After Effects vs DaVinci Resolve: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between After Effects and DaVinci Resolve comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Bottom line: DaVinci Resolve is our overall pick for video editing workflows. Pick After Effects if you need its specific feature set.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
After Effects
Motion graphics and visual effects
Best for you if:
- • After Effects is a motion design software for creating stunning motion graphics and visual effects.
- • It allows users to animate logos, characters, and add eye-catching visual effects to any video project.
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Best for you if:
- • You want to try before committing
- • All-in-one solution for video editing, color, VFX, motion graphics, and audio post-production.
- • Used by Hollywood professionals, offering high-quality tools and advanced features including AI.
| At a Glance |  After Effects | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | $19.99/month (annual)Students | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 |
Choose After Effects or DaVinci Resolve?
Choose After Effects if
Motion graphics and visual effects
- Industry standard
- Powerful features
- Huge plugin ecosystem
Choose DaVinci Resolve if
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
- Powerful free version
- Industry-standard color
- All-in-one solution
| Feature | After Effects | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 1,550 reviews | ★4.7/5 471 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAudio Editing |
In-Depth Analysis
After Effects
Motion graphics and visual effects
Strengths
- +Industry standard
- +Powerful features
- +Huge plugin ecosystem
Weaknesses
- -Steep learning curve
- -Subscription cost
- -Resource intensive
Key features
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Strengths
- +Powerful free version
- +Industry-standard color
- +All-in-one solution
Weaknesses
- -Steep learning curve
- -Hardware intensive
Key features
Pricing: After Effects vs DaVinci Resolve
| Plan | After Effects | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $22.99 month (annual) After Effects | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $59.99 month (annual) All Apps | $295 Studio |
| Tier 3 | $19.99 month (annual) Students | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on After Effects pricing and DaVinci Resolve pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
DaVinci Resolve has a free tier. After Effects is paid only.
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
Want the highest-rated option?
After Effects: 4.6/5 (1,550 reviews). DaVinci Resolve: 4.7/5 (471 reviews).
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
Value user reviews?
After Effects: 1,550 reviews (4.6/5). DaVinci Resolve: 471 reviews (4.7/5).
Go with: After Effects
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
After Effects is paid. DaVinci Resolve is freemium. DaVinci Resolve lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
DaVinci Resolve is rated higher: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5.
Key Takeaways
DaVinci Resolve
- Higher user rating: 4.7/5 vs 4.6/5
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
After Effects
- Larger review base (1,550 reviews)
The Bottom Line
DaVinci Resolve is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is After Effects or DaVinci Resolve better?
DaVinci Resolve is rated in our evaluation. After Effects is paid and DaVinci Resolve is freemium.
What are After Effects and DaVinci Resolve used for?
After Effects: Motion graphics and visual effects. DaVinci Resolve: Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app.
What does After Effects cost vs DaVinci Resolve?
After Effects is a paid tool. DaVinci Resolve is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.