Starts atFree plan · paid from $24/mo billed yearly
- Free plan3 videos/month up to 1 min, 1080p
- Watermark on free exports
- Commercial use on paid plans
Head-to-head
Pictory vs HeyGen: stock-footage videos or AI avatars?
At a glance
Starts atFree trial · paid from $25/mo billed yearly
- No free plan
- Free trial14 days
Pictory turns scripts, articles and long videos into short videos built from stock footage and AI voices, from $25/month billed yearly. HeyGen puts an AI presenter on screen to read your script, with a free plan and Creator at $29/month. Pick Pictory for b-roll style videos, HeyGen when you want a face.
Quick verdict
Side-by-side comparison
| Detail | HeyGen | Pictory |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes: 3 videos/month, up to 1 min, 1080p | No. Free trial (Pictory's terms cite 14 days as an example) |
| Entry plan | Creator: $29/month ($24/month yearly), 600 credits | Starter: $25/month yearly or $29 monthly, 200 video minutes a month |
| Next plan | Pro: $49/month, 4K | Professional: $35/month yearly or $59 monthly |
| Watermark | Removed on Creator | No watermark on Starter |
| Footage | AI avatars | Getty Images and Storyblocks stock |
| Best for | Presenter videos | Faceless narrated videos |
For Shorts, TikTok and Reels creators
Pictory's Starter includes 200 video minutes a month, plenty for daily Shorts. HeyGen's Creator plan is credit-based. For a faceless listicle, Pictory fits. For a presenter talking to camera, HeyGen fits.
How to choose
- Need a face on screen? HeyGen.
- Need stock b-roll and voiceover? Pictory.
- Test HeyGen on its free plan and Pictory on its trial.
Common questions
Is Pictory better than HeyGen?
For stock-footage videos, yes. For avatar videos, HeyGen.
Does Pictory have a free plan?
No, only a free trial.
How much is Pictory?
Starter is $25/month billed yearly or $29 monthly.
Related: Pictory alternatives, HeyGen alternatives, faceless video tools.
Sources: heygen.com/pricing, pictory.ai/pricing, pictory.ai/terms-of-service. Checked on 16 October 2026. Based on published plans and terms, not a hands-on test.