AviUtl

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Overview

AviUtl is a lightweight video editing software for editing AVI files, including cutting, filtering, and compression. Released in 1997, it gained advanced capabilities in 2008 with the 拡張編集Plugin (ExEdit), adding timeline, effects, and objects. It relies on community plugins and scripts for extended functionality, popular in Japan for YouTube videos, MMD, and MADs.

Key Features

AVI File Editing - Supports cutting, filtering, and compressing AVI files natively.
拡張編集Plugin (ExEdit) - Adds timeline, objects, effects, and multi-track editing.
Plugin Expansion - Extensible via volunteer-created plugins for effects, animations, and optimizations.
Script Support - Uses scripts for custom functions, bug fixes, and advanced video creation.
Morphing Functions - Provides morphing and features not common in other editors.
Multiple Codec Support - Compatible with various codecs for input and output.
Portable Version - Runs without installation after extraction.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free Version	Free	Core editing, ExEdit plugin, plugin/script support.

Platforms & Requirements

Exclusively for Windows, including legacy versions like WinXP and Win7. Requires MMX-capable CPU. No Mac, Linux, or mobile support; English UI available via mods like Extra Pack.

Integrations & Ecosystem

拡張編集Plugin (ExEdit)
Community plugins for effects and transitions
Scripts for automation and custom effects
MMD model integration
Various AVI codecs
English language mod (Extra Pack)

Alternatives

App	Difference
DaVinci Resolve	Professional-grade with color grading and multi-format support, but steeper learning curve and higher resource use.
Shotcut	Open-source, cross-platform editor with broader format support, less reliant on plugins.
HitFilm Express	Free with VFX focus and modern UI, but Windows/Mac only and more demanding on hardware.
Premiere Pro	Paid industry standard with team collaboration, far more expensive and resource-intensive.

Reputation

AviUtl is praised for its lightweight performance, zero cost, and extensibility through plugins, making it a staple for Japanese amateur creators despite its age. Criticisms include the Japanese-only original interface, steep learning curve for extensions, and Windows exclusivity. Recent betas like ExEdit2 Beta 44 (April 2026) show ongoing maintenance by the community.

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