After Effects vs Adobe Premiere Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro 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.
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:
- • You need design features specifically
- • You need motion graphics and visual effects
- • You need professional-grade features
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 0.0/10)
- • You need video editing features specifically
- • Industry-standard video editing software
- • Multi-cam editing and color grading
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Paid |
Best For | Design | Video Editing |
Rating | —/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | After Effects | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| Editorial Score | — | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 21 | 54 |
| Categories | Design | Video EditingAnimation |
Understanding the Differences
Both After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro solve similar problems, but they approach them differently.After Effects positions itself as "motion graphics and visual effects" while Adobe Premiere Profocuses on "industry-leading video editor". These differences matter depending on what you're trying to accomplish.
When to Choose After Effects
After Effects makes sense if you're looking for a comprehensive paid solution.
When to Choose Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is worth considering if you need a professional-grade tool. Scoring 90/100, it edges ahead in our evaluation.
Who Should Use What?
Bootstrapped or small team?
Neither is free, but both have their value. Test them both and see which clicks.
We'd pick: Adobe Premiere Pro
Growing fast?
Your team doubled last quarter and you need tools that won't break when you add 50 more people. Adobe Premiere Pro is built for teams that are leveling up.
We'd pick: Adobe Premiere Pro
Enterprise with complex needs?
You need SSO, compliance certifications, and a support team that picks up the phone. After Effects is built for organizations like yours.
We'd pick: After Effects
Still not sure? Answer these 3 questions
How much can you spend?
Both are paid tools. If money isn't the issue, go with Adobe Premiere Pro—it scored higher.
Do you care what other users think?
Both have similar review counts. Read a few before you commit.
Expert opinion or crowd wisdom?
Our team rated Adobe Premiere Pro higher (90/100). But the community has upvoted Adobe Premiere Pro more (54 votes). Pick your source of truth.
Key Takeaways
What Adobe Premiere Pro Does Better
- Higher overall score (90/100)
- More community upvotes
- Our recommendation for most use cases
Consider After Effects If
- Its specific features better match your workflow
- You prefer its interface or design approach
The Bottom Line
If we had to pick one, we'd go with Adobe Premiere Pro (90/100). But the honest answer is that "better" depends on your situation. Adobe Premiere Pro scores higher in our analysis, but After Effects might be the right choice if its specific strengths align with what you need most. Take advantage of free trials to test both before committing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is After Effects or Adobe Premiere Pro better?
Based on our analysis, Adobe Premiere Pro scores higher with 90/100. After Effects ispaid while Adobe Premiere Pro is paid. The best choice depends on your specific needs and budget. We recommend testing both with free trials if available.
Can I switch from After Effects to Adobe Premiere Pro easily?
Migration difficulty varies. Check if both tools support data export/import in compatible formats. Some tools offer migration assistance or have integration partners who can help with the transition.
Do After Effects and Adobe Premiere Pro offer free trials?
Most software in this category offers free trials or free tiers. After Effects is paid with potential trial.Adobe Premiere Pro is paid with potential trial. Visit their websites for current trial offers.