Top 16 Final Cut Pro Alternatives for Windows [2024]

Final Cut Pro (now the Final Cut Pro X) is a powerful video editing software in post-production for Mac users. It allows you to edit video and audio, do advanced color grading, create and edit closed captions, and much more. Typical, Final Cut Pro features all the tools that you need to edit and deliver videos from start to end.

However, Final Cut Pro X is only designed for Mac users and requires a Mac with macOS 10.13.6 or later, you can’t download and use Final Cut Pro on Windows, what's more, Final Cut Pro X will cost $300.

There are so many free video editing software for Windows, so if you are looking for a video editing software similar to Final Cut Pro for your Windows PC, you’re in the right place. I've done some research and updated the best alternatives to Final Cut Pro for Windows listed below. You can choose the right video editing software alternative to Final Cut Pro based on your editing experience, the Windows system you are running (Windows 10 / Windows 8/ Windows 7), and your budget as well.

• Part 1: 8 Best Free Final Cut Pro X Alternatives for Windows/Mac/Linux
• Part 2: 8 Paid Video Editing Software Alternatives to Final Cut Pro X
• Part 3: How we choose alternatives to Final Cut Pro X? [5 Factors to Consider]

Quick Pick: Free video editing software alternatives to Final Cut Pro are good choices if you’re on a budget. However, if you want to have the same video editing experience on Windows or Mac, here the Wondershare Filmora is highly recommended.

Part 1: 8 Best Free Final Cut Pro Alternatives for Windows 7/8/10 & Mac & Linux

Since most people who use Final Cut Pro X may have already known that iMovie is a free video editing app on Mac, iPhone, and iPad, I didn’t list it below though I do think it is a good video editing software for Mac users. Based on my editing experience and research, I’ve found the following free video editing software as alternatives to Final Cut Pro X for beginners and professionals as well.

Note: all the video editing software listed below is not in a particular order.

1. Avidemux [ Free & Simple Alternative to Final Cut Pro X]

Perfect for Beginners

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Avidemux

• It supports various video file formats, including AVI, MPEG, MP4, DVD, and ASF.
• Very simple software with no technical complexity.
• Easy encoding for video and audio files

The interface of this software is very simple which makes it one of the perfect solutions for basic video editing tasks such as cutting, trimming, encoding, and a few other basic tasks.

More editing features are hidden under Video Filter Manager in which you can crop, rotate, flip and add borders, logos, or even duplicate frames for a given duration. What’s more, you can add hard code subtitles in SRT, ASS, and SSA to the video or modify the saturation, brightness, and color of your edited videos.

On the other hand, the interface is lacking a timeline and is not intuitive for me, and when previewing, you can only preview the selected applied filter but not all filters applied, which isn’t convenient for me.

This tool is perfect for beginners that have very basic needs, and need to learn fast because it won't allow you to have more controls. A good advantage of this editing tool is that video and audio are saved in one file by using its container format.

2. Shotcut [Best Free Final Cut Pro X for Windows for Beginners]

Perfect for Beginners

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Shotcut

• It provides great file format support.
• Large selection of audio and video filters.
• Powerful and feature-rich.
• It supports a 4K resolution.

If you’ve only used Windows Movie Maker for video editing and want to move to the next level, then this tool is the best solution for you, so we don't recommend this tool for more advanced projects. It is similar to Avidemux that was mentioned in our list, as no need to pay for any upgrade once you downloaded the software. The interface is highly customized and approachable with dockable and undockable panels.

It supports hundreds of formats, 4K, and HD resolutions via the FFmpeg project that eliminates the need for file import. It combines filters and special effects that are easy to manage. It is one of the best free video editors that will help you out with the majority of your projects. Compared to Avidemux, Shotcut features a more intuitive interface, more editing tools, providing you with more controls. I highly recommend it as one of the best free video editing software alternatives to Final Cut Pro X on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

3. Blender

Perfect for Professionals

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Blender:

• A portion of its remarkable abilities includes luma waveform, live review, chroma vectorscope, and histogram showcases.
• It supports audio mixing, waveform visualization, and video scrubbing.
• You can use 32 different slots for adding video, audio, images, scenes, and effects.
• It supports multiple filters, speed controls, key-frames, and transitions.

