Kdenlive vs Adobe Premiere Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Kdenlive 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:
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.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.3/10)
- • Industry-standard video editing software
- • Multi-cam editing and color grading
| At a Glance |  Kdenlive |  Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 83/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Kdenlive | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 54 |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAudio Editing |
How Kdenlive and Adobe Premiere Pro Compare
Kdenlive
Free and open-source non-linear video editor for Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.
Free · 83/100 score
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Paid · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Kdenlive is free. Adobe Premiere Pro is paid.
Go with: Kdenlive
Want the highest-rated option?
Kdenlive: 83/100. 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?
Kdenlive is free. Adobe Premiere 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?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores higher: 90/100 vs 83/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Premiere Pro
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 83
- More community upvotes (54)
- Our pick for this comparison
Kdenlive
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Adobe Premiere Pro (90/100) is our pick. That said, Kdenlive is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kdenlive or Adobe Premiere Pro better?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Kdenlive is free and Adobe Premiere Pro is paid.
What are Kdenlive and Adobe Premiere Pro used for?
Kdenlive: Free and open-source non-linear video editor for Linux, Windows, macOS, and BSD.. Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry-leading video editor.
What does Kdenlive cost vs Adobe Premiere Pro?
Kdenlive is completely free. Adobe Premiere Pro is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.