Final Draft
ActiveOverview
Final Draft is screenwriting software that automatically formats screenplays to entertainment industry standards for film, TV, theater, documentaries, and other media. It supports writing, planning, collaboration, editing, and production reports. Designed for professional screenwriters and filmmakers, it provides tools like outlining and story structure in a streamlined interface.
Key Features
- Automatic Formatting - Formats screenplays to industry standards for screen, TV, and stage.
- Outlining Tools - Provides powerful outlining and story structure planning.
- Collaboration - Enables real-time collaboration and script sharing.
- Cloud Access - Offers browser-based writing and secure sharing via Final Draft Cloud.
- Production Reports - Generates reports for script production needs.
- PDF Import - Imports text-based PDFs from other word processors.
- Multi-Device Sync - Syncs scripts across computers and mobile via vault.
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Final Draft 13 | $249.99 one-time | Desktop app for Mac/Windows with formatting, outlining, collaboration. |
| Final Draft Suite | Higher one-time (includes Cloud) | Final Draft 13 plus Cloud for web/mobile access and vault storage. |
Platforms & Requirements
Runs on macOS and Windows with installation on unlimited computers but simultaneous use on two. Web access via Final Draft Cloud for browser writing. iOS via separate Final Draft Go app; no native support for numbered versions on iPad/iPhone.
Integrations & Ecosystem
- Final Draft Cloud vault sync
- PDF import/export
- Final Draft Go mobile
- Screenplay format export
- Collaboration sharing tools
Alternatives
| App | Difference |
|---|---|
| Celtx | Cloud-first with free tier, less focused on desktop formatting standards. |
| WriterDuet | Real-time online collaboration, subscription-based. |
| Fade In | One-time purchase alternative with similar formatting, no cloud. |
| Highland 2 | Markdown-based, simpler for quick writing. |
Reputation
Final Draft is recognized as the industry standard screenwriting software used by studios worldwide for over 30 years, praised for reliable formatting and professional tools. Criticisms include high one-time cost and limited native mobile support beyond companion apps. Some users note a learning curve for advanced features.