↓ Adjust the inputs below to see your real monthly cost ↓
How This Video Editing Cost Calculator Works
We analyze three distinct approaches to video production to give you an honest comparison.
DIY Calculation
Measures the "hidden" cost of editing by multiplying your hourly value by the time spent editing. Focuses on opportunity cost.
Freelancer / Agency
Estimates costs based on standard per-project market rates, including the hidden costs of management overhead and revisions.
IndieDoers Calculation
Calculates the exact credits required for your workload. Always selects the lowest-cost option (Subscription vs. Pay-As-You-Go).
Compare Your Editing Options
Stop guessing where your money goes. See how the IndieDoers credit model stacks up against traditional methods.
Features
DIY Editing
Freelancer / Agency
IndieDoers
Winner
Cost Basis
Your Time (Opportunity Cost)
Hourly Rate × Hours Spent
Your Time (Opportunity Cost)
Hourly or Per-Project Markup
Predictable Credits
Pay only for output, flat rates
Management Effort
High (100%)
You do everything yourself.
Medium
Finding, vetting, & briefing editors.
Zero Headache
Portal-managed, assigned for you.
Turnaround Time
Whenever you find time.
Dependent on freelancer's other clients.
Consistent 24-48h average.
Reliability
Consistent (It's you).
Variable (Risk of ghosting).
Guaranteed. Vetted in-house team.
Reliability
Software subs, plugins, stock footage, music licensing.
Revision fees, platform fees, account management costs.
None. All-inclusive.
The Smart Choice
Why IndieDoers is the Right Fit
Most creators get stuck choosing between burning out (DIY) or overpaying (Agencies).
IndieDoers wins because we standardized the chaos. You get the speed and quality of an agency with the flexibility of a credit system. No contracts, no ghosting, and no paying for idle hours—just done-for-you video editing that scales with your needs.
Start With Flexible Credits
Why Video Editing Costs Vary So Much
Source Footage Length
Sorting through 60 minutes of raw footage takes significantly longer than sorting through 10 minutes.
Volume of Content
Bulk production often lowers the cost per unit.
Complexity & Style
Motion graphics, captions, multi-cam syncing, and sound design increase the required effort.
Who This Calculator Is For
YouTubers
Founders
Content Teams
Podcasters
Agencies