Graded and multilayered Al x Ti 1-x N/CrN coatings were synthesized by cathodic-arc evaporation (CAE) with plasma enhanced duct equipment. Chromium and AlTi alloy cathodes were used for the deposition of Al x Ti 1-x N/CrN coatings. During the coating process of graded Al x Ti 1-x N/CrN, an Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N top layer was deposited on an interlayer of Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN, which was obtained by regulation of cathode power. With different cathode current ratios (Al 0.67 Ti 0.33 /Cr) of 0.75, 1.0, and 1.33, the deposited multilayered Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN coatings possessed different chemical contents and periodic thicknesses. The nanolayer thickness and alloy content of the deposited coating were correlated with the evaporation rate of alloy cathode materials. Periodic thickness and layer thickness ratio of Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN increased with increasing I [AlTi] /I [Cr] cathode current ratio. High resolution transmission electron microscopy showed that lattice distortion and dislocations are found at the interface between Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N and CrN layers in the multilayered Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN. Hardness enhancement is a consequence of dislocation blocking. The multilayered Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN coatings possessed higher hardness (35–36 GPa) and better fracture toughness (K IC =1.65–2.05 MPa m 1/2 ) than those of the graded Al 0.63 Ti 0.37 N/CrN.