In the era of social media and new generation trends, crafting content is more necessary than ever. The priority of good videos as part of a marketing campaign has increased significantly over the past years. With the growing popularity of video consumption across platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram, effective editing of video is crucial for enhancing content quality and achieving goals such as growing a YouTube channel or building brand awareness. It’s really necessary that if you’re planning to move forward with great-quality content, you have the best video editing software for yourself. YouTube video editors and content creators need top services that can help them deliver content that attracts an audience and engages them throughout. Getting to know about the best video editing software is more in demand than ever.
Table of Contents
In this article, we will look into?:
- What is video editing software: Spilling all the details about the software and how it’s important in the journey of content creation (especially YouTube videos).
- Top 10 video editing softwares: Here, I’ve made a list of the top 10 video editing softwares that can be utilized by video editors to create engaging videos with top edits.
- Extra Bonus Tips: I’ve also included a personal tip section, where I’ve concluded what I have to say about using video editing software.
As I said, the best video editing software is always in demand. If you’re planning to hire a YouTube video editor, you must also make sure you provide them with top-quality tools for them to work for your content.
I have done an extensive review of a diverse range of video editing tools, along with professional video editors, and we’ve made a list of the top video editing software available in the market today, catering to both beginners and professionals in the blog.
What is Video Editing Software?
This is just a small section that will help you understand the basics of what to know about video editing software. Now coming to what is video editing software is simply a program capable of editing, modifying, cutting, or manipulating a raw video or movie file. Basic editing tools are essential features that facilitate easy and straightforward video editing.
You are able to make new changes to the existing video by cutting parts, trimming, adding audio, transitions, or cool effects, or simply making it more appealing to the audience. This will help the video to have a better flow, and it will be easier for the audience to engage with it.
Now, this is a useful tool used by professional video editors or movie editors to enhance their editing of video into better quality ones so that the output gets the recognition it deserves. Normally, if you are planning to hire a video editor for your company, it’s necessary that you provide them with the necessary tools to make their onboarding smooth, including giving them access to top video editing software in the market.
Yes, the whole point of this article is to introduce you to top video editing softwares, and I’ll get into it. But before that, let me guide you to the factors that you have to go through before choosing one from the list.
What to Consider When Choosing Video Editing Software
?I think first you should determine your budget and consider the cost of the software, including any monthly or annual subscription fees (only choose the one that you can afford).
?You can also think about the type of projects you’ll be working on and the features you need to complete them (long YouTube videos or short Instagram reels).
?I also want you to consider the level of complexity you’re comfortable with and the learning curve of the software (see if it’s apt for beginner-level editors or for more professionals).
?You can look for software that is compatible with your operating system and hardware (some of the software is only compatible with either macOS or Windows).
?You can also check for any free trials or free versions to test the software before committing to a purchase. Additionally, consider using a free video editor like DaVinci Resolve, OpenShot, or HitFilm, which offers powerful editing capabilities without a financial commitment.
✨Extra tip: I think you can also take into consideration what your editor is comfortable with, so make sure you ask them about their opinion before proceeding with any software. Because, after all, you don’t have to work with it, but the editor does, and if they’re persistent in wanting anything, make sure you also provide them with that.
Top 10 Best Professional Video Editing Software
Here’s the list of the top 10 video editing software that I reviewed, along with the tips of my fellow video editors. I have included details about the pros and cons of each tool. So stick with me till the end to get a secret tip( no scrolling till down won’t help you find it)
1. DaVinci Resolve
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Free version: DaVinci Resolve
The first in the list, I believe (source: trust me bro), is Blackmagic’s DaVinci Resolve Studio, the best free video editing software available in the market today. It has a great free version and a reasonable one-off price for the full studio version, but the highlight feature is the availability of outstanding color grading tools and effects. This is best for designers, animators, and video editors who have intermediate skills in editing videos. I think you can utilize it if you really focus on both editing and advanced color grading; the fusion model of DaVinci Resolve provides a lot of features like effects and transitions.
Comment
byu/SheTriesToWrite from discussion
inFilmmakers
The best part is that it’s free (DaVinci Resolve), and you have to pay a one-time cost for the full DaVinci Resolve Studio, with no extra charge for updates. It also has other features you’re looking for, like editing, motion effects, color grading, etc., but DaVinci Resolve will give you the best free video editing software on the list. Some of the highlighted tools include Magic Mask and depth maps for color grading, and they support everything in one interface.
Versatility ?
- Advanced color grading, VFX, and availability of other effects with plenty of precision
- The node-based system in Fusion helps you learn more about the software
- The latest updates added support for viewing HDR content on the UI in Windows
- It has tools to work with 3D models
- Highly stable and reliable performance
- Affordable one-time price for the full studio version
Reasons to avoid?
- Not a complex editing software with several modules; it’s not the best option if you want to combine multiple complex video clips
- It doesn’t have a creative ecosystem like Adobe
- You don’t give importance to color grading
I think DaVinci Resolve is one of the best and most powerful comprehensive video editing software out there, and our team of editors loved using it. (Yes, they care about color grading and motion effects, and they were satisfied with it.) This is what one of the editors had to say, “The fact that there’s a free version is absolutely nuts. Its color tools are pretty much industry standard, and colorists use it to grade 100+ million dollar films.”
Pricing: The basic version, like I mentioned, is absolutely FREE. (Hurray!!) and it almost has the power of all other features and tools you require. Now the full version, the DaVinci Resolve Studio, costs $295/$245, a single one-off fee forever plan. (Yes, you also get new updates at no extra charge. Nice, right?)
2. Adobe Premiere Pro
Platform: Windows, macOS
Free trial: 7 days
Adobe Premiere Pro is considered the best video editing software for professional editors. Premiere Pro is known to be the main tool used extensively by Hollywood movie editors and those editing routine YouTube videos. Designers, animators, VFX artists, and professional video editors make sure this tool is part of their workflow.
If you want industry-standard software and want to provide it to your editors, you can make sure you get this because it is one of the most commonly used video editing programs in advertising and marketing.
Comment
byu/Typical-Impress-4182 from discussion
inpremiere
Its most famous features include multi-cam editing and 3D editing, which are great for editors who want to try out editing and learn. It also has other tools and features that you are looking for in video editing software, like precise timeline editing tools with an unlimited number of tracks to support a wide range of formats. It gets regular updates and cutting-edge features, and it now incorporates Firefly AI tools that help generate text-to-videos. This is impressive, considering the evolution of video editing software into AI-incorporated tools.
Versatility
- Supports 4K, 8K, and VR formats
- Good for audio editing, with a range of meters, mixers, and effects to enhance and clean up audio
- Cross-platform and interoperable with other Adobe tools
- Includes interactive fade to add fade-ins and fade-outs
- Preview and download royalty-free stock audio directly in the software
Reasons to avoid
- Color grading is better in DaVinci Resolve and Final Cut Pro
- The subscription model is expensive in the long run
- Not suitable for beginner-level editors
Premiere Pro is generally very reliable, but the import can be laggy. However, the multicam performance and workflow are smoother compared to other programs. This is what one of my close video editors had to say, “Adobe Premiere Pro is a choice for professionals. You can try it to create great content, but make sure you really need it. It may be hard for novice YouTubers.”
Comment
byu/lonearchive from discussion
ineditors
I have a similar opinion, too. Adobe Premiere Pro is best for professional video editors who have already gained experience in video editing because it takes some time to get accustomed to the tools and features, so beginners may find it a bit difficult at first.
My editors also had the opinion that the workspace is easy to use, which helps manage specific tasks, and the interface is customizable to adapt to individual needs. Plus, what I liked is that if beginners are willing to learn, they have countless easy-to-follow tutorials on different tasks.
