepts gestures and touch input. With the help of it, you may develop touch-enabled apps for tablets and smartphones.
• Gives you access to a strong hardware-accelerated graphics engine that makes it possible to design UIs that are snappy and fluid.
• Free and open-source software.

Cons

• Compared to other Python GUI frameworks, Kivy has a smaller community, which could make it harder to find resources and assistance.
• Distinct programming model and syntax, which could take some getting used to.

4. Pyside2

Pyside 2, also referred to as Qt for Python in the market, can enhance any Python apps that you now have that were written by developers and programmers.

• In addition, you may have a look at the community that strongly supports the sharing of knowledge and ideas among 1M Plus Python developers and other software professionals in order to create enjoyable Qt programmes.
• For the time being, this GUI framework is formally known as the cross-platform.
• Python Module, which allows developers to easily access its library of tools and libraries to construct dynamic user interfaces with flexibility.

5. Tkinter

Many Python developers are invited to join Tkinter’s universe and equip its Tk GUI Toolkit. Wondering what this toolset might contain! It provides a library of basic GUI widget components, enabling the feasible construction of an open-source, straightforward graphical user interface.

Pros 

• Tkinter’s simplicity is one of its main benefits. It’s a great option for novices because of its low learning curve.
• Assistance for open-source and commercial initiatives alike.
• Most Python installations come with Tkinter installed, thus installing other libraries is not necessary to get going.

Cons

• The simplicity of Tkinter is exchanged for a lack of customisation possibilities.
• Even though Tkinter comes with a basic set of widgets like buttons, labels, and entry fields, using it alone can make it difficult to create intricate and aesthetically pleasing GUIs.
• In contrast to contemporary interfaces, the default appearance and feel could seem antiquated.

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6. LibAvg

For Python developers, LibAvg is a graphics-intensive GUI framework. This high-level programming platform, created by Alfred Bigler and written in C Plus +, can be cleverly used to create User Interfaces for modern touch-based devices with ease.

• Nevertheless, this framework works well with Windows, Linux, and Mac OS X, and it has already been utilised in numerous commercial projects like GlobalData, SimMed, and C-Base Scanner.
• Specifically, LibAvg is faster because to its array of display elements, which includes text, vector graphics, photos, videos, and camera output.
• Additionally, OpenGL and GPU shaders seamlessly manage H/W, or hardware acceleration, allowing developers to go on creating graphics with a high degree of detail.

7. Wax

Wax has helped Python developers create more scalable and easier-to-use GUIs by effectively eliminating low-level GUI components through its helpful abstractions. This benefit allows developers to create ready-to-use visual effects with fewer lines of code by eliminating the requirement for them to interact with Windows, Mac OS, or Linux at a low abstraction level.

• Furthermore, compared to other Python GUI Frameworks wrapped with native graphical widgets, it is more developer-friendly.
• Wax is typically implemented as an extension module for Python, which allows you to create a wide range of cross-platform programmes that work with several operating systems, such as Windows.
• You are free to take use of Wax’s high degree of speed and efficiency to design User Interfaces that are far more straightforward and adaptable without having to battle the fierce winds of low abstraction levels.

8. PyQt5

Another straightforward but motivating cross-platform GUI framework for Python developers is called PyQt5. You can significantly develop apps for Mac OS X, Linux, Windows, Android, and Raspberry Pi in a shorter amount of time.

• Using PyQt5, which consists of several GUI widgets like as buttons, sliders, List-Boxes, and so on placed inside the window. So that users can construct visually appealing and customised themes and unified graphical designs that they find entertaining.
• This enables the developers to create User Interfaces through direct data manipulation while preserving consistency and overall code reuse.
• Additionally, PyQt5 has made the Python language more modular with its extensions, making it easier for developers to design both large- and small-scale applications with maximum simplicity.

