Olive review
A free desktop editor with broad core tools, but alpha status limits dependability.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Olive is a free, open-source non-linear video editor distributed as a desktop application for Windows, macOS, and Linux. It is intended for editors who want timeline-based video work without a subscription or license fee, particularly those who value source-code access and cross-platform desktop availability. Core capabilities include non-linear editing, timeline-based workflows, video effects, transitions, keyframe editing, node-based editing, and hardware acceleration.
The pricing model is straightforward: Olive is open source and has a free plan, so there are no paid tiers to compare. Its feature set covers several important editing tasks, from arranging footage on a timeline to applying effects and transitions. Keyframes and node-based editing add control beyond basic cutting, while hardware acceleration is included among the published features. This makes Olive more than a minimal trimming tool, although its verified breadth is narrower than leading video editors.
The main consideration is project maturity. Olive’s maintainers describe the software as alpha and potentially highly unstable, and the official website currently displays “Olive will return” while linking to older downloads. The latest listed release is an unstable development build, so users choosing Olive should be prepared for a less predictable desktop editing experience. It also has no web or mobile application, collaboration support, or integration support. Choose Olive if free, open-source editing on Windows, macOS, or Linux is the priority and instability is acceptable; choose another editor if dependable production workflows, mobile access, collaboration, or a broader ecosystem matter more.
Olive pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Free, open-source desktop application
- Supports Windows, macOS, and Linux
- Includes timelines, effects, transitions, keyframes, and nodes
- Where it doesn't
- Maintainers describe it as alpha and highly unstable
- No web or mobile application
- No collaboration or integration support
Olive fact sheet, pricing and score →
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