Runway vs Synthesia
Runway: Generate and edit video with AI, from text, images or footage. Synthesia: AI avatar videos for training, onboarding and internal comms. Here is how they compare on features, pricing, platforms, pros and cons.
Quick verdict
Runway
Best for: Filmmakers and creators experimenting with AI video.
Stands out for: Leading video generation models; Many editing tools in one suite.
Synthesia
Best for: Companies producing training and explainer videos.
Stands out for: Built for business training; Many languages and avatars.
Side-by-side comparison
| Visit runwayml.com (opens in a new tab) | Visit synthesia.io (opens in a new tab) | |
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| What it is | Generate and edit video with AI, from text, images or footage. | AI avatar videos for training, onboarding and internal comms. |
| Pricing | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Category | AI Video | AI Video |
| Editor rank | #1 in category | #4 in category |
| Made by | Runway | Synthesia |
| Best for | Filmmakers and creators experimenting with AI video. | Companies producing training and explainer videos. |
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Runway vs Synthesia: questions
Is Runway better than Synthesia?
Neither wins for everyone. Our editors rank Runway slightly higher overall in AI Video, but Synthesia can be the better fit: Companies producing training and explainer videos.
Which is free, Runway or Synthesia?
Both can be used without paying: Runway is free + paid and Synthesia is free + paid. Paid plans add more usage or features.
Can I use Runway and Synthesia together?
Yes. Many people keep both and pick per task, for example generate video clips from text or images with Runway, and turn training material into avatar videos with Synthesia.