Pros

• PyQT’s large widget and component library is one of its main features.
• Offers a huge selection of ready-made widgets that are easily customisable to make incredibly engaging and contemporary-looking graphical user interfaces.
• Supports sophisticated features that make it appropriate for a variety of applications, including as multimedia integration, network programming, and internationalisation.

Cons

• Because of the Qt framework’s sophistication, PyQT has a steeper learning curve than Tkinter.

9. wxPython

Beginner and intermediate Python developers and programmers can benefit from using the wxPython GUI framework. Its cross-platform capabilities will work the same way without any extra overheads while running on different Unix systems or Mac OS.

• wxPython enables novice or intermediate developers to construct completely native user interfaces (UIs) for their Python projects. These widgets include ComboBox, ToggleButton, StatusBar, StaticLine, and many more.
• Most importantly, this GUI framework is available to everyone for free. Because of this wonderful feature, there is a higher chance that code faults will be repaired or that updates in the form of improved code readability will be made.

Pros:

• Native appearance and feel is provided by wxPython. It offers native controls and widgets that blend in well with the operating system below, giving your application a polished and expert look.
• Advanced functionality like drag-and-drop, printing, and clipboard operations are also supported by wxPython, which makes it appropriate for a variety of applications.

Cons

• Compared to Tkinter and PyQT, wxPython has a smaller user base, which could result in less resources and support options.
• Steeper learning curve than with Tkinter because of the wxWidgets library’s complexity.
• Fewer choices for customisation than with some other frameworks.

10. PyGame

In addition to being a helpful GUI framework, PyGame is now a tutorial designed especially for Python game programming.

• The most obvious explanation is that you and other developers may create video games (VGs) thanks to its aesthetically pleasing graphics and sound libraries, which are housed within its assortment of Python modules.
• Considering whether or not our children will find this framework beneficial! Yes, our future generation can pursue their passion in real-time computer game development with its SDL, or Simple Direct Media Layer library.

Benefits of Using Python GUI Frameworks

• Python GUI frameworks are superior to scratch-built GUIs in a number of ways. First of all, these frameworks offer a wide range of pre-made widgets and components that are easily customisable to meet the requirements of your application. This saves you a great deal of time and work when creating and putting together the fundamental components of your graphical user interface.
• Second, by abstracting away the low-level specifics of GUI programming, Python GUI frameworks facilitate developers attention on the application logic rather than the graphical interface’s complexities. This lowers the likelihood of errors and raises the standard of your programme by enabling you to write clear, manageable code.
• Finally, Python GUI frameworks facilitate integration with other tools and libraries and are highly extensible. These frameworks offer smooth integration choices that let you build feature-rich and reliable applications, regardless of whether you need to use data visualisation libraries or connect your GUI application to a database.

Choosing the Right Python GUI Framework

The complexity of your application, your level of knowledge with the framework, and the particular needs of your project will all play a role in selecting the best Python GUI framework for you. Here are some pointers to assist you in making a wise choice:

• Simplicity vs. Power: Tkinter’s widespread usage and simplicity make it a suitable choice whether you’re new to GUI programming or creating a small to medium-sized application. If you require additional customisation choices and sophisticated functionality, wxPython or PyQT might be a better fit.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Kivy and wxPython are good choices because of their cross-platform capabilities if your programme wants to operate on many platforms without requiring any adjustments.
• Touch Input and Gestures: Kivy is the best option if you are creating a touch-enabled mobile application because of its broad support for both touch input and gestures.
• Native appearance and Feel: WxPython is the ideal option because of its integration with the underlying operating system if you want your application to have a native appearance and feel across a variety of platforms.

Conclusion

In 2024, there will be a plethora of GUI framework options available to Python developers. Depending on needs and preferences, each framework has benefits and drawbacks. Regardless of your level of development experience from beginners wanting simplicity to seasoned pros seeking cross-platform capabilities—the top 10 Python GUI frameworks listed below offer a flexible toolkit for creating visually appealing and intuitive applications. These frameworks ensure that Python will remain a dependable choice for GUI development well into the future.