Top 17 Free and Paid Video Editing Software for 2024

List of the best video editing software

When trying to figure out what the best video editing software is, you have a specific need and need to consider a lot of things. Whether you are a beginner or not for your project

For example, consider the computer you're using for video editing, some file transfers (inputs), video editing features like filters, transitions, video and audio settings, and file rendering (outputs).

Here is my list of Choosing the best free video editing software of this test:

1. Kapwing

Kapwing is a free online video editing tool that comes with features for marketers. It relies on Artificial Intelligence to offer intuitive and efficient video editing.

Features

• Add and adjust elements for any need such as text, transitions, subtitles, images, and audio for video editing.
• Photo editing features thanks to AI.
• Trimming tool to adjust the size and duration of video clips.
• Real-time collaboration with your team members.
• Easy publication on social media or your websites.
• Easy to use thanks to an intuitive interface.
• 100% Cloud: no specific operating system or powerful graphics card required.
• Speech to text conversion feature to facilitate editing.
• Graphic design tools for social media and websites.
• Customer support and professional instructional guides.
• Support for numerous audio and video formats.

Pricing

• Gratuit : No watermarks, unlimited use. Saved content expires after seven days and is limited to 10 minutes.
• Kapwing Pro : $29 per month for advanced use

Kapwing is a great choice for online video editing, especially for marketers looking for simple and effective features.

USE KAPWING 100% FREE

2. Vyond

Vyond is a video editing software specially designed for creating animated promotional video content for businesses.

Features

• 720p or higher resolution
• Color-changing accessories for easy customization of your videos.
• Automatic synchronization of characters' lips for a realistic rendering.
• Animation of characters and objects to energize your content.
• Varied style and effect options to personalize your montages.
• Compatible with a variety of audio and video formats
• Training available to help you get the most out of the software.

Pricing

• Essential Plan : $299 per year
• Premium plan : $649 per year
• Professional Plan : $999 per year
• Enterprise plan : Personalized quote

Vyond is a powerful video editing tool for creating animated promotional content for social networks.

USE VYOND 100% FREE

3. Wondershare Filmora.

Wondershare Filmora is a powerful and user-friendly video editing software that is ideal for Mac and Windows users to boost your social networks.

Features

• Drag-and-drop effects: Easily add templates, audio, and soundtracks to your videos.
• Advanced features: Use split screen, motion tracking, and green screen for professional renderings.
• Keyframing: Add custom animations between clips for dynamic rendering.
• Easy to get started
• Motion tracking: Intuitively follow the objects in your clips.
• Color matching: Apply color settings from one clip to others for visual consistency.
• Assigning keyboard shortcuts: Save time by assigning keyboard shortcuts for your most used functions.
• Green Screen feature: Change or remove the background from your video for special effects.
• Automatically reduce the volume of background music when an audio track is present.

Compatible for mac or PC

Pricing

• Yearly subscription : $49.99 per month
• Perpetual license : $79.99 per year
• Group subscription : $109.99 per year

Guarantee of 30-day refund for all pricing plans

Whether you're a novice or a professional video editor, Wondershare Filmora offers a range of tools and effects for creating professional video montages.

GET WONDERSHARE FILMORA NOW

4. MiniTool MovieMaker.

MiniTool MovieMaker is a free and powerful web video editing software, specially designed for Windows software users.

Features

• Movie trailer creation: Create engaging movie previews.
• Automatic recording: Avoid data loss by constantly recording your work.
• Video cutter: Cut, split files, and make transitions effortlessly.
• Creative filters: Enhance aesthetics with professional filters.
• Animated titles: Add dynamism with animated titles.
• Smooth effects and transitions: Add effects and create smooth transitions between clips for a more engaging video.
• Pan and zoom: Add movement and visual interest to your videos.
• Speed controller: Accelerate, slow down, or reverse your clips for greater creativity.

Pricing

• MiniTool MovieMaker is completely free, with no hidden fees or additional costs.

If you are a novice or professional Windows user looking for rich and intuitive video editing software, MiniTool MovieMaker is an ideal choice.

GET MINITOOL MOVIEMAKER NOW

5. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Adobe Premiere Pro is a high-end video editor designed to allow you to quickly create impressive footage.

Features

• Advanced video editing: Adobe PP offers a built-in workflow for video editing.
• Editor table and audio tracks: Facilitates video editing and audio editing.
• Mobile application: Access and modify your projects from your mobile.
• Numerous add-ons: Expands the capabilities of your video editing software.
• White Balance editing tools: Enhance color rendering in your videos.
• Regular updates: Always take advantage of the latest software improvements.
• 3D animation and effects: Add dynamism and creativity to your videos.
• Visual effects and special effects: Add professionalism to your post-productions.
• Social media connector: Easily share across a variety of social platforms.
• Training: Learn how to maximize the use of Adobe PP according to your goals.
• Adobe Sensei Technology: Save time with automated AI-based tools.
• Support for multiple video formats: Includes 8K video (full hd, ultra hd, 2.5k qhd), blu ray outputs, and virtual reality.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Price: $20.99/month
• Free trial version

Ultimately, Adobe Premiere Pro, with its streamlined interface, advanced video editing and color grading features, and automated tools, is positioned as a top choice in the field of the best professional free video editing software.

6. Corel VideoStudio Pro.

If you're looking for a tool to create complex vector graphics and animations, Corel VideoStudio Pro is perfect for you.

Features

• Ease of use with storyboards and timelines
• A wide range of creative effects, project templates, and title presets.
• Over 1500 filters and effects.
• Skillful step-by-step tutorials.
• Slideshow maker with lots of templates.
• MultiCam Capture Lite function to record your screen and webcam simultaneously
• Various essential audio and video tools for cropping, cutting, and splitting.
• Fisheye distortion correction and color temperature adjustment.
• Add subtitles, voiceover recording, and audio fades.
• Editing tools optimized for Intel and Nvidia processors and graphics cards.
• Support for 4K display, 360-degree video editing, and stop motion animation.
• Advanced features such as pan and zoom, chroma/green screen, and batch processing.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• CorelDRAW VideoStudio Pro is a paid solution, priced at $79.99 for an indefinite license. There is no free version.

CorelDRAW VideoStudio Pro is a comprehensive video editing tool that allows you to create complex vector graphics and animations.

With its advanced features, its tools optimized for processors and graphics cards.

It provides a smooth and professional video editing experience.

Try CorelDRAW VideoStudio Pro for creative ideas and exceptional footage.

7. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements is one of the best free and powerful video editing software designed for beginners and experienced users.

Features

• Add and adjust text, images, and sounds to personalize your videos
• Hundreds of transition effects to energize your videos.
• Appropriate for all levels of experience, from beginners to advanced users.
• Integration of artificial intelligence in the latest version.
• Optimized face detection to improve tracking and the addition of effects
• Remove haze to improve video clarity
• Broad range of sound, visual, and special effects for post-production
• Focus adjustment to highlight specific elements in your videos.
• Guided editing interface to facilitate learning and gradual mastering of the software.
• Video collage tool to create engaging visual compositions.
• Integration with social networks to easily share your creations on social networks
• Complete tutorials for optimal support in the use of the software.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Adobe Premiere Elements offers a paid version at $99.99
• The Adobe Premiere Elements+Photoshop Elements Bundle costs $149.99
• There is no free version.

Adobe Premiere Elements is a versatile video editor that is ideal for beginners as well as for people who want to tell visual stories in a professional manner.

8. Final Cut Pro X.

Final Cut Pro X is a professional video editor that is very popular in the movie industry for its ease of use.

Features

• Easy to get started
• Tri-panel interface that facilitates the editing process with a trackless magnetic timeline.
• Clip organization that allows you to import and organize your clips as roles in the library.
• Over 149 video effects, 109 audio effects, 183 title animation templates, and 100 transitions.
• Touch bar support for editing using touch controls on the MacBook Pro touch bar.
• Supports multicam video editing and allows working with an unlimited number of video tracks.
• Provides professional products and comprehensive tutorials to help you if needed.
• Support for numerous export formats, including 4K HDR and 360.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Offers a paid version for $299.99 for life.
• There is no annual discount.
• Offers a 90-day free trial.

Final Cut Pro X is a powerful, professional video editing tool designed specifically for movie productions.

9. EaseUS Video Editor.

EaseUS Video Editor is an easy to use free video editing and editing software, suitable for amateurs and professionals.

It makes it effortless to create a project with video footage and presents a simple learning curve for everyone.

Features

• Basic video editing options: cut, split, merge, rotate clips.
• Integrated video effects and transitions for post production
• Change the speed of clips for slow motion or acceleration.
• Simplified audio editing with the ability to narrate and add music.
• Export to various devices, DVDs, and upload to YouTube.
• Additional tools to convert YouTube videos to MP3.

Compatible with Mac and Windows PC operating systems.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Monthly subscription at $17.97/month.
• Annual subscription at $49.95/year.
• Lifetime license for $79.95.
• There is no free version available.

EaseUS Video Editor is a free video editing and editing software that is easy to use and affordable, suitable for users of all levels.

With its basic features for beginners and versatile export options, it makes it easy to create high-quality videos.

10. Movavi Video Editor.

Movavi is an intuitive video editor for Mac that offers advanced features for recording, improving, and creatively editing your video footage.

Features

• Add captions, filters, and transitions
• Give a professional touch with prefabricated intros
• Advanced personalization
• Cropping and adjustment: to customize as you wish.
• “Chroma Key” effect: to remove or change the background of your video clips.
• Aspect ratios for social media like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook.
• Multi-task functions

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Editor version for $39.95.
• Editor Plus version for $59.95.
• Video Suite version for $79.95
• Free version with limited features also available.
• Movavi offers a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Movavi Video Editor is a versatile and easy to use video editor that is ideal for Mac users of all levels.

10. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie is a free and user-friendly application that is ideal for macOS or iOS hobbyists and users.

Features

• With Apple iMovie, get 4K resolution support for high-quality videos.
• Learn easily thanks to skilful tutorials for effective use of the software.
• Apple iMovie is easy to learn, ideal for beginner programs. Process your video clips at a playback speed of up to 60 frames per second.
• Add video special effects like green screen, video filters, and multicam. Easily import and export video clips, audio, and photos from iCloud.

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• iMovie is included with Apple devices, such as Macs and iPhones.
• There is no additional cost to use iMovie.

Apple iMovie is a great choice for macOS and iOS guide users looking for free, user-friendly software.

11. WeVideo.

WeVideo is a flexible, multi-purpose, cloud-based video editing software for video makers.

It has simple tutorials to help you master the software, whether you're new to it or experienced.

Features

• Enjoy seamless LMS integration with other operating and learning management systems like Google for Education and Canvas, making it easy to export your projects.
• WeVideo is designed for teachers with an education-oriented experience.
• Personalize your projects by adding your logos and designs, with a vast multimedia library including various visual and software files and royalty-free audio.
• Easily publish your projects on media and social media directly, with a direct transfer to your favorite platforms.
• Use the green screen to add creative backgrounds to your videos.
• WeVideo offers ease of use, with simple tutorials to help you master the software, whether you are a beginner or experienced.

Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

Here are the prices shown on the web page:

• Rates range from $4.99 per month to $36.99 per month, offering options to suit the varied needs of users.

WeVideo is a powerful and user-friendly video editing tool.

It comes with a variety of features to suit your creativity.

12. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is a comprehensive and professional video editing software developed by Blackmagic Design.

Whether you're a professional video editor or a passionate beginner, it's a top-notch choice for anyone to consider.

Features

• Smooth assembly: Individual user cover, your assembly process is done without any interruption
• Access control: Robust user rights allow you to properly manage access to each assembly project
• Audio effects: You have at your disposal a set of 500 royalty-free sounds to create realistic audio effects.
• Easy sharing: Easy integration with social media platforms, you can share your creations in one click

Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

• Free: The basic version of DaVinci Resolve is completely free for editing purposes
• Studio: For access to advanced features, choose DaVinci Resolve Studio for $295.

With an impressive array of tools and a user-friendly interface, DaVinci Resolve stands out as a solid choice for your video editing.

13. InVideo.

InVideo is an online video editor designed for beginners as well as for marketers looking for a quick way to create video content.

Features

• With InVideo, take advantage of over 3500 pre-designed templates to quickly launch your video projects.
• Export in HD for the best image quality. Easily convert text to speech for engaging content.
• Use InVideo without watermarks on standard media for a professional experience. Access an impressive media library of over 8 million premium media and over 1 million standard media to personalize your videos.
• Enjoy up to 60 monthly exports in 720p or higher resolution to produce high-quality video content.

Operating systems: Windows PC, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

InVideo offers a free plan as well as two paid plans on its web page:

• Business: $15/month (annual billing)
• Unlimited: $30/month (annual billing)

InVideo is an intuitive and powerful tool for creating video content.

With its numerous features and top-notch usability, it's the ideal tool for novices and marketing professionals looking for a fast and effective solution for video creation.

14. Animoto.

Animoto is a simple and convenient online tool designed to make it easy for even novice video makers to create marketing videos.

Features

• With Animoto, you benefit from consistent quality thanks to unlimited downloads in 720p resolution or higher, guaranteeing impeccable quality for all your video creations.
• You can also enjoy advanced customization with over 50 music tracks, 3 standard fonts, and over 30 color samples to customize according to your preferences.
• The included video editing tools, such as trimming, cropping, and timing adjustments, make it easy to edit your videos accurately and easily.
• You also have access to predesigned storyboard templates that speed up the creative process.
• Animoto gives you the ability to easily share on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and more.
• Regardless of whether you're using a Mac or a Windows PC, Animoto is compatible with the top two platforms, providing accessibility for all users.

Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

Animoto offers a free plan as well as two paid plans on its website:

• Professional: $15/month (annual billing)
• Team: $39/month (annual billing) A free trial is also available.

Animoto is a user-friendly and powerful tool that is ideal for marketing teams and anyone looking to quickly create engaging video content.

15. VSDC Video Editor

VSDC Video Editor is a powerful and multi-functional video editing tool.

It's designed to cater to content creators, from beginners to professionals.

Features

• The user-friendly interface of this software makes it easy to use for anyone, even the need for non-professionals.
• It offers multi-track editing to work on multiple tracks simultaneously for greater flexibility and smooth transitions between sequences.
• With its wide range of special effects and transitions, you can add dynamism and creativity to your videos. The color calibration tool allows you to adjust colors, brightness, and contrast to achieve the desired visual appearance.
• Precise editing allows you to cut, crop, merge, and sync your clips precisely for the perfect result. Audio mixing tools allow you to improve sound quality with equalization and noise cancellation options.
• Finally, you can export your videos in high resolution for exceptional image quality.

Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

• VSDC is available as free software
• For access to additional advanced features, you can opt for the Pro version.

VSDC is a comprehensive and advanced video editing software that is ideal for content creators looking to produce professional-quality videos.

16. ShotCut

Shotcut is a free, open-source video editing software that is suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

Features

• The best video editing software is an essential tool for creating and editing videos.
• Shotcut is a popular choice, offering great flexibility to use on Windows, Mac, and Linux.
• Its interface is customizable, which allows for a tailor-made user experience.
• Shotcut supports a wide range of video formats, offering extensive compatibility.
• It offers a library of effects to personalize your videos.
• Shotcut also offers advanced editing features, such as precise cutting, multi-track editing, and smooth transitions.

Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS, and Linux

Pricing

• Completely free and open-source.

Shotcut is a free and open-source video editing software that is powerful and flexible.

It offers functions that will meet the needs of both beginners and professionals for social networks.

17. Avid Media Composer First

Media Composer First is a free video editor in the Avid family, designed for those who want to take their first steps in the world of professional publishing.

Features

• The interface of Media Composer First is very similar to that of its professional counterpart, allowing users to get used to a professional platform from the start.
• It offers basic editing functions, such as cutting, separating, and joining clips, while adding transitions and effects to enrich the content.
• The tool provides a maximum resolution of 1080p, making it possible to work with high image quality.
• Media Composer First has four video tracks and eight audio tracks, providing enough flexibility for simple projects.
• The color correction feature offers basic adjustments to improve the visual appearance of videos.
• It supports a wide range of file formats, making compatibility less of a concern for users.
• Operating systems: Windows, Mac OS

Pricing

• Media Composer First is completely free for users. For access to more advanced features and a larger capacity for tracks, users can upgrade to Media Composer, which is the paid version of the software.

Media Composer First is a great option for those who are new to video editing and want to get familiar with a professional editing environment.

It offers a range of basic features, while maintaining an accessible user interface for novices.

Its free model allows users to explore and become familiar with the software without financial commitment.

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Other platform not reviewed: Microsoft ClipChamp, Openshot Video Editor, Pinnacle Studio, or Hitfilm Express.

Criteria for selecting video editing software

It's important to choose the right video editing software based on your specific needs. In this section, we will review several criteria to consider when making your choice.

1. The functionalities offered by the editing software

Any good video editing software should offer an array of features that meet your video creation needs. You should pay attention to:

• Image editing: Ensure that the software offers robust tools for cropping, cropping, retouching, and adjusting images.
• Special visual effects: Look for software that offers a diverse visual effects library to improve your videos.
• Music options: Good software should allow you to add, edit, and mix music in your videos.

Choosing software that offers the features that meet your video creation needs is critical.

2. The usability of the interface and the ease of use

Video editing software can vary widely in complexity. It is therefore important to take into account:

• Usability of the interface: Software with an intuitive user interface can make the video editing process much easier.
• The learning curve: Some software programs are easier to learn than others. If you are a beginner, you might prefer software that is easy to use.

Opting for software with a user-friendly interface can greatly improve your video editing experience.

3. Compatibility with your operating system

Not every video editor is compatible with every operating system. It is therefore crucial to check:

• Software compatibility: Make sure the software you choose is compatible with your operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux, etc.)
• System requirements: Some software requires a certain amount of processing power, memory, and disk space. Make sure your computer is equipped to handle the software you choose.

The compatibility of the editing software with your operating system is an essential criterion to avoid any technical problems.

4. Video export and sharing options

Once your video is finished, you need to be able to share it easily. Here are a few things to consider:

• Export options: Good software should allow you to export your videos in a variety of formats to maximize their compatibility.
• Sharing options: Many video editors offer the option to share your videos directly on social media platforms or video sharing sites.

Choosing software with flexible export and sharing options will allow you to easily distribute your creations.

Choosing video editing software is not a task to be taken lightly. By taking these criteria into account, you can make an informed choice and find the software that best meets your needs.

Which editing software should professionals choose?

Choosing video editing software for a professional depends on several factors and varies from individual to individual.

Needs and preferences may vary, some value ease of use, while others seek advanced features to get the desired level of precision from your video editing software.

Furthermore, the compatibility of the software for video editing with operating systems is also a determining factor, with some software optimized for Windows, while others are optimized for macOS.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro: a complete solution for professionals

Considered to be one of the best video editing software on the market, Adobe Premiere Pro offers a plethora of features for video processing and editing.

It offers a precise timeline, a wide range of effects and titles, and a system of templates that make work easier, making it one of the preferred choices for professionals.

The Adobe suite provides a multitude of other useful tools for video editing software professionals.

