Filmora review: what it is, pricing and who it's for
Desktop video editor from Wondershare with templates, effects and credit-based smart tools.
In short: Desktop video editor from Wondershare with templates, effects and credit-based smart tools. Starting price: US$49.99/year (Basic). Free plan / trial: Free version with watermark. Best for: Beginners and YouTube creators.
What is Filmora?
Filmora is video editing software made by Wondershare for Windows and Mac. It uses a timeline editor with drag-and-drop titles, transitions, effects and music, aimed at people who want good results without a steep learning curve.
You can use it free, but exports carry a watermark. Paid plans remove the watermark and add cloud storage and stock assets. Generative and automatic features run on AI credits, which are included monthly on the Advanced and Premium plans.
Key features
- Timeline editor with 100+ editing features.
- 4K export in multiple formats on paid plans.
- 2.9M+ stock assets such as effects, music and templates.
- Cloud storage from 1 GB to 100 GB depending on plan.
- 20+ credit-based smart features on Advanced and Premium.
- One annual license covers both Windows and Mac.
- Perpetual license option for a fixed version.
- Continuous version upgrades on annual plans.
Plans and pricing
| Plan | Price / limit | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Free | $0 | Basic editing, exports with watermark |
| Basic | US$49.99/year | No watermark, 4K export, 1 GB cloud, stock assets |
| Advanced | US$59.99/year | Basic plus 1,000 AI credits a month and 10 GB cloud |
| Premium | US$99.99/year | 2,000 AI credits a month, 100 GB cloud, Creative Assets included |
| Perpetual | See official site | One-time fee for a specific version; future versions not included |
Annual plans renew automatically in USD; the perpetual license covers one version and one platform, and its price was not shown clearly (checked 14 Nov 2026).
Pros and cons
Pros
- Easy to learn for beginners
- Low yearly price for the core editor
- One annual license works on Windows and Mac
- Large library of effects and templates
Cons
- The free version adds a watermark to exports
- Annual plans renew automatically
- Many smart tools use credits, which are limited per month
- The perpetual license does not include future major versions
Who it's for
Filmora is a good fit for beginners, YouTubers and small businesses who want a simple desktop editor. Professional editors who need advanced color and audio work may prefer pro-level software.
Frequently asked questions
What is Filmora?
Filmora is video editing software made by Wondershare for Windows and Mac. It uses a timeline editor with drag-and-drop titles, transitions, effects and music, aimed at people who want good results without a steep learning curve.
How much does Filmora cost?
Filmora starts at US$49.99/year (Basic). Annual plans renew automatically in USD; the perpetual license covers one version and one platform, and its price was not shown clearly (checked 14 Nov 2026).
Does Filmora have a free plan or free trial?
Free version with watermark.
Who is Filmora best for?
Filmora is a good fit for beginners, YouTubers and small businesses who want a simple desktop editor. Professional editors who need advanced color and audio work may prefer pro-level software.
What are the downsides of Filmora?
Main drawbacks: The free version adds a watermark to exports. Annual plans renew automatically. Many smart tools use credits, which are limited per month. The perpetual license does not include future major versions.
What are some alternatives to Filmora?
Other video & live streaming options we cover include Movavi, XSplit, ScreenPal, tl;dv and bunny.net.
Head-to-head comparisons
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This summary is based on Filmora's official website, pricing page and public documentation as of November 14, 2026. Prices and features change, so confirm the details on the official site. Some links on this site may be affiliate links. See our affiliate disclosure.