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Lightworks is ranked #3 on the top 10 Video Editing Software leaderboard based on a comprehensive analysis performed by SelectHub research analysts. Compare the leaders with our In-Depth Report.

Lightworks Pricing

Based on our most recent analysis, Lightworks pricing starts at $10 (Monthly, Freemium).

Price
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Starting From
$9.99
Pricing Model
Monthly, Freemium
Free Trial
No

Training Resources

Lightworks is supported with the following types of training:

Documentation
In Person
Live Online
Videos
Webinars

Support

The following support services are available for Lightworks:

Email
Phone
Chat
FAQ
Forum
Help Desk
Knowledge Base
Tickets
Training
24/7 Live Support

Lightworks Benefits and Insights

Why use Lightworks?

Key differentiators & advantages of Lightworks

  • Professional-Grade Editing: Lightworks offers advanced editing tools that are used in Hollywood productions, ensuring high-quality results for any project.
  • Multi-Platform Compatibility: Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux, Lightworks allows you to work seamlessly across different operating systems.
  • Real-Time Collaboration: The software supports collaborative workflows, enabling multiple editors to work on the same project simultaneously, which enhances productivity.
  • Extensive Format Support: Lightworks can handle a wide range of video formats, from SD to 4K, making it versatile for various types of media projects.
  • Efficient Workflow: With customizable keyboard shortcuts and a user-friendly interface, Lightworks streamlines the editing process, saving valuable time.
  • High-Quality Export Options: The software provides numerous export presets, including direct uploads to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, ensuring your content is ready for distribution.
  • Advanced Effects and Transitions: Lightworks includes a rich library of effects and transitions, allowing you to enhance your videos with professional-grade visual elements.
  • Scalable Performance: Optimized for both low-end and high-end systems, Lightworks ensures smooth performance regardless of your hardware capabilities.
  • Comprehensive Training Resources: Access to extensive tutorials and a supportive user community helps you quickly master the software and troubleshoot any issues.
  • Cost-Effective Solutions: Offering both free and affordable pro versions, Lightworks provides powerful editing capabilities without breaking the bank.

Industry Expertise

Lightworks is a popular choice for both beginners and professionals, particularly those who need a powerful video editor without the hefty price tag of industry-standard software. Its intuitive interface and robust features make it suitable for creating a wide range of video content, from social media clips to short films.

Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Based on an aggregate of Lightworks reviews taken from the sources above, the following pros & cons have been curated by a SelectHub Market Analyst.

Pros

  • Intuitive Interface: Lightworks boasts a user-friendly interface that simplifies video editing, making it easy for both beginners and experienced editors to navigate and utilize its features effectively.
  • Cost Effective: Lightworks offers a free version without watermarks, making it a budget-friendly option for businesses and individuals.
  • Professional Features: Despite its free availability, Lightworks doesn't skimp on professional-grade features. It includes advanced tools like color grading and keyframing, enabling users to achieve high-quality results.
  • Third-Party Integration: Lightworks seamlessly integrates with popular third-party applications such as Blackmagic Fusion and Boris FX, providing users with expanded options for visual effects and motion graphics.

Cons

  • Steep Learning Curve: While considered user-friendly, some find the initial learning phase challenging and time-consuming.
  • Stability Concerns: Users have reported instances of crashes and bugs, especially in recently released versions, potentially disrupting workflow.
  • Limited Free Version: The free version, while offering a good starting point, lacks some advanced features that may be essential for professional business needs, potentially requiring an upgrade to a paid version.

Researcher's Summary:

Is Lightworks the lightning rod for video editing software, or does it leave users in the dark? While Lightworks offers a robust suite of professional-grade video editing features, user experiences over the past year have been somewhat mixed. Many appreciate its user-friendly interface, making it a relatively easy program to learn, especially for those new to video editing. The free version, a rarity in the industry for not slapping watermarks on exported videos, is a significant draw for budget-conscious creators. However, this generosity comes with a caveat: several advanced features are locked behind paywalls, requiring users to shell out for the paid versions to unlock the software's full potential.

A recurring pain point in user reviews is the occasional instability of the software. Reports of crashes and bugs, while not widespread, are frequent enough to cause concern, potentially disrupting workflow and leading to frustration. This inconsistency in performance, coupled with the limitations of the free version, has led some users to jump ship to competitors like DaVinci Resolve, which, while boasting a steeper learning curve, offers a more comprehensive free version and a reputation for stability.

In conclusion, Lightworks is a decent choice for beginners dipping their toes into the video editing waters or casual users who don't require the bells and whistles of more advanced software. Its intuitive interface and the allure of a watermark-free experience make it an attractive proposition. However, professionals or serious hobbyists might find the occasional stability issues and the limitations of the free version to be dealbreakers, steering them towards more robust alternatives.

Key Features

Notable Lightworks features include:

  • Non-Linear Editing: Allows for flexible editing where you can make changes without affecting the rest of the timeline.
  • Multicam Editing: Supports simultaneous editing of footage from multiple cameras, ideal for complex projects like live events.
  • Real-Time Effects: Offers a variety of real-time effects, including color correction and transitions, to enhance your video without rendering delays.
  • Advanced Trimming: Provides precise trimming tools, enabling frame-accurate edits for a polished final product.
  • Wide Format Support: Compatible with a broad range of video formats, including 4K, ProRes, and DNxHD, ensuring versatility in your projects.
  • Customizable Interface: Features a flexible user interface that can be tailored to fit your workflow preferences, improving efficiency.
  • Project Sharing: Facilitates collaboration by allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously, streamlining team efforts.
  • Export Options: Provides various export settings, including direct upload to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, as well as customizable output formats.
  • Keyboard Shortcuts: Extensive support for keyboard shortcuts to speed up the editing process and improve productivity.
  • Proxy Workflow: Enables editing with lower-resolution proxies to ensure smooth performance, especially on less powerful hardware.
  • Audio Editing Tools: Includes comprehensive audio editing features such as waveform visualization, audio mixing, and effects.
  • Asset Management: Offers robust media management tools to organize and locate your assets efficiently, including bins and metadata tagging.
  • Third-Party Plugin Support: Compatible with various third-party plugins, allowing for extended functionality and specialized effects.
  • Cross-Platform Availability: Available on Windows, Mac, and Linux, providing flexibility regardless of your operating system.
  • Free and Pro Versions: Offers both a free version with essential features and a pro version with advanced capabilities, catering to different user needs.
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