CapCut vs Shotcut: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between CapCut and Shotcut comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
CapCut
Advanced video editing for TikTok creators, free
Best for you if:
- • Offers a free tier with a Pro option for advanced features
- • AI features include auto-captions, background removal, motion tracking, and voice effects
Shotcut
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free, open-source, and cross-platform video editor.
- • Supports a wide range of audio/video formats and 4K/8K resolutions with native timeline editing.
| At a Glance |  CapCut |  Shotcut |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | - | 4.5/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose CapCut or Shotcut?
Choose CapCut if
Advanced video editing for TikTok creators, free
- Free with great features
- AI tools
- Easy to use
Choose Shotcut if
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
- Free video editor
- Open source
- Cross-platform
- You want a fully free tool (CapCut requires payment)
| Feature | CapCut | Shotcut |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.5/5 59 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingScreen Recording |
In-Depth Analysis
CapCut
Advanced video editing for TikTok creators, free
Strengths
- +Free with great features
- +AI tools
- +Easy to use
Weaknesses
- -Concerns regarding ownership by ByteDance
- -Limited advanced features
Key features
Value 90/100. CapCut's pricing is very generous, especially with its robust Free tier and competitive Pro tier at $9.99/month.
Watch out: Standard tier is mobile-only
Shotcut
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Strengths
- +Free video editor
- +Open source
- +Cross-platform
- +Good for beginners
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -UI dated
- -Learning curve
- -Performance varies
- -Feature gaps
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
Value 100/100. Shotcut's pricing is exceptionally generous, as it is entirely free and open-source, offering all features without any cost.
Watch out: No hidden costs, it's genuinely free.
Pricing: CapCut vs Shotcut
| Plan | CapCut | Shotcut |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0 Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | 5.99 Standard | N/A |
| Tier 3 | 9.99 Pro | N/A |
| Tier 4 | 24.99 Team | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on CapCut pricing and Shotcut pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Shotcut is free. CapCut is freemium.
Go with: Shotcut
Want the highest-rated option?
Shotcut is rated 4.5/5. CapCut has no ratings yet.
Go with: Shotcut
Value user reviews?
CapCut: no ratings yet. Shotcut: 59 reviews (4.5/5).
Go with: Shotcut
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
CapCut is freemium. Shotcut is free. Go with Shotcut if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Shotcut is rated 4.5/5; CapCut has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Shotcut
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
CapCut
- Choose if you want advanced video editing for TikTok creators, free
The Bottom Line
Shotcut is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CapCut or Shotcut better?
Shotcut is rated in our evaluation. CapCut is freemium and Shotcut is free.
What are CapCut and Shotcut used for?
CapCut: Advanced video editing for TikTok creators, free. Shotcut: Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features..
What does CapCut cost vs Shotcut?
CapCut is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Shotcut is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.