Unscreen vs VideoBackgroundRemover.io: Honest Comparison (2025)

Unscreen vs VideoBackgroundRemover.io: Which One Should You Use?

With Unscreen shutting down on December 1, 2025, thousands of video creators are looking for the best replacement. VideoBackgroundRemover.io has emerged as one of the top alternatives, but how does it actually compare to Unscreen?

This article provides an honest, detailed comparison covering:

• Feature-by-feature breakdown
• Pricing analysis (with real cost calculations)
• Quality and speed tests
• Workflow differences
• Who should choose which tool

Full disclosure: This comparison is published on VideoBackgroundRemover.io's blog. We've tried to be as objective as possible, but you should also read reviews on neutral platforms like G2 or Capterra.

Quick Comparison Table

Pricing: The Real Cost Breakdown

Unscreen's Pricing (Before Shutdown)

Unscreen used a pay-per-minute model:

The hidden cost: If you processed a 5-minute video on Pay As You Go, you'd pay $24.95 for ONE video.

VideoBackgroundRemover.io Pricing

We use a subscription + credits model:

Credit packs (one-time purchase, valid 365 days):

• 299 credits: $19.90
• 1,183 credits: $49.90
• 5,329 credits: $119.90

Real-World Cost Comparison

Let's compare costs for typical use cases:

Scenario 1: YouTube Creator (4 videos/month, 2 min each = 8 min)

Scenario 2: E-commerce Store (20 product videos/month, 30 sec each = 10 min)

Scenario 3: Agency (50+ videos/month, 30 min total)

Bottom line: For most users processing more than 2 minutes of video per month, VideoBackgroundRemover.io is significantly cheaper.

Feature Comparison: Deep Dive

1. Background Removal Quality

Unscreen:

• Used AI-based segmentation
• Good edge detection for most subjects
• Struggled with: fine hair, motion blur, complex backgrounds
• Output: GIF, animated PNG, WebM

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• Uses latest AI segmentation models (updated regularly)
• Advanced edge refinement for hair and fine details
• Handles: fast motion, complex lighting, multiple subjects
• Output: WebM, MOV (ProRes 4444), MP4

Winner: Tie for most content. VideoBackgroundRemover.io edges ahead on complex scenes and 4K support.

2. Transparent Video Export

This is crucial for editors who need to layer cutouts over other footage.

Unscreen:

• GIF: Low quality, limited colors
• Animated PNG: Large file sizes
• WebM: Good quality, but limited editor support

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• WebM: Good quality, web-compatible
• MOV (ProRes 4444): Professional-grade, works in Premiere, Final Cut, After Effects, DaVinci
• Option to export with alpha channel or solid background

Winner: VideoBackgroundRemover.io (ProRes export is a game-changer for professional workflows)

3. Resolution Support

Unscreen:

• Maximum: 1080p (Full HD)
• 4K videos were downscaled

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• Supports up to 4K (3840×2160)
• Maintains original resolution
• Higher resolution = more credits used

Winner: VideoBackgroundRemover.io

4. Processing Speed

Based on testing with a standard 1080p, 10-second clip:

Note: Actual speeds vary based on video complexity, resolution, and server load.

Winner: VideoBackgroundRemover.io (marginally faster)

5. Batch Processing

Unscreen:

• No batch processing
• Each video processed individually
• Upload → Wait → Download → Repeat

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• Queue multiple videos at once
• Process while you work on other tasks
• Bulk download when complete

Winner: VideoBackgroundRemover.io

6. Background Replacement

Unscreen:

• Basic color replacement
• Upload custom image
• No video backgrounds

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• Solid colors (hex/RGB picker)
• Custom image backgrounds
• Video backgrounds (Pro feature)
• Background blur option

Winner: VideoBackgroundRemover.io (video background support)

7. Integration & Plugins

Unscreen:

• Adobe After Effects plugin
• Adobe Premiere Pro plugin
• API access

VideoBackgroundRemover.io:

• Web-based (works anywhere)
• API access (Enterprise plans)
• No desktop plugins (coming soon)

Winner: Unscreen WAS better here, but plugins are now discontinued. For current solutions, it's a tie.

