CapCut has long been one of the most popular video editing apps, especially for short-form content on TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. It’s known for its AI-powered editing tools, auto captions, and smooth transitions, making it a go-to choice for beginners and casual creators.
However, in 2025, CapCut has significantly expanded its Pro subscription model, locking many of its best features—such as 4K export, premium effects, AI editing tools, and advanced transitions—behind a paywall.
If you're looking for a free or more affordable CapCut alternative, we’ve compiled a list of the best mobile and PC video editing software in 2025.
Best PC Alternatives to CapCut
1. Nero Video – Budget-Friendly
Nero Video is a cost-effective alternative to CapCut, offering multi-track editing, alpha channel, and professional effects at a one-time price instead of a subscription.
What sets it apart is its built-in disc-burning feature, allowing users to create DVDs, Blu-rays, and AVCHD discs directly from the editor.
Available on: Windows
Price: Free trial, lifetime version for $39.16
Best for: Users who want a powerful but affordable video editor
Pros & Cons
✔️ One-time payment (no expensive subscription fees)
✔️ Solid file format support, including H.265 and 8K
✔️ Supports multi-track editing, green screen and PiP effects
✔️ Over 1000 movie templates and effects
✔️ Burns DVD, Blu-ray, and AVCHD
❌ Windows-only, no Mac version available
2. DaVinci Resolve – Professional Editing
DaVinci Resolve is a top-tier professional video editor that rivals software like Adobe Premiere Pro. It offers industry-leading color grading, advanced visual effects, and multi-user collaboration, making it a great alternative for serious video editors.
Available on: Windows & Mac
Price: Free version available, Studio version costs $295
Best for: Users who need Hollywood-level editing and color grading
Pros & Cons
✔️ Advanced color correction and grading tools
✔️ Supports multi-user collaboration
❌ Steep learning curve for beginners
❌ Requires a powerful PC for smooth performance
3. Movavi Video Editor – Best for Beginners
Movavi Video Editor is a fantastic choice for users who want CapCut’s ease of use but with more advanced editing options on PC. It includes AI-powered enhancements, automatic scene detection, and pre-built effects while still being beginner-friendly.
Available on: Windows & Mac
Price: Free trial, full version starts at $44.95/year
Best for: Users looking for an easy-to-use PC editor
Pros & Cons
✔️ Intuitive interface, easy for beginners
✔️ AI-powered tools enhance video quality
✔️ Runs smoothly even on mid-range PCs
❌ Free trial has export limitations
❌ Lacks some pro features like motion tracking
Best Mobile Alternatives to CapCut
1. VivaCut – Advanced Editing
VivaCut is an excellent choice for creators looking for a more advanced mobile video editor. Unlike CapCut, which is increasingly limiting its free features, VivaCut offers multi-layer editing, keyframe animation, and green screen (chroma key) effects, making it ideal for more complex projects.
Available on: iOS & Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases, $39.99/year
Best for: Users who want professional-level editing features on mobile
Pros & Cons
✔️ Powerful multi-layer timeline for pro-level edits
✔️ Advanced transitions and keyframe animation
✔️ Great for green screen and special effects
❌ Free version has watermarks on exports
❌ Requires a high-performance phone for smooth editing
2. InShot – Social Media Editing
If you need a quick and simple way to edit your videos without a learning curve, InShot is a fantastic alternative. It offers basic cutting, transitions, speed controls, and background music, making it perfect for social media content creators.
Available on: iOS & Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases, $19.99/year
Best for: Fast and easy video edits for TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube
Pros & Cons
✔️ User-friendly interface, perfect for beginners
✔️ Supports trendy effects and filters
✔️ Easy resizing for different social media formats
❌ Free version includes watermarks
❌ No multi-layer editing, limiting advanced edits
3. VLLO – No-Watermark Option
VLLO stands out because even its free version doesn't add watermarks—something rare among mobile editing apps. It’s great for users who want basic but clean editing tools without paying for a subscription. The app also supports motion stickers, transitions, and multiple audio tracks.
Available on: iOS & Android
Price: Free with in-app purchases, $19.99/year
Best for: Users who want a free mobile editor without watermarks
Pros & Cons
✔️ No watermark, even in the free version
✔️ Easy-to-use and lightweight
✔️ Supports motion stickers and effects
❌ Lacks pro-level features like green screen
❌ Some transitions and filters require in-app purchases
4. LightCut – AI Editing
If you love CapCut’s AI features but don’t want to pay for Pro, LightCut is a great alternative. It uses AI templates to instantly create stylish videos from your clips, making it perfect for users who want fast, professional-looking edits without spending too much time.
Available on: iOS & Android
Price: Free
Best for: Beginners looking for AI-powered video editing
Pros & Cons
✔️ AI-assisted editing for quick video creation
✔️ Supports 4K video and drone footage
✔️ Simple and beginner-friendly
❌ Limited manual editing features
❌ Mostly geared towards template-based editing
Which CapCut Alternative Should You Choose?
Need | 🔥Best Alternative |
PC: Budget-friendly | Nero Video |
PC: Professional-grade | DaVinci Resolve |
PC: Beginner-friendly | Movavi Video Editor |
Mobile: Advanced | VivaCut |
Mobile: Fast & easy | InShot |
Mobile: No watermark | VLLO |
Mobile: AI-assisted | LightCut |
CapCut’s shift towards paid features in 2025 has made many users look for alternatives. If you’re frustrated with CapCut’s limitations, these mobile and PC editors offer better flexibility, affordability, and power depending on your needs.