Blender is an open-source program that is completely free to use. It was designed as 3D animation creation software, yet it comes with an exceptionally valuable video editor. It will meet your basic needs for video editing such as video cuts and video splicing, however, it can likewise be used for progressively refined tasks, like video masking. This makes it a truly adaptable video editor for beginners, with no complex features as in Final Cut Pro X.

4. HitFilm Express

Perfect for Beginners and Professionals

Platforms: Windows, Mac

Key Features of HitFilm Express

• Fully support for 8K videos
• Intuitive interface for most routine functions
• Extraordinary color correction Functionality and Professional audio mastering

HitFilm Express is currently one of the best solutions for professional 8K video editing at moment, it has become an all-in-one professional video editing software with visual effects, audio, and video editing post-editing. HitFilm Express has many professional video features such as video slicing, video trimming, and creating videos. We can say that it is the most advanced free video editing software, and it is used on several TV productions and film productions as well.

As this video software is perfect for professionals, the spontaneous user interface it provides makes it an excellent choice for beginners too. Among its strongest features that many editors are looking for in any software are stunning image quality, professional audio mastering, and color correction. So, if you are looking for high-quality audio and stunning looks, this application is designed for you.

5. Lightworks

Perfect for Professionals

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Lightworks

• Well-designed interface, many advanced features.
• It supports the latest video and audio formats.
• Instant auto-save functionality.
• Export to 720p for YouTube.

We can start by saying that this tool has been used widely in many Hollywood productions that we all know like LA Confidential, Pulp Fiction, Shutter Island, Hugo, and The Wolf of Wall Street. Lightworks video editing software is free but it has extra features included in its upgraded Pro version that costs $25 monthly however, its free version still meets the needs of most professional users.

Lightworks is one of the more powerful video editors, with dignitary features that include professional-level color correction, video capture, and extensive format support. You can change its default design and shift to Final Cut Pro or Avid keyboard layouts.

If you are going to use its free version, you have to know that you will only be able to export MPEG-4 files with a resolution of up to 720p. Another great inclusion that is only found in the upgraded version is that you can edit Youtube videos and 4K videos. To get the best results from this tool and its flagship feature, you need to be tech-savvy and a professional editor. Briefly, this tool is not for beginners.

Above alternative free video editing software to Final Cut, Pro are good choices if you’re on a budget. Please note some professional video editing software programs have high system requirements when using some features (like 16 GB of system memory is recommended when using Fusion).

6. OpenShot

Ideal for New Users

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of OpenShot

• Video trimming and joining
• Curved-based time mapping
• Video speed control (fast and slow)
• Rotation and resizing in different qualities

OpenShot is a cross-platform editor installable on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It’s a simple and quick open-source video editing tool. This program includes a wide range of features, which are easy to apply. Why so? Because OpenShot has a drag-and-drop functionality to make editing faster.

Moreover, it comes with pre-installed 400+ presets effects. Likewise, you can add filters, titles, and transitions to make your videos more catchy and meaningful. Besides, you can enjoy preset animations by adding them to your clips. And one of the best things about OpenShot is that after editing your videos, you can directly post videos to your Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and more.

7. Kdenlive

Best for Intermediate Users

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Kdenlive

• Multi-track editing
• Themable interface
• Font-family support
• Proxy editing
• Keyframeable effects

Kdenlive is one of the best multi-purpose non-linear editing software. It is a free, open-source platform for Mac, Windows, and Linux users. The program is loaded with several useful tools and options. For example, there’s a multi-track timeline, and the software supports dual video monitors. In the same way, it has a customizable layout and basic transactions and effects.

