Three ways to create .pptx files from Python in 2026: python-pptx (free library), SlideForge API ($0.03/slide), and PptxGenJS. This tutorial covers working code for each, the pain points, and when to use which.
python-pptx: The DIY Approach
from pptx import Presentation
from pptx.util import Inches, Pt
prs = Presentation()
slide = prs.slides.add_slide(prs.slide_layouts[6])
txBox = slide.shapes.add_textbox(Inches(1), Inches(2), Inches(8), Inches(1))
txBox.text_frame.text = "Q1 Revenue: $12.4M"
txBox.text_frame.paragraphs[0].font.size = Pt(28)
prs.save("report.pptx")
Works great for simple slides. But for consulting-quality output (KPI dashboards, SWOT matrices, timelines), you're looking at 60+ lines per slide — fonts, alignment, colors, spacing, all manual.
SlideForge API: 5 Lines
import requests
resp = requests.post(
"https://api.slideforge.dev/v1/render",
headers={"Authorization": "Bearer sf_live_YOUR_KEY"},
json={"template": "kpi_dashboard", "brief": "Revenue $12.4M +18%, Clients 847 +23%, NPS 4.6"},
)
print(resp.json()["pptx_url"]) # ready in <1s
50 templates, $0.03/slide for templates, $0.20 for AI-designed custom layouts. Real editable .pptx.
When to Use Which
| python-pptx | SlideForge | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free | $0.03-$0.20/slide |
| Setup time | Hours-days | 5 minutes |
| Design quality | You manage | Consulting-grade |
| Templates | Build your own | 50 built-in |
| Best for | Full control, offline | Speed, quality, API automation |
Full tutorial on slideforge.dev
Originally published at slideforge.dev
