Different Strengths
After Effects is the motion graphics standard — 2D compositions, text animation, shape layers, expressions. Blender does 3D motion graphics with geometry nodes and a growing 2D grease pencil system.
2D Motion Graphics
AE wins hands down. Shape layers, text animators, puppet tool, track mattes, and the massive plugin ecosystem (Lottie, Bodymovin, Element 3D, Trapcode). Blender has no equivalent workflow for 2D motion design.
For more on this topic, see our guide on best 2d animation software for beginners and pros.3D Motion Graphics
Blender wins for 3D. Geometry nodes create procedural animations impossible in AE without plugins. Cycles renders production-quality 3D. AE needs Cinema 4D Lite or Element 3D for basic 3D.
Pricing
AE: $22.99/month (single app) or $59.99 (All Apps). Blender: Free forever.
Verdict
Use After Effects for client work, 2D motion, social media content, and UI animation. Use Blender for 3D motion graphics, abstract visuals, and when budget is zero. Many studios use both.