Video editing has become an essential skill, whether for social media content, music videos, or professional productions. In 2025, free video editing software competes with premium tools, offering advanced features without the price tag. However, not all free editors are created equal—some stand out for ease of use, others for powerful editing capabilities or impressive visual effects.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve reviewed the best free video editing software of 2025. Stick around until the end for our top pick!
1. CapCut
CapCut, developed by ByteDance—the creators of TikTok—has gained popularity for its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with social media platforms. Initially designed for mobile devices, CapCut is now available on Windows and macOS, making it accessible to a broader audience. It offers a range of effects, filters, and templates tailored for vertical video formats, catering specifically to social media content creators. While it excels in simplicity and ease of use, CapCut has limitations, such as a maximum of 7 video tracks and 10 audio tracks, and export options primarily in .mp4 format up to 4K at 60fps. These constraints make it more suitable for quick edits rather than complex projects.
2. Shotcut
Shotcut is an open-source video editor compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. It offers a customizable interface, supporting a wide array of formats and providing features like non-linear editing, visual effects, and color grading. Its open-source nature allows for continuous updates and community-driven enhancements. While it may lack some advanced features found in premium software, Shotcut remains a reliable choice for users seeking a free, cross-platform solution.
3. Adobe Premiere Pro (Trial Version)
Adobe Premiere Pro is a staple in the professional video editing industry. While primarily a paid software, Adobe offers a free 7-day trial that grants access to all premium features. This trial period is ideal for users seeking to explore high-end editing tools for short-term projects. The software boasts an intuitive interface, AI-powered features, and advanced audio enhancements. However, the limited trial duration and the necessity for a powerful computer may be constraints for some users.
4. Avid Media Composer First
Avid Media Composer First is the free version of the renowned Media Composer software, widely used in the film and television industry. It offers a range of professional editing tools, albeit with some limitations compared to the full version. Users can create up to 4 video tracks and 8 audio tracks per project, with export options capped at 1080p and 60fps. The interface may appear complex to newcomers, and certain features require an internet connection. Despite these constraints, it provides a solid foundation for those aspiring to enter professional video editing.
5. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve, developed by BlackMagic Design, stands out as a premier free video editing tool. Renowned for its advanced color correction capabilities, it also offers comprehensive features for editing, visual effects, and audio post-production. The software supports a wide range of formats, including RAW and Ultra HD, making it suitable for high-end projects. However, its extensive feature set comes with a steep learning curve, and it requires a robust computer setup to run efficiently. For those willing to invest time in mastering it, DaVinci Resolve provides a professional-grade platform without the associated costs.
6. OpenShot
OpenShot is designed with simplicity in mind, making it an excellent choice for beginners. It provides essential editing tools, including trimming, scaling, rotation, and adding transitions. The software supports multiple tracks and layers, and offers a range of templates and effects to enhance videos. While it may not have the advanced features required for professional-grade projects, OpenShot is perfect for users starting their video editing journey.
7. HitFilm Express:
HitFilm Express is a versatile video editing software that combines traditional editing tools with a robust suite of visual effects. It’s particularly appealing to creators looking to incorporate cinematic effects into their projects. The software includes over 400 effects and presets, catering to both beginners and advanced users. However, the free version limits exports to 1080p resolution, and some advanced features may imprint a watermark on the final output unless upgraded to the paid version.
Honorable mention: Blender
Primarily known for 3D modeling and animation, Blender also includes a powerful video sequence editor. It offers features like live preview, luma waveform, chroma vectorscope, and histogram displays. Blender supports up to 32 slots for adding video, images, audio, and effects, making it a comprehensive tool for complex projects. However, its interface and feature set are more geared towards users with experience in 3D animation and compositing.
DaVinci Resolve – Our favorite free video editing software of 2025!
For its unparalleled combination of powerful features, professional tools, and zero-cost accessibility, DaVinci Resolve is our favorite free video editing software of 2025! If you’re looking for the best, this is the one to choose.