Comparison · Video editing software
Kdenlive vs Lightworks: which is better in 2026?
Kdenlive ranks higher in our list of video editing software (#5 against #6, score 85.0 against 81.0).
Choose Kdenlive if you want
Open-source timeline editing on Linux.
A free GPL-3.0 editor for Linux, Windows, macOS and BSD, built on the MLT Framework. Its interface is dense, and it offers less guided help than the paid editors in this list.
Choose Lightworks if you want
Desktop editing with a free tier.
A long-established editor with a free tier that has no time limit, plus paid Create and Pro plans. It runs on desktop only, and mobile and tablet users cannot install it.
The main differences
- Kdenlive is open source; Lightworks is not.
Side by side
 Kdenlive |  Lightworks | |
|---|---|---|
| Score | 85.0 | 81.0 |
| Rank in list | #5 of 7 | #6 of 7 |
| Price | Free and open sourceFree and open source under the GPL-3.0 license | Free plan, paid upgradesFree tier; Create and Pro plans billed monthly, yearly or once |
| Free to use | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | No |
| Platforms | LinuxWindowsmacOSLinux, Windows, macOS | WindowsmacOSLinuxWindows, macOS, Linux |
| Made by | KDE community | Not stated |
| Best for | Open-source timeline editing on Linux | Desktop editing with a free tier |
| Strengths |
|
|
| Limits |
|
|
| Links | Visit site | Visit site |
Questions about Kdenlive vs Lightworks
- Is Kdenlive better than Lightworks?
- Kdenlive ranks higher in our list of video editing software (#5 against #6, score 85.0 against 81.0). Kdenlive is best for: open-source timeline editing on Linux. Lightworks is best for: desktop editing with a free tier.
- Which is cheaper, Kdenlive or Lightworks?
- Kdenlive: Free and open source under the GPL-3.0 license. Lightworks: Free tier; Create and Pro plans billed monthly, yearly or once.
- Do Kdenlive and Lightworks run on the same platforms?
- Kdenlive supports Linux, Windows, macOS. Lightworks supports Windows, macOS, Linux.