Likewise, some more features are suitable for beginners and intermediate-level users to make their videos enjoyable. These traits include 2D title, video sharing, automatic backup, time effect, and slow motion. You can also do basic audio editing in Kdenlive.

8. Flixier

Good Choice for Beginners

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Key Features of Flixier

• Motion graphics
• Webcam recording
• Above 50 transitions
• Real-time collaboration
• Green screen and video effects

Flixier is a great video editing tool that runs in your browser. You don’t have to download the file to your computer to use it. Moreover, there are many good editing options, such as stock photos, subscription/follow icons and transitions. That is why it is one of the best cross-platform video editors, which even works flawlessly on a Chromebook.

Another excellent thing about this cloud-based editor is its speed. Yes! It’s Usain Bolt of the online video editing tools. The interface is full of options, which make things easy and quick. Additionally, the export and rendering process is pretty rapid. You can pick a video from your computer’s hard drive or simply paste a video URL to start editing the clip in a few seconds.

Part 2: 8 Best Paid Final Cut Pro X Alternatives on Windows

Sometimes, a paid solution can save you time and offer you more creativity. In the following part, we’ve figured out some paid video editing software that you can use as alternatives to Final Cut Pro X. Some of them are easy to use yet powerful enough, you can download the free trial version first to have a try before paying.

1. Filmora Editor

Perfect for Beginners and Semi-Pros

Platforms: Windows and Mac

Price: $49.99 (1-year subscription); $79.99 for perpetual

Key Features of Filmora

• Adaptable specifically for beginners.
• Its design is intuitive and easy to use.
• It is loaded with plentiful filters, transitions, elements and overlays, and built-in text templates, and audio library

Filmora is one of the best-perfect video editor software for beginners as an alternative to Final Cut Pro X. Its interface is dark which is very similar to Final Cut Pro X, and the editing and trimming process is similar to Final Cut Pro 7 as well.

The interface design is intuitive which makes it so easy to use for video editors, and makes the video editing very interesting and fun. It can always make your imagination real with its simple features.

You can perform your basic video editing using this simple tool, including but not limited to color tuning, noise removal, video stabilization, and 4K editing support. Apart from your basic video editing needs, you can also change your background, and use its split-screen feature to allow you to edit your video on multiple footage. You can download the trial version for free and have to try to discover more creativity.

Font style and color, have always been major features that video editors are keen to find in the software they use, and that's why this tool has its unique text editing function providing a good variety of fonts that you can use in your video editing.

2. Wondershare Filmora[Most Similar & Easy to Use FCPX Alternative]

Perfect for Professionals

Platforms: Windows and Mac

Price: $79.99 (discontinued for selling since July, 2022 ).

Key Features of Filmora Pro

• Unlimited tracks
• Clip labeling
• Advance editing tools

Although Filmora Pro is not for sale from July 1, 2022, previous users can still enjoy the features and upgrades . It is a powerful video editing software for those who want to edit the professional video easily. With its intuitive interface, users can quickly find the features they want. Users can make various visual effects like bolts of lightning and rain with dragging and dropping.

It has the same simple-to-use color correction and color grading features. Users can use the color wheel, LUTs, and more to adjust color settings. You can also use auto color correction to get the best color quickly. Smooth keyframing will give you more control over text/title and animation.

More importantly, Filmora offers various easy-to-follow free video tutorials. You can also learn Filmora from start to finish with its learning course. Just download it on Windows to have a try!

3. Wondershare Filmii

Perfect for novice editors

Platforms: Windows

Price: $9.99/month or 34.99/year

Key Features of Wondershare Filmii

• Smart templates for a quick creation.
• A large collection of filters and motion elements.
• Multiple themes for selection.

Wondershare Filmii is like no other video editor. It is packed with smart-themed templates for easy and quick creation of eye-catching videos in no time. And if you are looking to craft a Hollywood-style video to compliment your social media account or surprise your loved ones, Filmii has got you covered. From catchy customizable captions to aesthetic filters, it's all just a click away.

Another amazing part of Filmii is that you can choose to go for a quick creation mode or go to advanced editing mode to personalize the videos to your liking in detail. It lets you first use the templates for a headstart and later transform them into unique videos by using the advanced editing options. All in all, Filmii is the ultimate video editor to boost your creativity.

4. Vegas Pro

Perfect for Professionals

Platforms: Windows

Price: $599 for a lifetime

Key Features of Vegas Pro Vegas Pro

• Multi-track audio capabilities.
• Filter plug-ins and video effects.
• Speed and flexibility

Vegas Pro is a major tool in the video editing industry, offering professional functions for creating, changing, and enhancing movies, and audio materials. Its powerful features and editing abilities enable you to make videos easily. It can enhance GPU, give an instinctive timeline work process, save window formats, and perform video adjustment.

It supports 360-degree editing, 4K UHD, and 3D adjustments. This software is highly expensive with a wide range of prices that start from $698, however, they regularly offer discounts on these prices. The high prices of this tool might be one of the most reasons why many video editors don't choose this tool for their work.

You may also like: Sony Vegas VS Adobe Premiere, Which One is Better?

5. Adobe Premiere Pro

Perfect for Professionals

Platforms: Windows and Mac

Price: $20.99 per month

Key Features of Adobe Premiere Pro

• Has every video editing tool video editors look for.
• Dominant exported video quality.
• Easy integration with Adobe tools; straightforward interface

Adobe Premiere Pro is the ideal software for video editors who have spent a lot of time in shopper video editing software and are prepared to upgrade. It is the best alternative to Final Cut Pro for professionals based on its pricing and features. With Adobe Premiere Pro, you gain access to functions for basic and advanced editing. It allows you to edit many videos together at the same time, and to transfer clips easily from one video to another.

A stunning feature of this tool is the Lumetri Color tool which allows color modification the same as in Photoshop. Adobe products are labeled Creative Cloud which means the platform can be accessed online from any connected device. Additionally, it supports any device, platform, and camera.

Its multi-cam feature allows you to work with an unlimited amount of camera angles that most of the other tools don’t offer. It can import and export motion pictures from other software such as Final Cut Pro. Finally, this tool can coordinate with other Adobe tools to give you one powerful creative suite.

Adobe Premiere Pro needs to be mentioned whether you like this software or not. We can't deny it is a great video editor on Windows. It has the largest number of users on Windows. With Premiere Rush, Adobe Premiere Pro has had a big update recently. It is the leading product for editing 8K videos. You can also use Rush to edit videos on your phone and import it to your PC to have further advanced editing if needed.

6. PowerDirector

Ideal Choice for Beginners and Professionals

Platforms: Mac and Windows

Price: $139.99 for a lifetime

Key Features of PowerDirector

• Keyframing
• Chroma Key
• Object detection
• Masking and blending
• Customizable titles
• AI Motion tracking (latest version)
• 80K+ royalty-free images, videos, and music

PowerDirector is a paid tool with many excellent options, including stickers, animations, transitions, and more. You can download this software on your Windows or Mac computers. While some free and paid alternatives don’t support 4K video editing, PowerDirector allows you to do it hassle-free. So you can expect high-quality video editing in 4K 60fps.

The most attractive thing about this tool is the add-ons option. You can download plenty of add-ons/plugins to make your PowerDirector more creative. Plus, finding add-ons is simple, as several add-ons are already available on its official website.

Additionally, this software offers pre-installed text animation and effects. The best part is that you can play and change the settings of these built-in effects effortlessly.

7. DaVinci Resolve

Super-awesome for Professionals

Platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux

Price: $295 for a lifetime

Key Features of DaVinci Resolve

• Cloud collaboration
• Simple media management
• Remote streaming
• Object masking
• Depth map
• Warped surface tracking

DaVinci Resolve (version 18) is one of Hollywood's widely used video editing tools. It’s a cross-platform software for Linux, Mac, and Windows users. However, the basic version is free to download, which appears to be a great way for beginners to learn about the features. But, if you really want to enjoy all the boons, you should go for the premium subscription.

