Kdenlive
Kdenlive: A capable desktop editor for multitrack work without license fees or subscriptions. Ranked #9 of 153 in Video Editing Software by our editors (8.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free open-source desktop editing.
At a glance
- Editor score8.4 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forFree open-source desktop editing
- Free planYes
- Paid fromFree
- 4K exportYes
- Founded2003
- Facts checked20 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Multitrack editing with nested timelines and keyframeable effects
- Proxy editing and UHD/4K rendering profiles
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux without subscription fees
Where it doesn't
- Focused on desktop editing rather than a browser-based workflow
- Its integration set centers on six listed services and frameworks
- Open-source structure may suit independent workflows better than commercial tiers
Our verdict on Kdenlive
Kdenlive is a free, open-source non-linear video editor developed within the KDE community. It is designed for video creators who want a desktop workflow without license fees, registrations, subscriptions, or paid premium features. Installable versions support Windows, macOS, and Linux, while the feature set covers multitrack timeline editing, 3-point editing, effects, transitions, titles, subtitles, and keyframeable effects. Its published category specifications also include a desktop app, 4K export, and team collaboration.
For demanding footage, Kdenlive combines proxy editing for 4K and higher-resolution material with UHD/4K rendering profiles, audio and video scopes, and nested timelines. AI-supported speech-to-text conversion adds a practical option for creating text from dialogue, while titles and subtitles support more structured video production. These tools give the application a broader editing scope than a narrowly focused cutter, particularly for creators who need timeline control, effects, and delivery options in one desktop application.
Its ecosystem connects with the MLT Framework, FFmpeg, Glaxnimate, YouTube, Nextcloud, and Telegram. That combination supports media processing, motion-graphics work, and publishing or sharing workflows, while keeping the product’s center of gravity in desktop editing. Kdenlive is a strong fit for creators who value open-source software, cross-platform availability, multitrack editing, and 4K-capable workflows without recurring fees. Those seeking a browser-first product, a subscription-based feature structure, or a larger commercial service ecosystem should consider a different editor.
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Kdenlive pricing
Kdenlive fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Free |
| Desktop app | Yes |
| Web app | No |
| Mobile app | No |
| 4K export | Yes |
| Team collaboration | Not verified |
| Included cloud storage | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market (editorial estimate) |
| Integrations | 8 integrations: Glaxnimate, FFmpeg, MLT Framework, KDE Store, Pexels, Pixabay … |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | kdenlive.org |
| Facts checked | 20 Sep 2026 |
Kdenlive integrations
Kdenlive lists 8 integrations on its own site.
- Glaxnimate
- FFmpeg
- MLT Framework
- KDE Store
- Pexels
- Pixabay
- Freesound
- Internet Movie Archive
Alternatives to Kdenlive
- DaVinci ResolveA deep free editor with professional post-production tools across desktop and iPad.9.3
- Avid Media ComposerA deep editing suite with collaborative workflows, AI search, and a free entry option.9.2
- Final Cut ProA full-featured editor for Apple users who want desktop and iPad workflows.9.1
See all Kdenlive alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Kdenlive is ranked in 5 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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