Lightworks

Lightworks is a professional video editing software application designed for PC users who require advanced video editing capabilities.

Developed by LWKS, it has gained recognition in the film and television industry for its robust feature set and impressive editing capabilities.

The program is available in both free and paid versions, making it accessible to a wide range of users.



Unleash your creative potential with Lightworks for Windows 11/10, a versatile and powerful video editing solution that caters to individuals of all skill levels, from YouTube enthusiasts to Hollywood professionals. It goes beyond being just another video editing software; it serves as a catalyst for your growth as a video editor.

Experience a unique journey tailored for every level of expertise, enabling you to craft breathtaking videos that align with your artistic vision. You don't need prior experience or technical proficiency—just the courage to take that first step in editing. It stands as the ultimate all-in-one tool for producing stunning videos.

Packed with dynamic video and audio editing capabilities, vibrant color grading options, impressive visual effects, and user-friendly sharing features, it provides a seamless canvas for your creativity to flourish.

With NewBlue TotalFX, you gain access to an extensive toolbox boasting over 1,500 presets, encompassing titling, stabilization, transitions, filters, background generators, and video effects.



Explore a wide array of 3D, lighting, color, and motion transitions, with a selection of 69 transitions and 861 presets available to elevate any scene or situation. Your creative journey is incomplete without the app and NewBlue TotalFX—so bring your imagination, and let your videos shine!

Discover the incredible features of this application and why Oscar-nominated editors around the world use Lightworks Pro 2025 every day. The software is the best free video editor for PC with professional-quality tools!

There are two licenses available for the program: a Free seven-day renewable license that all users can activate immediately after installation, and a Pro license which can be purchased as a Month, Year, or Outright from the product Shop. To receive a Lightworks Free license, simply sign up.

Purchase a Pro license and unlock all features and export options for all broadcast formats including AVID DNxHD, Panasonic and Sony formats, AVCHD, MOV, MXF, AVI. The interchange with other Applications (Media Composer, Protools, FCP, Resolve) with AAF, EDL, or XML. You can even export to a distribution format MPEG-4 (Web, YouTube, and Vimeo) at a maximum resolution of 4k or to DVD and Blu-ray.

Main Features

Multi-platform Support: The app is available for Windows, Linux, and macOS, providing flexibility for users on different operating systems.

Professional-Grade Editing: It offers professional video editing tools, including real-time effects, advanced trimming, and multicam editing, catering to the needs of filmmakers, video editors, and content creators.

Precision Editing: The software provides a timeline-based editing interface that allows for frame-accurate editing, making it suitable for tasks ranging from simple video cutting to complex video production.

High-Quality Output: It supports up to 4K video resolution and offers export options in various formats, ensuring your final product looks its best.

Comprehensive Video Effects: It includes a library of over 100 built-in video effects and transitions, giving you creative freedom to enhance your videos.

Audio Editing: It offers advanced audio editing features, including audio mixing, real-time audio effects, and precise audio syncing.

Integration: It provides seamless integration with popular platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, making it easy to share your creations online directly from the software.



What's New

Owns their workspace with custom layout creation
Their edit, their rules. Creates, defines, and adjusts workspace layouts to maximize their edit.

Maximizes color with HDR workflows
Gets the most from their footage by utilizing the full range of color and contrast available.

Controls their VFX with video mask effects
Creates and improves a variety of professional-quality effects and adjustments.

Sounds better than ever with improved audio
They've made further improvements to their audio suite to help their project sound its best.

Sprinkles some magic with video FX improvements
Enhancements to the VFX toolset mean it's easier than ever to add visual effects to their production.

Looks good with an improved UI
They've made a host of big and small upgrades to the user interface.

User Interface

The user interface is designed with professionals in mind. While it may seem intimidating for beginners, it offers a comprehensive set of tools and a customizable layout that can be tailored to your workflow.

The dark-themed interface is easy on the eyes during long editing sessions, and the various panels for editing, effects, and media management are logically organized.



