10 Video Editing Software Options for Stunning Visuals

Whether you’re working on Hollywood’s next blockbuster, making a vlog for YouTube, or putting together a reel for Instagram, there’s one tool you need to help you make your content even better: video editing software.

If this is your first time editing a video or you’re looking to switch to a new platform, we’re here to walk you through the best video editing software on the market today. No matter your budget or skill level, there's software out there that’s right for you.

Free Video Editing Software

When you’re getting started in video content creation, you probably don’t want to invest in expensive pro software upfront. Thankfully, there are plenty of free video editing tools that can help you to learn the basics.

1. MiniTool MovieMaker

dog video editing — Source: movie makerMiniTool MovieMaker is a great free video editing software.

MiniTool MovieMaker is so good, it’s almost unbelievable that it’s free! With this software, you can quickly and easily create videos in just a few minutes—even if you have no experience using editing tools. The software’s drag-and-drop feature allows you to directly import your files, then add titles, transitions, and effects before exporting.

You might want to consider upgrading to a professional-level program once your video editing skills are more advanced. But for basic projects, MiniTool MovieMaker is one of the best free tools out there.

2. Shotcut

Shotcut is a free, open-source video editor offering a wide range of professional-grade features. It supports hundreds of video and audio formats, and the library is full of pre-made filters and effects you can easily add to your footage.

If you’re new to video editing, you’ll likely need to take some time to learn how to use everything, but once you do, you’ll be incredibly impressed with what the software offers.

Easy Video Editing Software

With any video editing software, there’s going to be a bit of a learning curve involved—especially if you’re new to editing in general. But if you’re looking for a good place to start, video editor apps are some of the easiest tools to learn from as you develop your skills.

3. CapCut

video app — Source: capcutCapCut is perfect for editing social media videos.

For social media video creators, CapCut is one of the best video editing software options out there. Built specifically for TikTok videos but great for any social media content, CapCut allows you to create videos up to 15 minutes long directly from your smartphone.

You can create a new video directly within the app or use it to edit existing footage saved to your phone. Use the auto-caption feature to make your video accessible and add effects that will capture the attention of your audience. And the best part? It’s free!

4. Adobe Premiere Rush

adobe rush editor — Source: adobeAdobe Rush is perfect for moving from phone to desktop editing.

Adobe is well-known for its suite of software ranging from beginner all the way up to pro-level tools. Adobe Premiere Rush is ideal for both beginners and social media creators who are looking for easy video editing software.

With both smartphone and desktop apps, you can quickly edit your footage with hundreds of filters and effects within Adobe’s built-in library. You can easily save your work and move from phone to computer and back again without losing any footage, edits, or video quality. Adobe Rush costs $9.99 per month and is also included in Adobe Creative Suite subscriptions.

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Best Video Editing Software For Mac

There aren’t as many video editing tools for Macs as there are for PCs, but the options you do have as an Apple user are some of the best available.

5. Apple Final Cut Pro

Consistently rated among the best video editing software in the world, Apple’s Final Cut Pro is one for the pros and “prosumers.” Along with all of the standard features you would expect from video editing software, Final Cut Pro now offers stabilization support for 360 degree and VR clips, along with 3D animation and a precision color grader.

After a 90-day free trial, Final Cut Pro is a one-time $299 payment. While it’s definitely pricey, the investment is worth it if you’re serious about your editing.

6. Apple iMovie

Apple’s iMovie software is perfect for amateur video editors looking to get started. This entry-level tool is free to use on your desktop Mac and has everything you’ll need to make great videos.

From color grading to green-screen effects, you’ll be surprised at how much you can do with this free software. The interface is easy to navigate and is a great stepping-stone if you’re hoping to upgrade to Final Cut Pro later on.

Best Video Editing Software for PC

There are hundreds of video editing software options available for PC systems, both free and subscription-based. It can be difficult to know where to start, but sticking with tried-and-tested favorites will help you to create high-quality videos for any platform.

7. Adobe Premiere Elements

premiere adobe — Source: adobePremiere Elements is perfect for both beginners and pros editing on a PC computer.

At $99.99, Adobe Premiere Elements isn’t cheap, but you’ll be able to create videos of all types in the software. The tool is aimed at the consumer market, so unless you’re working on a complicated edit, you should be able to find everything you need within Elements.

Some of the features that you would find in pro-level tools like Adobe Premiere Pro have made their way to this simpler software, too. Think: tools like auto-reframe, where the software can intelligently pick out different actions and adjust them for a variety of aspect ratios. That means even more effects for you to use at a cheaper price!

8. PowerDirector

editor — Source: cyberlinkPowerDirector is free, expert-level editing software for Windows users.

Despite competition from other software, PowerDirector remains one of the easiest to use and cheapest (it’s free!) editing software for PCs. There are plenty of options for visual effects within the tool, along with all the basic editing features like timelines, storyboarding, transitions, and color correction.

If you’re starting a YouTube channel or simply want to make your home movies look more polished, PowerDirector can help you take your videos up a notch. There is a pro version if you’d like some more advanced features, but the free option is perfect for both amateurs and more experienced filmmakers.

Professional Video Editing Software

If you’re an experienced editor and ready to move up to professional-level software, there are a handful of tools for you to pick from. Once you’ve made your choice, there really is no limit to the type of creative videos you can make.

9. Adobe Premiere Pro

Widely considered to be the industry standard for video editing, Adobe Premiere Pro is an excellent option for experienced editors. To use the software, you’ll need an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which starts at $19.99 per month if paid annually.

We wouldn’t recommend diving straight into Premiere Pro if you’re a beginner, as the numerous features and interface can be overwhelming. But once you have some experience under your belt, there’s almost nothing you can’t do with this software.

10. DaVinci Resolve

davinci editor — Source: blackmagicdesignDaVinci Resolve is another powerful video editing software.

One of the best pro software alternatives to Adobe Premiere Pro is DaVinci Resolve. Some of the world’s biggest films, like Midsommar, The Green Knight, and Godzilla: King of the Monsters, have been edited using this software, and there are hundreds of features to help you achieve the final look you’re after.

There’s a free version to help you decide if Resolve is right for you and to get you used to the different options within the program. Once you’re ready to commit, the software is a flat fee of $295 and gives you access to more features like 3D tools, FX filters that change the on-screen look (think fog effects, infrared, day-to-night, and blurs), and audio plugins.

Start Slicing and Dicing Your Footage Right Now!

No matter what type of video project you’re working on, there's software out there that can help you to edit it. If you’re a beginner, take your time and play around with the different features and settings to find your unique style of storytelling and editing. Good luck!

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