The lights dim, and the opening credits fade out, but the actors don’t say a word.
How awkward would that be?
Screenwriting is the reason you have all your favorite movie quotes.
“May the force be with you.”
“There’s no place like home.”
“Life was like a box of chocolates.”
Such iconic words wouldn’t exist without those writing them all down. Screenwriters use screenwriting software to write film and television scripts that win awards and hearts everywhere. Screenwriting solutions offer the tools to auto-format screenplays, build characters and scenes, make notes for future video making, and collaborate in real time.
What is screenwriting?
Screenwriting is the art of writing scripts for television shows, movies, or other forms of media. The script is a technical document that tells a story through dialogue, character, and minimal description. The finished product is known as a screenplay.
What is screenwriting software?
Screenwriting software is a software application for writing and formatting screenplays, television scripts, and other forms of scriptwriting. Some programs provide a specific range of features, such as a library where information can be stored permanently or specific tools for drafting a script in a particular genre.
In other words, it helps screenwriters streamline the writing process and make organizing ideas into a cohesive story easier. The best software for scriptwriting helps writers get their vision from their head to the page.
Best screenwriting software at a glance
- Best for small businesses: Final Draft
- Best by G2 user satisfaction: Final Draft
- Best by ease of use: Celtx
*These software solutions are ranked using an algorithm that calculates customer satisfaction and market presence based on reviews from our user community. For more information, please check out our G2 Research Scoring Methodology. Some user reviews may have been edited for clarity.
Only 15 software could make the cut. And the nominees are…
Best screenwriting software platforms of 2022
- Final Draft
- Celtx
- WriterDuet
- Scrivener
- StudioBinder
- Movie Magic Screenwriter
- Trelby
- Tinkerlist
- Arc Studio Pro
- Highland 2
- MasterWriter
- Dramatica Pro
- Fade In
- Boords
- Filmustage
*Above are the top 15 leading screenwriting software solutions from G2’s Summer 2022 Grid® Report.
It’s a screenplay-eat-screenplay world out there. With so few projects making it to the big screen, how you choose to start your story could be the difference between a happy ending and a sad one.
¿Quieres aprender más sobre Software de guionismo? Explora los productos de Guionismo.
1. Final Draft
Final Draft calls itself the “industry standard” screenwriting software. With over 300 templates for screenplays, graphic novels, and stage plays, Final Draft offers the tools you need to bring your project to life.
Final Draft at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: 30-day free trial
Price: $249.99
G2 awards: Leader, Summer 2022
Highest-rated features: Formatting and PDF creation
Top industries represented: Entertainment and motion pictures & film
Market segments: Rated #1 for small businesses
Final Draft features
Final Draft claims that its tools are utilized by 95% of the entertainment industry. Check out some of their main features.
- Story planning capabilities for brainstorming and outlining
- Automatic backups to protect project progress
- Real-time collaboration tools
Final Draft pros and cons
Since you can use Final Draft anywhere, from any device, it’s easy to see how it ended up at the top of this list. Of course, there are drawbacks to everything, so let’s talk about some pros and cons.
Final Draft pros
- Simple and intuitive
- Automatic formatting features
What users like:
“This is hands down the best TV writing software I have used. I do not know any production company or major Hollywood Studio that I have worked with in the last decade that does not use Final Draft. The software is intuitive and easy to use.
Adding notes to the document in a discreet manner makes it very valuable when there is more than one person implementing notes. I would recommend it without question. If you're ever serious about TV writing, then get Final Draft!”
- Final Draft Review, Charles Henri M., Apr 28, 2020
Final Draft cons
- Can get pricey
- Requires some time to figure out
What users dislike:
“I dislike that you have to pay for an upgrade. You should allow people to upgrade the final draft for free for a limited time since we won't be able to use the ones lower after that. We have already paid for the FD and to be charged for an upgrade isn't ideal.”
