How to Use OpenCut: Complete Guide for Beginners

OpenCut is a free and open-source video editing application designed for modern creators who value privacy, speed, and freedom. Unlike commercial tools like CapCut or Filmora, OpenCut has no subscriptions, no watermarks, and no data tracking. It works across platforms including web, desktop, and mobile.

How to Use OpenCut

• Privacy-first: All your projects stay on your device, with no uploads to third-party servers.
• 100% Free: No paywalls, no hidden costs, and no ads.
• User-Friendly: Minimalist interface inspired by popular editors like CapCut.
• Open Source: Built and maintained by the community. Contributions are welcome.
• No Watermarks: Your videos stay clean and professional.

• Timeline-based editing for precise control
• Multi-track video and audio support
• Real-time preview while editing
• Cross-platform compatibility (Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Mobile)
• Export without any watermark or resolution limit

The video highlights that OpenCut is still in its early stages but offers a clear path to get started. Here’s how you can set up and explore OpenCut for yourself:

Prerequisites

Before you begin, ensure you have the following installed on your system:

• Bun: A fast, new JavaScript runtime.
• Docker and Docker Compose: Essential for running local database and Redis services.
• Node.js (version 18+): An alternative to Bun for installing dependencies (though Bun is recommended).

Setup and Local Development

Follow these steps to get OpenCut up and running on your local machine:

1. Fork the Repository: Start by forking the official OpenCut GitHub repository.
2. Clone Your Fork: Clone your forked repository to your local machine.
3. Navigate to the Web App Directory:

   cd apps/web
   

4. Install Dependencies: Use Bun to install all necessary project dependencies.

   bun install
   

5. Start Database and Redis Services: From the project root, launch the required services using Docker Compose.

   docker-compose up -d
   

6. Copy Environment Variables: Create a local environment file by copying the example.
   • Unix/Linux/Mac:

     cp .env.example .env.local
     

   • Windows Command Prompt:

     copy .env.example .env.local
     

   • Windows PowerShell:

     Copy-Item .env.example .env.local
     

7. Configure Environment Variables: Open .env.local and configure the following required variables. The DATABASE_URL and UPSTASH_REDIS_REST_URL/TOKEN should match your docker-compose.yaml settings. You’ll also need to generate a secure BETTER_AUTH_SECRET.

   # Database (matches docker-compose.yaml)
   DATABASE_URL="postgresql://opencut:opencutthegoat@localhost:5432/opencut"
   
   # Generate a secure secret for Better Auth
   BETTER_AUTH_SECRET="your-generated-secret-here"
   BETTER_AUTH_URL="http://localhost:3000"
   
   # Redis (matches docker-compose.yaml)
   UPSTASH_REDIS_REST_URL="http://localhost:8079"
   UPSTASH_REDIS_REST_TOKEN="example_token"
   
   # Development
   NODE_ENV="development"
   

8. Generate BETTER_AUTH_SECRET:
   • Unix/Linux/Mac: openssl rand -base64 32
   • Windows PowerShell (simple method): [System.Web.Security.Membership]::GeneratePassword(32, 0)
   • Cross-platform (using Node.js): node -e "console.log(require('crypto').randomBytes(32).toString('base64'))"
   • Alternatively, use an online generator like https://generate-secret.vercel.app/32.
9. Run Database Migrations: From inside apps/web, apply database migrations.

   bun run db:migrate
   

10. Start the Development Server: Finally, launch the application.

    bun run dev
    

    The application will then be available at http://localhost:3000.

Step 1: Import Media

Click on the Upload button to add your video, audio, or image files into the timeline. OpenCut supports drag-and-drop functionality.

Step 2: Arrange & Edit

Use the timeline to trim, split, and arrange media. Add text, transitions, and filters by selecting the corresponding tool from the toolbar.

Step 3: Preview in Real Time

The live preview panel lets you see your changes instantly. This ensures a smoother workflow and faster results.

Step 4: Export

Click Export when done. Choose your desired resolution (up to 4K supported) and format. Your project will be saved locally without watermarks.

OpenCut is ideal for:

• Creators who value privacy and open-source tools
• Developers looking to customize or contribute to a free video editor
• Anyone tired of subscriptions and watermarks
• Students and educators seeking lightweight, cross-platform editors

If you’re searching for a free, private, and highly customizable video editing tool, OpenCut is a worthy alternative to CapCut, especially for those comfortable with basic technical setup. It’s open-source, rapidly evolving, and ideal for creators who want full control over their editing environment.