Cheapest AI Video Generators: 4 Budget Models Compared
Generate more AI videos on a budget. The 4 most affordable AI video models ranked by cost per clip, quality, and duration.
AI video generation doesn't have to be expensive. The cheapest AI video generators on Melies cost between 50 and 80 credits per clip, letting you generate 6 to 10 videos per month on the Starter plan. Each budget model offers a different tradeoff between speed, visual quality, and features.
LTX 2.3 (50 credits) is the fastest and cheapest, generating clips in seconds with up to 4K resolution and native audio. WAN v2.6 (70 credits) offers 1080p output with up to 15-second clips and reference-to-video for character consistency. Kling v3 Standard (60 credits) adds image-to-video support at a competitive price. Hailuo 2.3 (80 credits) from MiniMax delivers cinematic realism with the best motion physics of the budget group.
All four models support text-to-video and image-to-video. Try each with the same prompt on Melies and compare the results to find which budget AI video generator works best for your content.
Updated May 2026
Quick Recommendation
Start with LTX 2.3 (50 credits) for the best value. When quality matters more than cost, step up to Hailuo 2.3 (80 credits). All 4 models are available on Melies — try each with the same prompt and compare.
Video Model Specs: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Model | Released | Cost ↑ | Speed | Duration | Img input | Audio |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 LTX 2.3 | Mar 2026 | 50 | Fast | 10 seconds | ||
 Kling v3 Standard | Feb 2026 | 60 | Medium | 15 seconds | ||
 WAN v2.6 | Mar 2026 | 70 | Medium | 15 seconds | ||
 Hailuo 2.3 | Mar 2026 | 80 | Medium | 10 seconds |
Each Model at a Glance
LTX 2.3
Lightricks50Lightricks' latest model with 4K output, native audio, and a sharper VAE.
WAN v2.6
Alibaba70Alibaba's latest video model with multi-shot prompts and reference-to-video support.
Hailuo 2.3
MiniMax80MiniMax's most capable video model with cinematic realism, advanced camera control, and improved motion physics.
Kling v3 Standard
Kuaishou60Kling's image-to-video model with custom character elements and end-frame control.
Which AI Video Model Should You Pick?
Best value for everyday use
At 50 credits, LTX 2.3 gives you the most generations per plan. High-resolution video, fast generation, 4K output, open-source workflows.
Maximum quality, no budget concerns
Hailuo 2.3 at 80 credits delivers the highest quality. Cinematic video realism, character animation, stylized content.
Video with sound effects or dialogue
LTX 2.3 generates native audio alongside video — no post-production sound editing needed.
Animating a still image
Upload a photo or AI image and bring it to life. LTX 2.3 at 50 credits is the most affordable option with image input.
Longer clips for storytelling
Supports up to 15-second clips — enough for complete scenes and narratives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Try All 4 Models on Melies
LTX 2.3, WAN v2.6, Kling v3 Standard and more — all in one workspace. Switch models with one click, compare results side by side. Free credits included.
