Shotcut vs PowerDirector: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shotcut 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:
Shotcut
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.7/10 vs 7.3/10)
- • You need something completely free
- • Free, open-source, and cross-platform video editor.
- • Supports a wide range of audio/video formats and 4K/8K resolutions with native timeline editing.
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 |  Shotcut |  PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 87/100 | 73/100 |
| Feature | Shotcut | PowerDirector |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 73 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAI Video Generation |
How Shotcut and PowerDirector Compare
Shotcut
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Free · 87/100 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?
Shotcut is free. PowerDirector is paid.
Go with: Shotcut
Want the highest-rated option?
Shotcut: 87/100. PowerDirector: 73/100.
Go with: Shotcut
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Shotcut
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Shotcut is free. PowerDirector is paid. Go with Shotcut if free matters most.
What's your use case?
Both are video editing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Shotcut scores higher: 87/100 vs 73/100.
Key Takeaways
Shotcut
- Higher score: 87/100 vs 73
- Completely free
- Our pick for this comparison
PowerDirector
The Bottom Line
Shotcut (87/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shotcut or PowerDirector better?
Shotcut scores 87/100 in our evaluation. Shotcut is free and PowerDirector is paid.
What are Shotcut and PowerDirector used for?
Shotcut: Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.. PowerDirector: AI-powered video editing software for professionals and beginners to create cinematic stories..
What does Shotcut cost vs PowerDirector?
Shotcut is completely free. PowerDirector is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.