Side by side
Cavalry vs Fusion
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
Cavalry offers a broad set of 2D animation tools and free individual access without stated usage limits. Account for its Canva sign-in requirement and lack of mobile availability before choosing it.
Visit Cavalry
Free plan LinuxMacWindows
Fusion combines node-based compositing with 3D, scripting and timeline connections. A free DaVinci Resolve download includes its Fusion page, while Fusion Studio has a listed monthly price and license requirement.
Visit FusionThe facts
| Cavalry | Fusion | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Mac, Windows | Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Fusion Studio: $295, paid once |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Maker | Cavalry | Not published |
| Website | cavalry.studio | blackmagicdesign.com |
| On visual effects software | #3 of 37 | #1 of 37 |
Cavalry: what it does well
- Free individual use has no stated usage restrictions.
- Includes character rigging and procedural rigs.
- Connects spreadsheets for data-driven animation.
- Exports Lottie, SVG, video, and image formats.
What to know first
- Requires a Canva account.
- Not available on mobile devices.
- Legacy refunds remove Pro features in versions 2.6.1 and earlier.
Fusion: what it does well
- Node-based composition with individually adjustable parts
- Imports and renders 3D scenes within a composite
- Supports Lua and Python scripting
- Unlimited network rendering without per-node fees
What to know first
- Fusion Studio 21.1 requires a license dongle or activation key
- Fusion Studio is listed at $295 a month
Alternatives to Cavalry Alternatives to Fusion The whole list