Are you an aspiring writer looking for the best screenwriting software? Writing a screenplay is no easy task and having the right tools can make it easier.
From outlining scenes to creating characters, there are many elements that go into writing a successful script. That’s why finding the best screenwriting software is so important.
In this guide, I will provide my top picks for the best screenwriting software available on the market today. I’ll also review each one in detail, highlighting their key features, pros, and cons, so you can find which one is right for you.
So whether you’re just starting out or an experienced professional, this guide will help you pick the perfect program to meet your needs!
What is Screenwriting Software?
Nowadays it seems like everything is done on computers and script-writing software is no exception. Whether you’re writing a documentary, comedy film, or dark thriller, script writing software has you covered.
From Celtx to Movie Magic Screenwriter, there’s a scriptwriting application out there to guide the journey of any budding screenwriter’s brilliant script from concept to completion.
It’s time to break out of writer’s block and revolutionize your scriptwriting process with some scriptwriting software!
What Is The Best Screenwriting Software?
1. Final Draft.
For those screenwriters out there looking to make the big screen their oyster, look no further than Final Draft.
It’s the screenwriting software of choice for professionals in the industry and it gives you all the tools you need to take your script from a “meh” draft to something that really wows.
It’s so popular that if you don’t have a Final Draft, people may think you’re writing with a quill and parchment. So keep yourself up-to-date with screenwriting software trends, because hey, if it’s good enough for Hollywood then it’s good enough for me!
Features
- Advanced visualization and brainstorming tools to help you in the writing process
- More than 300 templates
- Story mapping tool
- Beat boards are the perfect tool for visually organizing your ideas and getting them out of your head!
- Distraction-free writing
- Speech to a script tool
- Real-time collaboration
- Easy-to-use interface
- Powerful formatting options with revision mode
- Auto-backup
- 30-day free trial
Pricing
Rather than breaking the bank, you can snap it up for just $199.99 as a digital download — and if that thwarts your sense of commitment, they don’t want us to be stuck in awkward positions either.
That’s why they offer a 30-day free trial so you can get to know this essential screenwriting software without being tied into any long-term contracts.
Pros
- Easy to use and learn
- It has all the tools and fundamentals needed
Cons
- If you don’t upgrade to Final Draft 12, your creative collaboration options are limited—only one person can edit the script at once.
2. Arc Studio Pro.
Arc Studio Pro is a professional screenwriting software, with acclaimed writers’ rooms such as Arcane (Netflix) harnessing its power.
But that doesn’t mean this screenwriting tool isn’t clearly designed for beginners too – its intuitive design will have any screenwriter feeling like an industry veteran in no time.
So whether you’re a screenwriting pro or new to the world of screenwriting tools, Arc Studio Pro is the must-have screenwriting software.
Features
- Distraction-free design
- Collaborate in real-time with writing partners
- Working in the cloud with real-time capabilities
- It has advanced features such as a plot board to efficiently link your script notes and improve its overall structure
- Industry-standard formatting
- Regularly check your story outline while writing to make sure your script stays on track
Pricing
- Free: $0
- Essentials: $69/year
- Pro: $99 /year
Pros
- The software works seamlessly offline
- Allow anyone, regardless of their subscription to Arc Studio, to work with you on your projects
- All software upgrades are free
- Simple, organized user interface
- Offers feedback features
- Free Screenwriting software (Free Plan)
Cons
- The free version is browser only
3. Squibler.
If screenwriting is your passion, then Squibler is the tool for you! Whether you’re a beginner or a professional screenwriter, it has all the screenwriting software tools you need to help you write your masterpiece.
With 30+ screenplay templates and a drag-and-drop user interface, creating headings and beat boards is a breeze.
What’s more, now multiple writers can collaborate on one story at once – say goodbye to the hassle of sending stories back and forth for adjustments!
Features
- Easy-to-use and learn
- Drag and drop interface
- Distraction-free mode
- Offers more than 30 templates
- Powerful built-in collaboration feature
- Comes with several handy tools for writers
- Works on iPhone, Ipad, pc, web, and Android
- Integrates with Google Drive and Dropbox
Pricing
Squibler has a 14-day free trial
- Monthly subscription plan at $9.99
Pros
- Write not just scripts, but also novels and journal entries, with the support of the tool
- Allows for collaboration
Cons
- Manually activate the autofill feature for screenwriting
4. Celtx
Finally, Celtx is the right screenwriting software for people who are looking to turn their ideas into the proper script format quickly.
With 6 million global users, it’s no surprise that this app is the perfect tool for aspiring creators that don’t want to be left behind. Cloud-based features make it easy to create content from anywhere, and its wide range of media pre-production services ensures every project runs smoothly!
So if you’re in search of the perfect screenwriting software, Celtx is right up your alley.
Features
- Simple and intuitive user interface
- Real-time team collaboration
- Supports storyboard and index cards
- Works offline
- Team-tailored production workflow
- Revision tracking
- Use one software for writing, production, and budgeting to simplify your workflow
- Supports team and multiple members
- You can work online or offline with any device
- Fully cloud-based solutions
- 30-days free trial
Pricing
- Scriptwriting Plan: 15$/mo
- Video Production Plan: 27$/mo
- Game Production Plan: 27$/mo
Pros
- Write freely with an intuitive script formatting system based on industry-standard rules, freeing you from worries about margins and spacing
- Access and collaborate on your projects from any location with the online cloud format
Cons
- No longer available for free
- The Copy paste option needs improvement
5. Movie Magic Screenwriter.
Movie Magic Screenwriter is the perfect all-encompassing screenwriting tool. It’s a popular choice among amateur and professional writers alike and all the features, tutorials, and templates make it a great option for all types of authors.
From classic novels to comic books, to even musicals – this software has all you need to write it all!
Plus, it’s worked its magic in some of Hollywood’s biggest movies – just take one look at the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise and you’ll see what we mean!
If you’re looking for award-winning screenwriting software, Movie Magic Screenwriter should be at the top of your list.
Features
- Very intuitive and flexible
- Has built-in collaboration tools
- 100+ screenwriting templates
- 8 instructional templates
- Real-time formatting
- Easy to track edits and revision history
- Highly customizable
- 4 navigation panels for bookmarks, notes, scenes, and outline
- Spell checks, dictionaries.
- Fast export and import feature for multiple file formats
- Text-to-speech feature
- Auto backup installed
- Online collaboration enabled
- Production breakdown with industry-standard colors
Pricing
The upgrade options are available for Windows and Mac, priced at $89.95 for the latest version and $69.95 for the 6.5 Mac-only version.
Each purchase comes with three activation options, offering you the flexibility to use the software on multiple devices.
If you are a student or faculty member, they offer an academic version at a discounted price of $99.95, which includes two activation options per purchase.
Pros
- The script formatting is user-friendly and intuitive, ensuring thorough and effortless script creation.
- Your work is automatically saved as you write, allowing you to focus on the creative process without interruption.
- Exporting options are straightforward and make sharing your work with others a breeze.
- With a reputation for excellence in the screenwriting industry, this software has been trusted for decades by writers and professionals alike.
Cons
- No longer available for free
- The Copy paste option needs improvement
