Descript vs OpenShot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Descript and OpenShot 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.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • AI video and audio editing
- • Edit media like a document
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free and open-source video editor.
- • Available on Linux, Mac, and Windows.
| At a Glance |  Descript |  OpenShot |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 87/100 | 77/100 |
| Feature | Descript | OpenShot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Free |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 77 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAnimation |
How Descript and OpenShot Compare
Descript
Edit audio and video like a doc
Free tier available · 87/100 score
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Free · 77/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenShot is free. Descript is freemium.
Go with: OpenShot
Want the highest-rated option?
Descript: 87/100. OpenShot: 77/100.
Go with: Descript
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Descript
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Descript is freemium. OpenShot is free. Go with OpenShot if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Descript scores higher: 87/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Descript
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 77
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenShot
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Descript (87/100) is our pick. That said, OpenShot is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Descript or OpenShot better?
Descript scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Descript is freemium and OpenShot is free.
What are Descript and OpenShot used for?
Descript: Edit audio and video like a doc. OpenShot: Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows..
What does Descript cost vs OpenShot?
Descript is freemium (free tier + paid plans). OpenShot is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.