Best free audio and video editors?

[gunny]

Repeat, editors, not players or downloaders or "rippers." I'm sure some people here have found some good ones...there are just many choices and hoping to narrow it down.

 

[johnb35]

Most of your free software comes with malware. Just FYI. And most free software will have limited capabilities.

 

[gunny]

In my experience, very little freeware comes with malware (I always scan) and how limited free software is or isn't varies a lot. Again in my experience, much of it is quite full-featured.

 

[Cannik]

come on it has to be Audacity, I have been using it for 20 years

 

[Cannik]

As for Video, there are loads etc

1. DaVinci Resolve

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best for: Professional-grade video editing, color correction, audio post
Pros: Hollywood-level tools, Fusion (VFX), Fairlight (audio)
Cons: Steep learning curve
Website: Blackmagic Design

2. Shotcut

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best for: Intermediate to advanced users
Pros: Wide codec support, timeline editing, GPU effects
Cons: Interface can feel a bit clunky
Website: shotcut.org

3. Kdenlive

Platform: Linux, Windows, macOS
Best for: Open-source video editing with good features
Pros: Multi-track editing, effects, transitions
Cons: Slightly unstable at times
Website: kdenlive.org

4. Olive

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best for: Minimalist interface with growing capabilities
Pros: Actively developed, good for simple to moderate editing
Cons: Still in alpha, may have bugs
Website: olivevideoeditor.org

5. CapCut Desktop

Platform: Windows, macOS
Best for: Quick social media edits
Pros: Easy to use, free effects & templates
Cons: Internet connection required for full features
Website: capcut.com

? Audio Editors

1. Audacity
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best for: Recording, editing, podcasts
Pros: Simple interface, lots of effects, supports plugins
Cons: Non-destructive editing limited
Website: audacityteam.org

2. Ocenaudio
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Best for: Lightweight waveform editing
Pros: Real-time effects preview, easy to use
Cons: Not multitrack
Website: ocenaudio.com

3. Cakewalk by BandLab
Platform: Windows only
Best for: Full-featured DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
Pros: Professional audio production, VST plugins
Cons: Windows-only
Website: bandlab.com/products/cakewalk