Turn text into AI avatar videos in minutes
Freemium
Free trial
Affiliate
Runway
Generative AI video, image, and editing tools for creators
Freemium
Free trial
Overview
Overview
Runway is an applied AI research company that builds generative tools for video, image, and content creation. Its flagship Gen models turn text prompts and reference images into short video clips, and the platform bundles dozens of AI-assisted editing features in a browser-based workspace.
What it does
The platform supports text-to-video and image-to-video generation, along with tools such as background removal, inpainting, motion brush, frame interpolation, and video-to-video restyling. It also includes image generation and a set of utilities aimed at speeding up post-production and visual effects work.
Who it's for
Runway is used by independent creators, filmmakers, agencies, and marketing teams that need to produce or iterate on video content quickly. It fits both experimental creative work and faster turnaround commercial projects like social clips and ads.
How it works
Users work in a web interface, generating clips from prompts or images and refining them with the built-in editing tools. Generations consume credits, and higher tiers add longer clips, faster processing, and extra features.
Considerations
As with most generative video tools, output quality can vary by prompt and use case, and longer or highly controlled sequences may require multiple iterations. Credit-based pricing means heavy use can add up, so it suits teams that value rapid iteration over fully deterministic results.
Pros
- ✓Broad set of generative video and editing tools in one platform
- ✓No software install needed, runs in the browser
- ✓Strong fit for fast creative iteration and short-form content
- ✓Regular model updates from active AI research
Cons
- ✕Credit-based pricing can get expensive with heavy use
- ✕Output quality varies by prompt and may need multiple tries
- ✕Clip length and control limits can constrain complex projects
Key features
Text-to-video
Generate short video clips from a written text prompt.
Image-to-video
Animate a still image or reference frame into a moving clip.
Video-to-video restyling
Transform the look and style of existing footage with AI.
AI editing tools
Apply background removal, inpainting, motion brush, and frame interpolation.
Image generation
Create still images from prompts within the same workspace.
Browser-based workspace
Run generation and editing entirely in the browser with no install required.
Runway alternatives
See all →Edit video and podcasts by editing the text transcript
Freemium
Free trial
Affiliate
Generate, edit, and upscale AI images and assets
Freemium
Free trial
Generate striking AI images from simple text prompts
Paid
Frequently asked questions
- Runway can generate short video clips from text or images, restyle existing footage, and create still images, alongside a range of AI editing tools.
- Yes, Runway offers a limited free plan with a one-time credit allotment so you can try its core generation features before upgrading.
- Paid tiers for individuals, teams, and enterprise scale the number of credits, clip length, and available features. Generations consume credits.
- It is used by independent creators, filmmakers, agencies, and marketing teams producing video and visual content.
Editor’s note
Runway is one of the most established names in generative AI video and remains a strong choice for creators who want text-to-video plus a full editing toolkit in one place. The credit model rewards rapid iteration, so it suits teams comfortable experimenting to land the right shot.