- Final Draft Review, Stacee M., Dec 22, 2021
Final Draft pricing
After a 30-day free trial, users can purchase the most recent software, Final Draft 12.
Final Draft’s one-time regular price for the full digital download is $249.99.
2. Celtx
Celtx is a scriptwriting software for film, television, and other forms of interactive media. With an emphasis on making the whole process a lot easier, Celtx leans on automation to assist their users along the way.
Celtx at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: Available
Price: Starting at $14.99 per month
G2 awards: Leader, Summer 2022
Highest-rated features: PDF creation and template creation
Top industries represented: Motion pictures & films and entertainment
Market segments: Rated #2 for small businesses
Celtx features
Celtx has the components you need to write a script while keeping collaboration at the forefront. Find out what other features come along with the software.
- Auto-formatting story editor
- Offline mode to write and edit without an internet connection
- Custom watermarking
Celtx pros and cons
From pre-production and beyond, Celtx can be the software at every stage and on every stage, but let’s make sure we cover the pluses and the minuses.
Celtx pros
- Cloud saving capabilities
- Easy-to-use templates
What users like:
“Celtx makes script writing fairly intuitive with the ability to list your character names, select actions, and generally format a proper film script. There is very little that this program cannot do to help a budding writer get their first script off the ground. Also, it allows you to test the software for free before purchase.”
- Celtx Review, Misha W., Aug 12, 2022
Celtx cons
- Project limitations for the smaller plans
- Bugs that can slow down progress
What users dislike:
“I miss having Celtx as an installable program, as the format that I used prior is no longer available. While there are many advantages to having a cloud-based design, it is limited by having access to the internet, which you did not need to have when it was a free downloadable program.
While there is an "offline mode" for Celtx, it is limited to users using their free trial or paid subscription. This means that anyone using a free account will have difficulty working without internet access.”
- Celtx Review, Nuu G., Oct 19, 2021
Celtx pricing
After a free trial, users can choose between three paid Celtx plans.
- Writer: $14.99 per month, up to 3 projects
- Writer Pro: $24.99 per month, unlimited projects
- Team: $59.99 per month, unlimited projects and access to exclusive production planning tools
3. WriterDuet
WriterDuet is a professional software for writing screenplays that keeps up with all the standards of the entertainment industry. Custom formatting, live collaboration, and templates are just some things you can look forward to with WriterDuet.
WriterDuet at a glance:
Free plan: Available
Free trial: Available for paid plans
Price: Ranging from $0 per month to $13.99 per month
G2 awards: High Performer, Summer 2022
Highest-rated features: Formatting and collaborative creation
Top industries represented: Entertainment and writing & editing
Market segments: Rated #3 for small businesses
WriterDuet features
WriterDuet guides writers through the screenplay writing process, from ideas to production. Learn more about what else it can do.
- Ability to import and export several file types
- Constant backups to save progress
- Unique computer voices to hear the draft out loud
WriterDuet pros and cons
WriterDuet helps users outline, write, revise, and export any creative project, but your mileage may vary. Check out some pros and cons.
WriterDuet pros
- Free plan available
- Cloud syncing so users can write from anywhere
What users like:
“Cloud-based writing is the way to go! I love that I can access my projects to edit or share no matter what computer or platform I'm on. It's lightweight and doesn't require you to manage the limited keys/installs you have from other screenwriting programs. Best of all, the customer service is outstanding. Email or tweet them, and you'll receive fast, personalized support, even if you're using the free plan.”
- WriterDuet Review, User in Entertainment, Feb 3, 2022
WriterDuet cons
- Steep learning curve
- Can freeze up at times
What users dislike:
“The user interface is a bit confusing and not that intuitive to use and needs improvement. The dashboard color background is depressing for me.”
- WriterDuet Review, Babin B., Aug 23, 2020
WriterDuet pricing
WriterDuet offers various plans, both free and paid.
