Video content continues to dominate online platforms, but editing videos can be challenging if your computer isn’t powerful. Many popular video editing programs require high-end hardware and lots of memory, which makes them unsuitable for low-end PCs. Fortunately, there are several lightweight video editing software options designed specifically to run smoothly on older or less powerful machines.
If you’re looking for fast, efficient, and easy-to-use video editors that won’t slow down your computer, this article is for you. We’ve rounded up the best lightweight video editing software in 2025 that is perfect for low-end PCs.
Best AI-Powered Writing Assistants for Bloggers in 2025
Why Use Lightweight Video Editing Software?
Using video editing software designed for low-end PCs has many benefits:
- Better performance: These editors use fewer system resources, preventing crashes and lag.
- Faster editing: You can process videos quickly without long wait times.
- Ease of use: Many lightweight editors offer simple interfaces suitable for beginners.
- Cost-effective: Most lightweight editors are free or affordable.
Top Lightweight Video Editing Software for Low-End PCs
1. Shotcut
Shotcut is a free, open-source video editor that works well on low-end systems. It supports a wide range of video formats and offers essential editing tools without overwhelming your computer.
Key Features:
- Cross-platform support (Windows, Mac, Linux)
- Timeline editing with drag-and-drop
- Support for 4K videos
- Wide variety of filters and effects
Why it’s great for low-end PCs: Shotcut is optimized for performance, and its open-source nature means it gets regular updates from the community.
2. OpenShot
OpenShot is another free and easy-to-use video editor that runs smoothly on low-powered computers. Its user-friendly interface makes it ideal for beginners who want to create quality videos without complex tools.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop timeline
- Unlimited tracks/layers
- 3D animated titles and effects
- Audio editing capabilities
Why it’s great for low-end PCs: OpenShot uses minimal resources and has low system requirements, perfect for older machines.
3. VSDC Free Video Editor
VSDC is a popular video editing program designed for Windows users with limited hardware. It offers a good balance between powerful features and low resource usage.
Key Features:
- Non-linear editing
- Wide format support
- Built-in video effects and filters
- Export presets for different devices
Why it’s great for low-end PCs: VSDC is lightweight and doesn’t require a powerful GPU, making it accessible for budget computers.
4. VideoPad Video Editor
VideoPad is a lightweight video editor suitable for hobbyists and casual users. It has an intuitive interface and includes many useful tools without the bloat of larger editors.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop timeline
- Multiple export options
- Supports 3D and 360-degree video
- Basic video stabilization
Why it’s great for low-end PCs: VideoPad is optimized to run on computers with limited RAM and CPU power.
5. Lightworks Free
Lightworks is a professional-grade video editor with a free version that works well on less powerful machines. It’s perfect for users who want advanced features but need software that won’t slow down their PC.
Key Features:
- Multi-cam editing
- Real-time effects
- Export up to 720p in free version
- User-friendly interface
Why it’s great for low-end PCs: Lightworks Free is optimized for speed and can run smoothly on mid to low-range PCs with careful settings.
Tips for Editing Videos on a Low-End PC
- Use proxy files: Many editors allow creating low-resolution versions of videos for smoother editing.
- Close unnecessary programs: Free up memory by shutting down unused apps while editing.
- Lower preview quality: Reduce playback resolution to avoid lag during editing.
- Keep projects simple: Avoid too many effects or layers to maintain performance.
- Regularly update software: Developers optimize performance with updates.
Final Thoughts
Creating quality videos doesn’t have to mean investing in a high-end computer or expensive software. The lightweight video editing software for low-end PCs listed above can help you produce professional-looking videos even with limited hardware.
Whether you’re a beginner starting your YouTube channel or need a simple editor for school projects, these tools offer the features you need without overwhelming your system. Try them out and see which one fits your workflow best.
