Notch
Real-time node-based graphics from London for motion design, live shows and virtual production
Quick Overview
| Company | 10bit FX Limited |
|---|---|
| Category | Motion Graphics Software |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom |
| Founded | Not stated |
| EU Presence | Yes - United Kingdom |
| Data Location | not stated on the pages we read |
| Open Source | No |
| GDPR Compliant | Yes |
| Self-Hosting | No |
| Main Features | Node graph interface, real-time viewport, GPU particles and volumetrics, 2D compositing, 3D lighting and materials, video keying, Notch Blocks for media servers |
| Pricing | Prices shown per country on notch.one (USD for US visitors); amounts not captured on the pages we read |
| Best For | Motion designers and live-visual teams who want to render and composite in real time |
| Replaces | Adobe After Effects |
Detailed Review
Notch is software from 10bit FX Limited, a company registered in England and Wales under number 09727850 with its registered office at 86-90 Paul Street, London. The terms of notch.one are governed by English law.
Notch builds scenes in a node graph with a real-time rendering viewport and a timeline. The vendor lists motion design and animation among its industries, next to concerts, fixed installations and virtual production.
How does Notch differ from layer-based motion design?
Notch works as a node graph with a real-time viewport, so a change shows immediately instead of after a preview render. The vendor says rendering is GPU-powered through its NURA system for real-time and offline use.
Notch Blocks are self-contained files with assets and the playback engine, supported in major media servers according to the vendor.
What can Notch create?
Notch lists a particle engine that simulates from hundreds of millions of points, procedural geometry, textures and fields, and volumetrics.
The vendor also lists 2D compositing and post processing, green screen keying, background removal and AI-centric workflows.
Notch as a European alternative to Adobe After Effects
Notch is a UK-run tool with a published company number, which suits teams that want a European contract. It covers real-time 3D motion and compositing rather than classic keyframed layer animation.
Notch is a different working method from After Effects, so expect a learning period.
Limitations to Consider
Pricing amounts, platform requirements and hosting were not captured on the pages we read, and the Notch pages show prices in USD for US visitors. The terms page states the website is directed at the United Kingdom. Notch is aimed at real-time and live work, so editors who only need quick 2D titles will find Linearity or Autograph closer to their habits.
Who Should Use Notch
VJs, broadcast and event designers and motion artists who want real-time rendering and are ready to learn a node-based workflow.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- UK company with number and registered office published
- Real-time viewport instead of preview renders
- GPU particles, volumetrics and procedural tools
- 2D compositing and keying included
- Playback in major media servers via Notch Blocks
Cons
- Node workflow differs from After Effects layers
- Prices not captured on the pages we read
- Platform requirements not captured
- Terms page states the site is directed at the United Kingdom
Alternatives to Notch
Other European motion graphics software worth comparing before you decide:
See all European motion graphics software or compare them directly against Adobe After Effects on our alternatives page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Notch is made by 10bit FX Limited, registered in England and Wales under number 09727850 with its office in London.
Notch handles motion design, compositing and effects in real time, but it works in nodes rather than layers, so it suits some projects better than others.
notch.one shows prices per country, for example in USD for US visitors. We did not capture the amounts on the pages we read.