What is a AETX file? An AETX file is a project template created by Adobe After Effects, a motion graphics and visual effects application available for Windows and macOS. It contains one or more compositions made up of multiple layers, which may include imported media, shapes, text, and animation settings. After Effects users save AETX files in the XML format to create reusable templates for building multiple .AEP or .AEPX project files with the same structure.

More Information AETX file open in Adobe After Effects 2025 AETX files function the same way as AET files but are stored in a text-based format instead of a binary format. This format makes them larger and slightly slower to open, but they can be opened and edited with a text or XML editor, which is useful for workflows that involve automation, version control, or manual adjustments to the project structure. Adobe After Effects supports two template file formats: After Effects Template ( .AET ) – A binary file format recommended for most users due to its smaller size and faster performance. After Effects XML Template (AETX) – A text-based alternative that uses the XML standard, ideal for advanced users who need editable or scriptable templates.