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Open source Lightworks alternatives

Top Video Editing like Lightworks

The most popular alternative to Lightworks is Kdenlive, which has a free version. Other great alternatives to Lightworks are Shotcut and OpenShot.

Most alternatives to Lightworks are in the Video Editing category, compared here by price, platform and features.

Lightworks alternatives
AllFreeOpen source
3 apps

All Lightworks alternatives

  1. Kdenlive

    Kdenlive is a multi-track video editor developed by the KDE community, with effects, transitions, proxy editing and automatic subtitles.

    11 Kdenlive alternatives

    Pros

    • Free and open source, with no watermarks or paywalls
    • Multi-track editing with proxy clips for smoother playback
    • Runs on Windows, macOS and Linux

    Cons

    • Can crash or behave unpredictably on complex projects
    • Interface takes time for beginners to learn
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    Video Editing
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    Auto captionsOffline mode
    Visit websiteMore about Kdenlive

  2. Shotcut

    15.4Kstars

    Shotcut is a cross-platform video editor with native timeline editing, wide format support and no import step, built on the MLT framework.

    12 Shotcut alternatives

    Pros

    • Free and open source, with no watermarks or upsells
    • Wide format support and native timeline editing with no import step
    • Runs on Windows, macOS and Linux

    Cons

    • Interface feels less intuitive than consumer editors
    • Fewer templates and effects than commercial tools
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    Video Editing
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    Offline mode
    Visit websiteMore about Shotcut

  3. OpenShot

    6.6Kstars

    OpenShot is a free, open source video editor designed to be easy to learn. It offers a multi-track timeline with drag and drop, keyframe animations, transitions, title templates, chroma key and 3D animated titles rendered with Blender. It runs on Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS and is a common choice for beginners who want a no-cost desktop editor.

    8 OpenShot alternatives

    Pros

    • Simple drag-and-drop editing that beginners learn quickly
    • Free and open source on Windows, macOS, Linux and ChromeOS
    • Animated 3D titles rendered with Blender

    Cons

    • Performance and stability suffer on longer projects
    • Limited advanced tools compared with DaVinci Resolve or Kdenlive
    Cost / License
    FreeOpen source
    Categories
    Video Editing
    Platforms
    WindowsMacLinux
    Features
    4K exportGreen screenMulti-track timeline
    Visit websiteMore about OpenShot

Lightworks vs its alternatives at a glance

Pricing, platforms and the key features of Lightworks, compared with its most popular alternatives.

Lightworks vs its alternatives at a glance
AppPricingPlatforms4K exportColor gradingMulti-track timeline
LightworksFreemiumWindows, Mac, Linux
KdenliveFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
ShotcutFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux
OpenShotFreeOpen sourceWindows, Mac, Linux

Lightworks alternatives: frequently asked questions

What is the best alternative to Lightworks?

The most popular alternative to Lightworks is Kdenlive: Free and open source video editor. Other great alternatives are Shotcut and OpenShot.

Is there a free alternative to Lightworks?

Yes, 3 alternatives are free or have a free plan, including Kdenlive, Shotcut, and OpenShot.

Is there an open source alternative to Lightworks?

Yes, 3 open source alternatives are listed, including Kdenlive, Shotcut, and OpenShot.

Is Lightworks free?

Lightworks has a free plan, with paid plans that unlock more features.

Compare Lightworks with its alternatives

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