Quick Overview
- 1#1: XPression - Real-time 3D graphics and virtual production engine designed for live broadcast environments.
- 2#2: Viz Artist - Professional scene authoring tool for creating dynamic on-air graphics and AR overlays.
- 3#3: Chyron PRIME - Integrated platform for live graphics design, management, and playout in broadcast workflows.
- 4#4: Derive - Unified graphics creation and automation system for high-volume broadcast branding.
- 5#5: eStudio - Real-time 3D graphics and virtual studio software optimized for immersive broadcast content.
- 6#6: Velocity - High-performance graphics rendering engine supporting 24/7 automated broadcast graphics.
- 7#7: CasparCG - Open-source server for real-time graphics playout and video compositing in broadcasts.
- 8#8: Adobe After Effects - Motion graphics and compositing software widely used for designing broadcast elements.
- 9#9: Cinema 4D - 3D modeling and animation tool with broadcast-specific presets for motion graphics.
- 10#10: Blender - Free open-source 3D suite for creating professional motion graphics and animations.
Tools were ranked based on performance, feature set, user-friendliness, and alignment with broadcast workflows, ensuring each entry offers exceptional value for both novice and expert users
Comparison Table
Broadcast graphics drive audience engagement and brand consistency, making software choice key to efficient, high-quality production. From XPression and Viz Artist to Chyron PRIME, Derive, eStudio, and beyond, the market offers diverse tools—this table simplifies comparison by outlining core features and capabilities to help readers find the ideal fit for their workflow.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | XPression Real-time 3D graphics and virtual production engine designed for live broadcast environments. | enterprise | 9.6/10 | 9.8/10 | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 2 | Viz Artist Professional scene authoring tool for creating dynamic on-air graphics and AR overlays. | enterprise | 9.2/10 | 9.6/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 3 | Chyron PRIME Integrated platform for live graphics design, management, and playout in broadcast workflows. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 4 | Derive Unified graphics creation and automation system for high-volume broadcast branding. | enterprise | 8.5/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.0/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 5 | eStudio Real-time 3D graphics and virtual studio software optimized for immersive broadcast content. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.4/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Velocity High-performance graphics rendering engine supporting 24/7 automated broadcast graphics. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.6/10 |
| 7 | CasparCG Open-source server for real-time graphics playout and video compositing in broadcasts. | other | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 6.8/10 | 9.9/10 |
| 8 | Adobe After Effects Motion graphics and compositing software widely used for designing broadcast elements. | creative_suite | 9.2/10 | 9.7/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 9 | Cinema 4D 3D modeling and animation tool with broadcast-specific presets for motion graphics. | creative_suite | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Blender Free open-source 3D suite for creating professional motion graphics and animations. | other | 7.8/10 | 9.2/10 | 5.1/10 | 10/10 |
Real-time 3D graphics and virtual production engine designed for live broadcast environments.
Professional scene authoring tool for creating dynamic on-air graphics and AR overlays.
Integrated platform for live graphics design, management, and playout in broadcast workflows.
Unified graphics creation and automation system for high-volume broadcast branding.
Real-time 3D graphics and virtual studio software optimized for immersive broadcast content.
High-performance graphics rendering engine supporting 24/7 automated broadcast graphics.
Open-source server for real-time graphics playout and video compositing in broadcasts.
Motion graphics and compositing software widely used for designing broadcast elements.
3D modeling and animation tool with broadcast-specific presets for motion graphics.
Free open-source 3D suite for creating professional motion graphics and animations.
XPression
enterpriseReal-time 3D graphics and virtual production engine designed for live broadcast environments.
XPression Reflex AR/VR engine for photorealistic augmented reality overlays integrated directly into live broadcasts
XPression by Ross Video is a leading broadcast graphics platform designed for creating, managing, and delivering stunning on-air graphics, lower thirds, full-screen visuals, augmented reality (AR), and virtual studio elements in real-time. It features a modular workflow with tools like XPression Studio for design, XPression Live for playback operations, and seamless integration with broadcast automation systems. Widely used by major networks for live sports, news, and entertainment, it supports unlimited layers, GPU-accelerated rendering, and advanced scripting for complex productions.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time 3D rendering and AR/VR capabilities for immersive graphics
- Highly scalable with unlimited scenes, layers, and GPU acceleration
- Robust integration with Ross Video ecosystem and third-party broadcast tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners due to advanced professional features
- High hardware requirements for optimal performance
- Enterprise pricing can be prohibitive for small studios
Best For
Large-scale broadcast operations like TV networks and live events requiring top-tier, real-time graphics production.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing; perpetual licenses start at $20,000+ per workstation with annual maintenance, plus hardware bundles.
Viz Artist
enterpriseProfessional scene authoring tool for creating dynamic on-air graphics and AR overlays.
Container-based scene architecture for modular, reusable real-time graphics assets
Viz Artist, developed by Vizrt, is a professional-grade 3D graphics authoring tool designed specifically for broadcast environments, enabling the creation of stunning real-time animations, lower thirds, virtual studios, and augmented reality graphics. It supports complex scene building with scripting via Viz Script, data-driven content integration, and seamless workflow with Viz Engine for on-air delivery. Used by major global broadcasters, it excels in high-stakes live production scenarios requiring reliability and visual sophistication.
Pros
- Unmatched real-time 3D rendering and animation capabilities
- Deep integration with broadcast playout systems like Viz Engine
- Robust scripting and data connectivity for dynamic content
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring dedicated training
- High system resource demands
- Enterprise pricing limits accessibility for smaller operations
Best For
Large broadcast networks and production houses needing top-tier real-time graphics for live TV.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically perpetual licenses starting at $10,000+ per seat with annual maintenance or subscription models from $5,000/year.
Chyron PRIME
enterpriseIntegrated platform for live graphics design, management, and playout in broadcast workflows.
Operator-centric interface with Smart Templates and infinite canvas for ultra-fast live graphic adjustments
Chyron PRIME is a professional broadcast graphics platform designed for live TV production, enabling operators to create and deploy dynamic on-air elements like lower thirds, scorebugs, clocks, and full-screen graphics. It features a high-performance render engine supporting 4K/8K resolutions, real-time data integration from various sources, and seamless compatibility with newsroom computer systems (NRCS) via MOS protocol. The software emphasizes operator efficiency with intuitive scene management and automation tools for high-pressure live environments.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time rendering and data-driven graphics capabilities
- Strong integration with NRCS, playout servers, and automation systems
- Reliable performance in demanding live broadcast scenarios
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High upfront and ongoing costs
- Requires powerful dedicated hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Professional broadcast operators and production teams in sports, news, and live events needing robust, enterprise-grade graphics workflows.
Pricing
Enterprise quote-based pricing; typically $20,000+ per workstation with annual support fees.
Derive
enterpriseUnified graphics creation and automation system for high-volume broadcast branding.
HTML5-native rendering engine delivering broadcast-quality graphics with zero-install browser playback and real-time updates.
Derive from Pixel Power is a cloud-native, HTML5-based broadcast graphics platform designed for creating, managing, and delivering dynamic on-air graphics in live production environments like news and sports. It features Derive Designer for template-based creation, Derive Manager for scheduling and automation, and seamless integration with playout systems for real-time data-driven output. The solution emphasizes scalability, browser accessibility, and pixel-perfect rendering without plugins.
Pros
- Fully browser-based workflow accessible from any device
- Advanced automation and real-time data integration for live broadcasts
- Robust template system and playout integration for high-volume production
Cons
- Steep learning curve for complex custom graphics
- Enterprise-focused pricing limits accessibility for smaller operations
- Limited standalone use without Pixel Power ecosystem integration
Best For
Mid-to-large broadcast teams handling high-volume live graphics in newsrooms or sports production needing scalable automation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with subscription models starting around $10,000+/year depending on scale and deployment (cloud or on-prem).
eStudio
specializedReal-time 3D graphics and virtual studio software optimized for immersive broadcast content.
InfinitySet virtual studio module for pixel-perfect AR tracking and immersive 3D environments
eStudio from Brainstorm3D is a professional real-time 3D graphics platform tailored for broadcast production, enabling the creation of lower thirds, full-screen bugs, virtual studios, and augmented reality overlays. It integrates seamlessly with camera tracking systems and playout automation for live TV environments like news, sports, and entertainment. The software offers a powerful scene editor, rendering engine, and extensive plugin ecosystem for custom workflows.
Pros
- Exceptional real-time 3D rendering with support for complex scenes and effects
- Strong integration with broadcast hardware like camera trackers and switchers
- Modular architecture allowing scalability from basic graphics to full virtual production
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to dense, professional-grade interface
- High hardware requirements and enterprise-level pricing
- Limited beginner-friendly tutorials and community support compared to competitors
Best For
Mid-to-large broadcast teams handling live news, sports graphics, or virtual studios who need robust 3D capabilities.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing starting at €10,000+ per workstation with annual maintenance; modular add-ons extra.
Velocity
enterpriseHigh-performance graphics rendering engine supporting 24/7 automated broadcast graphics.
Sub-frame latency GPU rendering engine for flawless real-time graphics synchronization in live environments
Velocity by Imagine Communications is a professional real-time motion graphics and video playout system tailored for broadcast television environments. It excels in creating and delivering dynamic on-air graphics, including lower thirds, full-screen animations, bugs, and virtual sets, with support for 4K/8K resolutions and GPU-accelerated rendering. The platform integrates seamlessly with automation systems, newsroom computers, and MOS protocols, enabling efficient live production workflows for news, sports, and entertainment.
Pros
- Ultra-low latency real-time rendering for live broadcasts
- Scalable multi-channel support with robust automation integration
- Advanced GPU acceleration for high-resolution 3D graphics
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-expert users
- High enterprise-level pricing
- Requires dedicated hardware for optimal performance
Best For
Mid-to-large broadcast stations and production houses handling live TV graphics playout at scale.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing, typically $50,000+ for base systems plus annual support; scales with channels and features.
CasparCG
otherOpen-source server for real-time graphics playout and video compositing in broadcasts.
Real-time HTML5 template engine with sub-frame latency and multi-channel support on consumer-grade hardware
CasparCG is a free, open-source broadcast graphics and video playout server designed for professional live TV production. It supports real-time playback of HTML5 templates, lower thirds, full-screen videos, clocks, and complex animations with ultra-low latency. Widely used by TV stations worldwide, it leverages GPU acceleration and scripting for high-performance, multi-channel operations on standard hardware.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no licensing costs
- Ultra-low latency and high-performance GPU acceleration
- Highly customizable via HTML5 templates and scripting
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring technical expertise
- Primarily Windows-based with limited cross-platform support
- Community-driven support rather than dedicated enterprise service
Best For
Technical broadcast engineers and production teams in mid-sized TV stations needing a powerful, cost-effective graphics playout solution.
Pricing
Free (open-source, no licensing fees)
Adobe After Effects
creative_suiteMotion graphics and compositing software widely used for designing broadcast elements.
Expressions scripting engine for procedural, data-driven animations without external coding
Adobe After Effects is an industry-standard motion graphics and visual effects software used extensively in broadcast for creating animated lower thirds, transitions, title sequences, and on-air graphics. It features a layer-based compositing workflow with keyframe animation, hundreds of built-in effects, and scripting via expressions for precise control. Designers leverage its integration with Premiere Pro for seamless TV production workflows, making it a powerhouse for dynamic broadcast content.
Pros
- Unrivaled depth in motion graphics and VFX tools tailored for broadcast animations
- Seamless integration with Adobe Premiere Pro and Creative Cloud ecosystem
- Vast ecosystem of plugins and community presets for broadcast-safe graphics
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring significant time investment
- High CPU/GPU demands that can slow down complex projects
- Subscription model with no perpetual license option
Best For
Professional broadcast motion designers and VFX artists handling complex, high-production-value on-air graphics who value power over simplicity.
Pricing
Single-app subscription at $22.99/month or included in Creative Cloud All Apps at $59.99/month (billed annually).
Cinema 4D
creative_suite3D modeling and animation tool with broadcast-specific presets for motion graphics.
MoGraph toolset for intuitive cloning, effectors, and procedural animations tailored to broadcast graphics
Cinema 4D is a professional 3D modeling, animation, and rendering software from Maxon, widely used for creating sophisticated motion graphics and visual effects. In broadcast graphics, it shines with its MoGraph toolset for procedural animations, dynamic titles, lower thirds, and logo reveals. It integrates seamlessly with After Effects via Cineware, enabling hybrid 2D/3D workflows ideal for TV and live production.
Pros
- Powerful MoGraph system for fast procedural broadcast graphics
- Excellent integration with After Effects and Redshift rendering
- Robust node-based materials and animation tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve for beginners in broadcast workflows
- Subscription model increases long-term costs
- Resource-intensive for complex scenes on standard hardware
Best For
Experienced motion designers and broadcast teams needing advanced 3D graphics integrated with 2D pipelines.
Pricing
Part of Maxon One subscription: $124/month or $1,192/year (billed annually); no perpetual license.
Blender
otherFree open-source 3D suite for creating professional motion graphics and animations.
Grease Pencil for intuitive 2D drawing and rigging directly in a 3D environment, ideal for stylized broadcast animations
Blender is a free, open-source 3D creation suite that supports modeling, animation, rendering, compositing, and video editing, making it adaptable for broadcast graphics like motion titles, lower thirds, bumpers, and 3D-infused visuals. Its Grease Pencil tool enables hybrid 2D/3D drawing and animation directly in 3D space, while the node-based compositor and video sequence editor facilitate professional-grade effects and timelines. Though not purpose-built for broadcast workflows, its comprehensive toolset allows for high-quality output suitable for TV and streaming graphics.
Pros
- Extremely powerful 3D animation, compositing, and Grease Pencil tools for complex broadcast graphics
- Completely free with no licensing costs or subscriptions
- Highly customizable via Python scripting and vast add-on ecosystem
Cons
- Steep learning curve with unintuitive interface for broadcast-specific tasks
- Lacks native templates, presets, and real-time collaboration optimized for broadcast production
- Resource-heavy, demanding high-end hardware for smooth performance
Best For
Freelancers or small studios seeking a no-cost, advanced 3D toolkit for custom broadcast motion graphics and willing to invest in training.
Pricing
Free and open-source; optional donations.
Conclusion
The top three broadcast graphics tools—XPression, Viz Artist, and Chyron PRIME—each shine in their own right, with XPression leading as the clear choice for its real-time 3D graphics and virtual production engine tailored for live environments. Viz Artist proves exceptional for dynamic on-air graphics and AR overlays, while Chyron PRIME excels in integrated design, management, and playout workflows, making it a strong alternative. Together, they highlight the industry’s focus on innovation and efficiency.
For those looking to elevate their broadcast visuals, XPression’s capabilities make it a must-try—whether you’re designing for live streams or virtual productions, its performance and flexibility set it apart.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison