Spritesheet vs ShoeBox
ShoeBox is a free desktop sprite tool built on Adobe AIR - a runtime that Adobe discontinued. Spritesheet Generator is a modern, browser-based alternative that requires no install.
A modern replacement for a discontinued runtime
ShoeBox was a popular free sprite tool, but it depends on Adobe AIR - a runtime Adobe discontinued in 2020. Installing it today means trusting legacy software on your machine. Spritesheet Generator runs in any modern browser, requires no install, and is actively maintained with new features shipping regularly.
| Feature | UsUs | ShoeBox |
|---|---|---|
| Free to use | ||
| Works in the browser ShoeBox requires Adobe AIR (discontinued) | ||
| Actively maintained ShoeBox has not been updated in years | ||
| Drag & drop sprite upload | ||
| Auto grid layout | ||
| PNG export | ||
| JSON atlas export | ||
| GIF export | ||
| Engine-specific formats Unity, Godot, Phaser, Tiled | ||
| Built-in pixel art editor | ||
| Spritesheet splitting | ||
| Animation preview | ||
| Multi-layer support | ||
| Bitmap font creation | ||
| Works on modern macOS / Linux Adobe AIR no longer supports newer OSes | ||
| No account required |
No legacy runtime
No need to install discontinued Adobe AIR software. Spritesheet Generator runs in your browser with zero dependencies.
Actively maintained
Regular updates, new features, and community-driven development. ShoeBox has not been updated in years.
Cross-platform by default
Works on Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook - any device with a browser. ShoeBox struggles on modern macOS and Linux.
Built-in editor & preview
Edit sprites, preview animations, and adjust layouts without leaving the tool. ShoeBox focuses solely on packing.
More questions? See the full FAQ.