Pricing: It’s a bit expensive considering the fact that other software tools offer similar features at better prices. It requires an annual or monthly subscription for editors to use Adobe Premiere Pro. It costs $22.99/month for individuals with access to the full version of Premiere Pro plus the Adobe Express Premium plan.
3. Final Cut Pro
Platform: macOS
Free trial: 90 Days
Final Cut Pro is the next on the list, an industry-standard app for macOS and available in an iPad version. If you’ve proclaimed yourself as an Apple devotee and a video editor, I think Final Cut Pro is apt for you. Final Cut Pro is available for MacBook and now iPad, making it one of the best well-organized software for professional video editing.
recently i switched from Apple Final Cut Pro to Adobe Premiere Pro, and here are my frustrations ?? pic.twitter.com/7tS30Z8hJG
— fetis • Video Editor (@itsFetis) July 22, 2024
It’s mostly used by film editors and animators, and why people prefer it over Premiere Pro would be the fact that it’s subscription-free. The features available on Final Cut Pro include 360-degree video, HDR, and advanced tools for color grading and correction. Our team loves Final Cut Pro, especially the magnetic timeline.
Versatility
- Integrates effectively with Apple’s ecosystem
- It’s the fastest video editing software
- The organizational tools are exceptional, with support for Touch Bar
- Supports a wide range of video formats and sizes
Reasons to avoid
- No consistent new updates or features
- Only suitable for MacBook or iPad
- Not recommended for an agency setup
- Adobe Premiere Pro has better audio tools
I think people who love working with Apple products would definitely find it useful and worthwhile. This is what one of my friends told me, “Final Cut Pro is worth every penny. The workflow is smooth, and it integrates perfectly with other Apple software.” One thing our team loves about Final Cut Pro is the speed and efficiency it offers, but its interface may be a bit intimidating for new editors.
Just a reminder that the Oscar winning feature film PARASITE was edited with a 10 year old copy of Final Cut Pro 7.
⁰⁰It’s never been about the tools. pic.twitter.com/sdICtObtr0
— Noam Kroll (@noamkroll) August 8, 2022
Pricing: The Mac version comes at one price with no subscription, at $299.99, and the iPad version is subscription-based.
4. CyberLink PowerDirector 365
Platform: Windows, macOS
Free trial: 30 days
CyberLink PowerDirector 365 is suitable for editing enthusiasts who require a lot of features for editing videos. It’s mostly aimed at the consumer market rather than professional video editors, so it’s the most complete software that I’ve checked, but it has features like multi-camera editing, color correction, and motion graphics, along with audio editing. It has strong stabilization and features a 100-track timeline, which is cool, along with professional effects and easy trimming.
Comment
byu/I_degress from discussion
invideography
But I felt what it lacked was the level of fine-tuning we got from other tools in the list. So, the thing is that this is suitable if you’re just focusing on creating YouTube videos and social media content. You can use this if you’re a beginner and you require a simpler and intuitive interface.
The latest updates also feature AI tools, so this makes it a perfect choice if you’re just starting out as a video editor.
Versatility
- Includes AI-powered voice alteration, background removal, and object tracking
- Access to an unlimited royalty-free library from Shutterstock
- Intuitive controls and easy-to-use interface for beginners
- Includes slideshows, screen recordings, DVD menus, object design tools, and more
Reasons to avoid
- It’s not a fully professional video editing software
- It doesn’t support 8K footage
- There’s no collaboration option for professional video editors
- Not compatible with editing complex feature films
Our team of editors loved the interface, no joke, and the simplicity and well-designed desktop were the easiest to use so far. “PowerDirector is a solid choice for beginners. It’s user-friendly and has all the basic features you need without overwhelming you.”
Pricing: PowerDirector is available as a one-off purchase or a subscription. It’s around $54.32 per year and includes all the features and new generative AI tools and credits for users.
5. Clipchamp
Platform: Web, Windows
Free trial: 30 days
Microsoft’s Clipchamp can be considered the best free video editing software for online work, as well as Windows. If you have a powerful, rich computer, you can easily edit videos without the hassle of downloading software on your laptop and by simply using the web. This tool is the best option for content creators, marketing professionals, and beginner video editors.
i’d love to introduce yall to…
✨ MICROSOFT CLIPCHAMP ✨with capcut locking accessibility features behind a paywall, i’d like to remind you that clipchamp has auto-captions and allows you to download the .srt file for FREE ✨
download from microsoft store! https://t.co/VSPK4pawmT pic.twitter.com/QoQqeGzyv2
— sina ? (@sinarynn) July 23, 2024
This is an incredibly easy software to use, as it helps new video editors churn out more content at a faster pace. But don’t worry, and I also found that it has multi-track support for more complex video projects. The key features of Clipchamp include the availability of templates; you can simply make a reel from a YouTube video or other content for every social media platform (no, it won’t come with watermarks and supports full HD exports).
Versatility
- Easy-to-use interface for beginners
- Browser-based software suitable for lightweight projects
- Free availability of templates, editing titles, and effects
- No watermarks and unlimited 1080p exports
Reasons to avoid
- Software lacks power for complex projects
- Can lack fine-tuning control
- Stock libraries are protected with a paywall
Our team of editors loved it because of the easy user interface (I was able to navigate through the menus, start a project, and choose a template within the first 60 seconds). So, I think we would suggest this to anyone who is interested in starting their video editing journey. If you have 15 seconds to spare, you can make creative, fun GIFs and videos without breaking all the editing mantras. (Yes, our team of editors had fun doing this, I swear.)
Yes, the controls aren’t overwhelming, and the keyboard shortcuts are all supported, but it does lack the granular control offered by top tools like DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro. Here’s what my friend had to say, “While Clipchamp is user-friendly, it lacks some advanced features that I need for my YouTube videos. It’s good for simple tasks.”
Pricing: Clipchamp is free to use for individual use, without many restrictions you face in normal video editors. But there are also options for monthly and yearly subscriptions available, around $11.99 per month.
6. Adobe Premiere Elements 2024
Platform: Windows, macOS
Free trial: 30 days
Adobe Premiere Elements 2024 is the best video editing software for beginners and video editing enthusiasts. It helps and guides you throughout your editing journey, allowing you to learn editing skills. The key features of this software are video stabilization, automatic motion tracking, and face detection. As it’s most compatible with beginners, it has an easy-to-use interface and guided edits for them to learn.
Comment
byu/magn3to_was_right from discussion
inAdobe
However, it won’t be suitable for professional video editing, as it’s more of a straightforward option that helps you edit clips with basic transitions and music. This is apt for small content creators, as it also offers plenty of video effects to play around with and text tools that can be beneficial for social media marketing and content creation.
Versatility
- Cheaper and easier to learn
- Has practical features like face detection, audio effects, and bundled soundtracks
- Easy-to-use interface, with effects like chroma-keying and opacity
- Guided edits make it super quick
Reasons to avoid
- Not a professional video editing software
- Lacks support for many formats, including 8K footage
- Rendering is quite slow, and there’s no screen recording option
- It doesn’t support 360-degree VR, 3D editing, or multicam editing
As the name suggests, our editors found it a toned-down version of Adobe Premiere Pro. However, we found it annoying as it doesn’t support fine-tuning like other software in the list.
Nevertheless, it’s a great stepping stone for new beginners who want to explore editing. I think “Premiere Elements is a great starting point for new editors. It has enough features to get you going without the complexity of Premiere Pro.”
Pricing: It has a fairly affordable one-off fee for Premiere Elements and a 30-day free trial before you commit to it. You can buy it for $99.99 without any extra charges or subscriptions.
7. Pinnacle Studio
Platform: Windows
Free trial: No free trial, but a 30-day money-back guarantee
This is the best subscription-free software for Windows users who are just beginners in video editing. This program runs on Windows and has consumer-focused editing tools, including multi-cam editing, color correction, and dynamic masking features.
The capability of Pinnacle Studio makes it a solid package for beginners, and it has many features like keyframe groups and advanced blend modes. You can easily learn and upskill your editing skills by using the 1500+ effects, titles, and templates on offer.
Versatility
- Supports various video formats, including 8K import
- Features six-track HD video editing, free templates, effects, and more
- Sophisticated audio tools and masking features
- Easy interface
Reasons to avoid
- Limited motion tracking feature
- Lacks pro tools for complex video editing
- Can be laggy and face crashes while working
Comment
byu/Equivalent-Word-7691 from discussion
inVideoEditing
Our team finds it perfect for beginners who love editing videos as a hobby. There is also an option to star-rate and keyword-tag content while importing your video, making it easier for people to find it later. The pricing is also cheaper compared to other high-end tools mentioned in the list. I find Pinnacle Studio to be a good option for home video projects.
It’s affordable and gets the job done without too much hassle. One of my editor friends also has a similar opinion: “Pinnacle Studio has a user-friendly interface and is great for intermediate editors. It’s not as powerful as Premiere, but it has a lot of useful features.”
Pricing: Pinnacle Studio doesn’t offer a subscription; you pay once for all at $59.95. This includes all software options, like multi-camera editing, color correction tools, and more.
8. Adobe Premiere Rush
Platform: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Free trial: Free starter plan
You might think there’s another Adobe on the list, but my friends, this is absolutely the best video editing software to use on your phone. Yes, you can easily edit videos with key features like in-app motion graphics and other basic video editing tools. If you’re a content creator, Premiere Rush helps you make faster videos and helps you choose the right format for social media apps.
So, even if you’re in a rush, you can edit videos on the go from the comfort of your phone. But, like I said, it relies heavily on preset transitions and effects, so there are limited options for customizing and personalizing your video. You also get access to basic features available in other Premiere software, like timeline editing, audio editing, and stock assets.
Versatility
- Useful for making simple videos for social media
- Optimized export options for various social media platforms
- Works on mobile with an easy-to-use interface
- Free starter version
Reasons to avoid
- Limited features and editing tools
- Unsuitable for long, complex projects
- Doesn’t provide creative control
- Doesn’t support multi-cam editing, 8K format, or 360 footage
For whatever reason, I am of the strong opinion that Rush is indeed a great option for people who need consistent video outputs in a shorter amount of time, especially new creators out there. You don’t have to be a professional video editor to learn basic editing skills; you just need to follow some basics in editing.
Rant+Rave: Professional software-tools are so essoteric. Tried Adobe Premiere Rush for the first time, bravo! I don’t think I’ve seen many pieces of PC software that has such a strong opinion on workflow and what is important. Makes it very reassuring to use as a non-expert.
— Stacked Cats (@heisenbugz) August 6, 2024
Our team did find some glitches, but normally, the processing was smooth, and the rendering was okay. I’ve heard a YouTuber say this: “I love how easy it is to use Premiere Rush for my YouTube shorts. The simplified workflow makes it quick to produce content.” I think even if you’re a professional editor who wants to edit videos while on your phone, this app helps you a lot.
Pricing: You can access Premiere Rush as part of Creative Cloud, but also through a single app subscription. You can access Premiere Rush premium features and content for $9.99 per month.
9. iMovie
Platform: macOS, iOS
Free trial: Free
iMovie is the best free video editing software for Apple operating systems, including macOS and iOS. As an Apple user, you can consider iMovie since it’s absolutely free. For macOS, it’s a simple tool that comes pre-loaded, and for iOS, you can download it from the App Store. You can see iMovie as a stepping stone for video editor beginners who want to improve themselves before moving on to Final Cut Pro.
Comment
byu/AylmerQc01 from discussion
iniMovie
Versatility
- Seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem
- Completely free for Apple users
- Great for new video editors
Reasons to avoid
- Limited features and tools
- Inconsistent updates
- Only for Apple users; not suggested for an agency setup
I have to admit, I’ve utilized iMovie many times for small video edits on my phone and myself. So, personally, it’s kind of easy, and I’ve brushed up my basic editing skills with it.
But if you’re a professional who requires complex video editing software, you can always check out the rest of the list. This is what my editor had to say: “While iMovie is easy to use, it lacks many advanced features that serious editors need. It’s fine for basic projects.”
10. Lightworks
Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux
Free trial: Offers a free version, including a 30-day pro trial period
Lightworks is also among the best free video editing software for beginners. You can check out their website, where they’ve proudly showcased numerous feature films they’ve helped cut. It also offers a pro version, which has a lot of video editing features available.
However, even in the free version, the tools and features are apt for beginners who are planning to pursue a career in video editing. It has multi-track editing capabilities, encodes in ProRes, and exports to select cloud storage providers.
Versatility
- Powerful non-linear video editor for all kinds of users
- Highly customizable interface
- Multi-track editing
Reasons to avoid
- Takes some time to adjust to
- Only exports in MPEG format
- The free version downloads only up to 720p
- Crashes and lags sometimes
I think our video editors liked it, except for the fact that the free version only allows you to download the finished product in 720p. Other than that, the free version also has the same amount of video editing tools you can use. This is what one of the editors felt: “It has all the features you would expect from advanced editing software, but the learning curve is steep.
If you can get past that, it can be powerful.” There are also some mixed reviews, so decide if you want to try this software by testing it yourself.
Personal Tip✨
Here’s what I’ve got to say: although when you finalize video editing software, the editors you hire should do a good job with that. You need your videos to stand out from the rest and drive conversions to make successful video campaigns.
So, hiring and finding the right video editor can be hectic. You have to make sure you pay the editor a salary and also ensure you subscribe to or buy top software for their smooth onboarding. Either way, it looks like you have to spend some extra money beyond the budget assigned for this part.
- So here’s the tip: you can always consider collaborating with unlimited video editing service agencies. They have professional video editors who are equipped with every top-quality software tool, and all you have to do is pay them through a monthly subscription flat fee.
Now, there are top subscription-based services like Graphically, where they also provide a money-back guarantee if you’re not satisfied with their service. (Yes, you also get unlimited graphic design covered here, with unlimited revisions, video editing, animations, and motion graphics.)
Conclusion
In an era where videos are predominantly used to communicate ideas, entertain, and inform, the demand for video editing software is ever-growing. When selecting a video editing tool, consider factors like ease of use, the range of features, compatibility with your operating system, and cost-effectiveness.
Remember, while powerful software can enhance your video projects, the skill and creativity of your editors play a crucial role in achieving outstanding results. Additionally, opting for subscription-based video editing services can provide a hassle-free solution, offering access to top-quality tools and professional editors at a flat monthly fee. For an even smoother video production process, consider collaborating with video editing subscription services like Graphically, which offer comprehensive solutions and unlimited revisions to meet your needs.
FAQs
1. What software do most professionals use when editing videos?
Premiere Pro, developed by Adobe, is a leading choice among professional video editing software. It provides a comprehensive suite of effects, color tools, and collaboration and output options suited for any high-level editing needs. Other popular video editing software options include DaVinci Resolve, iMovie, CapCut, and Final Cut Pro.
2. Which is the best software for video editing?
For video editing, DaVinci Resolve is a top choice due to its user-friendly interface and powerful features. However, Adobe Premiere Pro is widely preferred in the industry for its comprehensive suite of tools and robust capabilities. Another highly regarded option is Final Cut Pro, which is known for its advanced editing features in Apple macOS.
