AGI Point / Learn / Free CapCut alternative

The best free CapCut alternative: OpenCut (open source, in your browser)

Tired of paying for CapCut? OpenCut is a free, open-source video editor that runs right in your browser. Here's what it does, how to make your first edit, and where it's still behind.

Updated October 20, 2026 · by AGI Point

OpenCut at a glance

Runs in	Your browser (Chrome works best)
License	MIT, open source, about 95K ★ on GitHub
Costs	$0
Account	Not needed to try

OpenCut is being rewritten from the ground up. opencut.app runs the current "classic" version, which is the one to use today; the new version is being built at new.opencut.app.

Your first edit in OpenCut, step by step

1. Open opencut.app in Chrome and press the button to open the editor.
2. Create a project. New project, and pick vertical 9:16 for a reel.
3. Bring in your clips: drag videos, photos and music into the media panel.
4. Put them on the timeline in the order you want.
5. Cut what you don't need: move the playhead, split, select the piece, delete.
6. Add text and music: a text layer for the hook, music on its own track, volume low so the voice stays clear.
7. Export, choose the quality and save the file.

Honest limits

OpenCut is younger than CapCut: fewer effects, templates and auto-captions. For simple cuts, text and music it's all you need. Projects live in your browser's storage, so keep your source clips.

If something goes wrong

• A video won't import: convert it to standard MP4 (H.264), for example with the free app HandBrake.
• The editor feels slow: close other tabs, use Chrome, trim very long clips first.
• Export takes forever: keep the OpenCut tab open and in front; browsers slow down background tabs.

Looking for other free swaps? See the free alternatives to ElevenLabs, and to Figma, Loom and paid AI upscalers in our free tools guide.

Questions