Editing a video in 2018 can’t get easier, with the latest technology and the new super duper video capturing devices like Action Cameras, DSLR etc. the quality of videos we make has gone far better. Still, you should always edit a video if you want to impress someone. And if you are looking to become a professional video editor, then starting out with following tools will make the process quick and easy. In this article, you will find twenty-seven best video editing software (free and paid) that let you edit videos with the help of your computer.

Adobe has always been a pioneer in image or video editing which is one of the fine reason what makes this tool one of the best video editing software for Mac. Get it now: See Also: 10 Best Video Converter Software for Mac 2017.

Do check the section of frequently asked questions at the bottom of this page and find out the common queries and I hope this article will provide you with ample information about video editing.

• These free video editing software programs are great alternatives to those expensive tools. Here are the best free video editors as of 2018. Edit video on your PC or Mac with one of these free video editors. Share Pin Email Print Getty Images.
• 15 Best Video Editing Software 2018. Because there are so many good options out there, to make it easier for you, in this article, we have divided the video editing software into several categories.

See Also –Video Editing Apps for iPhone & Android

Another thing to note before moving into the list of software is understanding your needs and wants. If you plan to make simple videos, then there are plenty of free video editing software and you don’t need to buy anything for it. But if you plan to earn from your videos from platforms like YouTube, then you should buy video editing software that fulfils your needs.

You get all sort of different options in the software below, so just go through each of them and decide what software you would require as per your plans and wants. You don’t have to pay a higher cost if you are not planning to make it that big. The software in the list are very renowned and being used by millions of users. So, take a cup of coffee and go through everything we have in this article.

1. CyberLink PowerDirector 16 Ultra

(Best video editing software for Windows) | Price: $72.99

It’s an easy-to-use home video editing software with 500+ editing tools and effects. PowerDirector is one of the fastest and most advanced consumer-level video editing software for PC (Windows) and it also has 360-degree video editor for the VR Footage

You will be able to create amazing videos in minutes! It has creation modes that ensure you spend less time learning and more time creating.

Effects like – Transition, Animated titles, PiP objects, Particle Effects, Color presets and much more are present to help make your videos quickly and easily.

Supported formats and codecs include MOV, MKV, H.264, FLAC and many more. PowerDirector 15 has significantly improved video performance when working with the popular WMV format, as well as adding FLAC audio editing support.

Read – CyberLink PowerDirector 16 Ultra Review

2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

(Best overall performance and compatibility, Price: $19.99 per month or $239.88 yearly)

Platform: Mac, Windows

Adobe Premiere is the most sophisticated, user-friendly and feature-rich video editor that is also cross-platform, and it has a huge number of output format choices for your convenience.

All the things you need every day are covered with new features like audio remix, haze removal, video collage, enhanced face detection and adjustment layers focus. For Windows 10 users you also get the touch-friendly interface that is complemented with the good old Organizer app to keep photo, videos etc. in a more searchable organized fashion.

Adobe’s Premiere Pro CC enables you to make visually stunning videos from virtually anywhere.

With the industry-leading video production toolset, you can work across desktop and devices to edit virtually any media in its native format and create professional productions with brilliant color for film, TV, and web.

The new version CC is the most powerful Premiere Pro yet. Premiere Pro is part of Creative Cloud, and it comes with Adobe CreativeSync, so your assets are always at your fingertips right when you need them.

CreativeSync powers your Libraries, and it connects your mobile and desktop apps to get your files wherever you need. And read my detailed review and why I consider this as the best video editing software in 2017.

Read – Adobe Premiere Pro CC Review

3. Final Cut Pro

(Best video editing software for Mac, Price: $299.99)

Supported platforms: Mac only

FCP or Final Cut Pro is a premium software developed by Apple Inc. for Mac computers. I have started using this recently and until now it is the most efficient tool I have ever used. It has tons of features that no other software possess. The intuitive interface and timeline features are just perfect for post-production. In version 10.3, which is the latest at the time of writing it has got some powerful set of features that have been introduced recently.

The best of them all is the timeline color coding, where you can see different colors for timeline objects.

More Salient Features :

• Customized window layouts to suit your style.
• Easy to follow workflow with color coding and magnetic timeline.
• Support for RAW videos and Rec. 2020 wide colour space.
• Accelerated rendering to watch the preview in real time.
• Timecode effect to check which footage was used.
• A new browser for content and media surfing.
• Full height inspector, flow transitions, Support for professional formats like MXF-wrapped ProRes
• Instantly remove any effects and attributes added previously and much much more.

Surely the best video editing software for Mac lovers and do read the review below for extra information on Final Cut Pro X.

