AI video · Head to head
Runway vs HeyGen: which is better?
Short answer
Runway costs less in the first year ($144 vs $288). Pick Runway for creators generating AI video and images; pick HeyGen for AI avatar and presenter videos.
| Fact | Runway | HeyGen | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Creators generating AI video and images | AI avatar and presenter videos | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 125 one-time credits | Yes, 3 watermarked videos per month | Tie |
| Entry plan | Standard: $12 / mo | Creator: $24 / mo | Runway |
| Mid plan | Pro: $28 / mo | Pro: $49 / mo | Runway |
| Top plan | Max: $76 / mo | Business: $149 / mo | Runway |
| 1st year | $144 | $288 | Runway |
| Platforms | Web, API | Web, API | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, Runway or HeyGen?
Runway costs less in the first year ($144 vs $288).
| 1st year | Runway | HeyGen |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $144 | $288 |
| Mid | $336 | $588 |
| Top | $912 | $1,788 |
Which has the better free plan, Runway or HeyGen?
Neither stands out: Runway: Yes, 125 one-time credits; HeyGen: Yes, 3 watermarked videos per month.
Should you pick Runway or HeyGen?
Pick Runway if
- you want creators generating AI video and images
- the free plan is enough (125 one-time credits)
Pick HeyGen if
- you want AI avatar and presenter videos
- the free plan is enough (3 watermarked videos per month)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Runway pricing | runwayml.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| HeyGen pricing | heygen.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare