Best Free Video Editing Software
Ranking free video editing software based on user interface, feature set, ease of use, and compatibility with various file types.
Top Ranked
Filmora excels as a user-friendly video editing software, particularly well-suited for YouTube creators of all skill levels. Its intuitive interface, drag-and-drop functionality, and extensive library of pre-built templates simplify the editing process. Recent versions have incorporated AI-powered...
Why this score
Filmora scores 7.0/10 due to its user-friendly interface and extensive library of effects, which make it accessible for beginners. However, the lack of advanced features and a subscription model can be limiting factors.
Scoring methodology
Apple's Final Cut Pro is a high-performance, Mac-exclusive NLE beloved for its innovative Magnetic Timeline, which avoids clip collisions, and its exceptional optimization for Apple Silicon. It offers powerful organizational tools like Libraries and Keywords, advanced color grading with HDR support,...
Why this score
Final Cut Pro scores 9.5/10 due to its innovative Magnetic Timeline, exceptional performance on Apple Silicon, and powerful organizational tools. However, it is exclusive to Mac users and has a steep learning curve for new users.
Scoring methodology
Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve is a unique all-in-one powerhouse combining professional editing, Hollywood-grade color correction (its original core), Fusion visual effects, and Fairlight audio post-production. Its robust free version is arguably the most capable free editor available, while th...
Why this score
DaVinci Resolve scores 7.8/10 due to its comprehensive feature set and professional-grade tools, but it can be challenging for beginners and occasionally experiences software issues.
Scoring methodology
Magix Video Pro X is a professional video editing software that offers advanced features for both beginners and professionals. It includes tools for trimming, cutting, adding transitions, and applying effects, as well as advanced audio mixing capabilities. While it may not have the same range of fea...
Adobe Premiere Pro remains the industry standard for professional video editing, offering unparalleled integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications. Its robust feature set, powerful organizational tools, and extensive plugin support cater to complex projects and collaborative workflows....
Why this score
Adobe Premiere Pro scores 8.5/10 due to its extensive feature set and seamless integration with other Adobe applications, but it's limited by a high learning curve and costly subscription model.
Scoring methodology
Shotcut is a free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with a strong focus on supporting a wide array of video and audio formats natively-it doesn't require importing media, which saves time. It features a flexible interface, advanced audio filters, and 4K editing capabilities. Its interface ca...
Why this score
Shotcut scores 8.3/10 due to its powerful features, open-source nature, and cross-platform support. However, it lacks some professional-grade tools and can be challenging for beginners.
Scoring methodologyHitFilm Express is a free video editing software with a strong focus on visual effects and compositing. Startups can use it to create engaging marketing videos and social media content with a professional touch. While the free version has limitations, it provides a solid foundation for learning vide...
Why this score
HitFilm Express scores 7.5/10 due to its advanced visual effects and compositing capabilities, but it lacks the depth of features found in paid versions, which limits its appeal for professional use.
Scoring methodology
Lightworks is a professional-grade NLE with a long history in Hollywood (used on films like 'The Wolf of Wall Street'). It offers a robust free version with some export resolution limitations and a paid Pro version. It's renowned for its real-time effects, advanced multicam support, and incredibly p...
Why this score
Lightworks scores 7.3/10 due to its robust features and professional-grade capabilities, but it has limitations such as export resolution restrictions in the free version and a steep learning curve for beginners.
Scoring methodology
Kdenlive is a powerful, free, and open-source video editor based on the MLT framework. It offers a surprisingly professional feature set, including multi-track editing, proxy workflows for 4K, a wide range of effects and transitions, and keyframeable audio mixing. It's a flagship editor for the Linu...
Why this score
Kdenlive scores 8.9/10 due to its powerful feature set, including multi-track editing and a wide range of effects, but it has some limitations like a steep learning curve and less polished user interface.
Scoring methodology
OpenShot is a free, open-source video editor designed to be easy to use. It offers a drag-and-drop interface and basic editing features like trimming, transitions, and titles. While it is accessible for beginners, it suffers from frequent stability issues and performance bottlenecks when handling hi...
Why this score
OpenShot scores 7.5/10 due to its free, open-source nature and cross-platform support, but it lacks advanced features and can be overwhelming for beginners.
Scoring methodology
iMovie is Apple's free, beginner-friendly video editor included on all Macs, iPhones, and iPads. It offers a streamlined, intuitive interface with drag-and-drop simplicity, fun themes, and basic editing tools like trimming, titles, and music. It excels at quick edits and sharing directly to social p...
VSDC is a free video editor for Windows that offers a surprisingly wide range of features for a no-cost tool. It includes non-linear editing, color correction, and a variety of visual effects. While the interface is not as modern as some competitors, it is a reliable and capable tool for small busin...
Why this score
The VSDC Free Video Editor scores 6.8/10 due to its user-friendly interface and wide range of supported file formats, but it lacks some professional features and may experience occasional crashes.
Scoring methodology
Pinnacle Studio is a capable mid-range video editor for Windows, offering a strong feature set at a perpetual license price. It stands out with its sophisticated multi-camera editing (up to 6 angles), advanced motion tracking, and precise keyframing controls for creating custom animations. The inter...
Why this score
Pinnacle Studio scores 8.7/10 due to its robust feature set, including multi-camera editing and advanced motion tracking, but is limited by a high learning curve and no subscription model.
Scoring methodology
Pitivi is a free and open-source video editing software that offers basic to advanced features. It includes tools for trimming, cutting, adding transitions, and applying effects, as well as support for a wide range of file formats. While it may not have the same range of features as some other optio...
Kap is a free screen capture and video editing tool designed for beginners. It allows users to record their screens, trim video clips, add simple text overlays, and apply basic effects. The cross-platform application—compatible with Mac and Windows—is particularly useful for individuals creating tut...
