Adobe's current 2025 release of After Effects requires . If you try to install the latest version on Windows 8.1, the Creative Cloud Desktop App will likely block the installation.
There is no permanently "free" full version of After Effects. However, Adobe offers an official of the full software. After Effects Free Download & Free Trial - Adobe adobe after effects for windows 8.1 free download
Downloading requires navigating some compatibility hurdles, as modern versions no longer support this operating system. To get started with motion graphics and visual effects on an older setup, you'll need to use a specific legacy version of the software. The Reality of Windows 8.1 Compatibility Adobe's current 2025 release of After Effects requires
The most recent version that officially supported Windows 8.1 was After Effects CC 2018 (version 15.1) . adobe after effects for windows 8.1 free download