Building user interfaces (UIs) for embedded systems used to be a tough job. Developers had to write everything from scratch, often spending weeks or even months just to get a basic screen working. Today, things have changed—thanks to tools like TouchGFX.

If you’re new to embedded development or looking for the right framework, this guide from Controllers Tech will show you exactly why TouchGFX is a smart, practical choice for GUI development.

What Is TouchGFX?

TouchGFX is a free graphical framework from STMicroelectronics, made specifically for STM32 microcontrollers. It helps developers create modern, interactive interfaces without needing high-end hardware or complex coding.

With TouchGFX, you can:

• Design your UI visually using drag-and-drop tools

• Run smooth animations and transitions

• Create touchscreen apps with very low power use

• Use it alongside STM32CubeIDE and STM32CubeMX

TouchGFX is widely used in industries like medical devices, smart home panels, wearables, and industrial control systems.

Simple Design Process with TouchGFX Designer

One of the biggest advantages of using TouchGFX is its built-in visual editor, TouchGFX Designer.

This tool lets you:

• Drag widgets like buttons, text, and images

• Arrange layouts visually

• Set up screen transitions

• Preview your interface without compiling the code

It’s especially helpful for beginners or teams working on fast-paced projects. You don’t need to be an expert in C++ or graphics rendering to get started.

Seamless Integration with STM32 Ecosystem

TouchGFX was built specifically for STM32 microcontrollers, so it fits naturally with other STM tools like:

• STM32CubeMX – for MCU configuration

• STM32CubeIDE – for code development

• STM32H7, F7, F4 boards – optimized for display and performance

This smooth integration cuts down setup time and helps teams build and test GUIs faster.

📊 According to ST, over 1 million TouchGFX projects have been created using STM32Cube tools.

Optimized for Low Power and High Performance

Unlike some other GUI frameworks that need a lot of memory or powerful processors, TouchGFX is built for performance—even on small MCUs.

Key Performance Features:

• Low memory usage: As little as 16-20 KB RAM for basic screens

• Hardware acceleration: Uses DMA2D and LTDC for faster rendering

• Partial frame buffering: Saves memory on lower-end boards

• Fast redraws: Good FPS even on displays up to 800×480

So even if you’re using a mid-range STM32 board, you can build responsive and professional-looking interfaces.

TouchGFX Works for a Wide Range of Products

Whether you’re building a simple thermostat UI or a complex industrial dashboard, TouchGFX can handle it.

Common Use Cases:

• Medical monitors with touch interfaces

• Smart home controllers with icons and animations

• Washing machines or appliances with settings menus

• Wearable health devices showing real-time stats

• Car infotainment panels on STM32H7 boards

Its flexibility makes it ideal for products that need a good user experience but can’t afford high-end CPUs.

Easy to Learn with TouchGFX Tutorials

At Controllers Tech, we’ve published tons of TouchGFX tutorials for beginners and advanced users alike. These tutorials cover:

• Setting up your first project

• Creating buttons and text fields

• Linking backend code with UI

• Adding animations and transitions

• Troubleshooting blank screens or lag

With real examples and clear steps, anyone can start building GUIs—even with no prior experience in embedded graphics.

Large Community and Support

TouchGFX has a growing developer community. Whether you’re stuck with a configuration problem or looking for new ideas, you’ll find:

• Online forums and Q&A

• GitHub repositories with sample projects

• Free video tutorials

• Documentation from ST and third-party developers

You’re never building alone.

Cost-Friendly for Developers and Businesses

TouchGFX is free to use. There are no hidden licensing fees, no paid add-ons, and no subscriptions—making it a great option for startups or teams with limited budgets.

Combined with affordable STM32 hardware, TouchGFX helps you build high-end products without the high-end costs.

Key Benefits Recap

Let’s summarize why TouchGFX is a solid choice for GUI development:

• ✅ Works seamlessly with STM32 and STM32CubeIDE

• ✅ Fast, responsive, and low on memory usage

• ✅ Visual design with TouchGFX Designer

• ✅ No licensing fees or hidden costs

• ✅ Beginner-friendly with easy tutorials

• ✅ Supports real-time data, touch input, and transitions

• ✅ Runs well on both entry-level and high-performance MCUs

Real-World Stats

• 60% faster development time when using TouchGFX (ST internal studies)

• Supports over 50 STM32 boards officially

• Reduces memory load by up to 70% with partial buffering

• Over 1 million downloads of TouchGFX Designer

These numbers show how widely used and trusted TouchGFX has become.

FAQs

What can I build with TouchGFX?

You can build touchscreen GUIs for smart appliances, industrial displays, fitness devices, and more. Anything that runs on STM32 and needs a user interface is a good fit.

Why is TouchGFX better than building UIs from scratch?

It saves time, reduces complexity, and gives you tools that are already optimized for performance and STM32 integration.

How can I start learning TouchGFX?

Check out our TouchGFX tutorials at Controllers Tech. We offer real projects, step-by-step instructions, and tips for beginners.

Who should use TouchGFX?

TouchGFX is ideal for embedded developers, electronics engineers, or students working on STM32-based products with a screen.

Will TouchGFX work on my STM32 board?

Most STM32F4, STM32F7, and STM32H7 series boards are supported. Check ST’s official board list or see our guides at Controllers Tech.

Final Thoughts

TouchGFX takes the stress out of GUI development. With strong STM32 support, simple tools, and powerful features, it’s a great choice for anyone looking to build modern user interfaces without getting buried in complexity.

Whether you’re a student building a capstone project or an engineer designing a smart device, TouchGFX helps you build clean, interactive screens—fast.

If you’re ready to start, check out our TouchGFX tutorials on Controllers Tech. We make learning fast, friendly, and fun.