The Bottom Line
Entry price
From $22.99/mo
Biggest pro
Industry standard
Biggest con
Steep learning curve
TL;DR - After Effects
- 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.
- After Effects is available for individuals, businesses, and students/teachers, with a free trial option.
What is After Effects?
Available on: Web
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Industry standard
- Powerful features
- Huge plugin ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Subscription cost
- Resource intensive
Ratings Across the Web
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
Pricing Plans
7-day Free TrialPricing checked Jun 13, 2026
After Effects
$22.99/month (annual)
- 100GB cloud storage
- Adobe Firefly credits
- Adobe Fonts
- Latest updates
All Apps
$59.99/month (annual)
- 20+ Creative apps
- 100GB cloud storage
- Adobe Firefly
- Premiere Pro included
Students
$19.99/month (annual)
- 66% discount
- All Creative apps
- 100GB storage
- Educational use
How After Effects's pricing compares
At $1.67/mo, After Effects is the most affordable of its 4 direct competitors.
Entry paid plan, monthly. Pricing checked Jun 13, 2026.
Reviews
Review After Effects, get a free AI guide
Share your experience and we will send you Improve Your Thinking Patterns Using ChatGPT, free.
Across 1,550 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
Add your hands-on experience using the offer above to help the next buyer.
Best After Effects Alternatives
Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.
Professional video editing for Mac
3D creation suite for modeling, animation, rendering, and more
3D animation and modeling by Autodesk
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Procedural 3D animation and VFX software
Still deciding?
Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.