WriterDuet free plan
WriterDuet’s free plan delivers the following features:
- Up to 3 projects
- Saved editing history
- Industry-standard templates
WriterDuet paid plans
After a free trial, WriterDuet offers three paid plans.
- Plus: $9.99 per month, unlimited projects
- Pro: $11.99 per month, everything in the Plus plan and more, including customization and character filters.
- Premium: $13.99 per month, everything in the Pro plan, along with features like script narration and translation.
4. Scrivener
Scrivener has tools not only for screenwriters, but also novelists, non-fiction writers, journalists, students, and more. Tailor-made to host long-form writing projects, all creatives can find use in Scrivener.
Scrivener at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: 30-day free trial
Price: Starting at $19.99
G2 awards: High Performer, Summer 2022
Highest-rated features: Template creation and formatting
Top industries represented: Writing & editing and entertainment
Scrivener features
With integrated outlining capabilities and a ring-binder feel, Scrivener aims to bring the real writing experience to the digital space. Check out some more features.
- Document exporting ready for self-publishing
- Corkboard feature for brainstorming
- Comment and annotation tools
Scrivener pros and cons
Scrivener’s adaptable interface attracts a lot of professionals in different art spaces. Find out how some real-life writers feel about the software.
Scrivener pros
- Optimal for large projects
- Competitive pricing
What users like:
“This software is so flexible and customizable! It is also easy to use once you get the basics down, and it can be adjusted to suit any work style. My favorite thing is how organized it allows me to be, and – with five projects going at one time, all in different stages – organization is a must! All of the information you type up is also EASILY compiled; whether you need a complete manuscript, just the comments, notes, or research, you can get all of it converted into various formats.
It also automatically backs up all of your work and even allows you to save your work in various stages. So if you need to reference an old version, it's not gone completely, but it also doesn't get in the way of the new.”
- Scrivener Review, Erin P., Feb 8, 2022
Scrivener cons
- Overwhelming amount of customization options
- Formatting issues across different versions
What users dislike:
“It's a bit challenging to figure out without spending some time going through the tutorials. The program author does have a ton of tutorials available, though, and there is plenty to learn. It just takes time.”
- Scrivener Review, Matt H., Dec 8, 2021
Scrivener pricing
Scrivener offers several licenses depending on a user’s device.
- macOS: $41.65 for educational license, $49 for standard license
- Windows: $41.65 for educational license, $49 for standard license
- iOS: $19.99 in the App Store
- Bundle: $80 for both the macOS and Windows standard licenses
5. StudioBinder
StudioBinder is a production management software with a focus on photo, video, television, and film. StudioBinder is equipped with customization features to oversee all production elements like call sheets, script breakdowns, storyboards, and shooting schedules.
StudioBinder at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: Available
Price: Starting at $29 per month
Highest-rated features: Story map and formatting
Top industries represented: Entertainment and media production
StudioBinder features
StudioBinder offers a holistic approach to production, from drafting a project to managing it in real time. With this software, writers can also:
- Upload scripts and move scenes around.
- Create, send, and monitor call sheets.
- Collaborate with members of different teams.
StudioBinder pros and cons
With production companies like NBC Universal and Comedy Central utilizing StudioBinder tools, there’s a lot of value. Find out what users see as its pros and cons.
StudioBinder pros
- User-friendly and effective
- Communication features for every member of the team
What users like:
“I need quite a bit of help with organization, and that's exactly what this program does. I can write my script, make notes, storyboard, share my work, get feedback from my department heads, and schedule the entire production. The screenwriting app is just as intuitive as Final Draft – but here, the script feeds directly into the pre-pro planning (breakdowns, scheduling, etc.).
I'd also like to give a shout-out to their customer service team, who are very responsive and helpful if I have any questions.”