Workflow Comparison

Unscreen Workflow (Before Shutdown)

1. Go to unscreen.com
2. Upload video
3. Wait for processing
4. Preview result
5. Choose output format (GIF/PNG/WebM)
6. Download
7. Import into your editor

Time: ~3-5 minutes per video

VideoBackgroundRemover.io Workflow

1. Go to VideoBackgroundRemover.io
2. Log in (saved preferences)
3. Upload video(s) - batch supported
4. AI processes automatically
5. Preview and adjust if needed
6. Choose output (MP4/WebM/MOV)
7. Download (or batch download)

Time: ~2-4 minutes per video (faster with batch)

Key Workflow Differences

Use Case Recommendations

Choose VideoBackgroundRemover.io If You:

✅ Were an Unscreen user looking for similar workflow ✅ Need transparent video export (WebM or ProRes) ✅ Process multiple videos regularly ✅ Want 4K resolution support ✅ Prefer predictable monthly pricing ✅ Need video background replacement (not just images)

Consider Other Alternatives If You:

⚠️ Need deep editor integration (Canva, VEED for all-in-one) ⚠️ Only occasionally need background removal (pay-per-use might be cheaper) ⚠️ Require desktop software (try Runway or desktop apps) ⚠️ Need advanced masking controls (Runway for frame-by-frame control)

Migration Tips: Unscreen → VideoBackgroundRemover.io

1. What Transfers

• ❌ Your Unscreen account/credits (service is closed)
• ❌ Previously processed videos (expired/deleted)
• ✅ Your original source videos (re-process them)
• ✅ Your workflow (very similar process)

2. Getting Started

1. Sign up at VideoBackgroundRemover.io (free)
2. Get 3 free credits to test
3. Upload a typical video you would have processed on Unscreen
4. Compare quality to your expectations
5. Choose a plan if you're satisfied

3. Adjusting Your Workflow

4. Pro Tips for New Users

1. Use WebM for web, MOV for professional editors - WebM is smaller, MOV is higher quality
2. Batch upload when possible - Queue videos overnight if needed
3. Check edge settings - Adjust for hair-heavy or motion-blur clips
4. Save your export preferences - They persist across sessions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is VideoBackgroundRemover.io really better than Unscreen was?

For most users, yes. The main advantages are:

• Lower cost (subscription vs. per-minute)
• Higher resolution (4K vs. 1080p)
• Batch processing
• More export options (ProRes MOV)

The main thing Unscreen had that we don't: Adobe plugins (which are now discontinued anyway).

Why did Unscreen shut down?

Unscreen was acquired by Canva. Rather than maintain it as a standalone product, Canva integrated the technology into their own video editor.

Can I import my Unscreen history?

No. Unscreen has deleted all user data. You'll need to re-process any videos you still have the source files for.

Is there a free trial?

Yes. New accounts get 3 free credits (enough for about 30 seconds of video). No credit card required.

How do credits work?

Credits are based on video duration:

• ~1 credit per second of processed video
• Higher resolution uses slightly more credits
• Credits are deducted only when you download

Do you have an API?

Yes, API access is available on Enterprise plans. Contact sales for details.

What about quality for difficult videos?

We use regularly updated AI models. For difficult cases (complex hair, fast motion, unusual lighting):

1. Try the "High Quality" processing mode
2. Use edge refinement settings
3. For professional work, export as MOV (ProRes) for maximum quality

Conclusion

Unscreen was a great tool, and its shutdown is unfortunate for the video creator community. However, the technology has continued to evolve, and there are now alternatives that match or exceed what Unscreen offered.

VideoBackgroundRemover.io is designed as a direct Unscreen replacement:

• Same simple workflow (upload → process → download)
• Better pricing for regular users
• More export options (including ProRes for pros)
• Higher resolution support (4K)
• Batch processing capability

If you're looking for the closest experience to Unscreen with some meaningful improvements, give us a try.

Try It Free

3 free videos, no credit card required.

See how VideoBackgroundRemover.io compares to your Unscreen experience.

Start Free Trial →

Unscreen users: Use code UNSCREEN50 for 50% off your first month.

Last updated: December 28, 2025

This comparison reflects features available at the time of writing. Check both platforms for current specifications.