HitFilm vs PowerDirector: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between HitFilm and PowerDirector 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:
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.2/10 vs 7.3/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • Professional video editing software
- • Hollywood-grade VFX and compositing
PowerDirector
AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories.
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered video editing for automatic story creation from clips and photos.
- • Offers advanced AI tools for video generation, character animation, and image/text to video conversion.
| At a Glance |  HitFilm |  PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 82/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | HitFilm | PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAI Video Generation |
How HitFilm and PowerDirector Compare
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Free tier available · 82/100 score
PowerDirector
AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories.
Paid · 73/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
HitFilm has a free tier. PowerDirector is paid only.
Go with: HitFilm
Want the highest-rated option?
HitFilm: 82/100. PowerDirector: 73/100.
Go with: HitFilm
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: HitFilm
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
HitFilm is freemium. PowerDirector is paid. HitFilm lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
HitFilm scores higher: 82/100 vs 73/100.
Key Takeaways
HitFilm
- Higher score: 82/100 vs 73
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
PowerDirector
The Bottom Line
HitFilm (82/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HitFilm or PowerDirector better?
HitFilm scores 82/100 in our evaluation. HitFilm is freemium and PowerDirector is paid.
What are HitFilm and PowerDirector used for?
HitFilm: Free video editing and VFX software. PowerDirector: AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories..
What does HitFilm cost vs PowerDirector?
HitFilm is freemium (free tier + paid plans). PowerDirector is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.