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HitFilm

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Free video editing and VFX software

Video EditingAnimation3D Design
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Reviews onG2CapterraSourceForge
180 reviews tracked

The Bottom Line

Entry price

Free plan available, paid tiers above

Biggest pro

Free video editor

Biggest con

Learning curve

TL;DR - HitFilm

  • Professional video editing software
  • Hollywood-grade VFX and compositing
  • Free version available with pro features
Pricing: Free plan available
Best for: Growing teams
4.2/5 across review platforms

What is HitFilm?

Editorial review
HitFilm is a free video editor with Hollywood-grade visual effects. Combine editing and compositing in one application. 800+ VFX presets and tools for explosions, sci-fi, and more. Green screen, 3D compositing, and motion tracking included. Tutorials teach film-making techniques alongside the software. Professional VFX tools that aspiring filmmakers can actually afford - free.
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Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Free video editor
  • VFX capabilities
  • Good for YouTube
  • Active community
  • Tutorials available

Cons

  • Learning curve
  • Resource intensive
  • Pro features paid
  • Export limitations
  • UI complex

Ratings Across the Web

4.2(180 reviews)
G297 reviews
4.2/5
Capterra16 reviews
4.1/5
SourceForge67 reviews
4.3/5

Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more

Key Features

Video editorVFX toolsCompositingColor grading3D effectsFree version

Pricing Plans

Free Trial

Pricing checked Jul 7, 2026

Free

Free

  • HD exports
  • Basic video editing
  • 10 songs
  • 25 sound effects

Creator

$6.25/month

  • 4K UHD exports
  • Pro visual effects
  • 100 songs
  • 50 templates
  • Imerge Creator

Pro

$11.6/month

  • 8K exports
  • Full VFX library
  • 3D tools
  • Mocha tracking
  • 200 songs
Calculate your costView full pricing

How HitFilm's pricing compares

At $6.25/mo, HitFilm is mid-range of its 3 direct competitors ($2.99 to $19.99/mo across the set).

Final Cut Pro
$2.99
Filmora
$4.17
HitFilm
$6.25
Adobe Premiere Pro
$19.99

Entry paid plan, monthly. Pricing checked Jul 7, 2026.

Reviews

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4.2/5

Across 180 verified user reviews on G2, SourceForge, Capterra

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Best HitFilm Alternatives

Top alternatives based on features, pricing, and user needs.

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Edit any format, from social clips to feature films

4.6
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Edit, color grade, VFX, and mix audio in one app

4.7
Filmora logo
FilmoraFreemium

Edit video like a pro with AI-powered tools and creative assets.

4.5
Final Cut Pro logo
Final Cut ProPaid

Professional video editing for Mac

4.6
Blender logo
BlenderFree

3D creation suite for modeling, animation, rendering, and more

4.5
Shotcut logo
ShotcutFree

Free, open-source, cross-platform video editor with wide format support and advanced features.

4.5
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Still deciding?

Most buyers shortlist 2 or 3 tools before committing. Pull a side-by-side comparison or browse the full alternatives shortlist below.

All HitFilm alternatives6+ tools ranked, pricing + verdict per pickHitFilm vs Adobe Premiere ProHead-to-head: features, pricing, who winsHitFilm vs DaVinci ResolveHead-to-head: features, pricing, who winsHitFilm vs FilmoraHead-to-head: features, pricing, who wins

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HitFilm FAQ

How does HitFilm combine video editing and visual effects?

HitFilm integrates both editing and compositing functionalities within a single application, allowing users to move seamlessly between traditional video cuts and advanced visual effects. It includes over 800 VFX presets and tools for creating elements like explosions and sci-fi effects.

Which teams would benefit most from using HitFilm?

HitFilm is well-suited for aspiring filmmakers, content creators, and small production teams who need professional-grade visual effects and video editing capabilities without a significant upfront investment. Its comprehensive toolset supports projects ranging from YouTube videos to more complex film sequences.

What kind of visual effects are included in HitFilm?

HitFilm offers a wide array of visual effects tools, including green screen keying, 3D compositing, and motion tracking. It also provides over 800 VFX presets and tools specifically designed for creating dynamic elements such as explosions and sci-fi visuals.

How is HitFilm priced?

HitFilm is available on a free tier, which provides access to its core video editing and VFX features. Users can opt for paid plans to unlock additional features and expand their usage capabilities.

Can HitFilm handle 3D design and animation tasks?

Yes, HitFilm includes capabilities for 3D compositing, which allows users to integrate 3D elements into their video projects. This feature supports more advanced animation and visual effects workflows within the software.

What are the main trade-offs when choosing HitFilm?

One of the main trade-offs with HitFilm is its learning curve, which can be steep for new users due to its comprehensive features and complex user interface. Additionally, the software can be resource-intensive, and some professional features are only available through paid upgrades.

How does HitFilm compare to DaVinci Resolve for video editing?

HitFilm provides a free video editor with a strong emphasis on Hollywood-grade visual effects and compositing, offering over 800 VFX presets. DaVinci Resolve also offers a free version with robust editing and color grading tools, but HitFilm's strength lies specifically in its integrated VFX suite.

Source: fxhome.com