10 Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows, Mac and Linux in 2026
10 Best Free Video Editing Software for Windows, Mac and Linux in 2026
Professional video editing doesn’t require expensive software — in 2026, free video editors offer powerful features that rival paid alternatives. From simple cuts to advanced color grading and effects, these tools can handle any video project.
We’ve tested and ranked the 10 best free video editing programs that:
- ✅ Support multiple video formats and codecs
- ✅ Offer timeline-based editing interface
- ✅ Available for Windows, macOS and Linux
- ✅ Include effects, transitions, and color correction
All video editors in this article can be downloaded for free from FreeAppCenter — verified video editing software with detailed feature reviews.
1. DaVinci Resolve — Professional Color Grading Suite

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
License: Free (with paid Studio version)
DaVinci Resolve is used by professional filmmakers and colorists worldwide. The free version includes advanced color grading, audio post-production, and visual effects tools.
Key features:
- 🎨 Professional color grading and correction
- 🎬 Multi-track timeline editing
- 🎵 Fairlight audio post-production
- ✨ Fusion visual effects compositing
Download DaVinci Resolve: DaVinci Resolve page on FreeAppCenter →
2. Shotcut — Open Source Video Editor

Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
License: GPLv3 (open source)
Shotcut is a powerful open-source video editor with support for hundreds of audio and video formats. It features a timeline-based interface, color correction, filters, and effects.
The program supports 4K video editing, hardware acceleration, and advanced audio mixing. Perfect for both beginners and advanced users.
Download Shotcut: Shotcut page on FreeAppCenter (verified safe download).
3. OpenShot — User-Friendly Video Editor
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
OpenShot offers an intuitive interface perfect for beginners while providing advanced features like keyframe animation, 3D titles, and unlimited tracks.
The software includes video effects, transitions, and audio mixing tools. Great for YouTube creators and home video editing.
Download OpenShot (user-friendly video editor).
4. Kdenlive — Linux Powerhouse Editor
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Kdenlive is a professional video editor with multi-track editing, proxy editing for 4K footage, and extensive effects library. Originally for Linux, now available on all platforms.
The program supports all major video formats and includes color correction, audio mixing, and keyframe animation features.
👉 Kdenlive for Windows 10/11 — professional video editing.
5. Blender — 3D Video Editing and VFX
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Blender includes a powerful video sequence editor for combining 3D graphics with live-action footage. It supports masking, color grading, and compositing.
Download Blender (3D and video editing combined).
6. Lightworks — Hollywood-Grade Editor
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux
Lightworks has been used to edit major Hollywood films. The free version includes professional editing tools, multi-format support, and real-time effects.
While the free version has export limitations (720p), it’s perfect for learning professional editing workflows.
Download Lightworks Free (professional editing tools).
7. HitFilm Express — VFX Integration
Platforms: Windows, macOS
HitFilm Express combines video editing with visual effects compositing. It includes particle effects, 3D objects, and advanced color grading tools.
Download HitFilm Express (video editing with VFX).
8. VLC Media Player — Basic Video Editing
Platforms: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android
While primarily a media player, VLC includes basic video editing features like trimming, cropping, and format conversion. Perfect for quick edits.
Download VLC Media Player (basic editing features).
9. Windows Video Editor — Built-in Tool
Platforms: Windows 10, Windows 11
Windows Video Editor comes pre-installed with Windows 10/11. It offers basic editing features like trimming, adding text, filters, and music for simple video projects.
Windows Video Editor information (built-in Windows tool).
10. iMovie — Mac Native Video Editor
Platforms: macOS, iOS
iMovie is Apple’s free video editing software included with macOS. It offers professional-looking results with templates, effects, and easy sharing to social media.
iMovie for macOS — download from verified source.
Frequently Asked Questions About Free Video Editing Software
Can free video editors handle 4K video editing?
Yes, many free video editors like DaVinci Resolve, Shotcut, and Kdenlive support 4K video editing. Some programs use proxy editing to improve performance when working with high-resolution footage.
What’s the difference between free and paid video editing software?
Free video editors often have export limitations (resolution or watermark), fewer effects, or limited customer support. However, programs like DaVinci Resolve and Shotcut offer professional features without restrictions in their free versions.
Which free video editor is best for beginners?
OpenShot and Windows Video Editor are excellent choices for beginners due to their intuitive interfaces. iMovie is also user-friendly for Mac users. For more advanced features, Shotcut offers a good balance of power and usability.
Summary: Choose the Best Free Video Editor
In 2026, free video editing software provides professional-grade tools for creating stunning videos. Whether you’re editing YouTube content, home videos, or professional projects, there’s a free solution for every need.
🎬 Video editing software catalog: FreeAppCenter.com — download DaVinci Resolve, Shotcut, OpenShot and other professional video editors without watermarks and limitations.
Which free video editor do you use for your projects? Share your recommendations in the comments!