2. Movavi Video Editor: Simplicity and Advanced Features

Movavi Video Editor is also a program that is loved by many professionals. This software is known for its intuitive interface and advanced editing tools.

Its premium version offers access to a multitude of effects, texts, and models. It is also compatible with various clip formats, which is a significant advantage for some professionals.

3. Openshot: flexibility and open source

Openshot, another popular video editing application, is particularly popular for its open source character.

This software offers users the ability to adjust every detail of their video, from the background to the arrangement of the clips on the timeline. The flexibility offered by Openshot is something that is appreciated by many professionals.

FAQs

What are the advantages of post-production tools for amateur video makers?

The post-production tools available on the market today offer a multitude of features that make the video editing process easier and more efficient.

For example, they allow video makers to retouch their clips, add special effects, work on the timeline, and export their project in various formats.

Additionally, most of these programs offer a free version with the option to upgrade to a paid version to access more features.

What can you do with video editing software?

With video editing software, you can:

Improve the quality of your videos by adjusting the image and the sound.

Add text, images, colors, and special effects to personalize your videos.

Cut unwanted sections and organize clips for smooth storytelling.

Add background music and sound effects to your videos

How do I choose video editing software?

When choosing a better video editing software, consider the following:

- The features offered, such as image editing, special visual effects, and music.

- The usability of the interface and the ease of use of the software for video editing.

- The compatibility of the software for video editing with your operating system.

- Video export and sharing options.

What do most YouTubers use to edit their content and add special effects?

There are lots of best professional video editing software that YouTubers can use to edit their videos for social media.

Indeed, any of the video editing software we've covered in this article could be fine, depending on your social media needs.

What is the best free video editor?

When it comes to choosing the best free video editing software, you should choose one with your specific needs and level of experience.

The best free video editing software

- Kapwing: A professional free online video editor that offers basic features for video editing and sharing.

- DaVinci Resolve: A powerful and versatile professional solution for advanced video editing software projects.

- OpenShot: An open source software with a user-friendly interface for simple editing.

- By exploring these different options, you will be able to find the program that best meets your needs for the best video editing software, whether you are a beginner or a professional.

Feel free to try several programs to find the one that suits you best and will allow you to make quality video edits.

What is the best editing software for beginners do you recommend on a PC?

For some beginners in the video editing business, I recommend user-friendly tools like the Hitfilm Express or Openshot platform.

These beginner programs offer an intuitive interface, a large number of pre-designed templates, and drag-and-drop features, making the editing process much easier for novices.

Additionally, they offer free versions with opportunities to access more advanced features for beginners via paid updates.

What is the best video editing solution for macOS?

For macOS users, Final Cut Pro is a great solution.

It offers an intuitive interface, a wide range of mounting features, and excellent compatibility with other Apple products.

However, there are also free options like iMovie, which is ideal for beginners, or Openshot, a very powerful open-source software.

What are the main criteria to consider when choosing video editing software?

When choosing video editing software, there are several factors that you need to consider.

Among these are the software compatibility with your operating system (Windows or MacOS), the level of control you want over your project, the special effects available, the quality of the user interface, and finally, the price.

Some software offers free versions with upgrade options for more features, while others require an initial purchase or subscription.

Conclusion.

There you have it, the selection of best free video editing software to be used to create magic in the world today.

Whether you're a seasoned pro, a beginner, or just a tech enthusiast, I hope you found this guide helpful.

To summarize, if you are looking for solutions for the best software, I recommend Kapwing and the DaVinci Resolve program.

For Mac users who want to know which editing software to use, opt for Final Cut Pro.

If you are a beginner creator on Windows, opt for Windows Movie Maker or DaVinci Resolve.

If you are a beginner and are looking for a cheap option in software offerings, choose Adobe Premiere Elements.

Finally, if you want to use the best free software for Mac, you can download iMovie. (one of the best free software)

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To monetize your video content, check out my guide on best online course platforms to sell video courses.

And to go further in your video editing, you can consult my opinions on best video editing software audio, ofanimation And ofscreen recording.

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