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.
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 |  Lightworks |  Filmora |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | User / Pay Monthly/moCreate | $49.99/yearAnnual |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | - | - |
Choose Lightworks or Filmora?
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).
Choose Filmora if
Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.
- Easy video editing
- Good for beginners
- Many effects
| Feature | Lightworks | Filmora |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★3.9/5 64 reviews | ★4.5/5 1,045 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAI Video Generation |
In-Depth Analysis
Lightworks
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
Filmora
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
Pricing: Lightworks vs Filmora
| Plan | Lightworks | Filmora |
|---|---|---|
| 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
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
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.