Kdenlive vs Final Cut Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kdenlive and Final Cut 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:
Kdenlive
Free and open-source non-linear video editor for Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free and open-source non-linear video editor.
- • Works on Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.
Final Cut Pro
Professional video editing for Mac
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.8/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • Apple's professional video editing software
- • Optimized for Mac with Metal engine
| At a Glance |  Kdenlive |  Final Cut Pro |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 83/100 | 88/100 |
| Feature | Kdenlive | Final Cut Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 88 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 91 |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingColor Tools |
How Kdenlive and Final Cut Pro Compare
Kdenlive
Free and open-source non-linear video editor for Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.
Free · 83/100 score
Final Cut Pro
Professional video editing for Mac
Paid · 88/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kdenlive is free. Final Cut Pro is paid.
Go with: Kdenlive
Want the highest-rated option?
Kdenlive: 83/100. Final Cut Pro: 88/100.
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?
Kdenlive is free. Final Cut Pro is paid. Go with Kdenlive 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 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Final Cut Pro
- Higher score: 88/100 vs 83
- More community upvotes (91)
- Our pick for this comparison
Kdenlive
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Final Cut Pro (88/100) is our pick. That said, Kdenlive is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kdenlive or Final Cut Pro better?
Final Cut Pro scores 88/100 in our evaluation. Kdenlive is free and Final Cut Pro is paid.
What are Kdenlive and Final Cut Pro used for?
Kdenlive: Free and open-source non-linear video editor for Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.. Final Cut Pro: Professional video editing for Mac.
What does Kdenlive cost vs Final Cut Pro?
Kdenlive is completely free. Final Cut Pro is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.