# Matplotlib vs pygal

## Key differences

- Matplotlib has 8.4× as many GitHub stars as pygal (23.4K vs 2.8K).
- Matplotlib had more development activity over the last 12 months: 2,119 commits vs 27.
- Matplotlib is downloaded 405× as often on PyPI (44.6M vs 110.2K per week).
- Matplotlib is licensed under PSF-2.0; pygal under LGPL-3.0.

| | Matplotlib | pygal |
|---|---|---|
| Description | 2D plotting library. | SVG charting library for Python with many chart types and interactive output. |
| GitHub stars | 23,407 | 2,773 |
| Commits (12 months) | 2,119 | 27 |
| Contributors | 438 | 57 |
| License | PSF-2.0 | LGPL-3.0 |
| Language | Python | Python |
| Status | Active | Maintained |
| Install | `pip install matplotlib` | `pip install pygal` |

Source: https://awesomedataviz.com/compare/matplotlib-vs-pygal/ · Data updated 2026-11-01 · Content: CC BY 4.0, Awesome Dataviz (https://awesomedataviz.com).