DaVinci Resolve vs Lightworks: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between DaVinci Resolve and Lightworks 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.
Bottom line: DaVinci Resolve wins this matchup. Our overall Video Editing pick is Adobe Creative Cloud. Our free Video Editing pick is iMovie. Pick Lightworks if you need a free tier to start with.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Best for you if:
- • You want powerful free version
- • You want industry-standard color
Lightworks
Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.
Best for you if:
- • You want offers a free version for beginners to get started
- • You want scales with user skill level from beginner to professional
| At a Glance | Lightworks | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 4.8/5 | 3.6/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose DaVinci Resolve or Lightworks?
Choose DaVinci Resolve if
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
- You want powerful free version
- You want industry-standard color
Choose Lightworks if
Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.
- You want offers a free version for beginners to get started
- You want scales with user skill level from beginner to professional
| Feature | DaVinci Resolve | Lightworks |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.8/5 494 reviews | ★3.6/5 30 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAudio Editing |
In-Depth Analysis
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
DaVinci Resolve is the best deal in professional video editing, period.
Watch out
iPad Studio ($94.99) is a SEPARATE purchase from desktop Studio ($295), buying one does not unlock the other. Full cross-platform costs $390
Strengths
- +Powerful free version
- +Industry-standard color
- +All-in-one solution
Weaknesses
- -Steep learning curve
- -Hardware intensive
Key features
Lightworks
Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.
Lightworks offers a generous free tier, making it accessible for beginners.
Strengths
- +Offers a free version for beginners to get started.
- +Scales with user skill level from beginner to professional.
- +Provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools (video, audio, VFX, color).
- +Supports high-quality footage and offers advanced features like HDR workflows.
- +Streamlined sharing and export options, including direct social media integration.
Weaknesses
- -Advanced VFX features (supplied by NewBlue) are only available for Windows and Mac.
- -The full range of professional features requires a paid subscription.
Key features
Pricing: DaVinci Resolve vs Lightworks
| Plan | DaVinci Resolve | Lightworks |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | $295 Studio | User / Pay Monthly Create |
| Tier 3 | N/A | User / Pay Monthly Pro |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on DaVinci Resolve pricing and Lightworks pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
Want the highest-rated option?
DaVinci Resolve: 4.8/5 (494 reviews). Lightworks: 3.6/5 (30 reviews).
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
Value user reviews?
DaVinci Resolve: 494 reviews (4.8/5). Lightworks: 30 reviews (3.6/5).
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
DaVinci Resolve is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 3.6/5.
Key Takeaways
DaVinci Resolve
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 3.6/5
- Larger review base (494 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Lightworks
- Choose if you want unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor
The Bottom Line
DaVinci Resolve wins this matchup. Our overall Video Editing pick is Adobe Creative Cloud. Our free Video Editing pick is iMovie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DaVinci Resolve or Lightworks better?
DaVinci Resolve is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are DaVinci Resolve and Lightworks used for?
DaVinci Resolve: Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app. Lightworks: Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor..
What does DaVinci Resolve cost vs Lightworks?
DaVinci Resolve is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Lightworks is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.