
Free Video Editing Software Reddit Recommends for Beginners and Creators
If you search online for honest opinions about free video editing software, Reddit is often the first place people trust, especially when learning what video editing software actually does and how it works.
Real users share real experiences—good and bad—without marketing hype. In this guide, we’ll break down the most discussed free video editing software Reddit users consistently recommend, especially for beginners and content creators who want quality results without spending money.
This article is based on common themes from Reddit threads, creator feedback, and practical usage insights that align closely with how modern content creation tools are used by creators.
If you’re overwhelmed by choices or confused by technical jargon, you’re in the right place.
Why Reddit Is a Trusted Source for Video Editing Software Advice
Reddit stands out because it’s driven by communities, not companies. Subreddits like r/VideoEditing, r/Filmmakers, r/NewTubers, and r/ContentCreators are full of people who actively use editing tools every day.
- Why Reddit Is a Trusted Source for Video Editing Software Advice
- What Beginners and Creators Look for in Free Video Editing Software
- DaVinci Resolve: The Most Recommended Free Editor on Reddit
- Shotcut: A Favorite for Low-End PCs
- Kdenlive: Popular Among Linux and Open-Source Fans
- OpenShot: Simple and Beginner-Friendly
- VSDC Free Video Editor: Frequently Mentioned for Windows Users
- iMovie: Still Relevant for Mac Beginners
- How to Choose the Right Free Video Editing Software for You
- Common Mistakes Reddit Users Warn Beginners About
- FAQ: Free Video Editing Software Reddit Users Ask About
- Users share real pros and cons, not promotional content
- Beginners get advice from experienced editors
- Discussions include system requirements and learning curves
- Honest warnings about limitations and hidden costs
This is why searching for reddit free video editing softw recommendations often leads to more balanced decisions than reading sponsored blog posts.
What Beginners and Creators Look for in Free Video Editing Software
Before jumping into specific tools, it helps to understand what Reddit users usually prioritize when recommending software.
Ease of Use
Beginners want something intuitive. Complicated interfaces can kill motivation quickly, so tools with drag-and-drop timelines and clear menus are preferred.
No Watermarks
One of the biggest complaints on Reddit is free software adding watermarks. Most recommended tools avoid this or clearly explain their limits.
Good Export Quality
Creators care about output quality, which is why many also explore free color grading options to improve HD or 4K exports without heavy compression.
Active Community and Tutorials
Software with strong communities and tutorials gets recommended more often because help is always available.
DaVinci Resolve: The Most Recommended Free Editor on Reddit
When people ask about the best free video editing software on Reddit, DaVinci Resolve comes up again and again, especially in discussions about advanced editing tools for long-term growth.
Why Reddit Loves DaVinci Resolve
- Professional-level color grading tools
- No watermark in the free version
- Supports advanced audio and video workflows
- Used by professionals and beginners alike
Reddit users often describe DaVinci Resolve as “overkill for beginners, but worth learning.” While it has a learning curve, many creators say starting with Resolve saves time later if you plan to grow.
Things Beginners Should Know
DaVinci Resolve requires a reasonably powerful computer. Reddit threads frequently mention that older laptops may struggle, especially with 4K footage.
Shotcut: A Favorite for Low-End PCs
For users with older hardware, Shotcut is one of the most recommended names in reddit free video editing softw discussions.
Why Shotcut Gets Recommended
- Open-source and completely free
- Runs well on low to mid-range systems
- No watermarks or export limits
- Supports a wide range of formats
Reddit beginners often say Shotcut feels less intimidating than professional tools while still offering enough features for YouTube and social media.
Limitations Mentioned on Reddit
Some users mention the interface feels less polished, and effects are more basic compared to premium software.
Kdenlive: Popular Among Linux and Open-Source Fans
Kdenlive frequently appears in Reddit threads, especially among Linux users and open-source enthusiasts.

What Reddit Users Like About Kdenlive
- Cross-platform (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Strong timeline-based editing
- Active development and community support
Many Redditors say Kdenlive strikes a good balance between power and usability, making it suitable for beginners who want to grow their skills.
OpenShot: Simple and Beginner-Friendly
If you search for beginner-only recommendations, OpenShot often comes up in free video editing software Reddit threads.
Why Beginners Choose OpenShot
- Very easy to learn
- Clean and simple interface
- Good for basic cuts, transitions, and text
Reddit users usually recommend OpenShot for simple projects like school assignments, basic YouTube videos, or quick social media edits.
Common Reddit Complaints
Advanced users note that OpenShot can become unstable with complex projects or large files.
VSDC Free Video Editor: Frequently Mentioned for Windows Users
VSDC is another tool often discussed in reddit free video editing softw conversations, especially for Windows-only users.
What Reddit Users Appreciate
- Non-linear editing in the free version
- Good performance on low-end PCs
- No watermark on exports
Many Reddit beginners say VSDC feels technical at first but becomes powerful once you understand the workflow.
iMovie: Still Relevant for Mac Beginners
For Mac users, Reddit often suggests starting with iMovie before moving to more advanced tools.
Why Reddit Still Recommends iMovie
- Pre-installed on most Macs
- Extremely beginner-friendly
- Optimized for Apple hardware
Creators note that while iMovie is limited, it’s a stress-free way to learn editing basics.
How to Choose the Right Free Video Editing Software for You
Based on Reddit discussions, the “best” tool depends on your goals and hardware.
- Absolute beginners: OpenShot or iMovie
- YouTube creators: Shotcut or VSDC
- Future professionals: DaVinci Resolve
- Linux users: Kdenlive
Reddit users often suggest trying two tools before committing to one. Personal comfort matters more than feature lists.
Common Mistakes Reddit Users Warn Beginners About
- Choosing software that’s too advanced too soon
- Ignoring system requirements
- Expecting professional results without practice
- Switching tools too frequently
Consistency and learning fundamentals matter more than having the “perfect” editor.
FAQ: Free Video Editing Software Reddit Users Ask About
What is the most recommended free video editing software on Reddit?
DaVinci Resolve is the most frequently recommended due to its professional features and no watermark in the free version.
Is free video editing software good enough for YouTube?
Yes. Reddit creators regularly use free tools like Shotcut, VSDC, and DaVinci Resolve for successful YouTube channels.
Which free video editor is best for low-end PCs?
Shotcut and VSDC are commonly recommended by Reddit users for older or low-spec computers.
Do free video editors add watermarks?
Most Reddit-recommended tools do not add watermarks, but users advise checking export settings carefully.
Should beginners start with professional software?
Reddit opinions vary, but many suggest starting simple and upgrading skills gradually rather than tools.







