Have you ever wondered if you can create professional AI-generated videos without spending a dime? In a world where video content dominates marketing, training, and social media, tools like HeyGen promise to make it accessible to everyone. But does HeyGen still offer a free trial in 2026—or something even better?
As of January 2026, HeyGen has shifted from temporary trials to a permanent free plan. This lets you test its powerful AI video generator ongoing, without a credit card. Let's explore what this means for you, what you actually get, and whether it's enough to bring your ideas to life.
What Is HeyGen and Why Consider Its Free Option?
HeyGen is a leading AI video platform that turns text, images, or audio into stunning videos featuring lifelike avatars. Imagine typing a script and watching an AI avatar deliver it with natural gestures, voice cloning, and perfect lip-sync—across 175+ languages and dialects.
Core features include:
- Thousands of stock avatars or custom ones from your photo/video.
- Text-to-video generation with templates.
- Video translation and localization.
- Branding tools, subtitles, and interactive avatars.
If you're a creator, marketer, or business owner testing AI video tools, starting free makes perfect sense. Ask yourself: Do you need just a few videos per month to prototype ideas, or are you planning high-volume production? The free plan is ideal for the former—let's see how it stacks up.
HeyGen Free Plan Details in 2026
HeyGen's free plan (often searched as "HeyGen free trial") provides an entry point with no expiration. Here's what you get:
- Cost: $0/month forever—no credit card required.
- Video Limits: Up to 3 videos per month.
- Duration: Each video is up to 3 minutes long.
- Resolution: 720p export.
- Processing: Standard speed.
- Features Access: Full AI avatars (including photo avatars and stock options), voices, text-to-video, and basic editing.
- How to Start: Sign up on heygen—instant access.
Unlike limited-time trials, this resets monthly, making it great for occasional use. In previous years (like 2025), some users recall credit-based trials, but 2026 focuses on this video-count model for sustainability.
Key Limitations of the HeyGen Free Plan
Every free offering has boundaries—here's what to expect:
- Watermark: Yes, videos include a HeyGen watermark (removed in paid plans).
- No Unlimited Generation: Stuck at 3 videos/month—plan carefully.
- Shorter Videos: Max 3 minutes (paid plans go to 30+ minutes).
- Lower Quality: 720p only (no 1080p or 4K).
- No Advanced Perks: Slower processing, no team collaboration, limited custom avatars.
Wondering about "HeyGen free trial minutes" or "credits"? The current system uses video count, not minute-based credits—simplifying things but capping experimentation.
HeyGen Pricing Overview
Ready for more? HeyGen's paid plans unlock scale:
- Creator Plan: $29/month ($24 annually) — Unlimited videos, up to 30 minutes, 1080p, faster processing, no watermark (in higher tiers).
- Team Plan: $39/seat/month — 4K, collaboration, priority support.
- Enterprise: Custom for large teams.
The free plan serves as a perfect "test drive"—many upgrade after hitting limits.
HeyGen vs. Competitors
Curious if HeyGen's free plan beats the competition? Top alternatives in 2026 include Synthesia, Colossyan, Elai.io, Hour One, and Tavus. Many offer generous free trials:
- Synthesia: Often 10-15 minutes of credit in trials; strong avatars but pricier plans.
- Colossyan: Free trial with multiple videos; excels in training content.
- Elai.io: Credit-based trial; great for personalization.
- Tavus: Focuses on interactive/real-time videos; trial available.
- Fliki or InVideo: More template-driven, sometimes freer exports without watermarks.
HeyGen stands out for avatar realism and language support, but competitors may give more trial videos upfront. If exploring broader options, check Merlio's text-to-video AI tools list for comparisons. For general AI tools, see Merlio's AI tools directory.
Is the HeyGen Free Plan Worth It in 2026?
Absolutely—if you're starting out. It's risk-free for testing AI video magic on short projects like social clips or demos. For heavier needs, you'll quickly see paid value.
What about you? Will 3 videos/month spark your creativity, or do you need unlimited? Try it and decide.
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