Feature-rich no cost video editor
Videos are the easiest content to digest. That's why most effective marketing campaigns use this as an avenue to spread the word. Of course, coming up with the next viral sensation often comes with a price. Sometimes even a monthly subscription. Lucky for us there are excellent video editing platforms that come with absolutely no cost. Take Shotcut for example.
Shotcut is an open-source audio and video editing tool. It has all the basic editing features you that are available on its paid counterparts. Some even say that it's the perfect replacement to Windows Movie Maker. Find out what makes others sing praises to this software.
Unpack the classic features you love and more
Shotcut is a top-notch video editing tool you that’s absolutely free.
Its interface is modest. Although it’s not as impressive as other brands, it’s still worth checking out. It has docked your needs right in front of you. In no time, you’ll figure out the function of each feature. Commands like trimming have been simplified for easy access.
A library of transitions and filters is located right in the software you can use to make your concept happen. The software also lets you manipulate audio to improve sound quality. You can also correct and grade the color of your projects using its 3-way color wheels.
When you have doubts regarding the changes you have made, fear not. You can easily access the editing history on so you can identify which part you went wrong. Plus, you also get to undo and redo your activity as much as you want. Shotcut does not have a limit.
To speed things up, you can opt to learn the keyboard shortcuts you can command. Playback speed is altered with a simple press of the J, K, and L keys. You can also scan the timeline simply by pressing alt and a choice of the left or right key, depending on what you want to see.
It’s a one-stop-shop
This video editing software lets you record footage using your webcam. You can access it in the software for easier editing. This is a good way to slash the long importing hours every editor dreads. It’s a more straightforward way to create video content.
Shotcut also understands the growing demand for streaming. So whether you are a gamer or a mukbang vlogger, you can certainly use this software to stream in various formats such as HTTP, HLS, UDP and much more.
Hobbyists and home videomakers will certainly make use of what this software offers. Its open-source nature is indicative of its constant improvement. You can take this as an opportunity to tweak it to serve the purpose you need it for. It will be a good way for you to discover advanced features that will improve your experience. Professionals, on the other hand, may find this software lacking in the long run.
At times, there is a real divide between compatibility of software to different operating systems. Luckily, this free editing software works for Windows, Mac, and Linux. The software has made sure that users running with these OS giants are catered to.
Where can you run this program?
Shotcut works on multiple platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux. It supports both 32 and 64-bit Windows 7 or later versions. You may also run it as a portable app using an external drive. This editor is also Codec independent so it does not rely on system codecs. It supports several languages including Chinese, Spanish, French, and more.
Is there a better alternative?
OpenShot is an open-source video editing software that works on multiple platforms. It has a powerful animation framework that gives you more freedom to be creative with your clips. Apart from the basic editing features, you can render 3D animated titles, effects, lens flares, and more. It has a user-friendly interface that lets you drag and drop your files into the program for easier access. However, some users report that this editor could be a little buggy, especially when applying different effects on your clip.
Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the top software preferred by professional video editors. It has dozens of useful features including media management and streamlined color grading. You can also configure the program according to your preferences for a hassle-free experience. The sleek and intuitive interface makes it easier to understand and navigate through. While it is indeed a powerful editing tool, subscription rates may be too steep for some.
Our take
When it comes to freeware, you really get what you don't pay for and there's really nothing left to lose. It's packed with efficient tools like the chroma key for green screen editing. You also get high-quality videos upon exporting. Overall, it's an exceptional editor for your next creative project.
Should you download it?
Yes. If you're in need of a powerful editing software but lack the budget, Shotcut is an excellent choice. It's absolutely free and you don’t even have to deal with pesky ads or bundled adware. Getting it is definitely a win-win.