# OpenCut — Open-Source AI Video Editor

> An open-source alternative to CapCut for video editing with AI-assisted features, timeline editing, and professional export options.

## Install

Save as a script file and run:

# OpenCut — Open-Source AI Video Editor

## Quick Use
```bash
git clone https://github.com/OpenCut-app/OpenCut.git
cd OpenCut
npm install
npm run dev
```

## Introduction
OpenCut is an open-source video editor built as an alternative to CapCut for creators who want full control over their editing workflow. It provides a modern timeline-based interface with support for AI-powered features like auto-captioning and scene detection, all running locally or self-hosted.

## What OpenCut Does
- Provides a browser-based non-linear video editing timeline
- Supports multi-track audio and video with transitions and effects
- Integrates AI features for automated captioning and scene splitting
- Exports to standard formats including MP4, WebM, and MOV
- Runs locally with no mandatory cloud dependency

## Architecture Overview
OpenCut is a TypeScript application built on a modular front-end with a canvas-based timeline renderer. Video processing leverages FFmpeg compiled to WebAssembly for in-browser encoding, while heavier AI tasks can optionally offload to a local Python service. The project uses a component-driven architecture that separates the editing UI, media decoder, and export pipeline into independent modules.

## Self-Hosting & Configuration
- Clone the repository and install dependencies with npm or pnpm
- Configure environment variables for optional AI service endpoints
- Run the dev server or build a static production bundle
- Deploy behind any reverse proxy such as Nginx or Caddy
- GPU acceleration is recommended for real-time preview rendering

## Key Features
- Zero-cost video editing with no watermarks or subscriptions
- AI-assisted auto-captioning with customizable subtitle styles
- Timeline supports keyframe animation for position, scale, and opacity
- Plugin architecture allows community-contributed effects and filters
- Works entirely offline after initial setup

## Comparison with Similar Tools
- **CapCut** — proprietary with cloud dependency; OpenCut is fully open and local
- **Kdenlive** — mature desktop editor but heavier; OpenCut runs in the browser
- **Shotcut** — cross-platform desktop app; OpenCut targets web-first workflows
- **DaVinci Resolve** — professional-grade but resource-intensive; OpenCut is lightweight

## FAQ
**Q: Does OpenCut require a GPU?**
A: A GPU is recommended for smooth preview playback but is not strictly required for basic editing and export.

**Q: Can I use OpenCut for commercial projects?**
A: Yes, OpenCut is open-source and free for commercial use under its license terms.

**Q: What AI features are available?**
A: Auto-captioning, scene detection, and smart trimming are the primary AI-powered features.

**Q: Does it support 4K video?**
A: Yes, 4K editing and export are supported, though performance depends on your hardware.

## Sources
- https://github.com/OpenCut-app/OpenCut

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Source: https://tokrepo.com/en/workflows/asset-f40e235a
Author: Script Depot