OpenShot vs PowerDirector: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenShot and PowerDirector 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:
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (7.7/10 vs 7.3/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • Free and open-source video editor.
- • Available on Linux, Mac, and Windows.
PowerDirector
AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories.
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered video editing for automatic story creation from clips and photos.
- • Offers advanced AI tools for video generation, character animation, and image/text to video conversion.
| At a Glance |  OpenShot |  PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 77/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | OpenShot | PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 77 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAI Video Generation |
How OpenShot and PowerDirector Compare
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Free · 77/100 score
PowerDirector
AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories.
Paid · 73/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenShot is free. PowerDirector is paid.
Go with: OpenShot
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenShot: 77/100. PowerDirector: 73/100.
Go with: OpenShot
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: OpenShot
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenShot is free. PowerDirector is paid. 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?
OpenShot scores higher: 77/100 vs 73/100.
Key Takeaways
OpenShot
- Higher score: 77/100 vs 73
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
PowerDirector
The Bottom Line
OpenShot (77/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenShot or PowerDirector better?
OpenShot scores 77/100 in our evaluation. OpenShot is free and PowerDirector is paid.
What are OpenShot and PowerDirector used for?
OpenShot: Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.. PowerDirector: AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories..
What does OpenShot cost vs PowerDirector?
OpenShot is completely free. PowerDirector is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.