Online, you can find everything from short posts for social media to ways to make yourself feel powerful. Open-source video editing software is cheap and works well. It benefits new users, content lovers, and money-saving. I’m talking about the greatest free and open-source video editing tools for beginners and experts in 2024.
What is open-source video editing software?
Programmers essentially develop open-source software collaboratively, making it available for free use and modification. When you compare this to paid choices, you can access and change the source code to fit your needs (if you’re tech-savvy) or enjoy features with fewer limits. This level of adaptability is great for makers who want to make software fit their own work processes or connect with other users who can help make it better.
There are several advantages to using open-source software for video editing.
Most open-source editors are free, which makes them great for artists on a budget.
- Community Support: With thousands of users globally, you can usually find answers, plugins, and support for your needs.
- Flexible and Customizable: Open-source tools allow for modifications, providing more flexibility than many paid software options.
Criteria for Choosing Video Editing Software
When choosing an open-source video editor, it’s important to consider the following:
- Ease of Use: Is the software beginner-friendly?
- Feature Set: Does it support the types of projects you plan to create (e.g., basic cuts, color correction, 3D animation)?
- Available Resources: Look for tutorials and community forums for support.
The best open-source video editing software of 2024
1. Shotcut
Shotcut is known for having an easy-to-use layout and a lot of effects, transitions, and color grading choices. It works with many file types, which makes it perfect for most first-time jobs.
Pros: It’s free, works on multiple platforms, and can open many file types.
Cons: Learning could be challenging for those who are just starting out.
2. Kdenlive
A robust option, Kdenlive (KDE Non-Linear Video Editor) provides a professional-grade experience with multi-track editing, audio features, and plugins.
Pros: Highly customizable, advanced timeline tools, and multi-cam editing support.
Cons: There are occasional performance issues on certain operating systems.
3. Blender
Though mostly used as a 3D animation program, Blender also has strong video editing tools, ideal for those wishing to combine animations with video projects.
Pros: For advanced users, the program is outstanding since it features robust 3D animations built in and VFX tools.
Cons: High learning curve for beginners and a challenging interface.
4. OpenShot:
OpenShot is a simple editor that is straightforward to use and has drag-and-drop features. It’s ideal for short video projects and basic editing.
Pros: Beginner-friendly, straightforward, and lightweight.
Cons: Limited advanced features and may lag with longer projects.
5. DaVinci Resolve (Free Version)
People with intermediate and expert knowledge would find the free edition of DaVinci Resolve perfect since it offers great color correcting tools and comprehensive editing capacity.
Pros: Excellent color grading tools, professional-grade effects, and support for large projects.
Cons: The free version has limited features and a challenging interface for new users.
6. Olive Video Editor
Olive is a newcomer in the open-source video editing scene but has quickly gained a following for its professional-grade editing and real-time playback.
Pros: Fast performance, user-friendly, and suitable for semi-professional work.
Cons: It’s currently in active development, which means it might have fewer features than established editors.
We are comparing the features and ease of use.
| Software | Ideal For | Key Features | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shotcut | Beginners | Color grading, various formats supported | Medium |
| Kdenlive | Advanced editing projects | Multi-track, audio mixing | Intermediate |
| Blender | 3D video projects | VFX and 3D animation integration | Challenging |
| OpenShot | Simple projects | Drag-and-drop, transitions | Easy |
| DaVinci Resolve | Simple projects | Advanced color grading and large project support | Medium-Advanced |
| Olive | Semi-professional projects | Real-time playback and rapid performance | Medium |