Read – Final Cut Pro Review

4. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018

(For Beginners – easy & simple interface,Price: $98.38)

Platform: Windows only

Make your most engaging movies ever with VideoStudio Pro X10. Smart new features take routine editing tasks out of your way, freeing you to explore exciting new creative options.

New Audio Ducking automatically detects audio and narration to keep foreground and background sound balanced. Helpful features make it easier to manage clips, combine projects, and re-use custom filters and transitions.

Get creative with new overlay objects, Video Masking, Freeze Frame and bonus effects from NewBlue. Access 6 weeks of free training from StudioBacklot.tv to get started quickly and learn about advanced editing techniques.

With proven 64-bit performance and support for multiple formats, including new XAVC S, Video Studio Pro X10 makes it fast and fun to create movies you’ll love to share.

Read – Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018 Review

5. VEGAS Movie Studio 15 Platinum

Platform: Windows only – Price $79.99

Even beginners can easily remove unwanted scenes from videos or add incredible effects, transitions, and suitable music to turn raw video footage into movies that will impress any viewer.

Comprehensive support for the latest camcorders and faster video import makes Magix Movie Edit Pro a favorite for may. It also contains resolutions up to 4K for truly enjoyable editing. Create impressive videos in a flash with brand new title templates and proDAD Mercalli V2 for image stabilization.

Accurate editing down to the frame, 32 tracks, and an intuitive user interface let you stay one step ahead.

Export your movies to DVD, Blu-ray Disc, mobile devices, YouTube and Facebook.

Read – MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Review

6. EDIUS Pro 9 – Buy Now (Starts at $429)

EDIUS Pro 9 is among the best nonlinear video editing software that we have tested, and it has proven itself on various parameters. It provides a wide range of support and offers a whole range of editing options for different audio, video etc. formats. It has a fast as well as a flexible user interface that includes an unlimited amount of audio, title, video as well as graphics track. It provides an entire spectrum of editing features for creating some of the best appearance and appealing output for captivating the audience.

6. Pinnacle Studio 21 Ultimate – Buy Now (Price: $125.35)

Platform: Windows only

Make your most interesting and exciting movies ever with the new Multi-Camera Editor in Pinnacle Studio 20.

View and edit footage from 2 cameras, and align clips automatically with Audio Syncing. See results faster with 64-bit power, support for Intel’s 6th Generation processor (Skylake), and enhanced HD processing and playback performance.

Add style with 1,500+ 2D/3D effects and choose the perfect sounds and music from the ScoreFitter library.

Share your movie directly to Facebook, YouTube, and Vimeo, on the latest devices, or enjoy an easy authoring experience with Pinnacle MyDVD.

Read – Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Review

7. Nero 2017 Platinum – Buy Now (Price: $39.99)

Platform – Windows only

With its ability to simply import photos and videos from almost any device; edit with the aid of cutting, text, image, and sound effects; create DVDs, AVCHD, and Blu-ray™ Discs; and play back and stream images – Nero Video 2017 is the powerful all-rounder for your next movie project.

Nero Video 2017 offers a full range of tools for top image quality for your discs and files as well as dazzling 4D effects. Full-HD video edit previews, a choice between single or double monitor setup, and automated use of project settings – can making movies get any easier?

Read – Nero 2017 Platinum Review

8. AVS Video Editor 7.5 – Buy Now (Price: $49)

Platform – Windows only

Trim, cut, split, merge, rotate, mix videos. Apply effects and overlays, insert menus, audio, texts, and subtitles. Burn DVD/Blu-ray discs.

AVS Video Editor supports all key video formats. Edit & save video files in AVI, VOB, MP4, DVD, WMV, 3GP, MOV, MKV, H.263/H.264 codecs, etc.

Transfer video from DVR, web or VHS-cameras and save the video on hard drive or burn DVD discs. Or record media files from your PC screen and create video guides, training videos or demos. Share Your Video by uploading newly made video files to all popular video hostings such as Facebook, Flickr, MySpace, etc., directly from AVS Video Editor interface.

Read – AVS Video Editor Review

9. Lightworks – Buy Now (Price: $437.99)

Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux

Lightworks is EditShare Academy and Emmy award-winning, professional Non-Linear Editing (NLE) software supporting resolutions up to 4K as well as video in SD and HD formats.

In the last 25 years, Lightworks has been used to edit some of the finest films in cinema history: The Wolf of Wall Street, LA Confidential, Pulp Fiction, Heat, Road to Perdition, Hugo, The King’s Speech and many more! We’re proud of its heritage, and we want to share it with you.

Discover the incredible features of this application and why Oscar-nominated editors around the world use Lightworks Pro every day. Another best video editing software that I love due to ease of use especially for beginners.

Read – Lightworks Pro Review

10. Vegas Pro 14 – Buy Now (Price: $394.99)

Platform – Windows only

(formerly Sony Vegas Movie Studio) Smartphones make it easy to make movies and Sony Movie Studio makes it even simpler to make those movies stand out. With a streamlined workflow, powerful editing tools, and a vast array of video and audio effects, the art of moviemaking is right at your fingertips.

Add titles and music. Add color correction and transitions. Movie Studio offers all the tools and features you’ll need to put your masterpiece together, fast.

Movie Studio is touch-enabled for touch PCs, which means that using a mouse to drag and drop clips to the timeline is a thing of the past! Make edits, add transitions and effects, and record a voiceover – all with the touch of a finger.

Share your movies with others. Upload them directly to YouTube™ or Facebook™ from the Movie Studio application!

Read – Vegas Pro 14 Review

Bonus: 11. Wondershare Filmora – Buy Now (Price: $59.99)

Platform – Windows and Mac

Use Filmora video editor to express your creativity and amaze with beautiful results. Cut, edit, merge and trim clips.

Add music and text. Apply special effects. Get a professional-looking movie in minutes. Share with any social media sites like Facebook, Vimeo, YouTube. A nice choice for beginners in video editing. The interface is quite simple and intuitive.

Read – Wondershare Filmora Review

Rest of the Best Free Video Editing Software

12. Apple iMovie – Download

Platform – Mac only

This is the entry level video editing software for your Mac that can turn your photos and footage into a brilliant production in no time, plus it now supports the 4k video. Its comes free with Mac and you download it from the Mac App Store.

PROS – Simple interface, good themes and color matching option to make movies look smoother and consistent. Good solid chroma-keying functionality, with enough audio tools and a theatre features that allow you to share movies with your other Apple gadgets and gear.

CONS – Limit of two video tracks, missing of few controls like tagging, motion tracking and multi-cam capabilities.

It doesn’t have all the tools but for basic video editing like putting together clips and images for good-looking movies, it provides a lot of support and appeal. iPhone movies can be easily imported and you can make a good impression by adding few effects. Beginners should go for this, before moving to anything flashy on Mac.

13. Windows Movie Maker – Resources

Platform – Windows only

Although Windows Movie Maker is now not supported by Microsoft anymore and on January 2017, everything was removed from their website, Still you will be able to access the old archives via Wayback machine in the download link above. It was the best free video editing software for many years in the past.

Windows Movie Maker was perfect at a time as it had tons of things within for a home video editing enthusiasts. My first movie with me friends was edited on Windows Movie Maker I thoroughly loved the interface back then, it was simple and easy to grasp.

You had the options of Import/Edit slideshows and videos. To make a movie with Movie Maker, you’ll need some photos and videos on your PC. Import photos and videos from your phone or another device to get started.

Trim it, split it, speed it up or slow it down, you can also choose a theme to express your unique style.

Bring your movie to life with a soundtrack that you can edit yourself. When your movie’s done, publish it to the web so you can share it with family and friends.

So, if you still go the old Windows, then you can use the Windows Movie Maker by clicking the Start button, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, and then click Windows Movie Maker.

Read – Windows Movie Maker Review

14. Lightworks Free – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux

Lightworks Free version is considered to the best free video editing software by TechRadar.com and rightly so, it has a number of features available in free version and all the basic video editing can be done in a proper way.

The major difference are listed here. Lightworks is not very easy to use at first, but once you start using it more often you will see how it can be customized to user preference. Another good about this software is that its multi platform, be it on a Mac, PC or a Linux machine it will run smoothly on all.

15. HITFILM 4 EXPRESS – Download

Platform – Windows and Mac

HitFilm 4 Express has all the great cinematic, stylish abilities and interface. You have good resources on their website to learn this software, as it will take time for beginners to get the look and feel.

The free version is actually pretty good and has 1080 HD capabilities with 8-bit pixel depth. You also got the 180+ effects and presets to play with your editing tricks. The graphic editor of HitFilm is pretty good as well, many other software can’t match the quality of editing and tools within.

You get almost 10 premium effects packs in the free version and chroma key with extraction tools at disposal. Rightly referred to as the best place to start filmmaking.

16. DaVinci Resolve 12.5 – Download

DaVinci Resolve 12.5 is said to be the best advanced editing plus the color grading toolset for user that need to work with SD, HD & UHD projects. For beginners that want to get intense with video editing in future, this software will give them a good boost.

Their website features all the advanced features their pro version supports and if you want to take it to the next level, the hardware provided is absolutely amazing. You will definitely want to look what’s inside this heavyweight video editing suite.

17. Shotcut – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac, Linux

Its a free, cross-platform video editors that is also open source. It came to linux at first and slowly it got converted in Windows and Mac. It supports video up to a resolution of 4k and has a wide variety of format that can be imported for video editing.

