OpenShot vs Runway: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between OpenShot and Runway 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 need something completely free
- • Free and open-source video editor.
- • Available on Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Runway
AI creative tools for video
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.9/10 vs 7.7/10)
- • AI-powered video editing and generation with Gen-2 text-to-video
- • Industry-leading AI tools used in films like 'Everything Everywhere All at Once'
| At a Glance |  OpenShot |  Runway |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Free + Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 77/100 | 89/100 |
| Feature | OpenShot | Runway |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 77 | 89 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingAnimation | Video EditingAnimation |
How OpenShot and Runway Compare
OpenShot
Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.
Free · 77/100 score
Runway
AI creative tools for video
Free tier available · 89/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
OpenShot is free. Runway is freemium.
Go with: OpenShot
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenShot: 77/100. Runway: 89/100.
Go with: Runway
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Runway
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
OpenShot is free. Runway 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?
Runway scores higher: 89/100 vs 77/100.
Key Takeaways
Runway
- Higher score: 89/100 vs 77
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
OpenShot
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Runway (89/100) is our pick. That said, OpenShot is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenShot or Runway better?
Runway scores 89/100 in our evaluation. OpenShot is free and Runway is freemium.
What are OpenShot and Runway used for?
OpenShot: Free, open-source, and award-winning video editor for Linux, Mac, and Windows.. Runway: AI creative tools for video.
What does OpenShot cost vs Runway?
OpenShot is completely free. Runway is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.