HitFilm vs Adobe Premiere Pro: Which is Better 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.
Bottom line: Adobe Premiere Pro is our overall pick for video editing workflows. Pick HitFilm 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:
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
Edit any format, from social clips to feature films
Best for you if:
- • Industry-standard video editing software
- • Multi-cam editing and color grading
| At a Glance |  HitFilm |  Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | Custom |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 4.2/5 | 4.6/5 |
Choose HitFilm or Adobe Premiere Pro?
Choose HitFilm if
Free video editing and VFX software
- Free video editor
- VFX capabilities
- Good for YouTube
- You want a free tier before you commit
Choose Adobe Premiere Pro if
Edit any format, from social clips to feature films
- Industry standard
- Creative Cloud integration
- Extensive features
| Feature | HitFilm | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.2/5 180 reviews | ★4.6/5 2,192 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingVideo & Media |
In-Depth Analysis
HitFilm
Free video editing and VFX software
Strengths
- +Free video editor
- +VFX capabilities
- +Good for YouTube
- +Active community
- +Tutorials available
Weaknesses
- -Learning curve
- -Resource intensive
- -Pro features paid
- -Export limitations
- -UI complex
Key features
Adobe Premiere Pro
Edit any format, from social clips to feature films
Strengths
- +Industry standard
- +Creative Cloud integration
- +Extensive features
Weaknesses
- -Subscription required
- -Resource heavy
Key features
Pricing: HitFilm vs Adobe Premiere Pro
| Plan | HitFilm | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | 19.99 Annual (Prepaid) |
| Tier 2 | $6.25 Creator | 22.99 Annual (Monthly) |
| Tier 3 | $11.6 Pro | 34.49 Monthly |
| Tier 4 | N/A | 59.99 Creative Cloud All Apps |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on HitFilm pricing and Adobe Premiere Pro pricing.
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: 4.2/5 (180 reviews). Adobe Premiere Pro: 4.6/5 (2,192 reviews).
Go with: Adobe Premiere Pro
Value user reviews?
HitFilm: 180 reviews (4.2/5). Adobe Premiere Pro: 2,192 reviews (4.6/5).
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 is rated higher: 4.6/5 vs 4.2/5.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Premiere Pro
- Higher user rating: 4.6/5 vs 4.2/5
- Larger review base (2,192 reviews)
- Our pick for this comparison
HitFilm
- Has a free tier
The Bottom Line
Adobe Premiere Pro 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 is rated 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: Edit any format, from social clips to feature films.
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.