Adobe After Effects is one of the most powerful tools for motion graphics and video editing. But by itself, it can be time-consuming for certain tasks. That’s where plugins come in.

Plugins extend the power of After Effects, making it easier to create animations, add effects, and speed up your workflow. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, the right plugins can save hours of work and unlock creative possibilities you didn’t even know existed.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best free and paid After Effects plugins in 2025—what they do, why you need them, and how they can improve your projects.

Why Use Plugins in After Effects?

Plugins are like shortcuts for editors and motion designers. Instead of manually building complex effects or animations, plugins automate tasks and provide customizable presets.

Benefits of using plugins:

• Save time on repetitive tasks
• Add professional-quality effects with one click
• Unlock new creative possibilities
• Improve workflow efficiency

For creators in 2025, plugins are no longer optional—they’re essential.

Best Free After Effects Plugins (2025)

1. FX Console by Video Copilot

FX Console is a must-have free plugin that helps you find and apply effects quickly. Instead of searching through menus, you can apply any effect instantly with a simple shortcut.

Why it’s great:

• Speeds up workflow
• Saves time navigating menus
• Completely free

2. Saber by Video Copilot

Saber is a free plugin for creating energy beams, neon lights, and glow effects. It’s perfect for sci-fi intros, motion graphics, or music videos.

Features:

• Realistic energy and neon effects
• Presets for quick results
• Easy to customize

3. Duik Bassel

Duik is a free rigging and animation plugin. If you work with character animation, it’s a game-changer.

Why animators love it:

• Advanced character rigging
• Auto walk cycles
• Completely free and open-source

Best Paid After Effects Plugins (2025)

4. Red Giant Universe

Red Giant Universe offers a massive library of effects and transitions. It’s one of the most popular plugin suites among professionals.

Highlights:

• Over 70 effects and transitions
• Motion graphics templates
• Regular updates

5. Trapcode Suite (by Maxon)

Trapcode is the industry standard for particle effects, 3D animations, and complex VFX.

Use cases:

• Particle systems for fire, smoke, rain
• 3D motion graphics
• Music visualizers

6. Element 3D (Video Copilot)

Element 3D allows you to import and animate 3D objects directly in After Effects.

Why it’s powerful:

• Real-time 3D rendering
• Works well with OBJ and C4D models
• Perfect for motion graphics and product animations

7. Optical Flares (Video Copilot)

Optical Flares is one of the best plugins for creating realistic lens flares and light effects.

Best for:

• Cinematic projects
• Sci-fi visuals
• Logo animations

8. Deep Glow (Plugin Everything)

Deep Glow creates beautiful, natural glows that look much better than the default AE glow effect.

Why editors use it:

• Smooth, realistic results
• Simple interface
• Great for text, shapes, and neon looks

9. Motion Bro (Extension)

Motion Bro is a popular animation library that lets you apply presets, transitions, and effects instantly.

Why it’s useful:

• Huge preset library
• Drag-and-drop ease of use
• Perfect for beginners and professionals

10. AEJuice Pack Manager

AEJuice offers a massive pack of transitions, sound effects, and animation presets. With the Pack Manager, you can browse and apply assets directly inside After Effects.

Why it’s great:

• One of the largest libraries available
• Frequent updates
• Saves hours of manual work

How to Choose the Right Plugin

When deciding which plugins to use, ask yourself:

• Do I need it for speed or creativity? Some plugins automate tasks, others add unique looks.
• Does it fit my style of work? Motion graphics, VFX, or social media editing require different tools.
• Is it budget-friendly? Free plugins are great to start with, but premium plugins often save more time in the long run.

Final Thoughts

In 2025, plugins are a must for any serious After Effects editor. Free tools like FX Console and Saber are perfect for beginners, while premium plugins like Trapcode Suite, Element 3D, and Deep Glow unlock professional-level creativity.

If you’re looking to expand your toolkit, explore curated assets and plugin collections at KirtanFX.com—designed to help creators edit faster and stand out with high-quality results.