7 Best Screenwriting software for 2023: (free and paid)
Which is the best screenwriting software for you in 2023? This is a question that many screenwriters will be asking themselves. With so many different options on the market, it can be difficult to decide which product is right for you. In this article, we will review some of the most popular screenwriting software packages and help you decide which one is the best fit for your needs.
What are the best screenwriting software?
1. Arc Studio Pro
If you’re a screenwriter who wants an all-inclusive software, Arc Studio Pro is a great choice. They have been used by beginners and professionals alike, such as the team behind the Netflix show Arcane and David Wain, Writer/Director of Wet Hot American Summer and Role Models.
Pros:
- Industry-standard formatting
- easy to use interface
- cloud-based software
- automatic backups
- Available in both free plan and paid version
- Unlimited scripts on the paid version
- great pricing options
- auto revision tracking
- real-time collaboration available
2. Final Draft
Final Draft is the best writing software for anyone in the screenwriting business. It has all the tools you need to get the script right from both a story and a technical perspective. According to their website, this software is being used by 95% of the entertainment industry.
Pros:
- Industry-standard template available
- over 300 templates are available
- widely used across the film industry
- More suited for professional screenwriters
- suitable for both Windows & Mac
- Night & Focus mode
- comes with a screenwriting mobile app for iPhone/iPad
- 30-day money-back guarantee
Cons:
- No free version available (only trial)
3. Squibler
A screenwriting software that is designed to make the screenwriting process easier and faster. The software has a wide range of features that help you to format your script correctly, add images and videos, and track your progress.
Pros:
- Track goals
- Project Management
- Fast and easy to use
- comprehensive set of features that are customizable
- Affordable subscription price 10$/month
Cons:
- No free version available (only 14-day free trial)
4. StudioBinder
Pros:
- Create, send and track call sheets
- Drag and drop scenes within stripboard
- production scheduling/ calendar available
- Storyboarding capabilities (Visualize your shots)
- script breakdown
- contacts management
Cons:
- free plan available with limitations
- No free trial
5. Celtx
Pros:
- auto format script to industry standards
- great pre-production tools are available
- revision tracking on scripts
- cost reporting
- free trial available
Cons:
- Only paid version (billed monthly or annually)
- Only 10 Projects are included in the paid version
6. Fade In
Pros:
- Mobile app version available
- App available for Android, iPhone & iPad
- Support for multiple file formats
- Batch watermarking
- Cloud storage available
- Autocomplete typing
- Free upgrades
- Windows, Mac & Linux versions available for desktop
- Free trial version available
Cons:
- only paid version available
7. Movie Magic Screenwriter
Now powered by NaviDoc™ technology, an innovative system that displays your script alongside an outline, scene cards, notes, and bookmarks.
Pros:
- Free tech, phone, web, and e-mail support
- Spell check for Non-English languages
Cons:
- Not so-favorable online reviews
- The user interface and user experience are clunky
What is screenwriting software?
Screenwriting software is a word processing program specifically designed for the entertainment industry. It is used by screenwriters to create scripts in multiple formats, including feature films, television series, stageplays, and new media such as webisodes and comics.
Screenwriting software often includes specialized tools for outlining, character development, and scene structure. In recent years, many screenwriting programs have added real-time collaboration features, allowing writers to work on a script together no matter where they are in the world. Whether you’re a Hollywood blockbuster writer or an independent filmmaker, screenwriting software can help you get your story told.
What software do Hollywood screenwriters use?
The film industry is cranking out more content than ever before. In order to keep up with the demand, Hollywood writers are turning to screenwriting software to help them write better, faster scripts. The most popular screenwriting software among professional writers is Final Draft. This industry-standard program has all the features a busy writer needs, including story development tools with real-time collaboration.
Conclusion
What software should I use to write a script?
There is no one “best” screenwriting software. The best software for you depends on your needs and preferences. If you’re just starting out, you might want to try a free or less expensive program like Arc Studio Pro or Fade In. If you’re already established in the entertainment industry, you might prefer a program like Final Draft, which is used by many professionals.
Ultimately, the best software is the one that helps you create the scripts you need in the format you need, and that allows you to collaborate with others in real-time.
Happy writing!
