Autograph vs Cavalry

Autograph is a free Windows and macOS application combining motion graphics, visual effects and compositing, and 2D and 3D projects. Motion tools include a shape engine, motion paths, animated text, and animation for SVG and PSD files. A relative definition system lets one composition render in multiple formats. Compositing supports GPU-optimized effects, OpenFX plugins, Shadertoy, multi-channel EXR, Photoshop layers, and ProRes, with ACES and OCIO color workflows. The application includes rotoscoping plus 2D and planar tracking. Its 3D environment uses Pixar OpenUSD and Filament for real-time physically based rendering. Integrations include Universe and Red Giant OFX tools with a license, and OpenFX plugins from RE:Vision Effects, BorisFX, and Digital Anarchy. Maxon states that individuals and commercial teams can use Autograph free, without output limits or time restrictions. Some features from previous versions are temporarily unavailable while development continues. Cineversity training and a support center are available.

Cavalry is 2D animation software for macOS and Windows, with tools for motion graphics and character rigging. Its listed capabilities include procedural rigs, data-driven sequences, node-based compositing, keying, and simulation tools, alongside a hybrid render engine and real-time viewport. Users can connect a spreadsheet to animate data at scale. Export formats include APNG, GIF, JPEG, Lottie, MP4, PNG, QuickTime, SVG, sprite sheets, WebM, and WebP. Individuals can download and use Cavalry for free without stated usage restrictions or payment; no paid individual price is given. Organizations can arrange team access with SSO through Canva Enterprise or Canva Education. A Canva account is required to use the software, which is brought to users by Canva. Cavalry is not available on mobile devices. Learning materials include getting-started guidance, feature and tips content, tutorials, and community resources, with documentation and a support link also available. Refunding a legacy subscription removes Pro feature access in Cavalry 2.6.1 and earlier.