Rive vs Principle: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Rive and Principle 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Rive
Interactive animations for apps and games
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.5/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Rive is an animation tool for creating interactive graphics for apps and games
- • It builds real-time animations that respond to user input
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Best for you if:
- • Principle is a Mac app for designing animated and interactive user interfaces
- • It creates prototypes with timeline-based animations and interactions
| At a Glance |  Rive |  Principle |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Animation | Animation |
Rating | 85/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Rive | Principle |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 85 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | AnimationUI/UX Design | AnimationUI/UX Design |
How Rive and Principle Compare
Rive
Interactive animations for apps and games
Free tier available · 85/100 score
Principle
Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac
Paid · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Rive has a free tier. Principle is paid only.
Go with: Rive
Want the highest-rated option?
Rive: 85/100. Principle: 80/100.
Go with: Rive
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Rive
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Rive is freemium. Principle is paid. Rive lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are animation tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Rive scores higher: 85/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Rive
- Higher score: 85/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Principle
The Bottom Line
Rive (85/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rive or Principle better?
Rive scores 85/100 in our evaluation. Rive is freemium and Principle is paid.
What are Rive and Principle used for?
Rive: Interactive animations for apps and games. Principle: Design tool for creating animated and interactive UI prototypes on Mac.
What does Rive cost vs Principle?
Rive is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Principle is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.