OpenCut

A free, open-source video editor that works completely offline in your browser.

Why?

• Privacy: Your videos never leave your device - everything is processed client-side
• Free features: No paywalls, subscriptions, or account required
• Simple: Easy to use interface inspired by CapCut
• Offline: Works without internet connection once loaded

Features

• Timeline-based editing
• Multi-track support
• Real-time preview
• Drag & drop media import
• No watermarks, accounts, or subscriptions
• Complete offline functionality

Quick Start

Web Version

cd apps/web
npm install
npm run dev

Visit http://localhost:3000 and click "Start Editing" - no setup required!

Desktop Version

cd apps/desktop
npm install
npm run dev

Creates a native desktop app experience.

Architecture

OpenCut is designed as a privacy-first, offline-capable video editor:

• No authentication required - just start editing
• Client-side processing - your videos stay on your device
• Optional database - only needed for the waitlist feature on the website
• No servers required - the editor works completely offline

Optional Features (Web only)

The waitlist signup is the only feature that uses a server. Set these environment variables if you want it:

# Optional: For waitlist functionality
DATABASE_URL="postgresql://..."
UPSTASH_REDIS_REST_URL="..."
UPSTASH_REDIS_REST_TOKEN="..."

The video editor works perfectly without any of these!

Production Build

Desktop App

cd apps/desktop
npm run build

Creates installers for macOS, Windows, and Linux.

Web App

cd apps/web
npm run build

Generates a static site that can be hosted anywhere.

Contributing

All contributions welcome! The core principle is to keep video editing completely client-side and privacy-focused.

License

MIT Details