Video editing · Head to head
CapCut vs Shotcut: which is better?
Short answer
Shotcut costs less in the first year ($149.88 vs $0). Pick CapCut for quick social video editing with AI; pick Shotcut for free open-source cross-platform editor.
| Fact | CapCut | Shotcut | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Quick social video editing with AI | Free open-source cross-platform editor | — |
| Free plan | Yes, free templates and basic editing tools | Yes, fully free and open source | Tie |
| Entry plan | Pro: $19.99 / mo | — | — |
| Mid plan | Ultra: $79 / mo | — | — |
| Top plan | Teams: $12.49 / mo | — | — |
| 1st year | $149.88 | $0 | Shotcut |
| 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 has the better free plan, CapCut or Shotcut?
Neither stands out: CapCut: Yes, free templates and basic editing tools; Shotcut: Yes, fully free and open source.
Should you pick CapCut or Shotcut?
Pick CapCut if
- you want quick social video editing with AI
- the free plan is enough (free templates and basic editing tools)
Pick Shotcut if
- you want free open-source cross-platform editor
- the free plan is enough (fully free and open source)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| CapCut pricing | capcut.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Shotcut pricing | shotcut.org/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare