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The Best Video Editing Software Tools (Dec 2024)

The Best Video Editing Software Tools (Dec 2024)

We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products—learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

As a designer or content creator, your choice of video editing software can make or break your career, so it’s crucial you find the best video editing software for your creative needs.

This is especially true in the face of the increasing demand for video in the marketing world. More content creators and internet marketers, in general, are creating more video content because it is one of the best ways to promote any product or service.

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With high-quality video, you can make your video content viral and take your marketing results to new heights, especially when it comes to Youtube marketing.

To help in your search, we tried each option on the list, going into great detail about the software and highlighting the features we liked and didn’t like the most. Some of these are free, while others are paid, and there are options available for both amateur and professional editors.

In our research, we considered the editing tools’ usability, affordability, speed, and audio and video effects.

So, without any further ado, let’s find you the best video editing software.

The Best Video Editing Software 2024 (Free & Paid)

  1. Adobe Premiere Pro CC — The best video editing software for designers (Editor’s Choice) – Get 65% Off Here
  2. Canva Video — Best free, easy-to-use web-based video editing software, perfect for the basics & beginners! (Editor’s Choice)
  3. Pinnacle Studio 23 — The best drag-and-drop video editing software
  4. InVideo — Best online video editing software to create high-quality videos online
  5. VSDC — The best free video editing software for designers
  6. Shotcut — The best social media video editing software
  7. Lightworks — The most professional video editing software
  8. iMovie — The best video editing software for Mac users
  9. Final Cut Pro X — The most seamless video editing software for Mac users
  10. DaVinci Resolve — The best post-production video editing software
  11. Vegas Pro — The best video editing software for marketing and branding
  12. Avid Media Composer — The best video editing software in the film niche
  13. VEED.IO — A powerful video editing software online
  14. Movavi — The best user interface video editing software
  15. HitFilm Express — Best all-in-one free video editing software

More Video Editing Resources

 


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15+ Best Video Editing Software for Motion Graphics, Animation, VFX

1. Adobe Premiere Pro CC (Editor’s Choice)

Adobe Premiere Pro

The best video editing software for designers

For many, Adobe Premiere Pro CC is the best video editing software, and it is not hard to see why. Adobe is one of the biggest names in the editing software niche, and Premiere Pro is its flagship offering. Many content creators around the globe trust it.

Adobe Premiere Pro CC can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it. You can load an unlimited number of video tracks from any source you have, including cameras, media files, tapes, and even Virtual Reality hardware. If you take a lot of multiple-angle shots, you will appreciate the automatic sync function. If you love to make unique videos, you can work with a healthy range of fine-tuning tools and get your creative juices flowing.

Adobe Premiere Rush is a variant of this software. It is the perfect way to edit videos shot on a mobile, and it is available on Windows, macOS, and iOS.

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You can pay for Premiere Pro and, indeed, any Adobe software alone, but if you rely on more than one of them, consider adding a Creative Cloud subscription into the mix for better management of your content. Better yet, find out how to get 40 to 70% off Adobe CC. Or check out the Best Adobe Premiere Pro Alternatives.

Pros

Cons

➕ Responsive interface ➖ Subscription model
➕ Supports various file formats
➕ Immersive VR support

 

2. Canva Video (Editor’s Choice)

Canva Video Editing Software - Video Editing Software
Canva Video Editing Software. Image credit: Canva

An easy-to-use web-based video editing software

Platform: Windows, Mac

If you are not a professional video editor but a newbie, then our choice for you is Canva. It is ideal for novice video editors seeking user-friendly video editing software.

We recommend this for beginners because it is accessible for free on smartphones, tablets, laptops, and PCs where being a beginner, you don’t have to spend a lot on subscriptions. Not just free accessibility, but it enables you to produce diverse video content, which can be exported, scheduled, and shared across multiple platforms.

We found it to be one of the most user-friendly video editing programs when we examined it, and we discovered its outstanding “Magic Resize” feature, which allowed us to easily resize our films to meet the standards of numerous social networking networks. We could easily trim, split, and resize clips using the same editor by simply dragging and dropping our video onto the timeline.

The Canvas editing tool, we must admit, is just incredible. In a short period of time, it assisted us in advancing our creativity by adding more graphic components and vibrant language to our film.

Finally, to give our videos a polished look, we think about including sound effects, which remarkably improve the impact of our videos when combined with music and voiceovers. With all these impressive features, we only noticed one drawback: the video resolution deteriorated while downloading.

What We liked

What We Didn’t

➕ Great tools for beginners and pros. ➖ Quality becomes low while downloading the video.
➕ Creating designs for social media.
➕ Variety of templates, graphics and image options.

