# Open Source Alternative to Final Cut Pro

Open source alternatives · Video

Final Cut Pro is a US$299 one-time buy, but only on Mac. Kdenlive and Blender edit video free on any system.

**What the paid app costs:** US$299 one-time

## Why switch?

Magnetic timelines are nice, but the fundamentals, cutting, transitions, titles, color, are identical everywhere. Free editors run on the Mac you already own and on any PC you might buy next.

## Compare the alternatives

AlternativeLicensePlatformsBest for[Kdenlive](https://kdenlive.org/)GPL-3.0Windows, macOS, LinuxBest free editor that runs on Mac[Blender](https://www.blender.org/)GPL-3.0Windows, macOS, LinuxFor editors who also want VFX

### [Kdenlive](https://kdenlive.org/)

Free forever GPL-3.0 · Windows, macOS, Linux

- Multi-track timeline editing
- Effects and color tools
- Runs on Mac, Windows, Linux

**Best free editor that runs on Mac**

[Official site →](https://kdenlive.org/)

### [Blender](https://www.blender.org/)

Free forever GPL-3.0 · Windows, macOS, Linux

- Video sequence editor
- Motion tracking and VFX
- Free forever, huge community

**For editors who also want VFX**

[Official site →](https://www.blender.org/)

## Which one should you pick?

- **Kdenlive:** Best free editor that runs on Mac
- **Blender:** For editors who also want VFX

## Frequently asked questions

### Can Kdenlive open Final Cut projects?

Not directly. Export an XML/EDL from Final Cut and rebuild, or start fresh projects in Kdenlive.

### Is Blender good for plain video editing?

Surprisingly yes. Its video sequence editor handles cuts, strips, and effects, and many creators edit full videos in it.

### Do these work on Apple Silicon Macs?

Yes, both ship native Apple Silicon builds.

## More open source alternatives

- [Premiere Pro](/open-source-alternative-to-premiere-pro/)
- [Camtasia](/open-source-alternative-to-camtasia/)
- [Loom](/open-source-alternative-to-loom/)

[← All open source alternatives](/open-source-alternatives/)