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Professional Video Editing for Everyone
Powerful free, open-source video editor with professional-grade effects, audio mixing, color correction, and multi-track editing for all skill levels.
Kdenlive represents the professional end of open-source video editing, delivering broadcast-quality capabilities through a feature-rich interface. Developed by the KDE community since its inception, Kdenlive integrates the powerful MLT framework enabling extensive video processing and effects. Version 25.08.3, released November 2025, continues refinement with subtitle improvements and image rendering enhancements. The upcoming 25.12 version introduces enhanced audio visualization and improved panel management systems.
The editor distinguishes itself through comprehensive effects libraries rivaling commercial alternatives and robust audio mixing tools including dynamic ducking and sidechain compression. Multi-track editing with unlimited layers enables complex compositing work. Kdenlive's active development ensures modern codec support including 10-bit H.265 encoding introduced in version 25.08, making it viable for serious production workflows.
v25.08.3 (November 2025):
- Clip pasting fixes for projects with different frame rates
- Subtitle style improvements and consistency enhancements
- Image rendering corrections for sequence handling
- SVG file replacement with property preservation
- Disk space validation improvements for archiving
v25.08.2 (October 2025):
- Effects and transition issue resolution
- Clip selection improvements
- Filter job crash fixes
- GIF rendering preset updates
v25.08.0 (August 2025):
- 10-bit H.265 encoding support for HDR workflows
- Enhanced audio mixer interface redesign
- Improved performance on multi-track projects
Yes, Kdenlive is production-ready with color grading, audio mixing, and 10-bit H.265 support enabling broadcast-quality deliverables. Many independent filmmakers and small studios use it successfully for commercial projects.
Kdenlive supports virtually all common formats including MP4, MOV, MKV, WebM, ProRes, DNxHD, and more through FFmpeg integration. It handles various codecs including modern 10-bit H.265 for advanced workflows.
Absolutely. Kdenlive includes professional color correction tools with curves, color wheels, levels adjustment, and grading capabilities sufficient for broadcast and cinema work.
Kdenlive doesn't have built-in real-time collaboration, but projects can be shared between team members for sequential editing across different systems and operating systems.
While DaVinci excels in color work, Kdenlive offers more comprehensive general editing features and extensive effects library. Kdenlive suits faster workflows; DaVinci suits specialized color-focused production.
Kdenlive supports effects through MLT framework and can utilize Frei0r plugins. However, third-party plugin support is more limited than commercial software like Adobe Premiere Pro.