Installation and Setup

Installation: Downloading and installing the program is a straightforward process. The software is available on the official website and can be installed with a few clicks.

Setup: Upon first launch, it guides you through project settings and initial configuration, making it user-friendly even for newcomers to video editing.

How to Use

Import Media: Start by importing your video and audio clips into the media pool.

Edit on the Timeline: Drag and drop your clips onto the timeline to start editing. Use the timeline tools for precise trimming, cutting, and arranging.

Add Effects and Transitions: Enhance your video with built-in effects and transitions. It provides a wide range of options.

Audio Editing: Fine-tune your audio using the audio tools, including mixing and applying audio effects.

Export Your Project: When you're satisfied with your project, export it in your preferred format and resolution.



FAQ

Is Lightworks FREE to use?
Yes, it offers a free version with limitations on export formats and output resolution. A Pro version with additional features is also available for a subscription fee.

What are the system requirements for Lightworks?
Lightworks' system requirements vary based on the platform. Generally, it requires a multi-core CPU, dedicated GPU, and a minimum of 4GB RAM. Detailed specifications can be found on their website.

Can I use Lightworks for professional video production?
Yes, many professional filmmakers and editors use the software for video production. Its feature set and flexibility make it a viable option for professional work.

Does Lightworks support third-party plugins?
Yes, it supports third-party plugins, allowing users to expand its capabilities with additional effects and transitions.

How do I get support for Lightworks-related issues?
It offers a community forum and comprehensive online documentation. Paid users can access dedicated support through the Pro version.

Alternatives

Adobe Premiere Pro: A widely-used professional video editing software with a broad range of features, known for its seamless integration with other Adobe products.

Filmora: Easy video editor everyone can use, support 800+ effects & 50+ formats!

DaVinci Resolve: Offers professional-grade video editing, color correction, and audio post-production in a single software, available in both free and paid versions.

HitFilm: A free video editing and VFX software that's suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Pricing

Lightworks Free - Best for newbies and anyone who needs to be able to easily cut & edit video clips together.

• Now comes with a 90 day renewable license
• Now includes the ability to render in the timeline
• Includes free Transitions FX pack from NewBlue.

Lightworks Create - $9.99 user / mo
Best for YouTubers, gamers and anyone who wants to do more more than cut clips together.

Lightworks PRO - $23.99 user / mo
Best for film makers, broadcasters or anyone who wants to be one. Hollywood-level editing.

Includes

• Timeline Editing
• Automatic Saving
• Advanced Transitions
• Simple VFX
• 4K Video Export
• Social Media Templates
• NewBlue Titler Pro
• Dynamic Motion Graphics
• Powerful Colour Controls
• Advanced Audio EQ
• Quick LUT Support
• High Res Proxy Editing
• High Res Timeline Rendering
• 10-Bit Support
• Audio and Video Plugin Support
• Increased File Formats
• Advanced Video Effects
• Custom Format Creation
• Support for NewBlue TotalFX
• Export Interchange Formats
• Advanced Colour Scopes
• In Timeline QC
• Cloud Export/Upload

System Requirements

• OS: Windows 11, 10, 8 or 7 (64-bit)
• Multi-core CPU
• At least 4GB RAM (8GB+ recommended)
• Dedicated GPU with DirectX 9 support

PROS

• Professional-grade video editing capabilities
• Frame-accurate editing
• Real-time effects and transitions
• Multi-platform support
• Integration with popular online platforms
• Advanced audio editing features

CONS

• Steeper learning curve for beginners
• Free version limitations on export formats and resolution
• Can be resource-intensive on lower-end systems

Conclusion

Lightworks is a formidable video editing software solution that caters to both novice editors and professionals. With its powerful editing features, real-time effects, and flexible export options, it competes well with other industry-standard tools. The availability of a free version makes it accessible to a broader user base, while the Pro version offers additional advanced capabilities for those who require them.

If you're willing to invest time in mastering its interface, it can be an excellent choice for your video editing needs, delivering impressive results that stand up to industry standards.

Note: Limited functionality in demo version.

Also Available: Download Lightworks for Mac