The best free video editing software for Windows, Mac, and Linux to create professional content for YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
Are you looking for the best free video editing software to create professional videos that attract millions of views on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram? Whether you're a beginner or a professional content creator, this list includes the most powerful free video editing software that works on all operating systems (Windows, Mac, and Linux) and allows you to easily create modern and professional content.
Looking for professional, free video editing software? You'll find the best here.
In today's world, video is king. Whether you're a YouTube creator, posting Reels on Instagram, or trending on TikTok, the power of visual content starts with the editing software you use.
But what if you don't want to pay hundreds of dollars for professional editing software? The answer is simple: completely free editing software.
In this comprehensive guide, we've compiled the best and most powerful free video editing software of 2026 that runs on Windows, Mac, and Linux and is suitable for:
- Beginners who want quick results
- And professionals looking for powerful performance without the cost.
Get ready to discover amazing tools that enable you to produce professional, trendy, and viral content without spending a penny.
The most powerful free editing software to create professional content that attracts millions of views.
Whether you create short videos for TikTok and Instagram or manage a YouTube channel and are looking for professionalism without the cost, these programs offer everything you need. From precise trimming to modern filters and stunning visual effects, you'll find free tools that rival the most popular paid programs, helping you produce engaging content that achieves the highest viewership rates across all social media platforms.
1. DaVinci Resolve - The #1 Free Professional Choice
DaVinci Resolve is one of the world's most powerful professional video editing and production software, combining advanced tools for editing, color correction, visual effects, and audio in a single platform. It features an easy-to-customize interface that supports both beginners and professionals and supports the highest quality standards, including 8K and HDR. Furthermore, the basic version of the software is free and offers powerful features, while the paid version (DaVinci Resolve Studio) offers additional features for professional studios. In short, if you're looking for comprehensive software for creating stunning visual content, DaVinci Resolve is an unbeatable choice.
Operating System: Windows, Mac OS, Linux
DaVinci Resolve Features:
- Used in Hollywood movies - completely professional.
- Accurate color grading and VFX effects.
- A powerful interface suitable for professionals and aspiring content creators.
- Ideal for long or short YouTube videos.
Best for: professional YouTubers, filmmakers, and TikTok influencers.
The best free video editing software for Windows, Mac, and Linux to create professional content for YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram.
2. Shotcut - Best for Beginners and Social Media Content Creators
ShotCut is free and open-source video editing software, ideal for beginners and users looking for a simple alternative without the complexities of professional software. It features an easy-to-understand interface, supports a wide range of video and audio formats, and provides basic features like cutting, merging, adding effects, and controlling color. While it lacks the advanced tools found in some other programs, it's a great choice for small projects or those looking to learn the basics of editing without the expense. It supports multiple operating systems (Windows, Mac, and Linux), making it accessible to everyone.
Operating System: Windows, Mac OS, Linux
Shotcut features:
- 100% free and open source.
- Very easy to use - perfect for beginners.
- Supports vertical videos (9:16)—perfect for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.
- It contains ready-made filters and audio and image effects.
- Supports a wide range of formats (including 4K and HD) without the need to convert files.
- It works on all operating systems (Windows, Mac, Linux) without any problems.
- Advanced audio features such as adjusting levels and adding simple sound effects.
Best for: TikTok users, Instagram users, and quick social media videos.
3. Kdenlive—Power and flexibility in one program
Kdenlive is one of the best free video editing software available today. It's open source and runs on Windows, Linux, and Mac. With its easy-to-customize interface and professional tools, it's an ideal choice for both beginners and professionals alike.
Operating System: Windows, Mac OS, Linux
Key Features of Kdenlive
- Multi-track support for flexible video editing
- Advanced color correction tools
- Large collection of effects and transitions
- Fully integrated audio editor with support for multiple formats
- Supports multiple video formats, including 4K.
- Easy-to-use interface with full customization
- It is open source and has hundreds of effects.
- Supports multi-track editing.
- Transition filters, color adjustment, audio editing.
- Ideal for those who want more freedom and flexibility than Shotcut.
Best for: Advanced content creators on Facebook and YouTube.
4. HitFilm Express - Powerful Editing + Visual Effects
HitFilm Express is a comprehensive video editing and visual effects solution that combines powerful video editing capabilities and professional effects in one program. This free program (with some optional paid features) is ideal for content creators, YouTubers, and movie enthusiasts looking for professional results at a low cost.
HitFilm Express isn't just a video editor; it provides you with a complete film studio on your PC. The program supports 4K projects and comes with a rich library of pre-made effects and transitions.
Key Features of HitFilm Express:
- Advanced video editor with multi-track timeline
- Over 410 VFX and built-in effects (including green screens)
- Professional visual effects tools (such as 3D compositing)
- Advanced color correction tools
- Professional audio mixing
- Free version with optional upgrade
- Includes professional editing tools and visual effects (VFX).
- Professional interface suitable for YouTube and TikTok.
- There is an internal store for paid features, but the basic features are free.
Operating System: Windows - Mac
Best for: Creative TikTok videos, infographics, and special effects.
Download HitFilm Express
The download method for HitFilm Express has changed, as developer FXhome has discontinued support for the previous free version. However, some older versions are still available for download.
🔗 Direct download links for HitFilm Express 2021.3:
5. Olive Video Editor - Modern Design and Fast Action
Introduction to Olive Video Editor - a free, lightweight video editor for beginners and professionals.
Olive Video Editor is a free and open-source video editing software designed to be a lightweight and fast alternative to professional software. It's an ideal choice for beginners looking for a simple interface with advanced features that professionals will appreciate.
What sets Olive apart is its forward-thinking approach, as developers are constantly improving it, focusing on high performance and stability. The software is suitable for creating:
- YouTube clips
- Visual podcast
- Presentations
- Short film projects
Key Features of Olive Video Editor:
- Interface similar to Adobe Premiere.
- Fast and lightweight, ideal for those who prefer speed and simplicity.
- It is still in beta but is developing rapidly.
- Completely free with no restrictions or watermarks.
- Modern, fast and easy to learn interface
- Non-linear editing (NLE) support for complex projects
- Basic color correction tools
- Professional cutting and merging tools
- Supports most popular video formats
Operating System: Windows, Mac OS, Linux
Best for: Quickly editing daily or seasonal social media content.
Official GitHub repository:
⭐ Why are these programs considered the best in 2026?
- You do not need to pay any fees or subscriptions.
- There are no watermarks on the videos.
- Compatible with modern video formats (16:9 vertical, 16:9 horizontal).
- Suitable for all types of content:
- YouTube (vlogs, tutorials, long videos)
- TikTok (quick content, trends)
- Instagram (Reels, Stories)
- Facebook (educational or entertainment clips)
Tips for creating viral content that attracts views:
- Start with what's popular in your niche.
- Use an attractive shot in the first 3 seconds.
- Add animated text and short captions to grab attention.
- Use simple sound effects and visual filters.
- Don't forget to include a call to action (follow me, subscribe, comment).
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conclusion
If you're looking for the best free video editing software of 2025 to create stylish content across all social media platforms, start with one of these powerful programs:
For Beginners: Shotcut
For professionals: DaVinci Resolve
For flexibility and speed of performance: Kdenlive or Olive
Get started today and create content that millions will watch. 🔥