Luma AI vs RunwayML: which one to choose in 2026?

Community ratings, features, pricing and free plans: the complete head-to-head between Luma AI and RunwayML to find the right tool for your needs.

Screenshot of Luma AI
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Luma AI

4.5 (251)

Luma AI is an advanced platform that enables users to create lifelike 3D models and videos using AI technology. By leveraging tools like Dream Machine and Ray2, users can transform text prompts, images, or videos into high-quality 3D content, making it ideal for creators in various industries.

3D Design3D Model GeneratorText to VideoPhoto & Image GeneratorIllustration Generator
Screenshot of RunwayML
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RunwayML

4.5 (302)

Runway has established itself as the AI video creation studio of choice for professionals, with credits that extend all the way to Hollywood productions. Its flagship Gen-4.5 model turns text or an image into cinematic video footage, while Aleph edits an existing shot from a simple written instruction. The toolkit also covers automatic green screen, slow motion and plenty of other magic touch-ups.

Text to VideoVideo Editor

Comparison table

CriterionLuma AIRunwayML
Average rating4.54.5
Number of reviews251302
Free planYesNo
PlansFree Plan, Lite Plan - $9.99/month, Plus Plan - $29.99/month, Unlimited Plan - $94.99/monthBasic, Standard, Pro
Categories3D Design, 3D Model Generator, Text to Video, Photo & Image Generator, Illustration GeneratorText to Video, Video Editor
Last updatedApril 30, 2025July 8, 2026

See all tools in these categories: Text to Video

Our verdict

Luma AI or RunwayML?

Luma AI (4.5/5) and RunwayML (4.5/5) earn very similar ratings from our community: the choice mostly comes down to your use case.

Budget-wise, Luma AI offers a free plan to get started, while RunwayML does not appear to offer one.

Positioning-wise, Luma AI stands out in 3D Design, 3D Model Generator, Photo & Image Generator and Illustration Generator, while RunwayML focuses on Video Editor.

Features head to head

Luma AI

  • Text-to-3D model generation
  • Video-to-3D model conversion
  • Dream Machine for animating 3D models
  • High-quality rendering with Ray2
  • Export options for various formats

RunwayML

  • Realistic video generation from text or images
  • Editing of existing shots via text instructions with Aleph
  • Precise control over camera movements
  • Video background removal without a green screen
  • Editing tools: slow motion, image expansion, cleanup
  • Team collaboration on shared projects

Pricing compared

Luma AI

Free Plan

  • Limited to image generation
  • 720p output quality
  • Lower priority processing
  • Non-commercial use
  • Watermarked outputs

Lite Plan - $9.99/month

  • 3200 monthly credits
  • 1080p images, 720p & 1080p videos
  • High priority processing
  • Non-commercial use
  • Watermarked outputs

Plus Plan - $29.99/month

  • 10,000 monthly credits
  • 1080p images, 720p & 1080p videos
  • High priority processing
  • Commercial use allowed
  • No watermarks

Unlimited Plan - $94.99/month

  • Unlimited credits in Relaxed Mode
  • 10,000 monthly credits for Fast Mode
  • 1080p images, 720p & 1080p videos
  • High priority processing
  • Commercial use allowed
  • No watermarks

RunwayML

Basic

  • Free
  • 125 credits included at sign-up
  • Watermarked exports

Standard

  • $12 per month
  • 625 monthly credits
  • Watermark-free exports
  • Access to Gen-4.5 and partner models (Veo, Kling...)

Pro

  • $28 per month
  • 2,250 monthly credits
  • Custom voices and expanded storage

Prices are indicative and may change — check the official sites for up-to-date pricing.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Luma AI and RunwayML?

Both tools share the Text to Video space, but Luma AI also covers 3D Design, 3D Model Generator, Photo & Image Generator and Illustration Generator, while RunwayML adds Video Editor.

Luma AI or RunwayML: which one is rated higher?

The two tools are neck and neck: Luma AI shows 4.5/5 (251 reviews) and RunwayML 4.5/5 (302 reviews).

Can you use Luma AI or RunwayML for free?

Luma AI offers a free plan, and RunwayML does not offer a free plan as far as we know.

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