 

3. Pinnacle Studio 23

Pinnacle Studio 23
Pinnacle Studio 23. Image credit: Pinnacle

The best drag-and-drop video editing software

Pinnacle Studio 23 is an excellent video editing tool that does a great job in its primary function. However, it does more than just simple video editing. The software has an intuitive user interface, as it is one of the few on this list that allows effective drag-and-drop editing. This software’s capacity and wide range of features make it truly professional.

Pinnacle supports capturing and importing material from a wide range of sources. The 360-degree editing and stop-motion support certainly make this software one of the most sophisticated video editing programs for new video content creators. It is not free, but the price is justified.

Pros

Cons

➕ More stable platform ➖ Not compatible with macOS
➕ Intuitive UI ➖ Needs a high-end computer
➕ Value for money

 

4. InVideo

InVideo
InVideo, Image credits: InVideo

Best online video editing software to create high-quality videos online

InVideo is one of the best free online video editors. This video editing software makes your video creation easy by offering a lot of editing options. You can do impressive edits with simplified editing. InVideo offers nearly 8 million stock photos and videos with 5000+ customizable templates.

InVideo is one of the best online video editors. With InVideo, you get integrated stock media and 5000+ pre-designed templates that empower you to make professional quality videos with simple drag-and-drop editing.

You can use pre-designed animations, transitions, stickers, and text boxes. Choose trending music based on mood from a vast library of stock music and make beautiful marketing videos that engage your audience.

Pros

Cons

➕ 5000+ Editable video templates ➖ Not downloadable – Only works on web browsers
➕ Contains audio editing options ➖ Loads slowly
➕  Intuitive drag & drop interface
➕  Attractive animations

 

5. VSDC

VSDC
VSDC. Image credit: VSDC

The best free video editing software for designers

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VSDC is a favourite for many because it is free of charge but still packs in many features you’d ordinarily expect from premium software. Some of these advanced features include blend overlays, as well as mask and key options. The software also allows you to add filters transitions as well as control the speed of clips.

The software is also a great option if you are looking to create social media videos as it allows you to unleash your inner cinematic genius with its compatibility with green screen footage. The overall UX design of the software may not appeal to everyone, but if you are looking for video editing software that works for free, this is a fantastic option.

Pros

Cons

➕ Amazing Visual Effects ➖ No video stabilization tool
➕ Efficient text processing
➕ Custom color correction

 

6. Shotcut

Shotcut
Shotcut. Image credit: Shotcut

The best social media video editing software

Shotcut is another interesting free video editing software for content creators. You may need to spend time on getting the hang of the interface, but once you have that sorted, you can achieve fantastic results with it. The video and audio filters are some of the best you will find. However, the preset export formats available can be limiting.

Shotcut is heavily tilted towards social media video editing. However, your final results will be determined by the platform you are targeting with your video. The results for Facebook and YouTube will not be the same. Spend as much time as possible on getting familiar with what to expect from each editing option you choose before using the software for a real project.

Pros

Cons

➕ Wide range of formats ➖ Not an intuitive software
➕ Good technical support
➕ Editing features

 

7. Lightworks

Lightworks
Lightworks. Image credit: Lightworks

The best professional video editing software

Are you an advanced video content creator? This software should be high on your list of options. Lightworks is a comprehensive video editing tool that can only be genuinely unleashed by professionals with a level of technical knowledge. If you’d like to try your hand at the software first, you can download the free version to get a feel of things. For the full range of features and more export options, however, you will need Lightworks Pro.

The Lightworks user interface is easy to grasp. Straight from registration, the software introduces you to a minimalistic project window featuring tabs to edit video, manage audio and video files, edit audio files, and add effects. There is a toolbar for capturing video and audio stream, and you can quickly import and export video, sound and images.

If you are putting together an in-house video team, Lightworks will be an excellent addition to their software library.

Pros

Cons

➕ Easy to learn ➖ 3D video editing not supported
➕ Drag and drop videos easily
➕ Keyboard shortcuts

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8. iMovie

iMovie
iMovie. Image credit: iMovie

The best video editing software for Mac users

If you are new to video editing, you will love iMovie. The software is only available on Mac. It comes with numerous templates, animated titles and transitions. You can also use it to cut clips. The combination of these features means that it is the software of choice for anyone that wants to complete an editing job quickly and still achieve stunning results.

If you are creating video content that has only basic cuts and fades, you can trust this software to deliver. Many social media video creators trust it for quick-turnaround projects. The software is free, so you can expect some quirks that may be too much for some people to ignore.

For example, you cannot transfer project files from this editor, and it may be hard to find templates that fit for more professional video content.  Additionally, the peculiarities around the software make it easy for people to know that your video was edited with iMovie. This may cause some of your target audience to see your brand as unprofessional.