The interface before was hard to figure out, but it has improved a lot and you can feel the sleek and intuitiveness in the interface in the current version. Definitely a worth spending time on.

18. VideoPad Video Editor – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android

Designed to be intuitive, VideoPad is a fully featured video editor for creating professional quality videos in minutes.

Drag and drop video clips for easy video editing. Apply effects and transitions, adjust video speed and more. One of the fastest video stream processors on the market.

Upload to YouTube – save your login credentials to upload videos directly to YouTube, Facebook or Flickr from VideoPad.

Read – VideoPad Video Editor Review

19. Wax – Download

Wax is a high performance and flexible video compositing and special effects software.

The idea for Wax is to be a very general purpose and flexible in video compositing and effects so that you can compose your dream video sequence with ease every time.

Wax can create 2D & 3D special effects and can work in two modes – as a standalone application which would appeal for home users/beginners, and as a “plug-in” to video editors/NLEs which would be more useful for professional editors.

Currently, Wax can work as a plug-in with Sony Vegas®, Pure Motion EditStudio and Adobe Premiere® and work for integrating with various other NLEs is in progress.

20. Avidemux – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux

A free video editor to cut, filter, and encode projects.

Avidemux is a free, open source cross-platform video editor for Microsoft Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and BSD. It is written in C++, and you can use it for various tasks such as encoding (convert videos from one format to another), cutting (cut certain portions from a recording) or filtering (resize, deinterlacing, add subtitles, color correction, etc.).

Has built-in support for many popular codecs and files: AVI, MP4, ASF, DVD, MPEG, MKV. It is one of the best free video editors whenever you need to automate video processing or editing process.

The software is released under the GNU GPL license and has been released (binaries) in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Read – Avidemux Review

21. Blender – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux

Blender supports all major operating systems and its a GNU licensed program that enables you to make 3D content.

Some of its features include advanced modelling, animation tools, character animation, node-based material. Its works pretty well on all platforms – Windows and Mac.

22. ZS4 Video Editor – Download

Platform – Windows only

ZS4 Video editor is another good software that is free and it can easily combine clips, trim, add sounds and many good effects that video editor needs.

Althought the interface is not that attractive, but you can sure do the basic stuff and export your files in multiple outputs.

23. Jahshaka – Download

Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux

One more software that is open source and has been in the market from a long time. The total downloads of this software have crossed 3 millions.

Being an open source content creation platform it provides sevral benefits like media management, playback, compositing, editing, animation and special effects that can make your video look fantastic. Video editing software that are free and open source, do have some elements that you can’t ignore.

24. Movica – Download

Platform – Windows XP

Movica is a simple UI based video editor that lets you join files, split movies, select or delete portions, copy-paste and fine tune selections etc.

It is an open source project and it runs on Windows XP with .net framework and it also requires Windows Media player. So, if you are still using Windows XP and haven’t upgraded somehow then Movica can do the trick for you.

26. HyperEngine-AV – Download

Platform – Mac only

HyperEngine-AV is licensed under GNU GPLv2 which means its free and open source. Its an award winning video editing software that previously was paid.

Video editing features like capture, arrange and process video, editing of audio and text, creating movies, slideshows, trackless document and much more can be achieved in this software.

27. VirtualDub – Download

Platform – Upto Windows 7

VirtualDub has a fast linear operation over video and it has a good number of capabilities for batch operations that can also be extended with third party filters. It doesn’t process files other than AVI as it was meant to be used with AVI only. For MPEG-I it will be able to read it, but it will not be write in this file format.

The development of VirtualDub has stopped and the developer has done the last update in late 2013. So, if you want to do basic editing for videos and need a free software in your Windows PC then you can still use it. Otherwise, you have plenty of more video editors.

Do let us know, if you have used any of the software above, your thoughts and comments are welcome below.

People also ask

How do you edit a video on your computer?

To edit a video on your computer, first, you would require a video clip. Let’s assume you have a new video in your mobile phone that you recently shot. Open that video in video editing software from above. Usually, you will need to connect a wire from your mobile phone to you computer and transfer the video. Some of the video editors allow you to directly transfer a video from mobile device to their software.

Once your video is inside your video editor, you then need to see the timeline or storyboard. You can edit your video, cut a particular section or anything in between. For each software, the options may be different but concepts are same. You will have options to add transition effects, titles and credits, audio or music in the background.

After editing your video you can export it in multiple formats, a few video editors will allow you to upload video directly to sites like YouTube, Facebook etc.

Which free software is best for video editing?

By trying almost every other video editing software I would consider CyberLink PowerDirector the best one out of the lot. Its easy to use, affordable for beginners and it doesn’t have a steep learning curve and you will enjoy their video editing interface. But it does have a pro version and hence the free version will export a video with a watermark of their logo. Still, if you want to try before you buy, then this software has all the guns and whistles for pro video editing.

