Video editing · Head to head
Shotcut vs Lightworks: which is better?
Short answer
Shotcut costs less in the first year ($0 vs $240). Pick Shotcut for free open-source cross-platform editor; pick Lightworks for free pro-style editor with paid tiers.
| Fact | Shotcut | Lightworks | Edge |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Free open-source cross-platform editor | Free pro-style editor with paid tiers | — |
| Free plan | Yes, fully free and open source | Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing | Tie |
| Entry plan | — | Create: $20 / mo | — |
| Mid plan | — | Pro: $35 / mo | — |
| Top plan | — | Pro: $35 / mo | — |
| 1st year | $0 | $240 | Shotcut |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux | Windows, macOS, Linux | Tie |
Edge = the better published number or limit; we do not test the tools hands-on.
Which has the better free plan, Shotcut or Lightworks?
Neither stands out: Shotcut: Yes, fully free and open source; Lightworks: Yes, 1080p export, full timeline editing.
Should you pick Shotcut or Lightworks?
Pick Shotcut if
- you want free open-source cross-platform editor
- the free plan is enough (fully free and open source)
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Shotcut pricing | shotcut.org/ | 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