Video editing · Head to head
Kdenlive vs DaVinci Resolve: which is better?
Short answer
Kdenlive costs less in the first year ($0 vs $236). Pick Kdenlive for free open-source multitrack editor; pick DaVinci Resolve for pro editing and colour grading, free tier.
| Fact | Kdenlive | DaVinci Resolve | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free open-source multitrack editor | Pro editing and colour grading, free tier | — |
| Free plan | Yes, fully free and open source | Yes, free version with editing, colour, VFX, audio | Tie |
| Entry plan | — | DaVinci Resolve Studio: $236 one-time | — |
| Mid plan | — | DaVinci Resolve Studio: $236 one-time | — |
| Top plan | — | DaVinci Resolve Studio: $236 one-time | — |
| 1st year | $0 | $236 | Kdenlive |
| Platforms | Linux, Windows, macOS | macOS, Windows, Linux | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Kdenlive or DaVinci Resolve?
Neither stands out: Kdenlive: Yes, fully free and open source; DaVinci Resolve: Yes, free version with editing, colour, VFX, audio.
Should you pick Kdenlive or DaVinci Resolve?
Pick Kdenlive if
- you want free open-source multitrack editor
- the free plan is enough (fully free and open source)
Pick DaVinci Resolve if
- you want pro editing and colour grading, free tier
- the free plan is enough (free version with editing, colour, VFX, audio)
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Kdenlive pricing | kdenlive.org/en/ | 27 Oct 2026 |
| DaVinci Resolve pricing | blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare