Runway
Runway is a browser studio and API for AI video and editing that turns prompts images and clips into finished shots using Gen 3 models masks upscaling and frame tools.
Overview
Runway compresses a modern video pipeline into a studio that runs in the browser. Gen 3 Alpha and Turbo convert text prompts or reference images into short clips with controls for subject consistency camera motion and style. The editor adds professional tools like rotoscoping background removal object cleanup frame interpolation slow motion and upscaling so AI shots blend with live action or stock.
You can keyframe attributes guide motion with reference frames and keep looks consistent across iterations using presets and seeds. Workspaces organize assets and seats while credits meter generation. An Unlimited editor tier supports heavy daily use and an API exposes jobs for batch creation inside pipelines.
Teams use Runway for fast storyboards ad variants social shorts and explainer footage when time or budget limits traditional production. Exports target common aspect ratios and codecs for social and web. Licensing terms allow commercial use subject to current policies so brands can publish confidently after internal review.
Key features
- Text to video and image to video: Create clips from prompts or images and guide motion style and framing for each shot
- Turbo mode for speed: Generate iterations faster at lower cost when exploring directions before final renders
- Pro masking and cleanup: Remove backgrounds objects and noise so AI and live footage combine cleanly
- Frame tools and upscale: Interpolate extend duration or raise resolution for smoother higher quality output
- Style presets and seeds: Maintain look and motion consistency across a series for brand aligned results
- Workspaces and asset library: Manage seats assets and permissions so teams collaborate safely
- API for pipelines: Submit jobs programmatically to automate batch creation and integrations
- Multi ratio export: Render vertical square and landscape to fit social and web placements
Best for
- Storyboard concepts for campaigns without hiring crews or scouting locations
- Produce social shorts and ad variants in multiple ratios to test creative hypotheses quickly
- Build explainer clips from still product shots when filming is delayed
- Create music video looks with stylized motion for concept approval before full shoots
- Generate b roll for newsrooms or marketing when deadlines are tight
- Make learning content and lecture highlights that hold attention on mobile feeds
- Previsualize film or game scenes and share with stakeholders for planning
- Localize content with caption changes and style tweaks for different markets
Capabilities
Gen 3 Models
Turn prompts or images into clips control subject and camera behavior and iterate rapidly with seeds keyframes and presets.
Masks and Cleanup
Use green screen rotoscope and object removal to merge AI shots with live action for seamless composites.
Upscale and Frames
Raise resolution extend or smooth motion using interpolation and enhancement so clips feel finished on large screens.
Workspaces and API
Manage seats assets credits and programmatic jobs to scale creation while keeping governance in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does pricing start?
Runway lists Free and paid plans starting around $12 per month with higher tiers for more credits and features confirm on pricing page.
Is commercial publishing allowed?
Yes subject to current licensing terms in your account review policies and brand guidelines before public release.
What file types can I export?
Standard web and social codecs and ratios are supported consult docs for specific containers and bitrates.
Is there an API?
Yes the API supports batch generation and integration with production pipelines or automation tools.
What is Turbo used for?
Turbo generates faster and cheaper iterations with constraints ideal for early exploration before final passes.
Does it support audio?
Basic audio cleanup and text to speech tools are available see studio feature list for current scope.
How long can clips be?
Durations depend on plan credits and model settings check workspace limits when planning deliverables.
Can I lock a style?
Use reference frames seeds and presets to maintain consistent art direction across assets
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