If you’re looking to edit your GoPro footage without spending money, these free video editors offer excellent tools for stabilization, color correction, and action video effects. Here are the top options:
1. DaVinci Resolve 19 (Best Professional Editor for GoPro Footage)
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Best for: 4K/5.3K editing, color grading, stabilization
Pros:
Superb stabilization (Better than GoPro Quik) Advanced color correction (Fix GoPro’s flat colors) 8K support & high-speed editing (Great for slow-mo) No watermarks or export limits
Cons:
Requires a powerful computer Steeper learning curve
Download: https://www.blackmagicdesign.com/products/davinciresolve/
2. GoPro Quik (Mobile & Desktop) (Best for Quick Edits)
Platform: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Best for: Automatic edits, cloud backup
Pros: Auto-editing with music sync Direct GoPro cloud integration Easy mobile editing
Cons: Limited manual control Watermark in free version
Download: https://gopro.com/app
3. Shotcut (Best Open-Source Editor for GoPro Clips)
Platform: Windows, Mac, Linux
Best for: Lightweight editing, no watermarks
Pros: Supports 360° & 4K GoPro footage No ads or paywalls Good stabilization & color tools
Cons: UI feels outdated
Download: https://shotcut.org/
4. HitFilm Express (Best for Action VFX & Slow Motion)
Platform: Windows, Mac
Best for: Gaming, sports, and dynamic edits
Pros: Free slow-motion & speed ramping VFX tools (explosions, light flares) Good for GoPro montages
Cons: Some features require paid add-ons
Download: https://fxhome.com/product/hitfilm-express
5. CapCut (Best for Social Media & Short Clips)
Platform: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Best for: YouTube Shorts, TikTok, Reels
Pros: Auto-captions & trendy effects No watermark Easy trimming for action clips
Cons: Less control over color grading
Download: https://www.capcut.com/
Comparison Table
| Software | Best For | GoPro Features | Free? |
|---|---|---|---|
| DaVinci Resolve | Pro-level color & stabilization | 8K, Speed Warp | Yes |
| GoPro Quik | Auto-edits & cloud sync | Auto highlights | (Watermark) |
| Shotcut | Lightweight editing | 360° support | Yes |
| HitFilm Express | Slow-mo & VFX | Speed ramping | Yes |
| CapCut | Social media clips | Quick edits | Yes |
Final Recommendation:
- For professional edits → DaVinci Resolve
- For quick auto-edits → GoPro Quik
- For no-watermark flexibility → Shotcut
- For slow-motion & effects → HitFilm Express
- For social media → CapCut
All these are 100% free (some with minor limitations). Download from the official links above and start editing your GoPro footage like a pro! 
Which one will you use? Let me know in the comments! 