HitFilm vs Adobe Premiere Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between HitFilm and Adobe Premiere Pro 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 to try before committing
- • Professional video editing software
- • Hollywood-grade VFX and compositing
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.2/10)
- • Industry-standard video editing software
- • Multi-cam editing and color grading
| At a Glance |  HitFilm |  Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 82/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | HitFilm | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 54 |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAudio Editing |
How HitFilm and Adobe Premiere Pro Compare
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Paid · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
HitFilm has a free tier. Adobe Premiere Pro is paid only.
Go with: HitFilm
Want the highest-rated option?
HitFilm: 82/100. Adobe Premiere Pro: 90/100.
Go with: Adobe Premiere Pro
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe Premiere Pro
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
HitFilm is freemium. Adobe Premiere Pro 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?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores higher: 90/100 vs 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Premiere Pro
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 82
- More community upvotes (54)
- Our pick for this comparison
HitFilm
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Adobe Premiere Pro (90/100) is our pick. HitFilm has a free tier if you want to test without paying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HitFilm or Adobe Premiere Pro better?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores 90/100 in our evaluation. HitFilm is freemium and Adobe Premiere Pro is paid.
What are HitFilm and Adobe Premiere Pro used for?
HitFilm: Free video editing and VFX software. Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry-leading video editor.
What does HitFilm cost vs Adobe Premiere Pro?
HitFilm is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Adobe Premiere Pro is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.