Olive as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Clipchamp
Updated
Our verdict
Olive is a partial replacement for Microsoft Clipchamp, best suited for users who want offline, open-source editing without watermarks. While Clipchamp targets absolute beginners via a browser, Olive offers more advanced features like multi-track editing and keyframing but has a steeper learning curve. Its interface is less polished, and stability can be an issue, especially given its early release status. If you need basic editing and value freedom from cloud dependence, Olive works. But if simplicity and reliability are top priorities, Olive may frustrate more than help.
- License
- GPL-3.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 0.1.2 (November 11, 2019)
- Rating
- —

What works the same
- Both support drag-and-drop timeline editing
- Basic transitions and text overlays are available in Olive
- Support for common formats like MP4 and AVI
- Free to use with no forced watermarking
- Allow export to H.264 and other standard codecs
What is different
- Olive is a desktop application; Clipchamp runs in the browser
- Olive requires installation and more system resources
- Clipchamp has a more intuitive, guided interface for beginners
- Olive supports advanced features like node-based compositing and keyframing
- Clipchamp offers cloud rendering; Olive does not
Opening your Microsoft Clipchamp files
Olive can import common video formats like MP4 and MOV, which are typically used in Clipchamp, so moving source files is straightforward. However, Olive does not directly open Clipchamp project files (.clipchamp), as it uses its own project format. You’ll need to re-create the edit in Olive. Exported videos from Olive are in standard formats, so sharing or uploading them online works the same way as with Clipchamp outputs.
Switching from Microsoft Clipchamp to Olive, step by step
- Install Olive via Flathub or the Olive website
- Export your source media from Clipchamp as MP4 or MOV if needed
- Open Olive and create a new project
- Drag your video files into the timeline
- Rebuild your edits using Olive’s tracks and tools
- Export the final video using H.264 or your preferred codec
Key features of Olive
- Timeline editing with multiple tracks
- Basic keyframing for position, scale, opacity
- Built‑in effects like blur, color correction, and transitions
- Support for common video formats (MP4, MKV, AVI)
- Export to popular codecs (H.264, H.265)
- Node‑based compositing panel
- Keyboard shortcuts for cut, copy, paste, and render
- Integration with system file manager for drag‑and‑drop
How to install Olive on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.olivevideoeditor.OliveFrequently asked questions
Is Olive stable enough for daily use?
Olive 0.1.2 is functional but considered early-stage; expect occasional crashes, especially on complex projects. Save frequently.
Can I use Olive without an internet connection?
Yes, Olive is fully offline once installed, unlike Clipchamp which requires a browser and internet access.
Does Olive support text and titles like Clipchamp?
Yes, Olive supports text overlays with basic styling, though the interface is less beginner-friendly than Clipchamp’s.