Shotcut vs Adobe Premiere Pro: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Shotcut and Adobe Premiere Pro 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 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.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (9.0/10 vs 8.7/10)
- • Industry-standard video editing software
- • Multi-cam editing and color grading
| At a Glance |  Shotcut |  Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free | Paid |
Best For | Video Editing | Video Editing |
Rating | 87/100 | 90/100 |
| Feature | Shotcut | Adobe Premiere Pro |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Free | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 87 | 90 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 54 |
| Categories | Video EditingAudio Editing | Video EditingAudio Editing |
How Shotcut and Adobe Premiere Pro Compare
Shotcut
Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.
Free · 87/100 score
Adobe Premiere Pro
Industry-leading video editor
Paid · 90/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Shotcut is free. Adobe Premiere Pro is paid.
Go with: Shotcut
Want the highest-rated option?
Shotcut: 87/100. Adobe Premiere Pro: 90/100.
Go with: Adobe Premiere Pro
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Adobe Premiere Pro
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Shotcut is free. Adobe Premiere Pro 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?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores higher: 90/100 vs 87/100.
Key Takeaways
Adobe Premiere Pro
- Higher score: 90/100 vs 87
- More community upvotes (54)
- Our pick for this comparison
Shotcut
- Completely free
The Bottom Line
Adobe Premiere Pro (90/100) is our pick. That said, Shotcut is free — hard to beat on price.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shotcut or Adobe Premiere Pro better?
Adobe Premiere Pro scores 90/100 in our evaluation. Shotcut is free and Adobe Premiere Pro is paid.
What are Shotcut and Adobe Premiere Pro used for?
Shotcut: Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.. Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry-leading video editor.
What does Shotcut cost vs Adobe Premiere Pro?
Shotcut is completely free. Adobe Premiere Pro is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.