PyAutoGUI

Overview

PyAutoGUI is a Python library that enables scripts to control the mouse and keyboard for automating interactions with other applications. It supports basic image recognition via screenshots and works across Windows, macOS, and Linux on Python 2 and 3.¹²⁶ It targets developers and scripters needing simple GUI automation without complex setups, distinguished by its straightforward API and cross-platform compatibility.¹⁵

Key Features

• Mouse Control - Moves the mouse, clicks, and drags in application windows.
• Keyboard Control - Sends keystrokes and hotkeys to applications, such as filling forms.
• Screenshot Functions - Captures screenshots and locates images like buttons on the screen.
• Window Management - Locates, moves, resizes, maximizes, minimizes, or closes application windows (Windows-only).
• Alert Boxes - Displays alert, confirmation, and prompt message boxes.
• Image Recognition - Finds and interacts with on-screen elements by matching images.
• Cross-Platform Support - Operates on Windows, macOS, and Linux with Python 2 and 3.

Pricing

Platforms & Requirements

PyAutoGUI runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with Python 2 or 3; install via pip. Window management beyond location is Windows-only. No specific minimum requirements listed beyond Python and platform dependencies.¹⁵

Integrations & Ecosystem

• Python scripting environment
• Pillow for image handling
• Xlib on Linux
• PyGetWindow/PyRect for cross-platform windows
• PyTweening for smooth movements

Alternatives

Reputation

PyAutoGUI is regarded as a simple, accessible tool for basic GUI automation in Python, praised for its ease of use and cross-platform functionality.¹²⁴ Criticisms include limitations like Windows-only advanced window controls and potential fragility with screen changes or resolutions affecting image recognition.⁵ It remains popular for quick scripting tasks among developers.