Pros

Cons

➕ Simple interface ➖ No 360 degrees video editing
➕ Excellent movie templates ➖ Limits to two video tracks
➕ Lot of audio tools

 

9. Final Cut Pro X

Final Cut Pro X
Final Cut Pro X. Image credit: Final Cut Pro X

The most seamless video editing software for Mac users

If you are looking for the best video editing software for Mac OS, you are unlikely to find any better than Final Cut Pro X. It comes with a steep price tag but the features baked into the software and the ease-of-use makes this easy to ignore.

The effect options, the grouping tools and the simplified audio loading and editing process are some features you will love. Final Cut Pro X seamlessly blends into your iTunes and photo collections, which makes it a must-have if you are a fan of the Apple ecosystem already.

Pros

Cons

➕ Powerful composite tools ➖ Only runs on macOS
➕ Works with .PSD files ➖ Limits export settings
➕ Easy to use

 

10. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve. Image credit: DaVinci Resolve

The best post-production video editing software

If you spend a lot of time in post-production, this video editing software is one you should consider. The free version can deliver the goods for beginners. However, the paid version is what you need if you are looking for comprehensive video editing software that combines editing, calibration, and audio post-production features.

Colourimetry experts will also appreciate the advanced features on Davinci Resolve that simplifies editing and mixing. Perhaps a strong selling point is a fact that the software has project collaboration features baked in. You can also seamlessly store your project data.

Pros

Cons

➕ Ease of use ➖ Not an intuitive software
➕ Color correction
➕ All basic tools for video editing

 

11. Vegas Pro

Vegas Pro
Vegas Pro. Image credit: Vegas Pro

The best video editing software for marketing and branding

Vegas Pro is another full-featured video editing tool. Sony first owned it, but Magix now controls the software. Many professionals use this to create in-depth marketing content, brand videos and more. It is also heavily used in the film industry. The easy-to-use interface makes the editing process straightforward.

You can use Vegas Pro to create 3D titles, edit and process media and create the highest quality video montages for your brand. Other features include good presets for colour correction, video stabilization, speed control, masking, 360 footage support, HDR support and motion tracking. Its developers strongly support the software, so it is never behind when it comes to new industry advancements. As you would expect, the software is expensive, so it is one of those you should only purchase if you are a professional that can use its best features.

Pros

Cons

➕ Powerful video editor ➖ Inconvenient interface
➕ Excellent color grading tools ➖ Multicam is not in a usable condition
➕ Free stock clips for subscribers

 

12. Avid Media Composer

Avid Media Composer
Avid Media Composer. Image credit: Avid Media Composer

The best video editing software in the film niche

The first thing you need to know about Avid Media Composer is that it is popular with many professionals in the film niche. It is undoubtedly one of the best you can find today, but it is expensive. If you are only looking for a video editor for some quick social media video editing, choosing Avid Media Composer might be overkill.

The software offers a genuinely intuitive experience. It is also one of the video editing software options with a deep emphasis on audio editing. If you want thoroughly professional results, this software should be high on your list.

Pros

Cons

➕ Customizable workspace ➖ Expensive
➕ Separate source browser to find assets ➖ Only 24 tracks of the video can be stored
➕ Suitable for both mac and windows

 

13. VEED. IO

VEED.IO User Interface
VEED.IO User Interface. Image credit: VEED.IO

VEED.IO is a great software to use if you are looking for an online video editor with simple tools and powerful effects. This software could be one of the easiest and best ways to create stunning videos, add subtitles and grow your audience.

You can have fun with the VEED.IO by getting started by exploring tools on the video editor and using it on your videos. This is an easy-to-use software with a user-friendly interface where you will not need any video editing skills.

Pros

Cons

➕ Supports any file types and 4k resolution ➖ Works only on web browser
➕ The free version of the software has a watermark
➕ Easy to use
➕ Works best for beginners

 

14. Movavi

Movavi-Best Video Editing Software Tools
Movavi. Image credits: Movavi

The best user interface video editing software

Movavi Video Editor is the ideal tool for bringing your imaginative ideas to life and disseminating them to the world. Your movies will stand out thanks to the engaging keyframe animation, extra effects, and pre-made intros that are included. To rapidly change the background of your clips to any image you like, use Chroma Key.

Those just getting started in video editing will value Movavi’s straightforward user interface and an appealing selection of tools for both video and audio, which were improved in a recent version upgrade. All would appreciate its rapid rendering and integrated uploading. It’s also advantageous for individuals who don’t want to spend a lot of money on video editing software.

Pros

Cons

➕ Simple to use user interface ➖ Does not provide clip pre-trimming or advanced trim modes
➕ Create high-quality videos
➕ A chroma-key system

 

15. HitFilm Express

HitFilm Express- Best Video Editing Software Tools
HitFilm Express. Image credits: HitFilm Express

Best all-in-one free video editing software

One of the best all-in-one free video editing programs is HitFilm. It may seem a little challenging at first if you don’t have much experience with video editing, but the learning curve is worthwhile. HitFilm provides animation features that let you create and edit audio and video transitions without needing to create composite shots, saving you time when editing.

Using HitFilm, you can flip, crop, divide, trim, and chop your video clips. Also, you may plop ready-to-use transitions that adhere to industry standards onto your timeline, and the program will automatically align your video and audio. In addition to the free version, there are two paid plans called HitFilm Creator and HitFilm Pro that unlock further features and resources.

Along with features you’d find in a more expensive video editing application, like 4K footage, 360-degree editing, and a special effects library, it also offers captivating 3D effects for movies, music videos, and even YouTube videos.

Pros

Cons

➕ Suitable for professionals ➖Steep learning curve
➕ Features an auto-stabilizer
➕ Highly extendable

 

How to Choose the Best Video Editing Software?

How to Choose the Best Video Editing Software
How to Choose the Best Video Editing Software

After deciding to start creating videos for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and other social media platforms, you must choose the best video editing software in the market and consider certain factors in this process.

The below points help you make the right choice:

Look for Free Trials 

If you are a beginner or a professional, you must check for a free trial. Having these trials before buying helps an individual get hands-on experience with the software’s features and tools. The user can get an idea of the software if the program perfectly suits the requirements.

User Interface

Some software has complex operations. The best software is the one that brings all tools to your fingertips and is simple to use. This helps in increasing efficiency and enhances the work with less confusion.

You must make sure to look for software providing all video editing templates and auto modes. These help you create videos quickly, allowing you to import and export media, follow your unique video style, and help create the video you set out to make.

You should also be sure the video editing software includes tutorials to help you learn from each feature. This helps you learn using its feature as you edit and maximizes your learning and editing time.

Video Format Support

There are many devices in the market that capture and produce video at different resolutions, which affects the overall quality. Most beginners start using devices that give the common aspect ratio and resolutions like 720p or 1080p, but there are few that produce only at specific resolutions and formats.

You must ensure that the software is compatible with many options, including 4K and 8K. High-end professional equipment requires more advanced compatibility features. The best way to impress your audience is to use powerful tools to enhance your videos with advanced editing tools and features.

Audio and Special Effects 

Video clips with professional graphics and titles, background music, and other effects are among the most popular. Achieving your goal may require expensive plug-in software or extra effects, depending on the video editing software you want to use.

It is important to ensure the video editing software you buy comes with music and effects. Otherwise, you may end up with videos that lack your special touch.

Licensed Stock 

A creator of a video may require any images and music to use in videos. Having a licensed stock of images and videos can help them accumulate videos for uploading. Most video editing software contains a pre-loaded and licensed royalty-free music library and image catalog for creators.

The larger the software’s library, the more creative the production is, so achieving this music and stock imagery are two essential components of production and quality.

Cloud Integration

If you are interested in multiple collaborations and are planning to edit and access videos, then cloud integration is essential. This helps users access the editing suite from their devices, and certain software, such as Adobe Cloud, integrates the video editing software with its other provided design tools.

This also allows editors to function across multiple platforms, so it’s best to ensure to check the cloud integration options of the software.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What do YouTubers use to edit their videos?

Adobe Premiere Pro CC, Final Cut Pro X, and iMovie are the two most widely used editing software among YouTube creators. As a matter of fact, both the Adobe Premiere Pro CC and Final Cut Pro X are used in complex editing assignments in professional filmmaking.

Is Adobe Premiere Pro free?

No, Adobe Premiere Pro is not a free video editing software. However, you can try a one-week free trial of the Adobe Premiere Pro on the Adobe site and explore the powerful features the software has on offer.

Does Windows 10 have a free video editor?

Yes, Windows 10 has its own pre-built Windows 10 Video Editor for video creation and editing. It is the successor of Windows 10 Movie Maker with an emphasis on creative story-telling.

Is Final Cut Pro available for Windows?

Final Cut Pro, an Apple Mac OS exclusive application, is unfortunately not available for Windows. You can, however, give Adobe Premiere CC a shot as it is the closest alternative for FCP on Windows.

 

Wrapping Up

Whether you are a beginner video content creator or an experienced professional, you are sure to find the software to meet your needs from this list. As you create your videos, keep in mind that your target audience is savvier than ever. If you use a poor edit where only a professional video will suffice, it will backfire quickly.

If you feel that you are not ready to handle the rigors of creating content for an increasingly video-hungry audience, it may be best to outsource the video creation and editing process.


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