A free, open source, cross-platform video editor for Windows

Shotcut

Shotcut

  -  180 MB  -  Open Source
  • Latest Version

    Shotcut 25.05.11 LATEST

  • Review by

    Sophia Jones

  • Operating System

    Windows 7 64 / Windows 8 64 / Windows 10 64 / Windows 11

  • User Rating

    Click to vote
  • Author / Product

    Meltytech, LLC. / External Link

  • Filename

    shotcut-win64-250511.exe

Shotcut is a free and open-source video editor program for Windows 11/10 known for its professional-level features and wide format support.

Developed by Meltytech, Shotcut is particularly popular among independent creators, YouTubers, and hobbyists seeking robust video editing tools without the cost or bloat of commercial software.

Shotcut Screenshot 1

Unlike many beginner-oriented editors, it offers a non-linear editing experience with a wide range of video effects, filters, and advanced editing capabilities that rival paid alternatives.

Features

Wide Format Support: Supports hundreds of audio and video formats via FFmpeg.

Native Timeline Editing: No need to import clips into the project before editing.

4K Resolution Support: Handles HD and 4K projects with ease.

Audio Filters and Mixing: Includes audio scopes, peak meters, and various filters like compressor, EQ, and reverb.

Video Effects and Filters: Over 40 video filters including color grading, chroma key (green screen), blur, and more.

Keyframe Support: Enables animation and parameter control over time.

Hardware Encoding/Decoding: Utilizes GPU acceleration for rendering (on supported systems).

User Interface

It features a customizable, modular interface where users can undock, rearrange, or hide panels to suit their workflow.

Shotcut Screenshot 2

It has a steep learning curve for absolute beginners but rewards persistence with powerful control over editing tasks.

The interface may feel minimalistic at first, but every essential tool is neatly packed and logically arranged.

Installation and Setup

It can be downloaded directly from the official website. It offers a portable version and a traditional installer. Installation is straightforward: just run the installer and follow the prompts.

No bloatware, no hidden bundles. On first launch, users can select the video mode (resolution and frame rate) or let it auto-detect based on the first clip imported.

How to Use

Launch Shotcut software and open a new project.

Import media using the “Open File” button.

Drag clips to the timeline and start editing—cut, trim, add transitions, or filters.

Shotcut Screenshot 3

Add audio tracks, overlay text, or insert effects.

Use the Export panel to select output settings and render the final video.

FAQs

Is Shotcut really free?
Yes, Shotcut tool is completely free/open-source. There are no paid tiers or feature restrictions.

Can I use Shotcut for commercial projects?
Absolutely. It’s licensed under the GPL, which allows for both personal and commercial use.

Does Shotcut support 4K editing?
Yes, it supports resolutions up to 4K and beyond.

Is there GPU acceleration?
Yes, it offers GPU processing for certain filters and hardware encoding/decoding.

Are there built-in templates or effects packs?
No pre-made templates are included, but users can create and save their own presets.

Alternatives

DaVinci Resolve: Professional-grade with advanced color grading and VFX tools.

Filmora: Add unique VFX and filters to your video.

OpenShot: Easier for beginners but with fewer features.

Lightworks: Professional editor with a free tier.

Adobe Premiere Pro: Industry-standard, subscription-based.

System Requirements
  • OS: Windows 7/8/10/11 (64-bit only)
  • CPU: x86-64 Intel or AMD processor
  • RAM: Minimum 4 GB (8+ GB recommended)
  • GPU: Optional, for hardware acceleration
  • Storage: ~500 MB for installation, additional for project files
PROS
  • Completely free and open-source
  • Extensive format and codec support
  • High-end features like keyframing and 4K support
  • Modular, customizable interface
  • No import requirement before editing
CONS
  • Lacks real-time collaboration features
  • No built-in media or templates
  • Occasional performance hiccups on low-end PCs
Conclusion

It stands out as a powerful, no-cost video editing tool that holds its own against high-end paid software. While not the most beginner-friendly at first glance, it offers unmatched flexibility and professional features without locking anything behind a paywall. Whether you're a content creator, educator, or video hobbyist, Shotcut is a worthy addition to your creative toolkit.

Also Available: Download Shotcut for Mac

Why is this app published on FileHorse? (More info)
  • Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshots

    The images below have been resized. Click on them to view the screenshots in full size.

    Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshot 1
  • Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshot 2
  • Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshot 3
  • Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshot 4
  • Shotcut 25.05.11 Screenshot 5

What's new in this version:

New Features:
- Added Alpha Strobe video filter
- Added Freeze Frame to Timeline
- Added File > Rereun Filter Analysis
- Added adjustable track headers width to Timeline
- Added an item count to Playlist
- Added File > New submenu with items for Project and generators
- Added Add Generator to Timeline toolbar
- Changed the Convert to Edit-friendly dialog to make it obvious that "better" and "best" options create very large files
- Added Settings > Preview Scaling > 1080p. (This was added primarily for use with DeckLink SDI/HDMI external monitoring.)
- Added Settings > Player > External Monitor > DeckLink Gamma with SDR and HLG HDR options
- Added HLG color transfer/gamma to GPU Effects. HDR is not ready to announce; these are just some pieces

Improved:
- Improved compositing in Obscure With Blur, Obscure With Mosaic, and Mask: Apply. Now, they are better at concealing details.
- Moved the Files > Go Up button to top left to be more like OS file browsers

Upgraded dependencies:
- Qt 6.8.3
- MLT 7.32.0
- Rubberband 4.0
- SVT-AV1 3.0

Fixed:
- ability to select or drag short Timeline clips (broke in v25.03)
- Text: Rich scroll presets (broke in v25.03)
- may crash in Files dock on startup (broke in v25.01)
- possible crash when selecting a track head
- Filters > Copy Current/All ignores disabled filters
- Speed time filters reset when they are reloaded in the UI
- generating proxy for videos with BT.2020 color space
- Fade Out Audio in a filter set
- Timeline > Record Audio is distorted on macOS
- SDI/HDMI capture/monitor not working with recent Blackmagic Design drivers
- Center/LFE channels swapped in 5.1 sound output in DeckLink SDI/HDMI external monitor
- adding media with unknown or very long duration (for example, more than 7 days). Now, it prompts for the duration