Whether you're building your first embedded GUI or you're just curious about how to get started, TouchGFX makes it easier than ever to create smooth and interactive user interfaces on STM32 microcontrollers. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—step by step.
TouchGFX tutorials are often full of jargon and complex terms. But here at Controllers Tech, we believe in keeping things simple and useful. This guide is designed for people who want clear, easy-to-follow instructions without getting overwhelmed.
What Is TouchGFX?
TouchGFX is a free, user-friendly GUI framework developed by STMicroelectronics. It’s designed for STM32 microcontrollers and helps developers build modern-looking interfaces for embedded systems.
Instead of writing all your UI code from scratch, TouchGFX gives you a visual designer and powerful tools that simplify the process. You can drag and drop widgets, customize layouts, and add animations—all while keeping performance optimized.
Why Use TouchGFX?
TouchGFX stands out because of its speed, flexibility, and STM32 support. If you’re developing embedded systems with screens, you’ll appreciate how it helps you:
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Reduce development time
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Build smoother and faster interfaces
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Run GUIs on low-power microcontrollers
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Work within STM32CubeIDE or STM32CubeMX
In fact, over 50% of STM32 GUI-based projects now use TouchGFX. It has quickly become one of the most popular tools for embedded UI design.
Tools You Need to Get Started
Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools installed:
1. STM32CubeMX
This tool helps you configure your microcontroller and generate code.
2. STM32CubeIDE
An integrated development environment where you write, compile, and debug your code.
3. TouchGFX Designer
The main GUI builder where you create your interface. It’s free to download from ST’s official website.
4. STM32 Board
Preferably one of the STM32H7 or STM32F4 series with a display. A good option is the STM32F746G-DISCO board.
Setting Up Your Project
Setting up a TouchGFX project takes a few simple steps.
Step 1: Open STM32CubeMX
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Create a new project for your board
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Configure your peripherals (especially LTDC, DMA2D, and SDRAM if needed)
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Enable TouchGFX in the middleware tab
Step 2: Generate Code
Once your configuration is ready, click "Generate Code". This will create all the necessary files for STM32CubeIDE.
Step 3: Open in STM32CubeIDE
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Launch the IDE and import the generated project
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Make sure everything compiles without errors
Step 4: Open TouchGFX Designer
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Click the TouchGFX tab inside the IDE
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Design your screen using buttons, images, and text fields
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Save and generate code from the Designer
And that’s it—you’re ready to start building your interface!
Understanding the TouchGFX Workflow
The typical workflow looks like this:
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Design UI using TouchGFX Designer
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Generate Code for STM32CubeIDE
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Add Logic in your IDE (button clicks, screen transitions)
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Compile and Flash to your STM32 board
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Test and Repeat for changes
TouchGFX uses a mix of C++ backend code and visual design elements. It’s important to understand how both sides work together.
Building Your First GUI
Let’s create a simple screen with a button that changes text when clicked.
1. Add a Button
In the Designer, drag a button widget onto the screen. Give it a label like “Click Me”.
2. Add a Text Area
Place a text field below the button. Set an initial message like “Hello, World!”.
3. Create Interaction
Use the “Interactions” tab to set up an action:
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When the button is clicked → change the text
4. Generate Code and Build
Save the project, generate the code, and compile it in STM32CubeIDE. Flash it to your board and try it out!
Best Practices for TouchGFX Projects
Here are some simple tips to keep your projects clean and easy to manage:
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Use folders to organize screens and components
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Keep assets optimized (image size, font quality)
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Avoid too many animations on low-end MCUs
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Test often as you build new features
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Document your UI flow with sketches or flowcharts
Common Challenges Beginners Face
Even with TouchGFX tutorials available online, beginners often run into the same issues. Here’s how to handle them:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Screen stays blank | Check LTDC, clock config, and display power |
| Text looks wrong | Verify fonts are loaded and encoded properly |
| Button doesn’t work | Confirm backend callback is linked |
| App crashes | Watch memory usage and stack size |
| Code doesn’t compile | Update firmware packages and tools |
Useful Features in TouchGFX
TouchGFX comes with several built-in features that can speed up your development:
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Screen transitions (slide, fade, etc.)
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Dynamic data updates (e.g., temperature values)
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Multilanguage support for text fields
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Bitmap caching to improve speed
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Custom widgets using partial C++ code
These features are especially helpful for real-time applications like industrial displays, home appliances, or wearable devices.
Real-World Uses of TouchGFX
TouchGFX is used in many industries:
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Medical devices with clear, responsive GUIs
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Smart home panels using STM32H7 boards
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Automotive screens for speed and reliability
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Fitness trackers and portable displays
According to STMicroelectronics, TouchGFX reduces UI development time by up to 60% compared to low-level C GUI frameworks.
How Controllers Tech Can Help You
At Controllers Tech, we offer hundreds of tutorials, guides, and sample projects. Whether you're working with TouchGFX tutorials or learning how to use STM32CubeMX, we break it down in simple, easy steps.
Be sure to check out our other TouchGFX tutorials to go beyond the basics.
FAQs
What is TouchGFX used for?
TouchGFX is used to build graphical interfaces for STM32-based embedded devices. It helps developers add buttons, images, and animations to microcontroller projects.
How do I install TouchGFX Designer?
You can download it from ST’s official website. Install it like any regular Windows app. It also integrates with STM32CubeIDE for a smooth workflow.
Who should learn TouchGFX?
TouchGFX is great for embedded developers, hobbyists, or anyone building a product with a screen using STM32 microcontrollers.
Where can I find more TouchGFX tutorials?
You can find easy-to-follow tutorials on Controllers Tech. We update the site regularly with new TouchGFX projects, fixes, and tips.
Why is my TouchGFX screen blank?
This usually means the display is not properly configured. Double-check your LTDC settings, clock setup, and power to the display.
Will TouchGFX work on all STM32 boards?
TouchGFX supports most STM32F4, STM32F7, and STM32H7 series. Make sure your board has enough RAM and a supported display interface.
Final Thoughts
TouchGFX might seem complex at first, but once you start using it, you’ll see how much time and effort it saves. Whether you're building a thermostat, dashboard, or control panel, this tool makes GUI design more enjoyable and less frustrating.
Keep things simple, test often, and check out more TouchGFX tutorials on Controllers Tech to level up your skills.
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