Final Cut Pro vs OpenShot: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Final Cut Pro 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 March 13, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Final Cut Pro
Professional video editing for Mac
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • Apple's professional video editing software
- • Optimized for Mac with Metal engine
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 |  Final Cut Pro |  OpenShot |
|---|---|---|
Price | Paid | Free |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 88/100 | 77/100 |
| Feature | Final Cut Pro | OpenShot |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Free |
| Editorial Score | 88 | 77 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 91 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingColor Tools | Video EditingAnimation |
How Final Cut Pro and OpenShot Compare
Final Cut Pro
Professional video editing for Mac
Paid · 88/100 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. Final Cut Pro is paid.
Go with: OpenShot
Want the highest-rated option?
Final Cut Pro: 88/100. OpenShot: 77/100.
Go with: Final Cut Pro
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Final Cut Pro
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Final Cut Pro is paid. 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?
Final Cut Pro scores higher: 88/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Final Cut Pro
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 77
- More community upvotes (91)
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenShot
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Final Cut Pro (88/100) is our pick. That said, OpenShot is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Final Cut Pro or OpenShot better?
Final Cut Pro scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Final Cut Pro is paid and OpenShot is free.
What are Final Cut Pro and OpenShot used for?
Final Cut Pro: Professional video editing for Mac. OpenShot: Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows..
What does Final Cut Pro cost vs OpenShot?
Final Cut Pro is a paid tool. OpenShot is completely free. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.