Independent OpenShot guide · Official website: openshot.org
OpenShotVideo editing, explored

Meet OpenShot

Your first video.
Start right here.

Take a small idea from a folder of clips to a finished video. OpenShot gives you a free desktop editor to begin with.

Free & open sourceWindows · Mac · Linux
OpenShot workspace with project files, video preview, and a multitrack timeline
Official OpenShot screenshot. The interface may vary by version.

Get to know the workspace

A place for
each part of
your story.

Bring video, sound, and images into a timeline. Explore titles and transitions as your project takes shape.

Explore the official feature guide

Start small. Finish something.

Three steps to a first draft.

01

Prepare your folder

Choose a few clips and keep them together with any music or images. Decide what the video should show before you start editing.

02

Put the useful moments in order

Build a rough sequence. Trim repetition and check that the opening gives the viewer enough context.

03

Export a short draft

Play the resulting video file. Check the sound and titles, then return to the project to make any changes.

Need detailed instructions? Follow the official OpenShot user guide.

Before you press export

A quick review
goes a long way.

Can you follow the story?

Look for a missing step or an unexplained jump. Remove a clip if it repeats information the audience already has.

Can you hear what matters?

Listen through headphones and speakers. Background music should leave room for any voice you want people to understand.

Can you read the words?

Check spelling, contrast, and timing. Use the smallest likely viewing screen as a useful reality check.

Available on your desktop

Choose your computer.

Good to know

First-time
questions.

Is OpenShot free?

Free downloads are available from openshot.org. A paid Microsoft Store option also supports development. Check the official download page for the current choices.

Which computers can run it?

OpenShot offers desktop versions for Windows, macOS, and Linux. Review the current build and installation requirements for your computer.

Does this page download anything automatically?

No. The buttons open the official OpenShot download page, where you choose the appropriate version and follow the installation instructions.

Where should I go for help?

Use the official OpenShot user guide and support resources. This independent page introduces the workflow and does not provide software support.

A small project
is a great beginning.

Choose your download, explore the workspace, and take your first idea all the way to a finished file.

Continue to openshot.org