Side by side
Autograph vs Gaffer
Both stand on visual effects software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan MacWindows
Choose Autograph for a free Windows or macOS application that combines motion design, compositing, tracking, and OpenUSD-based 3D work. Look elsewhere if you require every feature from earlier Autograph versions immediately or want licensed Universe and Red Giant tools included.
Visit Autograph
Free plan LinuxWindows
Gaffer offers a free node-based scene workflow with scripting and extension options for VFX work. Check the operating system requirements and renderer compatibility against the intended setup.
Visit GafferThe facts
| Autograph | Gaffer | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Linux, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Autograph | Not published |
| Website | maxon.net | gafferhq.org |
| On visual effects software | #2 of 37 | #6 of 37 |
Autograph: what it does well
- Free for individuals and commercial teams
- Combines motion graphics, compositing, 2D, and 3D
- Supports GPU-optimized effects and OpenFX
- Includes rotoscoping and planar tracking
- OpenUSD 3D environment with real-time rendering
What to know first
- Some features from previous versions are temporarily unavailable
- Software registration is required
- Universe and Red Giant OFX tools require a license
Gaffer: what it does well
- Free to use at home or in a studio.
- Supports Python and Open Shading Language scripting.
- Lists Arnold, Cycles, 3Delight, and RenderMan.
- Its framework supports custom nodes and integrations.
- Includes a user guide and API documentation.
What to know first
- Linux requires glibc 2.28 or higher.
- Windows builds require 64-bit Windows 10 or 11.
- An Nvidia GPU is recommended.
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