Whether you’re a filmmaker or a marketer, you need access to professional video editing software that lets you create impressive videos.
There are many types of video editing software available on the market, but which one should you go for? Each of them has its own pros and cons.
1. Lightworks
Lightworks is a powerful video editing program perfect for more experienced video editors. It comes with handy features like multicam video editing and color correction. It’s available for Windows, Mac, and Linux — and is actually one of the less tricky softwares that are available for the latter Operating System (OS). If you want to collaborate on a project, Lightworks makes this easy for you with a project sharing feature. It also comes with a library of high-quality stock videos and audios. Unfortunately, it does restrict your exported video quality to 720p, but if this isn’t a dealbreaker for you, we highly recommend this software.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Multicam video editing
- Real-time team project sharing that enables you to work with multiple people on a project
- Supports a variety of video and audio formats
- Color correction and video effects
- Customizable user interface
- Motion controls
- Keyboard shortcuts and quick cutting tools to speed up editing
- Instant autosave
- Quick export to Youtube, Vimeo, and other platforms
- Best for: Intermediate and advanced users
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
REASONS TO BUY
- Robust and feature-rich software speed optimization allows you to export and edit videos at the same time
- Lots of documentations and in-depth video tutorials to learn from
- A simplified video editing process.
- Free and paid versions.
- Easy-to-use UI.
- Library of royalty-free content.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Advanced interface
- Only exports up to 720p in free version
- There is a learning curve.
2. DaVinci Resolve
With automatic stabilization, built-in collaborative working, and color grading, you can create a high-quality video or movie with DaVinci Resolve — and all for no cost and no watermarks. It also has a clean and organized design that saves time and effort wasted by searching for things. However, this program definitely has a learning curve — so if you’re a beginner, we’d recommend starting with something more simple first. It also requires a minimum of Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7, 16GB of RAM, and 4GB GPU. This might be too demanding for some computers, so check your specs before downloading this program.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Watermark: No
- Cloud-based remote collaboration system
- VFX
- Color correction feature
- Smart video stabilization
- Audio editing tools such as built-in audio mixing
- Dual timeline
- Facial recognition
- Special interface for trimming
- Best for: Advanced users and content creation/film professionals
REASONS TO BUY
- Lots of sophisticated features
- Great user experience
- Perfect for advanced projects
REASONS TO AVOID
- Difficult for beginners
3. Adobe Premiere Pro CC
Amateurs and professionals alike tend to use this software in order to make videos that appear crisp and sleek. You will be able to edit your footage in 8K or even virtual reality if you wish. This software is designed to facilitate efficient workflows so that you can finish your work swiftly and smoothly. The interface is highly streamlined and you can make as many customizations as necessary. Advanced tools such as multi-camera rendering and color matching will help you create impressive work every time.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Intuitive and customizable interface.
- Integrates with other Adobe software.
- Advanced tools and features.
- Easy to learn.
REASONS TO BUY
- Intuitive and customizable interface.
- Integrates with other Adobe software.
- Advanced tools and features.
- Easy to learn.
REASONS TO AVOID
- The free trial is very limited.
4. DaVinci Studio / Black Magic Design
DaVinci Resolve is one of the best professional video editing software for non-linear editing and color corrections. Developed by Blackmagic Design, it’s rich in features and ideal for people who want to create accurate, high-quality videos. This tool also allows you to correct your audio in post-production while you are working on the visual effects. With DaVinci, you will have access to professional 8K editing features that will let you make content for the modern screen. There are a variety of different tools integrated into DaVinci to give you an upper hand. Take advantage of the facial recognition technology, adjustment clips, video stabilization, and custom timeline settings to create professional videos.
SPECIFICATION
- Cloud-based remote collaboration system
- VFX
- Color correction feature
- Smart video stabilization
- Audio editing tools such as built-in audio mixing
- Dual timeline
- Facial recognition
- Special interface for trimming
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Watermark: No
- Best for: Advanced users and content creation/film professionals
REASONS TO BUY
- Variety of collaboration tools.
- Rich in features.
- Professional 8K editing.
- Audio scrubbing.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Not suitable for beginners.
5. Final Cut Pro
This professional video editing software has become a staple for editors all around the world who simply cannot get enough of its wide range of features and easy accessibility. Available as a one-time purchase, Final Cut Pro comes with all the tools necessary to create excellent videos. Apple optimizes its software to perfection when it comes to its own hardware. This means you’ll get the most out of Final Cut Pro if you’re using it on a Mac.
SPECIFICATIONS
- 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended for 4K editing, 3D titles, and 360° video editing)
- Metal-capable graphics card
- 1GB of VRAM recommended for 4K editing, 3D titles, and 360° video editing1
- 4.5GB of available disk space
- Some features require Internet access; fees may apply. Blu-ray recorder required for burning Blu-ray discs.
REASONS TO BUY
- Works surprisingly fast.
- Sleek and feature-rich UI.
- Well-optimized.
- Advanced video editing options.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Only for Mac.
6. Blender
Blender actually has a robust in-built video editor that is easy to use. The composition process is impressive and you can actually get the software for free. There are a wide variety of tools with the help of which you can give your videos a professional look. You can even work with 3D animations if you wish. Add any amount of text and effects to perfect your video.
SPECIFICATIONS
- 64-bit dual-core 2Ghz CPU with SSE2 support.
- 4 GB RAM.
- 1280×768 display.
- Mouse, trackpad or pen+tablet.
- Graphics card with 1 GB RAM, OpenGL 3.3.
REASONS TO BUY
- Available for free.
- Easy to use.
- Robust editing features.
- Suitable for animation work.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Lacks complex editing features.
7. Movavi Video Editor Plus
Movavi Video Editor Plus lets you edit your videos to suit your creative vision with ease. While it isn’t geared towards professionals, the software comes with a variety of tools that can very well be used to create videos that look professional and well-produced. This software gives you access to a multitude of special effects that will elevate your videos. There are ready-made intros available in case you want to save some time. You can use the Chroma key if you want to switch up the background of your clips and use the keyframe animation feature to give your videos that extra edge.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Processor: 64-bit Intel® processor
- Memory: 2 GB RAM.
- Graphics: Intel® HD Graphics 2000, NVIDIA® GeForce® series 8 and 8M, Quadro FX 4800, Quadro FX 5600, AMD Radeon™ R600, Mobility Radeon™ HD 4330, Mobility FirePro™ series, Radeon™ R5 M230 or higher graphics card with up-to-date drivers
- Storage: 500 MB available
REASONS TO BUY
- Many customization features.
- Easy to use interface.
- Suitable for both professionals and amateurs.
- Different pricing tiers.
REASONS TO AVOID
- Limited Free Trial
8. Riverside
Riverside is an all-in-one platform to record, edit and share top-quality video content. You can record up to 4K video and 48kHz audio in separate tracks for every participant. This gives you more flexibility when editing, but there’s no need to use external software to create a polished video.
SPECIFICATIONS
- All-in-one recording and editing tool
- Easy Text-based video and audio editing so anyone can create professional content in minutes
- Ai transcriptions in over 100 languages
- Search bar with speaker detection so you can effortlessly navigate and find a phrase in your video
- Recording capabilities (up to 4K video)
- Easily create shareable social media clips
- Customizable logos and backgrounds to polish your video
- AI Speaker View to switch between speakers without any extra work
- Automatic background noise removal and suppression
REASONS TO BUY
- Easier to use than most editors on this list.
- Text-based editing makes post-production 3x faster
- Recording capabilities.
- Great for non-heavy video editing
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
REASONS TO AVOID
- Watermark on free plan
9. HitFilm Express
HitFilm Express is another free video editing software for Windows and Mac. It has an intuitive interface and detailed tutorials built into the software itself. This is a great video editor for intermediate users. HitFilm Express is most useful for itsMP4 video editing exporting feature and its extensive library of visual effects. These make it particularly useful for intermediate users. If you’re put off by the more advanced features, the built-in tutorials can always help.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Huge range of visual effects and presets
- Auto stabilizing feature
- 2D and 3D compositing
- MP4 export
- Motion tracking
- Adaptive trimmer for quick and easy trimming
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac
- Watermark: Yes
- Best for: Intermediate users
REASONS TO BUY
- Built-in learning process with videos and detailed instructions
- Easy to navigate UI
REASONS TO AVOID
- Many audios and effects are watermarked
10. iMovie
If you’re new to video editing and own a MacBook or an Apple phone/tablet, look no further. iMovie is a super simple and easy-to-use option with some handy features, such as video stabilization and noise reduction. It also allows you to export videos in 4K, which is rare amongst free video editing software. You can also add various effects, filters, and built-in sound and music.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Various effects and filters
- Cloud storage
- Speed controls and music tracks
- Export in 4k at 60fps
- Stabilizer and noise reduction tool
- Compatibility: Mac
- Watermark: No
- Best for: Video editing beginners with a MacBook or iPhone/iPad
REASONS TO BUY
- Super intuitive and easy to use
- Already available on MacBooks
REASONS TO AVOID
- Comes with only basic features
- Only for Mac and iOS
11. OpenShot
OpenShot is an open-source video editor that operates with a simple drag-and-drop interface. Such an interface is perfect for newbies, which is why we recommend this program for any beginner to video editing. Unlike other programs, you can stack as many layers as you want in your video — without limitation. You can also adjust color grading, contrast, brightness and carry out necessary functions like cropping, trimming, and resizing. Since this program is open-source, there are zero watermarks — and you won’t be constantly bothered to upgrade to a paid version.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Drag-and-drop interface
- You can use unlimited layers
- Customizable title card templates
- Tools for keyframe animation
- Visual effects and transitions
- Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux
- Watermark: No
- Best for: Beginners
REASONS TO BUY
- Versatile; supports all major OSes
- Open-source
- Good for beginners
REASONS TO AVOID
- Can sometimes lag
12. Shotcut
Shotcut is a great free video editor that comes with a variety of visual and audio filters. It’s cross-platform, which means you can use it across Windows, Mac, and Linux. It has very handy features, including the ability to customize your workspace, edit the timeline, and export in various file types.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Filters and special effects
- Export in 4K
- AV1 decoding and encoding
- Customizable interface
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Watermark: No
- Best for: Beginners
REASONS TO BUY
- Cross-platform
- A vast variety of filters and visual effects
- Intuitive UI that’s customizable
- Supports lots of file types
- No ads or watermarks
- Timeline editing
- Audio and visual filters
- Uses FFmpeg
REASONS TO AVOID
- Not suited for more complex projects
13. Kdenlive
If you’re an intermediate user looking for a robust program without any ads or watermarks, we highly recommend Kdenlive. It’s perfect for Linux users but works on Windows and Mac as well. Kdenlive has a straightforward and organized interface — however, it’s more suited to those with some video editing knowledge and experience. You can work with keyframes, mix and record audio, and add a variety of visual and audio effects.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Arrange workspace
- Configure keyboard shortcuts
- Multi-track editing capabilities
- Keyframes
- Color analyzer
- Audio and voiceover recorder
- Subtitle editor
- Audio mixer
- Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
- Watermark: No
- Best for: Intermediate users
REASONS TO BUY
- Open-source
- Cross-platform
- Lots of useful and powerful features
REASONS TO AVOID
- Bit tricky to use if you’re less experienced with video editing
