HeyGen

HeyGen is an AI avatar video platform where users type a script to get a video, ideal for marketers and trainers.

About

HeyGen

HeyGen is wild—create professional videos with AI avatars that look and sound real. No camera, no studio, just type your script and pick your virtual spokesperson. You can even clone voices and create videos in multiple languages with perfect lip-sync. It's the future of video production, especially for training, marketing, or any time you need to scale video creation.

But let's talk about the elephant in the room—these are still AI avatars. While impressive, they might not nail the subtle emotions or spontaneity of real humans. Plus, there's the whole ethical thing about deepfakes and digital doubles. Amazing tech, but it might feel a bit uncanny valley for some viewers. What's your take: is the efficiency worth potentially losing that human connection? For authentic human presence without the uncanny valley, consider using real footage enhanced with AI-selected background music and marketing-optimized editing.

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HeyGen

Riverside

Riverside is a remote recording platform that provides local, clear audio/video—perfect for podcasters and interviewers.

About

Riverside

Riverside.fm solved the biggest problem in remote recording: crappy internet ruining your interview. It records locally on each person's computer, so even if the call gets choppy, your recording stays crystal clear. For podcasters and anyone doing remote interviews, it's a game-changer. Plus, you get separate tracks, AI transcription, and a basic editor to clean things up.

But don't mistake it for a full editing suite. The text-based editor is clever for cutting interviews, but you're not adding fancy graphics or complex effects here. It's purpose-built for capturing great remote conversations, not for post-production wizardry. The real question: is getting studio-quality remote recordings your main challenge, or do you need the full editing package? For complete podcast production, combine quality recording with automatic transcription and AI content idea generation.

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Riverside

Submagic is a better alternative

Submagic is the better alternative to HeyGen & Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Submagic is the better alternative to Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Submagic is the better alternative to HeyGen & Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Google Global Review : 4.9/5Trustpilot Global Review : 4.8/5G2 Global Review : 4.9/5

Trusted by 100+ Top Creators

Grant Cardone

Ali Abdaal

Chris Williamson

Overview of HeyGen Vs Riverside : Transforming Long Videos into Viral Shorts with AI

HeyGen

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

  • Realistic AI avatars eliminate filming
  • Fast, no editing skills needed
  • 175+ language support
  • Avatars can feel robotic
  • Free plan has watermark
  • Limited traditional editing features

HeyGen

Pricing plans

Plan

Cost

Free
$0
Creator
$29
Team
$39

HeyGen

Reviews

Brooke Burgess

I saw a colleague sharing a Heygen vid and honestly couldn't believe the results - had to try for myself with an extra critical eye. And...wow.

Andy

The platform and service keeps getting improved and has not disappointed us. The intuitive UI lends itself to making avatar videos and pictures a breeze.

Ignacio J. Fernandez B.

False advertisement. I paid what I believed it was only 39 usd for the team plan and came to be 78 usd instead as they charge per user.

Riverside

Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

  • Local 4K recording quality
  • No guest downloads needed
  • Magic Clips and text-based editing
  • Dependent on guest equipment
  • Host needs stable internet
  • Inconsistent AI features

Riverside

Pricing plans

Plan

Cost

Free
$0
Standard
€15
Pro
€24

Riverside

Reviews

Khalil Osiris

Riverside.fm provides an outstanding platform that is intuitive, user-friendly, and backed by excellent customer support.

Caroline Esterson

The software is so clean and easy to use. It makes you feel like a professional editor even when you are simply a layperson! There is enough 'stuff' to help professionalise your recordings without feeling overwhelmed and it's intuitive interface means that you can hit the ground running.

Trevor

Poor poor poor. For the money they charge, there are always issues. We will be moving when our annual sub expires!! No native Windows version of the software is another joke.

Submagic is a better alternative

Submagic is the better alternative to HeyGen & Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Submagic is the better alternative to Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Submagic is the better alternative to HeyGen & Riverside. Video editing done in 3 clicks, saves you time. Edit 3 videos for free.

Google Global Review : 4.9/5Trustpilot Global Review : 4.8/5G2 Global Review : 4.9/5

Trusted by 100+ Top Creators

Grant Cardone

Ali Abdaal

Chris Williamson

Frequently asked questions

How does an AI clip maker work?

An AI clip maker scans long-form videos or podcasts using artificial intelligence to automatically identify the most engaging moments, then slices them into short clips with captions, animations, and transitions. It's a powerful way to repurpose content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram.

One thing to note is that an AI clip generator is not necessarily an AI video generator.

Can AI-generated videos be monetized on YouTube?

Yes, as long as your AI-generated videos follow YouTube's monetization guidelines and add original value—like commentary, visuals, or voiceovers—you can absolutely monetize them. AI tools help you create faster, but your creativity is still the magic ingredient.

How do I add a text-to-speech voiceover?

Most AI video editors have a text-to-speech option built in—just type your script, choose your AI voice, and click generate. It’s an easy way to add professional voiceovers to explainer videos, product demos, or tutorials without recording anything yourself.

How does text-to-video AI work?

Text-to-video AI turns written text prompts into fully edited video content—complete with visuals, animations, subtitles, and voiceovers. It automates video production so creators can go from script to video clips in minutes instead of hours.

How to switch the AI Avatar’s voice category?

Most AI avatar tools have voice categories based on tone or language—you just head to the voice settings and pick a different category (like professional, energetic, or friendly). It’s like casting the perfect voice actor, but instantly.

What are the top AI tools for generating video clips?

Top AI tools like Submagic, Pictory, and Descript make it incredibly easy to generate short clips from long-form content. They handle captions, visuals, templates, and even AI voiceovers—ideal for creators repurposing webinars, podcasts, or YouTube content into snackable, engaging videos for social media platforms.

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