Kdenlive
The KDE project's multi-track editor — pro-style workflow, proxy editing and autosave, at zero cost.
Open-source multi-track editor from the KDE community with proxies, autosave and a pro-style workflow.
- Pricing
- 100% free and open source
- Platforms
- Windows, macOS, Linux
- Category
- Video Editing
- Last reviewed
- September 21, 2026
What is Kdenlive?
Kdenlive (KDE Non-Linear Video Editor) is the open-source world's most complete traditional editor. Born in the Linux community, it now ships polished builds for Windows and macOS too. The layout will feel familiar to anyone from Premiere-style editors: source monitor, timeline with unlimited tracks, effects stack, and a full set of transitions, keyframes and scopes.
Two features make it quietly professional. Proxy editing automatically creates low-resolution stand-ins so 4K footage plays smoothly on weak machines, then renders from the originals. And autosave keeps rolling backups, which has rescued more than one crashed session. There is also a surprising amount of depth: audio mixing, effects like motion tracking and rotoscoping, title editing, and scripted rendering.
Like all open-source tools it trades polish for freedom — occasional rough edges, less hand-holding, no template library. In exchange you get a capable multi-track editor with no subscription, no account, no watermark and a fifteen-year track record of active development.
Key features
- Unlimited video/audio tracks with a classic NLE workflow
- Automatic proxy editing for smooth playback on weak hardware
- Rolling autosave and project backup recovery
- Keyframed effects, motion tracking, rotoscoping, titles
- Audio mixer and effects per track
- Fully offline and open source (GPL)
Free plan & limits
Completely free, forever — no paid tier exists. Optional donations support the KDE community.
Who is it best for?
Long-form editors who want a traditional multi-track workflow for free, Linux creators, and anyone editing big projects on modest hardware via proxies.
Frequently asked questions
Is Kdenlive free on Windows and macOS?
Yes. Official builds exist for Windows, macOS and Linux, all free and open source, with no feature differences between platforms.
Does Kdenlive leave a watermark?
No. Exports are clean at any resolution — there is no paid version to unlock.
Kdenlive or Shotcut — which should I pick?
Kdenlive suits bigger multi-track projects (its proxy and autosave systems help); Shotcut is leaner for quick trim-and-export jobs. Both are free, so trying each for an hour settles it.