The newest version of DaVinci Resolve is a complete non-linear video editor designed for professionals. It has advanced color correction options so you can easily color correct, edit, complete, and deliver the video files from a single platform.

Besides color correction, you can also enjoy audio post-production, visual effects, and motion graphics. Moreover, the software has a user-friendly interface, and the functionality gets better with every new update.

8. Movavi Video Editor Plus

Best for Beginners

Platforms: Windows and Mac

Price: $189.85 for a lifetime

Key Features of Movavi Video Editor Plus

• Vertical video
• Chroma Key
• Picture in picture
• Video stabilization
• Voiceover

If you are looking for a simple video editing program with advanced tools, Movavi could be the solution. It’s a paid tool for Windows and Mac users. Movavi Video Editor Plus 2022 offers all the essential features required for basic editing. You can add titles, transitions, filters, and special effects.

The program also allows you to add animation to your videos and move objects around the screen. You can also create great content by adding video clips, music tracks, and stickers from Movavi’s built-in library.

5 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Video Editing Software that Suits Your Needs

#1. Budget

You have to plan for your budget based on your needs and if you are a beginner, then you can start with free software, and then you can upgrade.

#2. Operating System

Are you using Mac or Windows or Linux? Some software can use all these 3 operating systems, and others use only one or two, so your operating system will play the main role in your decision.

#3. Input and Output of Video Formats

Check the video formats you need to import or export video files, this could be MP4 or QuickTime movie files.

#4. Project Needs

This could be a personal project like a family wedding video, or a professional video like a short ad video. Professional video editing will require more features and tools.

#5. User Interface

Is it a simple or complex interface? For beginners, a simple user interface will work better than a complex one.

Some of the video editing tools listed above are simple to easy, some of them are free alternatives to Final Cut Pro X on Windows, which also means they are function limited to some degree. So, if you are looking for some professional video editing software alternatives to Final Cut Pro for Windows, you can also try Lightworks, and Filmora as well. Watch the video below to learn more about Filmora's professional video editing software.

FAQs About Final Cut Pro X

1. Can You Use Final Cut Pro X on Windows?

No, Final Cut Pro X is for Mac users only & requires macOS 10.14.6 or macOS 10.15.6 or later for installation. But you can use it on Windows by installing macOS on a virtual machine and then installing Final Cut Pro x on it. But you will almost certainly run into driver, performance & compatibility issues. It is therefore recommended that you use alternative video editing programs that officially support Windows.

2. How Much Does Final Cut Pro X Cost?

Final Cut Pro can be installed & used for 90 days on a free trial basis without any charge. If you’re using a previous version of the Final Cut Pro trial, you’ll be able to use the newer version free for an additional 90 days. After the free trial is over, you will need to pay a one-time fee of $299.99 US dollars for the full version of Final Cut Pro X for further usage. Final Cut Pro X requires a Mac with macOS 10.14.6 or macOS 10.15.6 or later, 4GB of RAM, a Metal-capable graphics card, and 3.8GB of available disk space.

3. What Computer Is Best For Final Cut Pro?

For optimal performance of Final Cut Pro X, your Mac must meet the recommended hardware specifications. A minimum of macOS 10.14.6 or macOS 10.15.6 or later is required for the installation of Final Cut Pro X. Moreover, 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended for 4K editing, 3D titles, and 360° video editing), Metal-capable graphics card, 1GB of VRAM (recommended for 4K editing, 3D titles, and 360° video editing), and 4GB of available disk space is required. Some features require your Mac to have internet access. A Blu-ray recorder is also necessary for burning Blu-ray discs.

In case you want to make a video with built-in presets, templates, effects, transitions, and elements quickly, you should try Wondershare Filmora.