Descript vs Filmora: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Descript and Filmora 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:
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Best for you if:
- • AI video and audio editing
- • Edit media like a document
Filmora
Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered video editing for all skill levels.
- • Comprehensive suite of editing tools and creative assets.
| At a Glance |  Descript |  Filmora |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 4.6/5 | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Descript or Filmora?
Choose Descript if
Edit audio and video like a doc
- Revolutionary editing approach
- Great AI features
- Good transcription
Choose Filmora if
Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.
- Easy video editing
- Good for beginners
- Many effects
| Feature | Descript | Filmora |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.6/5 1,102 reviews | ★4.5/5 1,348 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAI Video Generation |
In-Depth Analysis
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Descript's pricing is generally fair, offering a generous Free tier and a well-structured progression.
Watch out
Higher monthly prices if not paying annually
Strengths
- +Revolutionary editing approach
- +Great AI features
- +Good transcription
- +Easy collaboration
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Can be resource intensive
- -Limited features on free
Key features
Filmora
Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.
Filmora is the oddball on this list, it's not an AI video generator, it's a full video editor with generative AI features bolted on.
Watch out
Perpetual license does NOT include major version upgrades, Filmora 15 → 16 is a new purchase.
Strengths
- +Easy video editing
- +Good for beginners
- +Many effects
- +Fair pricing
- +Templates
Weaknesses
- -Watermark on free
- -Pro features expensive
- -Effects can be cheesy
- -Performance varies
- -Not for professionals
Key features
Pricing: Descript vs Filmora
| Plan | Descript | Filmora |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | $0 Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $16 Hobbyist | $49.99 year Annual |
| Tier 3 | $24 Creator | $79.99 lifetime Perpetual |
| Tier 4 | $50 Business | N/A |
| Tier 5 | Custom Enterprise | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Descript pricing and Filmora pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Descript
Want the highest-rated option?
Descript: 4.6/5 (1,102 reviews). Filmora: 4.5/5 (1,348 reviews).
Go with: Descript
Value user reviews?
Descript: 1,102 reviews (4.6/5). Filmora: 1,348 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: Filmora
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Descript is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5.
Key Takeaways
Filmora
- Larger review base (1,348 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Descript
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.5/5
The Bottom Line
Filmora is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Descript or Filmora better?
Filmora is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Descript and Filmora used for?
Descript: Edit audio and video like a doc. Filmora: Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets..
What does Descript cost vs Filmora?
Descript is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Filmora is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.