Head to head

HeyGen vs Runway

HeyGen and Runway both work in AI Video. Here is how they stack up on pricing, access, context and our editorial scores, and which one to pick.

Side by side

Tool
HeyGenby HeyGen4.1Setuproll editorial score
Tool
Runwayby Runway4.7Setuproll editorial score
PricingFreemiumFree tier + paid plans
PricingPaidFree tier + paid plans
AccessWeb app
AccessWeb app
Contextn/a
Contextn/a
Open sourceNo
Open sourceNo
Best forAI avatars in ai video
Best forEditor-grade video generation
Setuproll score4.1
Setuproll score4.7

The verdict

Runway edges ahead overall, with a 4.7 Setuproll editorial score and a strong fit for editor-grade video generation. HeyGen is the better pick when you want ai avatars in ai video, and it stays in the running on price and access. Most teams choose Runway as the default and reach for HeyGen when their workflow leans that way.

Frequently asked questions

Is HeyGen or Runway better?

HeyGen holds a 4.1 Setuproll editorial score and is best for ai avatars in ai video, while Runway holds a 4.7 and is best for editor-grade video generation. Pick HeyGen for ai avatars in ai video and Runway for editor-grade video generation.

What is the difference between HeyGen and Runway?

HeyGen is reached as Web app (freemium) with n/a, while Runway is reached as Web app (paid) with n/a. They overlap on AI Video but lead in different parts of the workflow.

Is HeyGen cheaper than Runway?

HeyGen is free tier + paid plans, and Runway is free tier + paid plans. Both have a path to start without a large upfront cost.

Keep exploring

Other comparisons