OpenShot vs DaVinci Resolve: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OpenShot and DaVinci Resolve 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: DaVinci Resolve is our overall pick for video editing workflows. Pick OpenShot if you need a fully free option.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Best for you if:
- • You need something completely free
- • Free and open-source video editor.
- • Available on Linux, Mac, and Windows.
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
Best for you if:
- • You value community feedback (1 reviews)
- • All-in-one solution for video editing, color, VFX, motion graphics, and audio post-production.
- • Used by Hollywood professionals, offering high-quality tools and advanced features including AI.
| At a Glance |  OpenShot | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.8/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose OpenShot or DaVinci Resolve?
Choose OpenShot if
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
- Free video editor
- Open source
- Cross-platform
- You want a fully free tool (DaVinci Resolve requires payment)
Choose DaVinci Resolve if
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
- Powerful free version
- Industry-standard color
- All-in-one solution
| Feature | OpenShot | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 210 reviews | ★4.8/5 487 reviews |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAudio Editing |
In-Depth Analysis
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
OpenShot's pricing is exceptionally generous, as it offers a fully-featured, award-winning video editor for $0 under an open-source license.
Strengths
- +Free video editor
- +Open source
- +Cross-platform
- +Good for beginners
- +Active development
Weaknesses
- -Performance issues
- -Limited features
- -UI dated
- -Stability varies
- -Better alternatives exist
Key features
DaVinci Resolve
Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app
DaVinci Resolve is the best deal in professional video editing, period.
Watch out
iPad Studio ($94.99) is a SEPARATE purchase from desktop Studio ($295), buying one does not unlock the other. Full cross-platform costs $390
Strengths
- +Powerful free version
- +Industry-standard color
- +All-in-one solution
Weaknesses
- -Steep learning curve
- -Hardware intensive
Key features
Pricing: OpenShot vs DaVinci Resolve
| Plan | OpenShot | DaVinci Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Open Source | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $295 Studio |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OpenShot pricing and DaVinci Resolve pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenShot is free. DaVinci Resolve is freemium.
Go with: OpenShot
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenShot: 4.4/5 (210 reviews). DaVinci Resolve: 4.8/5 (487 reviews).
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
Value user reviews?
OpenShot: 210 reviews (4.4/5). DaVinci Resolve: 487 reviews (4.8/5).
Go with: DaVinci Resolve
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenShot is free. DaVinci Resolve is freemium. Go with OpenShot if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
DaVinci Resolve is rated higher: 4.8/5 vs 4.4/5.
Key Takeaways
DaVinci Resolve
- Higher user rating: 4.8/5 vs 4.4/5
- Larger review base (487 reviews)
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenShot
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
DaVinci Resolve is our pick. That said, OpenShot is free, hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenShot or DaVinci Resolve better?
DaVinci Resolve is rated in our evaluation. OpenShot is free and DaVinci Resolve is freemium.
What are OpenShot and DaVinci Resolve used for?
OpenShot: Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.. DaVinci Resolve: Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app.
What does OpenShot cost vs DaVinci Resolve?
OpenShot is completely free. DaVinci Resolve is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.