The toolchain we actually use.
Tools we run every week. Pricing, what they're for, and where they actually break. We earn affiliate revenue on some of these, disclosed on every review.
- AI AUDIO · FROM $22
ElevenLabs
The voice generation engine behind most faceless YouTube channels worth watching. Still the best-in-class on tone, pacing, and emotional range.
- AI VIDEO · FROM $24
HeyGen
AI avatar video generation with multilingual dubbing and lifelike talking-head clones. The most operator-friendly option in the avatar category.
- AI VIDEO · FROM $9
Higgsfield AI
AI video generation with cinematic camera control and viral VFX effects. The newer entrant making serious noise in 2026 for creator content.
- CAPTIONS · FROM $9
Submagic
AI captions, emoji highlights, sound effects, and b-roll for short-form video. The fastest way to ship captioned shorts that actually retain viewers.
- YOUTUBE TOOLS · FROM $9
TubeBuddy
Browser extension and dashboard for YouTube SEO, A/B testing, and channel growth. The OG of YouTube creator tools. Still worth using in 2026.
- YOUTUBE TOOLS · FROM $7.50
VidIQ
YouTube keyword research, competitor tracking, and AI-assisted ideation. The most modern YouTube creator tool and the deepest competitor on data.