The Best Alternative to Final Draft 11

Different Approaches

You might be wondering...what is Final Draft?

Final Draft software is screenwriting tool that allows users to create scripts with industry standard formatting, as well as perform real-time collaboration.

It’s the screenwriting software of yesterday.

Final Draft’s screenwriting software is similar to StudioBinder, but it does not provide the same A-to-Z functionality that links your tasks, calendars, contact messaging, and project management to improve collaboration across teams.

This modern approach is what defines us here at StudioBinder.

This is all to say:

Final Draft 11 is screenwriting software.

StudioBinder is mission control for production teams.

Final Draft 11 allows session based, real-time collaboration which is great when everyone has the exact same schedule, but this can create complications.

StudioBinder understands that schedules don’t always line up, which is why our software helps you leave detailed script notes, lasting comments, and interactive task checklists that will remain on the page until properly addressed.

This gives you greater script note clarity on both sides of your production.

Final Draft 11 has missing features like the ability to create a task list for script notes, import PDF and Fountain files to continue progress, quickly create accurate script sides, or sync your screenplay to a range of production tools.

StudioBinder screenplays are automatically integrated with script breakdowns, shooting schedules, contact lists, production reports, calendars, and more.

Content starts on the page, but it doesn’t end there.

Final Draft 11 requires you to purchase an expensive single-serve license for software with a much less intuitive interface, limited access to scripts, and separate versions for each operating system - plus $99 a year to upgrade. 

StudioBinder's screenwriting software is cloud-based which means you can securely access your script and other features anywhere in the world.

Our screenwriting software is easy to use, provides icons to help you build industry standard scripts, and is the only option out there that gives you unlimited writing access completely free.

No operating system confusion. No yearly upgrades. More produced scripts. 

Feature by Feature

Interface Comparison

Interactive Demo

Final Draft 11 does not have a call sheet feature. 

StudioBinder auto-populates call sheets with data from other pages, and you can include personalized notes and file attachments like maps in every email. Our call sheets are integrated with Google Places and DarkSky Weather APIs to automatically include Google Maplinks and up-to-date weather changes.

StudioBinder sends call sheets as emails, PDFs and text messages with one-click. Every recipient receives a personalized email digest with the information that pertains to them like call time, parking details, map links to the location, and a "Confirm" button to RSVP so that no one is left behind on your production. 

StudioBinder tracks the delivery status, view counts, and RSVPs of every call sheet that is sent to a specific recipient. Notice someone didn't open their call sheet? No problem, you know exactly why, and can swiftly resolve and resend.

Interactive Demo

Track Delivery Status

Final Draft 11 does not have a shot list & storyboard feature. 

StudioBinder shot lists and storyboards give you a ton of opportunities to describe and plan your creative goals. Sections can be customized, and our shot lists allow you to create setups and estimated times for each shot.

StudioBinder shot lists and storyboards have optimal size view windows when working on your boards. Add reference images or sketches from your storyboard artist. Change aspect ratios, page layout, and custom numbering.

StudioBinder shot lists and storyboards automatically calculate the estimated times you add to each shot or setup, giving you an accurate timeframe for each. Quickly rearrange frames on your storyboards. You can also play your scene in presentation mode to view your ideas as a slideshow for clients and others. 

Interactive Demo

Final Draft 11 does not have a script breakdown feature.

StudioBinder script breakdowns are the quickest and most accurate way to identify all the requirements for your projects. Import any script file type and then breakdown your script with options to tag all mentions, merge elements, or create variants for greater detail when labeling elements. 

Our interface is easy to read and navigate. You're able to embed images, videos, or scene notes to each individual scene. Add comments and tasks.

StudioBinder script breakdowns are highly predictive which means you can avoid unnecessary redundancies. Every piece of data you input into your script breakdown will auto-populate across the rest of your features, and stellar production reports are generated with various view and filter options so that you can see what you need for the day... or the entire shoot.  

Interactive Demo

Final Draft 11 does not have a scheduling feature.

StudioBinder shooting schedules allow you to reorder strips based on multiple criteria like time, setting, and cast. You can assign a physical location, add daybreaks manually or based on a set of customizable criteria. Add note banners, camera and lighting setup banners, and renumber scenes.

Our stripboards have a script preview window which allow you to read the corresponding scene for each strip, and you can alter your script directly from your stripboard if necessary. Every addition or change you make will populate across all of your other StudioBinder features. 

Our shooting schedule feature are made up of easy to understand, industry standard color strips for each scene. Comments and tasks are a breeze to read and you can quickly analyze your schedule with cast numbers, page counts, or change the specifications to your preferred view type. 

Interactive Demo

Interactive Demo

Final Draft 11 does not have a contact management feature. This means you'll need a separate application to organize contacts like talent, crew, clients, extras, etc.

StudioBinder provides a master contact book where details are stored securely. Easily reassign existing contacts to new projects with just a few clicks.

Also, StudioBinder's integrated messaging system helps you send styled production updates that feature your production or company letterhead. 

File Management

StudioBinder offers a robust media library and file storage feature.

Securely upload and preview deal memos, financial documents, permits, invoices, headshots, etc. View, crop, and rotate files all within StudioBinder.

You can also invite your team to shared folders, where they can add and edit files together. Use comments to gather feedback right next to specific files.

A major part of production is document and media management.

Something you only get with StudioBinder.

Monthly & Annual Plans

the Bottomline