- StudioBinder Review, Brent D., Nov 22, 2019
StudioBinder cons
- Pricey, especially for small businesses
- Not enough design tools
What users dislike:
“I think that StudioBinder has two big problems. One is that its price is really high for small companies and people who work independently. It makes it very difficult for them to use the program since it is expensive. Another thing is that their technical service is a little slow to give answers.”
- StudioBinder Review, Malcolm C., July 1, 2020
StudioBinder pricing
After getting a taste with their free trial, users have three paid StudioBinder plans to choose from.
- Indie: $29 per month, up to 10 projects
- Professional: $49 per month, up to 25 projects
- Studio: $99 per month, unlimited projects
6. Movie Magic Screenwriter
Movie Magic Screenwriter makes it possible for users to write and format novels, movies, comic books, and more. With over 100 templates to work with, you can create a complete production in one place.
Movie Magic Screenwriter at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: Not available, 30-day money-back guarantee
Price: $249.95
Movie Magic Screenwriter features
Movie Magic Screenwriter boasts a unique ease of use that makes the whole writing process more straightforward than ever. Check out more features and read what users think about the software.
- Different document navigation options for outlining, building scenes, and bookmarking
- Customization controls including font and color
- Integrates seamlessly with other popular software
What users think:
I adore the manner in which Movie Magic Screenwriter makes it simple to compose the content. It essentially arranges it for you. It is anything but difficult to utilize and extremely down-to-earth. In any case, my preferred thing is the manner by which the product auto-finishes the words for you. It makes everything so natural and smooth. It cuts around 20% of the time you would spend on the off chance that you composed everything yourself. The auto-spare component is magnificent also. At the point when my PC chooses to crash, it spares my life.
I don't generally like the way that when you reorder the arranging is all wrong, and it truly disturbs me when I endeavor to alter it, and the program either deletes or composes over what you recently composed.
- Movie Magic Screenwriter Review, Anita L., May 21, 2019
Movie Magic Screenwriter pricing
Movie Magic Screenwriter has a one-time price of $249.95
7. Trelby
Trelby is a free-to-download scriptwriting software for developers and screenwriters alike. With the tools to write on any device and its competitive price, Trelby sets itself apart from other software.
Trelby features
Trelby has a near-endless array of features that users can change and build upon. Here are some major ones:
- Script formatting automation
- Unique character name database
- Ability to import drafts from other screenwriting software
What users think:
I love that it is very user-friendly. The operating system is fast. I am able to navigate. I am able to create my screenplays with ease and utilize my time efficiently.
There need to be more pictures that help me navigate the tools that are available. Also, more font and size options.
- Trelby Review, Industry Analyst / Tech Writer in Broadcast Media, Mar 31, 2022
Trelby pricing
Trelby is a free-to-download screenwriting program.
8. TinkerList
TinkerList focuses on the live element of entertainment and puts all the planning in one place. With a free trial and 2-hour training when onboarded, the Tinkerlist team gets users set up for success.
TinkerList at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: 14-day free trial
Price: Available upon request
TinkerList features
TinkerList offers cloud-based production management and script collaboration. Here are other features you can expect.
- Update live script in real-time
- Easily integrate with other platforms
- Take advantage of automation tools
What users think:
“TinkerList has complete control for the business communications streams, allowing firms to interrelate with clients and employees fully. Besides, TinkerList emphasizes innovation, which is the primary driver for extensive firm development. Finally, TinkerList is the guide in matters of content publication.
TinkerList is extensively decided and comprehensive in matters of communications. The application engages different stakeholders and media houses to enhance classified communications.
- TinkerList Review, Jordin M., Nov 17, 2021
TinkerList pricing
Those interested in using TinkerList can reach out to a representative for a quote.
9. Arc Studio Pro
Arc Studio Pro is software for storytellers that supports industry-standard screenwriting formatting. Their collaboration tools make it easy to get the whole production team on the same page.
Arc Studio Pro at a glance:
Free plan: Available
Free trial: 7-day free trial for Pro plan
Price: Starting at $69 per year
Arc Studio Pro features
With an emphasis on a distraction-free interface, Arc Studio claims they are redefining professional screenwriting software. Learn more about their features.
- Plot board for building plot elements
- Real-time collaboration
- Automatic backups and revision-tracking
What users think:
“Arc Studio Pro is screenwriting software that is designed to be as minimalistic and distraction-free as possible. The software supports many interactive story development and feedback features that sync between multiple devices.
The free version of the service is browser only and has a limited number of scripts allowed.”
- Arc Studio Pro Review, User in Semiconductors, June 22, 2022
Arc Studio Pro pricing
Arc Studio has one free plan as well as two paid plans. Arc Studio offers a free educational license for select students.
Arc Studio free plan
Arc Studio offers one free plan with the following features:
- Cloud sync and automatic backups
- Up to 2 scripts
- Watermarked PDF exports
Arc Studio paid plans
Arc Studio offers two paid plans:
- Essentials: $69 per year
- Pro: $99 per year
10. Highland 2
Highland 2 is a free-to-download application that offers a broad range of PDF templates to start drafting just about anything. With features to accommodate screenwriters, novelists, and students, Highland 2 wants to give users a “better way to write.”
Highland 2 features
Highland 2’s users enjoy automation that lets them write freely and automatically format along the way. Some other features users can look forward to on the app are:
- Revision mode to track changes.
- Drag and drop scenes.
- Gender Analysis feature that shows users how male and female characters compare as far as content.
What users think:
“Highland 2 is a nice addition to my screenwriting software stable. I use it as an add-on for Final Draft. At some point, it might replace it – but, at the moment, it's an addendum. And a worthy one at that.
I really don't like the look of the pages when I'm working. Final Draft has a cleaner look that I prefer – but I still find myself using Highland more than I originally envisioned.”
- Highland 2 Review, User in Entertainment, Aug 7, 2019
Highland 2 pricing
Highland 2 is a free-to-download macOS application.
11. MasterWriter
MasterWriter specializes in songwriting but remains a strong suite of tools for any type of writer. With extensive English language tools, it’s a great place to start for screenwriters first getting words on digital paper.
MasterWriter at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: 10-day free trial
Price: Starting at $9.95 per month
MasterWriter features
MasterWriter can help writers find the right words every time. Here are some other features to assist users in creating the scene of their dreams.
- Extended entries to diversify word usage
- Over 33,000 phrases and word combinations
- Tools to implement different figures of speech
What users think:
“It is a very useful platform when you can not find the words. It has all the necessary tools: a dictionary, a function of search of phrases, and definitions. It is a good resource to feed your vocabulary and spread it.
It does not offer support beyond the search for correct words and phrases. That is, it does not help in the planning and assembly of the structure of what you write.
- MasterWriter Review, Julio César G., Mar 1, 2019
MasterWriter pricing
MasterWriter gives users three choices for paid licenses ranging from recurring monthly, yearly, or every two years.
- Monthly: $9.95 per month
- 1 year: $99.95 billed annually for a total of $8.33 per month
- 2 year: $149.95 billed every two years for $6.25 per month
12. Dramatica Pro
Dramatica Pro uses automation to help screenwriters fill in the blanks within their screenplays. By offering suggestions along the way, Dramatica Pro has been proven to be a worthy writing partner.
Dramatica Pro at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: Demo version available
Price: $149.95
Dramatica Pro features
Dramatica Pro wants to help writers personalize their stories while staying true to their characters, structures, and themes. Check out these features.
- Over 30,000 unique story structure ideas
- Prompts for creating three-dimensional characters
- Tools to help beginner screenwriters understand industry terminology
What users think:
“[What I like most about Dramatica Pro is] the map it provides after you've answered the questions.
There were so many questions. Although I must admit the outcome is well worth the process of getting there!”
- Dramatica Pro Review, Roderick G., Nov 11, 2019
Dramatica Pro pricing
There is one basic version of Dramatica Pro. They also offer an academic version for students and a discounted upgrade for users who have purchased a version of Dramatica Pro in the past and want to upgrade to the current version.
- Dramatica Pro: $149.95
- Dramatica Pro Academic: $68
- Dramatica Pro Upgrade: $69.95
13. Fade In
Fade In is a professional screenwriting software that lets writers outline, organize, and format their scripts. Fade In stands as a well-rounded application for screenwriters.
Fade In features
Fade In boasts state-of-the-art capabilities that can compete with the most popular screenwriting software. Here are some features that users can expect.
- Automatic script formatting
- Tracking to provide autocomplete suggestions along the way
- Real-time collaboration tools
What users think:
“I love the fact that everything is easily added, edited, changed with ease.”
- Fade In Review, Owerri Marrasha W., Aug 7, 2019
Fade In pricing
Fade In is free to download on macOS, Windows, iOS, Android, and more.
14. Boords
Boords is a software built for video marketing and production companies. With a storyboard tool used by over 200,000 creatives, Boords helps you “see” your story.
Boords features
Boords comes with just about everything you need to create a full-fledged storyboard. Here are some features that contribute to the cause.
- Millions of free stock images and icons
- One-click animatics to visualize your project
- Password-protected shareable links for secure collaboration
What users think:
“Before Boords we had to do everything verbally, or via email, which at times became difficult to keep on top of, now we can collaborate on one shared platform across the team and with our clients. The software allows commenting, animatics and has such a simple system that we can make highly creative storyboards quickly that have transformed how we collaborate.
The team at Boords consistently improves the software. Each update has valuable new features we can use with ease.”
- Boords Review, Adam C., July 28, 2022
Boords pricing
There are three paid Boords plans determined by how many team members need to collaborate on projects.
- Studio: $35 per month, up to 3 team members
- Company: $60 per month, up to 10 team members
- Company Plus: $120 per month, up to 50 team members
15. Filmustage
Filmustage is a script breakdown and scheduling software that utilizes artificial intelligence to streamline the formatting process. If you think your script is done, Filmustage can help you take it to the next level.
Filmustage at a glance:
Free plan: Not available
Free trial: 7-day free trial
Price: Starting at $49 per month
Filmustage features
Filmustage breaks down a film script 100x faster than normal. Find out what else this software can do.
- Organizes scenes by schedule and location of shooting
- Customizes script categories
- Works with all major screenwriting programs
What users think:
“This sounds super simple, but never before developed: pre-processing the script with AI. It saves a lot of time.
The pricing could be more flexible. Also, I need collaborative accounts.”
- Filmustage Review, User in Computer Software, June 8, 2022
Filmustage pricing
Three paid plans are available, depending on how many projects a user hopes to work on per month.
- Award Winning Plan: $49 per month, up to 3 projects
- Amazing Studio Plan: $149 per month, up to 10 projects
- Enterprise Plan: pricing available upon request, unlimited projects
And scene!
Whether you’re still building your storyboard or getting ready to roll the end credits, screenwriting software has what it takes to make your projects award-winning.
Whether you’re a beginner who needs help constructing character and storyline basics or an expert writer who just wants to use automation and speed up the process, the possibilities are endless – and so is your imagination. You just have to put words on paper!
Once you get your show on the road, you’ll probably want to make it look cool. Check out how using video effects could elevate your on-screen masterpiece.
Alexandra Vazquez
Alexandra Vazquez is a Senior Content Marketing Specialist at G2. She received her Business Administration degree from Florida International University and is a published playwright. Alexandra's expertise lies in writing for the Supply Chain and Commerce personas, with articles focusing on topics such as demand planning, inventory management, consumer behavior, and business forecasting. In her spare time, she enjoys collecting board games, playing karaoke, and watching trashy reality TV.
