Runway vs Topaz Labs (2026): Which Is Better?
Winner
Runway is the better pick for most people as of September 2026, rated 4.4/5 versus 4.3/5 for Topaz Labs. Both have free plans. Topaz Labs is the better choice for upscaling low-resolution photos/video.
We may earn a commission if you buy through our links. This doesn't affect our rankings. Learn more about our affiliate disclosure.
Compiled from BestAI's full reviews of Runway and Topaz Labs, using the same ratings, pricing and test notes. See our review methodology.
Runway vs Topaz Labs: side-by-side
| Criterion | Runway | Topaz Labs |
|---|---|---|
| BestAI rating | 4.4/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Starting price | $12/mo | $99/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing model | Freemium | Paid |
| Ease of use | 4.0/5 | 3.0/5 |
| Features | 5.0/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Output quality | 4.0/5 | 5.0/5 |
| Value for money | 3.0/5 | 4.0/5 |
| Platforms | API, Web | Mac, Windows |
| API access | Yes | No |
| Best for | Short AI-generated video clips | Upscaling low-resolution photos/video |
| Company | Runway AI, Inc., 2018 | Topaz Labs LLC, 2007 |
Strengths and weaknesses
Runway
- Leading text-to-video and image-to-video quality
- Bundled AI editing tools (green screen, inpainting, motion tracking)
- Frequent model updates
- Usable for both generation and traditional editing
- Credit-based pricing can get expensive with heavy use
- Generated clips are still short in length
- Free tier is limited
Topaz Labs
- High-quality AI upscaling and enhancement
- One-time purchase rather than mandatory subscription
- Strong for rescuing low-resolution or noisy media
- Separate specialized apps for photo, video, and upscaling
- Requires a capable local machine, ideally with a strong GPU
- Upfront cost per app can add up if you need multiple
- Major version upgrades may require an additional payment
Key features
Runway
- Text-to-video generation
- Image-to-video generation
- AI green screen and inpainting
- Motion tracking
- Credit-based generation system
Topaz Labs
- AI photo upscaling (Gigapixel AI)
- AI video enhancement and upscaling
- Noise reduction and sharpening
- Frame interpolation and stabilization
Which should you choose?
Choose Runway if you need:
- Short AI-generated video clips
- B-roll and concept videos
- AI-assisted video editing
- A free plan (paid plans from $12/mo)
Choose Topaz Labs if you need:
- Upscaling low-resolution photos/video
- Noise reduction and sharpening
- Restoring old footage or images
- A free plan (paid plans from $99/mo)
Frequently asked questions
Is Runway better than Topaz Labs?+
For most people, Runway comes out ahead: BestAI rates it 4.4/5 against 4.3/5 for Topaz Labs. Topaz Labs is still the better fit for upscaling low-resolution photos/video.
Which is cheaper, Runway or Topaz Labs?+
Runway is cheaper, starting at $12/mo versus $99/mo for Topaz Labs. Both have free plans.
Do Runway and Topaz Labs have free plans?+
Runway has a free plan (limited one-time credits for generation, often with watermarks). Topaz Labs has a free plan (free trial with watermarked or limited exports).
What is the main difference between Runway and Topaz Labs?+
Runway is best for short AI-generated video clips, and its standout strength is leading text-to-video and image-to-video quality. Topaz Labs is best for upscaling low-resolution photos/video, with high-quality AI upscaling and enhancement as its biggest advantage.