OpenSesame

Education & research

Free open-source softwareEditorial overview
A CLOSER LOOK

What is OpenSesame?

OpenSesame builds behavioral experiments through a graphical interface with scripting available for customization. It supports presenting stimuli and collecting responses, giving researchers a practical way to structure controlled tasks while checking timing and hardware behavior on their own setup.

Graphical experiment builder

Stimulus presentation

Response collection

Python scripting

Is it a good fit?

Best suited to

Behavioral researchers designing experimental tasks

Before you choose

Timing depends on the actual setup. Online services and specialist hardware are separate.

Editorial assessment based on the provider’s published information. Our method

Know what you're signing up for.

The GPLv3 software is available without a license subscription and includes Graphical experiment builder and Stimulus presentation. This covers the downloadable application, while optional support, third-party services, and separately licensed materials have their own terms.

No software subscription; hardware, support and any separately licensed extras are not included.

Check current official pricing

The useful parts. The trade-offs.

Why consider it

Accessible starting point for experiments

Custom code extends the graphical workflow

What to keep in mind

Timing depends on the actual setup

Online services and specialist hardware are separate

How to use it well

Build a short practice block and test the full participant sequence before adding many trials. Check response mappings, data columns, and timing using the actual display and input devices. Pilot the task with a few participants and inspect saved data, since a visually correct experiment can still record the wrong response or condition.

This is best suited to behavioral researchers designing experimental tasks. Before committing a larger project, account for these trade-offs: timing depends on the actual setup; online services and specialist hardware are separate.

A few things you might be wondering.

Is OpenSesame free?

The GPLv3 software is available without a license subscription and includes Graphical experiment builder and Stimulus presentation. This covers the downloadable application, while optional support, third-party services, and separately licensed materials have their own terms.

Can OpenSesame experiments include Python code?

Yes. Scripting can extend the graphical builder.

Should timing be checked on the final computer?

Yes. Hardware and configuration influence experiment timing.

Where can I check the latest prices?

Use the provider link on this page. Billing period, location, team size, promotions, taxes, and optional extras may affect the amount you pay.

How should I compare this tool with alternatives?

Choose tools for the same task, then compare their feature limits, platform support, and total cost for your team. The Compare button helps you keep a shortlist.

Are the user reviews moderated?

Yes. New reviews are submitted for moderation. We show published user reviews separately from the editorial overview and never assign a default user rating.

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