Side by side
Blender vs Rive
Both stand on animation software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source LinuxMacWindows
Blender brings a wide range of 3D and animation tools into one free, open-source desktop application. Its broad feature set and Python customization are useful for varied workflows, while GPL source-publication terms matter when distributing modified versions.
Visit Blender
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
Rive combines 2D animation tools with runtimes and integrations spanning many device types. The free Editor supports learning and building, while paid tiers increase file and seat capacity.
Visit RiveThe facts
| Blender | Rive | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Not published |
| Runs on | Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Cadet: $9 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Maker | Blender | Not published |
| Website | blender.org | rive.app |
| On animation software | #1 of 106 | #3 of 106 |
Blender: what it does well
- Free and open-source under the GNU GPL.
- Covers modeling, animation, rendering, and video editing.
- Cycles supports CPU and GPU rendering.
- Supports 2D drawing in a 3D viewport.
- Can run without installation or internet access.
What to know first
- Desktop platforms listed are Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Distributing modified versions requires publishing the source.
Rive: what it does well
- Editor is free to explore, learn, and build.
- Supports character rigging and motion graphics.
- Exports include MP4, GIF, and WebM.
- Rive content runs across mobile, desktop, and web.
What to know first
- Free includes only three collaborative files.
- Free plan limits imported assets to 10 MB.
- Cadet is limited to three seats.