Video editing · Head to head
CapCut vs Lightworks: which is better?
Short answer
CapCut costs less in the first year ($149.88 vs $240). Pick CapCut for quick social video editing with AI; pick Lightworks for free pro-style editor with paid tiers.
| Fact | CapCut | Lightworks | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Quick social video editing with AI | Free pro-style editor with paid tiers | — |
| Free plan | Yes, free templates and basic editing tools | Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing | Tie |
| Entry plan | Pro: $19.99 / mo | Create: $20 / mo | CapCut |
| Mid plan | Ultra: $79 / mo | Pro: $35 / mo | Lightworks |
| Top plan | Teams: $12.49 / mo | Pro: $35 / mo | CapCut |
| 1st year | $149.88 | $240 | CapCut |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | Windows, macOS, Linux | CapCut |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which is cheaper, CapCut or Lightworks?
CapCut costs less in the first year ($149.88 vs $240).
| 1st year | CapCut | Lightworks |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | $239.88 | $240 |
| Mid | $948 | $420 |
| Top | $149.88 | $420 |
Which has the better free plan, CapCut or Lightworks?
Neither stands out: CapCut: Yes, free templates and basic editing tools; Lightworks: Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing.
Should you pick CapCut or Lightworks?
Pick CapCut if
- you want quick social video editing with AI
- the free plan is enough (free templates and basic editing tools)
Pick Lightworks if
- you want free pro-style editor with paid tiers
- the free plan is enough (1080p export, full timeline editing)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| CapCut pricing | capcut.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Lightworks pricing | lwks.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare