Hearth vs Celtx: An Honest Comparison
Celtx started as a free screenwriting tool and has evolved into a full media pre-production platform — with storyboarding, scheduling, and production management built in. Hearth takes the opposite approach: stripping away everything except the act of writing, with tools to help you do it every day. Here's how they compare.
The Short Version
Celtx is a pre-production suite built around script formatting and film production. Hearth is a daily writing app built around getting words on the page and building the habit. They solve different problems — for most writers, Hearth is the better starting point.
Try Hearth freeFeature Comparison
| Feature | Hearth | Celtx |
|---|---|---|
| Web-based (write anywhere) | ||
| Screenplay & script formatting | ||
| Storyboarding tools | ||
| Production scheduling | ||
| Distraction-free minimal editor | ||
| AI writing suggestions | ||
| Writing streak tracking | ||
| Daily word goal tracking | ||
| Email & Discord reminders | ||
| Beta reader sharing & feedback | ||
| Automatic cloud save | ||
| Version history | ||
| Custom themes & colors | ||
| Works for novels & all writing formats | ||
| Project & folder organization |
Where Celtx Still Wins
Celtx is purpose-built for the film and TV production pipeline:
- Script formatting: Industry-standard screenplay, stageplay, and audiobook formatting with automatic page counting and scene numbering.
- Storyboarding: Visual shot planning integrated directly with the script — useful for directors and cinematographers.
- Production scheduling: Breakdown sheets, shoot scheduling, and budgeting tools for film and TV projects.
- Team collaboration: Multi-user production workflows for cast, crew, and writers rooms.
Where Hearth Wins
- All writing formats: Novels, short stories, essays, journals, blog posts, poetry — Hearth isn't locked to screenplays.
- Writing habit tools: Daily word goals, streak tracking, and reminders via email and Discord. Celtx has none of this.
- AI tab-complete: Inline AI writing suggestions help you push through creative blocks without breaking your flow.
- Version history: Every draft is saved automatically with full version history. Celtx doesn't offer this.
- Beta reader sharing: Private share links for feedback from readers and writing group members.
- Distraction-free editor: No production panels, no formatting toolbars. Just the document and your words.
- Price: Hearth is $6.99/month. Celtx starts free but serious features require the Studio plan at $15+/month.
Who Should Choose Hearth?
Hearth is the better choice if you:
- Write fiction, essays, or any non-screenplay format
- Want to build a consistent daily writing practice
- Need AI assistance to help with creative blocks
- Share drafts with beta readers or critique partners
- Want a writing app, not a production management platform
Who Should Stick with Celtx?
Celtx is the better choice if you:
- Write screenplays and need industry-standard formatting
- Work on film or TV productions that need storyboarding and scheduling
- Collaborate with a full cast and crew in a production context
- Need integrated pre-production tools in one platform
Pricing Comparison
Hearth
- 7-day free trial
- All features included
- AI writing suggestions
- Habit tracking & streaks
Celtx
- Free tier available
- Script & production tools
- Storyboarding & scheduling
- No writing habit features
Try Hearth Free
No credit card required. Start writing in 30 seconds with a 7-day free trial.
Start free trial