1.Runway
Free + PaidEditor's pick
Generative video studio used on real productions.
VideoVisit
AI Video Generation
Best AI Video Generators
Generate clips, b-roll, and full scenes from text, image, or reference footage for social, product, and pitch work.
6 tools on this shortlist, 5 of them free to start. Pricing is what each tool's own site lists, so check before you buy.
Full reviews and rankings: AI Video in the AI Tools Directory.
Top 6 AI video generators
Ranked by our editors. Open a tool for features, pricing and alternatives.
2.Sora
PaidOpenAI's text-to-video model with strong physics.
VideoVisit3.Pika
Free + PaidPlayful video generation with viral effect presets.
VideoVisit4.Luma Dream Machine
Free + PaidFast, natural motion from text or a single image.
VideoVisit5.Synthesia
Free + PaidPresenter-led videos from a script, no camera needed.
VideoVisit6.HeyGen
Free + PaidAvatar videos and lip-synced translation for marketers.
VideoVisit
Side by side
Pricing, who each tool suits and whether you can start for free.
| Tool | Pricing | Best for | Free to start |
|---|---|---|---|
| Runway | Free + PaidFree credits · From $12/mo | Filmmakers and studios pushing generative video seriously. | Yes |
| Sora | PaidIncluded with ChatGPT Plus / Pro | ChatGPT subscribers exploring cinematic generation. | No |
| Pika | Free + PaidFree credits · From $8/mo | Social creators making scroll-stopping short clips. | Yes |
| Luma Dream Machine | Free + PaidFree tier · From $9.99/mo | Creators who need believable motion quickly. | Yes |
| Synthesia | Free + PaidFree plan · Paid plans available | L&D and comms teams producing lots of explainer video. | Yes |
| HeyGen | Free + PaidFree plan · Paid plans available | Marketers and creators who want presenter video without filming. | Yes |
How to choose an AI video generator
Start on a free plan
5 of 6 tools here can be started without paying (Runway, Pika and Luma Dream Machine). Test your real work on a free plan before upgrading.
Compare the features that matter
Several tools here compete on avatars; check how each handles them on your own files.
Match the tool to who you are
Runway is best for filmmakers and studios pushing generative video seriously; Sora is best for chatGPT subscribers exploring cinematic generation; Pika is best for social creators making scroll-stopping short clips.
Budget for the paid ones
Sora needs a paid plan or trial. Prices change often, so check the official site before you buy.
Head-to-head comparisons
Two AI video generators side by side.
Stacks that use these tools
Ready-made tool sets for one job, in workflow order.
AI Video Generators: common questions
What is the best AI video generator?
Runway tops our shortlist: Generative video studio used on real productions. Sora and Pika are close behind. The right pick depends on your budget and workflow.
What is the best free AI video generator?
Runway is the top pick you can start on without paying (Free credits · From $12/mo). Pika, Luma Dream Machine and Synthesia can also be started for free. Free limits change often, so check each tool's site.
Which AI video generator is best for beginners?
Start with Runway: you can try it for free, and it is best for filmmakers and studios pushing generative video seriously.
How much do AI video generators cost?
5 of the 6 tools here can be started for free; Sora needs a paid plan or trial. Runway: Free credits · From $12/mo. Pika: Free credits · From $8/mo. Luma Dream Machine: Free tier · From $9.99/mo. Prices change often, so check the official site before you buy.
How did you pick these tools?
Our editors shortlist tools that do this job well, are actively maintained and are clear about pricing. No listing is paid for, and the order is editorial, not sponsored.
No listing on this page is paid for. Prices and free plans change often; each tool page links to the official site. Want full reviews? See AI Video in the AI Tools Directory. Browse all AI bundles