Best Free Color Grading Software for Video in 2025
By Daniel Walker
Color grading is a vital part of video editing that gives your footage a professional and cinematic look. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned editor, using free color grading software can help you improve brightness, contrast, and tones without spending money on expensive tools. With so many free colour grading software options available, you can easily bring your creative vision to life. This guide explores the best tools for color grading free, their benefits, pros and cons, and an advanced alternative for users who want AI-powered editing.
Part 1. Best Free Video Colour Grading Software for Video
If you want to make your video clips look polished and engaging, choosing the right free colour grading software is essential. Below are some of the best options available today.
1. DaVinci Resolve - Free Professional Video Colour Grading Software
DaVinci Resolve is one of the most powerful editing tools available, and its free version already includes professional-grade color grading features. It allows you to perform everything from simple corrections to advanced cinematic looks. With tools like color wheels, curves, HDR grading, and support for LUTs, DaVinci Resolve is the top choice for editors who want studio-level control without paying a cent.
Top Benefits of DaVinci Resolve
- Professional-level color grading free of charge
- Wide range of advanced tools such as HDR grading
- Support for 3D and custom LUTs
- Excellent for both beginners and professionals
- Smooth integration with video editing, audio, and visual effects
Pros and Cons of DaVinci Resolve Color Grading
Pros
- Free access to industry-standard tools
- Advanced color correction features
- Support for multiple formats and high-resolution editing
- Strong community and learning resources
Cons
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Requires powerful hardware for smooth performance
2. iMovie - Free Video Colour Grading for Mac
iMovie is Apple's beginner-friendly editing software that comes free with Mac devices. While not as advanced as DaVinci Resolve, iMovie makes colour grading in video simple with features like color correction, presets, and saturation adjustments. It is perfect for users who want quick and effective edits.
Top Benefits of iMovie Color Grading
- Intuitive and easy-to-use interface
- Quick access to essential color correction tools
- Built-in presets for fast edits
- Perfect for beginners or casual creators
Pros and Cons of iMovie Color Grading
Pros
- Free with all Mac devices
- Easy for beginners to learn
- Useful presets and quick fixes
- Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem
Cons
- Limited advanced color grading tools
- Available only on Mac and iOS
3. Fxhome HitFilm Express - Free Colour Grading for Visual Effects Creators
HitFilm Express is another fantastic free colour grading software that combines video editing with visual effects. Its grading tools include color wheels, curves, and advanced filters, making it a great option for creators who want cinematic looks.
Top Benefits of Fxhome HitFilm Express
- Powerful color wheels and curves tools
- Free access to professional-grade editing features
- Includes VFX tools alongside color grading
- Large library of community tutorials
Pros and Cons of Fxhome HitFilm Express
Pros
- Strong balance of editing and grading tools
- VFX integration within the same software
- Free to use with optional paid add-ons
- Suitable for YouTubers and indie filmmakers
Cons
- Can feel overwhelming for beginners
- Requires a strong system to run smoothly
4. Blender - Free Advanced Colour Grading for Professionals
Blender is widely known for 3D modeling, but its Video Sequence Editor (VSE) also provides strong free colour grading tools. You can adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and apply LUTs while stacking effects on the timeline. It also gives you unmatched customization options.
Top Benefits of Blender Color Grading
- Free and open-source
- Allows applying LUTs for professional looks
- Full control with customizable tools
- Can combine 3D, animation, and video editing
Pros and Cons of Blender Color Grading
Pros
- 100% free with no restrictions
- Extremely flexible for creative workflows
- Large supportive community
- Works on multiple operating systems
Cons
- Interface can be complex for beginners
- Less polished than specialized video editors
5. VSDC Free Video Editor - Free Colour Grading Software for Windows
VSDC is a Windows-based video editor that provides essential color grading tools in its free version. You can work with curves, color wheels, and various effects to improve your footage's look.
Top Benefits of VSDC Color Grading
- Free for Windows users
- Supports LUTs and color curves
- Lightweight software for basic editing
- Suitable for quick corrections
Pros and Cons of VSDC Color Grading
Pros
- Free and lightweight software
- Includes color wheels and filters
- Works on older PCs
- Easy to use for quick fixes
Cons
- Limited advanced grading features
- Windows-only software
6. Lightworks - Free Colour Grading Software for Multi-Platform Use
Lightworks is a professional-grade editor with a generous free version that includes powerful color correction tools. The VFX tab offers balance, RGB, HSV, and curve adjustments, while its support for LUTs makes it great for color grading free.
Top Benefits of Lightworks Color Grading
- Professional VFX color tools
- Supports LUTs and plugins
- Includes color scopes for accurate grading
- Wide compatibility with different formats
Pros and Cons of Lightworks Color Grading
Pros
- Professional tools in a free version
- Flexible and accurate color correction
- Strong compatibility with LUTs
- Suitable for professional editors
Cons
- Some advanced features are paid-only
- Steeper learning curve compared to iMovie
Part 5. Best Color Grading Software for Beginners and Pros
While free options are great, many users look for tools that balance simplicity and power. HitPaw VikPea is an AI-powered software that makes color grading simple yet professional. It is designed for both beginners and experts who want consistent, high-quality results. It offers professional-grade color enhancement models that deliver more consistent, accurate, and visually stunning results.
- Convert dull footage into HDR-like visuals with cinematic clarity.
- Add natural colors to black-and-white videos automatically.
- Boost color vibrancy without oversaturation or distortion.
- Brighten night footage and reduces noise.
- Enhance hidden details in underexposed or blurry footage.
- Automatically adjust tone and contrast for professional results.
Step 1.Download and install HitPaw VikPea on your computer. Open AI Color and choose B & W Colorization, SDR to HDR, Color Enhancement, or Low-light Enhancement based on your needs.
Step 2.Import your video and apply your chosen AI model, such as "Color Enhancement," to refine vibrancy and balance.
Step 3.Preview the changes, then click "Export" to save your improved, color-balanced video.
Frequently Asked Questions about Free Color Grading Software
Color grading software is a tool that helps editors adjust brightness, contrast, tones, and colors to achieve a specific mood or style. It improves overall visual appeal and makes footage look cinematic.
DaVinci Resolve is widely considered the best free option due to its professional-level features, support for LUTs, and HDR tools. However, iMovie, HitFilm Express, and Blender are excellent alternatives depending on your needs.
Yes. DaVinci Resolve offers a free version that includes advanced color grading tools used by professionals. While the Studio version has extra features, the free version is powerful enough for most users.
AI like ChatGPT cannot directly grade videos, but AI-powered software such as HitPaw VikPea can. These tools automatically enhance colors, contrast, and tones without requiring manual adjustments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right free color grading software depends on your needs. DaVinci Resolve is the most advanced option, while iMovie is perfect for beginners. Blender, VSDC, and Lightworks offer unique strengths for different workflows. For those who want AI-powered, hassle-free editing, HitPaw VikPea is the best alternative. With the right tool, you can transform your video quality and achieve professional results.
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