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Lightworks vs Filmora: Which is Better in 2026?

Choosing between Lightworks and Filmora 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: Filmora is our overall pick for video editing workflows. Pick Lightworks if you need a free tier to start with.

··Methodology
Editor reviewed0 verified reviews comparedPricing checked May 2026

Short on time? Here's the quick answer

We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:

Lightworks

Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.

Best for you if:

  • Professional video editing software with versions for all skill levels.
  • Features advanced video, audio, VFX, and color grading tools.

Filmora

Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.

Best for you if:

  • AI-powered video editing for all skill levels.
  • Comprehensive suite of editing tools and creative assets.
At a Glance
LightworksLightworks
FilmoraFilmora
Starts at
User / Pay Monthly/moCreate
$49.99/yearAnnual
Best For
Video EditingVideo Editing
Rating
--

Choose Lightworks or Filmora?

Lightworks

Choose Lightworks if

Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.

  • Offers a free version for beginners to get started.
  • Scales with user skill level from beginner to professional.
  • Provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools (video, audio, VFX, color).
Filmora

Choose Filmora if

Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.

  • Easy video editing
  • Good for beginners
  • Many effects
FeatureLightworksFilmora
Pricing ModelFreemiumFreemium
User Rating
3.9/5
64 reviews
4.5/5
1,045 reviews
Categories
Video EditingAudio Editing
Video EditingAI Video Generation

In-Depth Analysis

LightworksLightworks

Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.

Strengths

  • +Offers a free version for beginners to get started.
  • +Scales with user skill level from beginner to professional.
  • +Provides a comprehensive suite of editing tools (video, audio, VFX, color).
  • +Supports high-quality footage and offers advanced features like HDR workflows.
  • +Streamlined sharing and export options, including direct social media integration.

Weaknesses

  • -Advanced VFX features (supplied by NewBlue) are only available for Windows and Mac.
  • -The full range of professional features requires a paid subscription.

Key features

Universal editing timeline supporting various footage sizes, frame rates, and qualitiesBackground rendering and exporting for uninterrupted workflowProxy file editing for smooth performanceRefined audio editing with trimming, splitting, layering, and built-in effects (reverb, chorus, distortion)Over 700 customizable titles and motion graphicsHundreds of transitions for scene flow and pacing
Starts at User / Pay Monthly/mo

FilmoraFilmora

Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.

Strengths

  • +Easy video editing
  • +Good for beginners
  • +Many effects
  • +Fair pricing
  • +Templates

Weaknesses

  • -Watermark on free
  • -Pro features expensive
  • -Effects can be cheesy
  • -Performance varies
  • -Not for professionals

Key features

Video editingAI featuresEffects libraryTemplatesMobile editingScreen recording
Starts at $49.99/year

Pricing: Lightworks vs Filmora

PlanLightworksFilmora
Tier 1
Free
Free
Free
Free
Tier 2
User / Pay Monthly
Create
$49.99 year
Annual
Tier 3
User / Pay Monthly
Pro
$79.99 lifetime
Perpetual

Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Lightworks pricing and Filmora pricing.

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.

Go with: Lightworks

Want the highest-rated option?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Lightworks

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Filmora

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.

2

What's your use case?

Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.

3

How important are ratings?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Key Takeaways

Filmora

  • Higher user rating: 4.5/5 vs 3.9/5
  • Larger review base (1,045 reviews)
  • Free tier available
  • Our pick for this comparison

Lightworks

  • Choose if you want unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor

The Bottom Line

Filmora is our pick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Lightworks or Filmora better?

Filmora is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.

What are Lightworks and Filmora used for?

Lightworks: Unlock your video editing potential with a powerful, professional-grade video editor.. Filmora: Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets..

What does Lightworks cost vs Filmora?

Lightworks is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Filmora is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

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