What is the best video editing software for YouTube?

Adobe’s Premier Pro is one such software that need no introduction. People rely on them and they have all kind of resources like support and detailed video tutorials for using their software. The trust factor always play in when you are buying a software, so my advice would be to take their trial for a month and then decide what to do. YouTube videos made by professionals and millions of follower base channel heads have time and again mentioned Adobe for the supreme quality and stability.

What kind of editing software do YouTubers use?

Again Final Cut Pro & Adobe Premier Pro is the software YouTubers use in all kind of computers, laptops be it on Windows or Mac. Its a bit costly but worthy enough to be mentioned as the best video editing software for YouTube.

How do you edit a video for YouTube?

If you have a decent internet speed at your location, then YouTube video editor is the best online video editor one could have. It has all the necessary features like Transitions, Trimming, Controlling Video speed plus many more essentials that video editors require everyday.

How do you edit videos on Windows?

Windows Movie maker is pre-installed software that comes together with Windows 7, 8 and 10. So, editing videos on Windows gets easier with their native application that is the Movie maker.

Can I use iMovie on my PC?

No, PC with Windows installed doesn’t have iMovie software as Apple hasn’t made a Windows platform support for their native video editor. People with Windows can use the Windows Movie maker to edit videos for free on their PC.

This concludes of our long article on video editing. If you have any questions, suggestion or feedbacks do let us know by commenting below.

The best video editing software will not only produce a high quality video, but should let you chop, change and mix up all kinds of video into a single film. Whether you are working on a 80's style video montage for your personal YouTube channel or working on a sophisticated advertisement campaign to connect to a new audience through Facebook - video editing software will help you with your project.

If you need a basic program for basic projects, this application might suit your needs. It has some great tools for a much lower price.
In partnership with NCH Software

But unless you have experience editing videos or have worked on films previously, it is very hard to know what features to look for in a video editing software. We break down the basics any decent video editing should provide and talk about how these features can help you while you produce your project.

At Top Ten Reviews we’ve researched and tested the best video editing software for 16 years. Each year, we spend dozens of hours evaluating, comparing and rating each product.

At the end of our most recent analysis, we chose CyberLink PowerDirector as the best overall program. Its full array of tools will satisfy both the novice user and the veteran editor.

It’s packed with many of the same tools found in professional video editing software. And its 99-track timeline gives you the flexibility to complete complex projects.

Cyberlink PowerDirector

From simple functions like trimming and cropping footage to advanced tools for 3D and action cameras, this program has everything you need.

Wondershare Filmora

Wondershare makes things simple to fill the need for editing software for everyone. Filmora helps video edit for non-video-editors.

VideoPad

If you need a basic program for basic projects, this application might suit your needs. It has some great tools for a much lower price.

1. Cyberlink PowerDirector 17 Ultra: best overall

Cyberlink PowerDirector 17 Ultra

PowerDirector has consistently topped our video editing charts for more than a decade

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Cyberlink is often the first to roll out new and innovative tools and features. For example, it pioneered multi-cam functionality for consumer-level software. That technology was previously only found in professional programs like Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. Cyberlink’s basics are also top-notch. This program has a 99-track timeline, which gives nearly unlimited versatility. You can make simple videos quickly but also delve deeply into complex projects. You may never edit a feature film with this software, but it is more than capable of that task. In our ease-of-use evaluation, PowerDirector earned an A. The interface is intuitive, the tools are accessible, and even the most advanced features are simple to learn. You can unlock the fullest potential of the program easily if you learn how to use the tools properly.

2. VideoPad: best value

VideoPad

If you want a functional video editing program at a fraction of the price, consider VideoPad

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Video Editing On A Mac

Best Video Editor For Mac Pro

You’ll find the familiar timeline/storyboard workflow, along with other basic tools such as titles and credits, effects and transitions, and a chroma-key (green screen). It also has some, but not all, of the advanced tools you need to make an outstanding video. You’ll get a video stabilizer to smooth out shaky footage, 4K compatibility for footage from the newest cameras, 3D editing, motion tracking and more. But there are some significant trade-offs. For example, there are no themes or templates. So, you’ll need to build every project from scratch – not very appealing for beginners. It also lacks an automatic video creator and slideshow creator, which are also great for novices. This program lacks multi-cam and 360-degree editing features that you would find on more expensive programs. If you want the newest, greatest effects and tools, this is not the program for you.

3. Wondershare Filmora: best for beginners

Wondershare Filmora

Filmora makes video editing simple enough for everyone

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

The whole experience is geared around making it as easy as possible to turn your project into reality. However, it’s simplified to the core. All the tools are accessible from the main window of the interface and there’s no guesswork as to what a tool does or how to use it. It’s a great way to familiarize yourself with the process. This program provides access to tools from basic trimming and cropping to advanced features like picture-in-picture editing, audio mixer, chroma-key, split screen, video stabilization and much more. Filmora excels at teaching people to use these tools, and anyone with the patience to learn will find it useful. Filmora also has some of the best sharing options of the programs we reviewed. When you’re done with your project, you can export it to a file, upload it to YouTube (or other video-sharing site) or even burn a DVD.

4. Adobe Premiere Elements: best for quick videos

Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements was the best when you want to edit quickly

Reasons to Buy

The program’s quick mode is one of three editing modules within the program, and it offers two video creation options. The first is a simple trimming feature; simply load the video you want to cut and select the video’s focus (action or people). The program then uses its smart trim technology to highlight the best parts of your video and cuts out the rest. The second option allows multiple videos to be selected and arranged on what Adobe calls the “Scene Line.” This is a version of a traditional storyboard editing workflow and allows you to easily arrange clips and add other basic elements like music, text and transitions.

5. MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus: most dynamic timeline

MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Plus

Timeline lets you to put any type of media on any of its 200 editing tracks

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

One of the most unique features we encountered in our review of the best video editing programs is MAGIX’s timeline. MAGIX calls this “object-based editing.” It allows you to put any type of media on any of its 200 editing tracks.

Other video editing applications have dedicated tracks for video, audio, images, effects, etc. Object based editing makes the program more dynamic and easier to manage tracks.
This program also employs proxy editing, in which the program creates lower-resolution copies of videos to use during the editing process. This cuts down on the time it takes to import, render and preview projects before you export them. When you’re done, it uses the original source files to export the final project.

Why trust us?

We have been reviewing video editing software since Top Ten Reviews launched in 2003. We have watched these programs grow from simple timeline editing to include tools that were only dreamed about for programs at the consumer level. Every year, we gather all the best software and use each program to create dozens of videos. The reviewers who evaluate video editing software all have a background in media production, particularly video.

Wondershare Video Editor For Mac

How we found the best video editing software

We used each program to create a test project, using identical elements for each one. We evaluated each program’s interface and workflow to see how intuitive they are. We also looked for and evaluated a list of basic and advanced tools to get a baseline of their usefulness. Export and production options were also considered. We also noted each program’s unique features that make them stand out from the crowd.

Ease of use grade

We considered things like how easily you can important and organize the elements of your project like video, audio and images. We also looked at how easy it is to perform basic tasks like placing elements on the timeline, splitting clips and arranging media. We also considered how easily editing tools are accessed and used. If a tool is difficult to find, awkwardly implemented or counterintuitive, it can slow down your edits. We quickly discovered that the more accessible everything is, the better the editing experience will be. We gave each program an A to F grade based on this evaluation.

Quality grade

We created, exported and reviewed all of the results. We watched every video we made, looking for imperfections in the video and audio. Flaws such as pixelation, compression artifact, motion blur and more were present in most of the videos we examined, but they varied greatly depending on which program we used. Each program was given an A to F quality grade based on this evaluation.

Robust video tool sets

The best video editing applications are simple to use and offer robust video tool sets. As you search for the right software for your projects, think about the basic and advanced tools each program offers, its export and production options, and the help and support the company provides.

Basic tools

All the video editing programs we reviewed can help you blend your footage, audio clips and images to create new and unique videos. They also all offer basic nonlinear video editing tools. Timelines, storyboards, transitions, titles and audio editing are all common fare for the products we reviewed. These applications also have video effect libraries. The number of available effects varies from program to program; however, a library with more than 500 effects is usually sufficient for any non-professional project.

The truth is, you’ll get roughly the same results from all the programs we reviewed when you just use their basic tools to edit your footage. As such, it’s most important to focus on usability.

Simple video editor programs have an easy or basic mode for beginners. This is distinct from the familiar timeline and storyboard modes and often reduces editing to its most basic concepts and tools. Some applications make the process even easier by scanning your media and creating a video with it automatically. The best video editing programs let you manipulate the automatically generated video after it has been compiled.

Easy-to-use applications also come with basic themes and templates you can use for both simple and advanced projects. You can add your footage to these templates and customize them with themes that are appropriate for a child's birthday party, a vacation highlight reel or even a mock movie trailer starring you, your family and your friends.

Advanced tools

Once you’ve cut your teeth with the basic video editing tools, you can move on to using the more powerful ones. The best editing software is compatible with all the latest video and audio technology on the market today. For example, they can import, edit and export at ultra-high-definition 4K resolution. This makes your videos crisp, clear and enjoyable on today’s large ultra-HD televisions.

