Video editing · Head to head
Lightworks vs Final Cut Pro: which is better?
Short answer
Lightworks costs less in the first year ($240 vs $299.99). Pick Lightworks for free pro-style editor with paid tiers; pick Final Cut Pro for Mac-based professional video editing.
| Fact | Lightworks | Final Cut Pro | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free pro-style editor with paid tiers | Mac-based professional video editing | — |
| Free plan | Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing | No | Lightworks |
| Entry plan | Create: $20 / mo | Final Cut Pro: $299.99 one-time | — |
| Mid plan | Pro: $35 / mo | Final Cut Pro: $299.99 one-time | — |
| Top plan | Pro: $35 / mo | Final Cut Pro: $299.99 one-time | — |
| 1st year | $240 | $299.99 | Lightworks |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | macOS | Lightworks |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Lightworks or Final Cut Pro?
Lightworks: Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing.
Should you pick Lightworks or Final Cut Pro?
Pick Lightworks if
- you want free pro-style editor with paid tiers
- the free plan is enough (1080p export, full timeline editing)
Pick Final Cut Pro if
- you want Mac-based professional video editing
- you can pay $299.99 one-time from day one
Sources
| Vendor page | URL | Checked |
|---|---|---|
| Lightworks pricing | lwks.com/pricing | 27 Oct 2026 |
| Final Cut Pro pricing | apps.apple.com/us/app/final-cut-pro/id424389933?mt=12 | 27 Oct 2026 |
Prices in USD as published by each vendor, billed yearly where offered. How we compare