Lightworks review
A capable free desktop editor with broader export and workflow features in paid tiers.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Lightworks is non-linear video editing software for beginners, content creators, filmmakers, and professional editors. Its desktop application runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux, with Free, Create, and Pro editions. The workflow covers timeline editing, multicam projects, colour correction, multitrack audio, visual effects, chroma key, proxy editing, subtitles, social-media exports, project sharing, and shared bins. It is suited to editors who want a desktop tool with a free starting point and room to move into higher-resolution or more advanced production workflows.
The Free edition includes timeline editing, automatic saving, advanced transitions, simple VFX, and 720p HD export. Create adds 4K video export, social media templates, NewBlue Titler Pro, dynamic motion graphics, advanced audio EQ, and high-resolution proxy editing. Pro extends the feature set with up to 8K export, 10-bit support, audio and video plugin support, advanced video effects, custom format creation, and cloud export or upload. The published plans show monthly, yearly, and perpetual purchasing options, while the Free edition is described as unlimited.
Lightworks also connects with Box, Dropbox, Google Drive, Google Photos, OneDrive, and pCloud, alongside media services including Pexels, Pond5, YouTube, and Vimeo. Project sharing and shared bins support collaborative workflows, while proxy generation can help manage high-resolution media. The main trade-off is tier separation: editors working in 4K or above, using 10-bit media, or needing advanced effects and plugin support need a paid edition. Lightworks is a strong fit for desktop editors who value broad editing tools across three operating systems; users seeking a mobile, tablet, or browser-based editor should choose another product.
Lightworks pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free timeline editing with automatic saving and 720p HD export
- Multicam, colour, audio, VFX, proxy editing, and subtitles
- Windows, macOS, and Linux support with cloud-library connections
- Where it doesn't
- Free export is limited to 720p HD
- 4K, 8K, 10-bit, and advanced features depend on paid tiers
- No mobile or tablet download; it is a desktop application
Lightworks fact sheet, pricing and score →
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