Another advanced tool worth noting is a multi-cam editor, which combines videos of the same event taken at multiple angles on different cameras. It even automatically syncs them so you can smoothly switch angles.

The best video editing applications have tools that allow you to capture, edit and produce videos recorded by action cams like GoPros and Drift Innovation’s Ghost-S. These tools are generally as good as or better than the ones in the software that comes bundled with the cameras themselves. You can use them to stabilize shaky video, correct fish-eye distortion, enhance color, and pan and zoom around your footage. They can even slow down and reverse the video.

Even though 360-degree video is in its infancy, there are a few consumer-level cameras that can capture video in this advanced format. The best video editing software helps you build a compelling story out of your 360-degree footage that makes your audience feel like they are standing in the middle of it all.

Best Video Editor Mac Free

Export & production

Video Editor For Mac Free Download

The best video editing programs for Windows make it easy to export your film as popular file formats such as MP4, MOV, AVI and WMV. Normally, the software has presets for each format. Some programs we reviewed allow you to export into less common formats. While this is useful in some cases, the most popular formats will usually meet your needs.

In addition, all the video creation software we tested can optimize your videos to share on sites like YouTube and Facebook. However, the best applications let you upload your finished videos to social media directly from their export menus.

Since people now watch, store and share videos on tablets and smartphones, it's important for video editing programs to be able to export to these devices. Nearly all the products we reviewed can do so to some degree, but the best ones have companion mobile apps you can sync with their desktop counterparts, which makes transferring faster and more secure.

Disc authoring tools are another essential feature to consider if you intend to distribute DVDs or Blu-ray discs of your videos. Authoring options can be quite extensive; for example, you may be able to insert chapter markers, build disc menus and include extra features, just like in Hollywood-produced movies. The best video editor programs have a lot of authoring tools.

Help & support

Even though these programs make the task much easier, video editing is difficult and time consuming. There may be times when you need help, especially if you have limited experience. This help can come in the form contacting the software developer by online chat, reading FAQs and knowledgebase articles on its website, or watching free tutorials.

The most useful tool a manufacturer can provide is a community dedicated to video editing. These are places where editors can share, learn and collaborate. The value of these online communities is significant, especially for editors refining their skills.

How much does the best video editing software cost?

You can expect to pay anywhere from $35 to $100 on consumer-level video editing software. But keep in mind that you don’t always get the best product for the highest price. Additionally, several of the programs we looked at have lower- and higher-priced versions, so you can get what you need and not pay for what you don’t.

Free vs paid video editing software

There are some free video editing solutions out there. Programs such as Windows Movie Maker and VSDC are free downloads, and iMovie comes preloaded on every new Macintosh computer. While these products may be good for small projects, you don’t get the advanced tools necessary to really make your projects shine.

Before you go the freeware route, we suggest downloading the free trials of the programs we’ve reviewed to see if they’re worth paying for. Nearly every program we tested has a free trial that lasts anywhere from 15 to 30 days. You’ll have some limitations, but you’ll probably come away with the information you need to know if you want to shell out the cash for a more versatile program.

Best video editing software for iPhone

Every new iPhone comes with the iMovie app preinstalled. This is a great option for most Apple users because it complements the software's desktop version very well. The workflow is almost identical, and it allows you to sync your projects via iCloud, meaning you can start a project on your computer and continue it on your phone later with all your changes intact. The iMovie app is the best for those who live entirely within the Apple ecosystem.

Outside of iMovie, there are a few other video editors you can download from the Apple App Store. Options include the mobile version of Adobe Premiere Rush, which has many of the same advantages as iMovie but with the benefit of being compatible Windows computers and Android devices.

You can also download a handy app called Splice. This program includes the familiar array of features, including those for trimming, cropping and adding simple effects. However, it also has some unique features – for example, it can sync a video to a musical beat automatically. In addition, unlike Adobe Rush and iMovie, it has a more traditional timeline that allows you to work with multiple tracks, making it a bit more versatile.

Best video editing software for Chromebook

Our top choice for Windows video editing software, PowerDirector, has an Chromebook-compatible app. It’s a watered-down version of the main program, but it has much of the same functionality and works well. Probably the biggest hurdle is adjusting to using a mobile app on a laptop. The app is free to download and use, so there are ads and in-app purchase offers.

The app's multitrack timeline is done well, considering it is meant to be used on a smartphone or tablet. The program also includes more than 50 effects and transitions and customizable titles as well as tools that adjust picture values like contrast, saturation and brightness. As an added convenience, you can post your videos to YouTube and Facebook directly from within the app.

If you allow the program to connect to your Google account, you can automatically use media you’ve stored in the cloud. So, if you take a lot of video with your phone that syncs to the cloud, it will be ready to go on your Chromebook without having to manually import it – a huge convenience.

