Side by side
Fade In vs Longhand
Both stand on writing apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free trial AndroidiPhoneLinux+3
Choose Fade In for a screenplay workflow that combines writing, format exchange, and production reports, with optional browser-based collaboration. Look elsewhere if you need mobile apps, exact desktop-style pagination in Access, or an unwatermarked desktop demo without registration prompts.
Visit Fade In Free plan Mac
Longhand combines long-form writing, project organization, Markdown storage, search, and manuscript export in one macOS editor. Its free plan provides a way to start, while mobile users need another platform.
Visit LonghandThe facts
| Fade In | Longhand | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | A free trial | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Web, Windows | Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Fade In Access Annual: $99.95 a year | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 4 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | fadeinpro.com | saturn9.studio |
| On writing apps | #85 of 135 | #89 of 135 |
Fade In: what it does well
- Screenplay formatting, outlining, navigation, and revision tools are included.
- Imports and exports Final Draft .fdx files.
- Produces breakdowns and reports for scenes, cast, and locations.
- Open Screenplay Format is XML-based.
- Fade In Access adds cloud backup, collaboration, and publishing.
What to know first
- The desktop demo prompts for registration after 10 pages.
- Printed scripts from the demo carry a watermark.
- Online real-time collaboration is excluded from the desktop demo.
- Access does not show page numbers while editing.
Longhand: what it does well
- Keeps chapters and research notes in one project
- Supports rearranging and nesting files
- Offers editing, reading, and focused modes
- Exports current files or manuscripts to PDF and DOCX
- Includes 18 themes and grammar categories
What to know first
- Available only for macOS
- No mobile apps
Alternatives to Fade In Alternatives to Longhand The whole list