Shotcut vs Kdenlive: which should you use on Windows?
Both are free, open-source video editors with no watermark and no export limit. The difference is mostly in how they feel to use and how far they scale.
Short answer
Start with Shotcut if you are new to editing and want results quickly. Choose Kdenlive if you edit longer videos, or want a layout closer to professional editors. Trying both costs nothing but time.
Side by side
| Shotcut | Kdenlive | |
|---|---|---|
| Made by | Meltytech | KDE |
| Licence | Free | Free |
| Latest version we list | 26.9.27 | 26.08.2 |
| Last updated | 28 Sep 2026 | 2 Nov 2026 |
| Download size | — | — |
| Windows versions | Windows 11, Windows 10 | Windows 11, Windows 10 |
| Recommended for | Video Creators & YouTubers, Teachers | Video Creators & YouTubers |
| Install with winget | Meltytech.Shotcut | KDE.Kdenlive |
| Official site | shotcut.org | kdenlive.org |
Choose Shotcut if
- This is your first video editor
- You have clips in many different formats from phones and cameras
- You make short videos and want a simpler screen
Choose Kdenlive if
- You have used Premiere Pro or a similar editor before
- You edit long projects with many clips and tracks
- You want proxy clips and more control over effects
Strengths and weaknesses
Shotcut
Pros
- No watermark or subscription
- Wide format support
- 4K editing and many filters
Cons
- Less polished than paid editors
- Learning curve for beginners
Kdenlive
Pros
- No watermark or limits
- Multi-track timeline
- Proxy editing for 4K
Cons
- Less polished than paid editors