Best video editing software for GoPros

If you have a GoPro or another action cam, you know that it takes special software to handle the large, highly detailed footage they capture. Action cam creators usually have their own software, like Quick, which is made by GoPro. These are fine programs that allow you to import, edit and enhance your action cam footage. However, they don’t have many of the advanced features you find in the video editing software we reviewed.

Our top choice for this category, PowerDirector, has an integrated action cam module. It allows you to import footage from your action cam, apply lens correction, stabilize footage and adjust white balance and color. There are also some action cam effects like timeshift and freeze frame which are very useful. And because it’s integrated directly into PowerDirector, you don’t have to use multiple programs to incorporate action cam footage into your project.

Other video editing software developers offer programs exclusively devoted to action cams. For example, Magix, which makes Movie Edit Pro Plus, also makes Fastcut. This allows you to streamline projects made primarily with action cam footage. Fastcut has some great features, like templates for quick projects and a beat detector to help you line up your footage with audio to help enhance your action cam project.

Advice from the pros

We also reached out to professionals who use video editing software on a regular basis and asked what aspects are most important to look for in consumer-level programs. Drew Tyler, instructor of digital media at Weber State University, told us there are two primary questions to answer: “Does it fit your ecosystem?” and “How much do you want to grow into the software?”

Tyler explained that the software you buy should complement the hardware you use, as well as the type of project you’re working on. “You want to have software that will work well with your phone, digital camera, action cam or whatever you’re shooting on. If you plan on shooting on a lot of different devices, you want a program that’s compatible with a lot of different formats.”

He went on to say that your end goal should also play a big part in your decision, advising that if you’ll edit video infrequently, you should get simpler software. “If it’s a one-off project, the fewer whistles the better,” Tyler said. He called out Adobe Premiere Elements and Wondershare Filmora as good choices because they have easy-to-understand workflows for non-editors.

For those who plan to edit more regularly, CyberLink PowerDirector is a good choice. “Cyberlink gives you room to grow, which is key for people who do this often,” Tyler stated.

The best video editing software must be easy to use

We also spoke with Richard Dutcher, an independent filmmaker and director of eight feature films including “Brigham City,” “Falling,' 'God's Army” and “Evil Angel.” He told us that the time you spend learning a new program is at a premium. “I like things that are intuitive and with the fastest learning curve. The less time spent becoming familiar and proficient the better. The sooner I can get to work and putting the film together – that’s the most important thing to me.”

After making his first two feature films, Dutcher started editing his projects himself rather than hiring a trained editor. And he recommends that independent directors do the same. “When I’m shooting a film, the reason I choose particular shots and what to do with the camera is because the film is already taking shape in my head.” Dutcher continued, “No editor will see the film exactly as you see it. And some editors don’t understand what’s a good a performance and what isn’t, and they don’t understand what’s a good shot and what’s a good edit. That’s just the simple truth of it.”

When asked if he had any advice for newbie editors learning the software, he recommended third-party resources. “Classes are great if they’re available and affordable,” Dutcher said. He also advised new video editors to “buy the manuals that are not published by the software companies, such as 'Final Cut Pro for Dummies,' because they’re written by actual users, and written in language that’s more accessible.”

Multi-cam editing features

Additionally, we spoke with Greg Andersen of South Weber, Utah. He has been working in the video media industry for 20 years. In that time, he’s produced and edited video for projects ranging from television shows to video reviews, a daily tech news show, independent films, commercials and freelance projects.

We asked him what new developments in video editing software he finds to be useful in his work. He emphasized the rise of multi-cam editing features, which save a lot of time with freelance projects. “The thing with any video production standpoint, like any business, time is money,” Andersen said.

“Specifically, with weddings when you’re filming a bride and a groom giving their vows, the last thing they want to see is a video camera guy running to the left and right,” explained Andersen.

Andersen continued to express the importance of saving time by using multi-cam editing features. “You can dump multiple files at the same time, and through sound matching they can pull those together and layer them right on top of each other and have them ready to go for you. So, you don’t have to try to sync things yourself. And that’s invaluable,” said Andersen.

We also reached out to Brandon Young, video producer for Harmons Grocery. He currently produces much of the company’s video content as well as its photography. He’s also worked for various corporations producing video content.

When we asked what the most important factors are in choosing a video editing program, Young said, “The biggest thing as far as software is concerned is what type of plug-in support is there. If there are no plugins, what type of effects and things can you do in the program?” He cited effects, color correction and multi-cam functionality as particularly helpful.

We also asked Young what he thinks newbies should do to grow their video editing skills. “Outside of the software stuff is watch content and watch how it’s done. That’s the biggest thing. As far as software is concerned, experiment, mess around with it. It may turn out to be garbage, but just get the basics figured out,” Young said.