Creating videos on a low-end PC might feel like climbing a mountain—but the good news is, you don’t need a high-spec machine to produce quality content. Whether you’re a student, beginner YouTuber, or content creator on a budget, there are free video editing software options that run smoothly even on low-end systems.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best free video editing software for low-end PCs, handpicked for performance, features, and ease of use.
What Makes Software Ideal for Low-End PCs?
Before we jump in, here’s what we look for when choosing editing software for older or less powerful systems:
- 🧠 Low RAM usage (works on 2GB–4GB RAM)
- 💾 Small install size
- ⚙️ Smooth performance without GPU dependency
- 🧩 Essential editing features like cutting, trimming, transitions, and basic effects
💡 Pro Tip: If your PC has 4GB RAM or less, close all background apps before editing for the best performance.
1. VSDC Free Video Editor
Best for: Beginners & intermediate editors on Windows
RAM Requirement: 2GB minimum
Website: https://www.videosoftdev.com
VSDC is a powerful, non-linear video editor that works surprisingly well on older hardware. It supports most video formats, offers basic to advanced features, and doesn’t hog your RAM.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop timeline
- Color correction & filters
- Motion tracking (Pro version)
- No watermarks or forced upgrades
✅ Lightweight and reliable for low-end PCs.
2. OpenShot
Best for: Simple cutting, trimming, and transitions
RAM Requirement: 4GB minimum
Website: https://www.openshot.org
OpenShot is an open-source video editor that focuses on simplicity. The interface is beginner-friendly, and it runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux—even on older machines.
What You Get:
- Multi-track timeline
- Audio waveform support
- Basic animations and transitions
- No ads or bloatware
🟢 Perfect for editing short YouTube videos or school projects.
3. Shotcut
Best for: Intermediate editors needing more control
RAM Requirement: 4GB (runs better on 8GB)
Website: https://shotcut.org
Shotcut is another open-source gem that offers a clean UI with powerful tools. While it’s more advanced than OpenShot, it still works decently on low-spec machines.
Pros:
- Support for 4K editing (optional)
- Wide codec support
- Audio filters & transitions
- No watermarks
⚠️ Slightly heavier than others but can be tuned for performance.
4. Kdenlive
Best for: Linux users and basic creative edits
RAM Requirement: 4GB+
Website: https://kdenlive.org
Kdenlive (KDE Non-Linear Video Editor) works well on older PCs running Linux or lightweight Windows setups. It offers decent features without stressing your processor.
Features Include:
- Keyframe effects
- Title templates
- Proxy editing (for smoother performance)
- Timeline preview rendering
💡 Enable proxy clips for better performance on slow machines.
5. DaVinci Resolve (Only If Your PC Can Handle It)
Best for: Advanced users with slightly better specs
RAM Requirement: 8GB minimum (not ideal for very low-end PCs)
Website: [https://www.blackmagicdesign.com](https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/](https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/)
DaVinci Resolve is a professional-grade editor used by Hollywood. It’s not for ultra-low-end PCs, but if you have a slightly older gaming laptop with a GPU, give it a try.
Bonus Tips to Improve Editing on Low-End PCs
Even the best software needs a little help from your system. Try these:
🔹 Use Proxy Editing: Render low-res preview files to edit smoothly
🔹 Lower Preview Quality: Most editors let you reduce preview resolution
🔹 Work in Short Clips: Avoid loading huge 4K files all at once
🔹 Upgrade to SSD: If possible, switch from HDD to SSD for faster speed
Final Thoughts
Editing videos on a budget PC is absolutely possible in 2025. Tools like VSDC, OpenShot, and Shotcut are great examples of how powerful and free video editors have become—without requiring a high-end machine.
So, don’t let low specs hold you back. Choose the right tool, start creating, and upgrade your gear later!
FAQs: Best Free Video Editing Software for Low-End PC
Q1: Which video editor is best for a 2GB RAM PC?
✅ VSDC is the best pick. It runs on 2GB RAM and offers most essential editing tools.
Q2: Does free video editing software leave watermarks?
Not always. VSDC, OpenShot, and Shotcut are watermark-free. Avoid trial versions of paid software.
Q3: Can I edit 1080p videos on a low-end PC?
Yes, with lightweight editors and proxy editing, 1080p editing is very doable—even without a GPU.