As video editors, we want the best tools and software available. After all, video editing is the final step in creating something memorable. However, with so many different editing software options available, it can be difficult to know which one to use.
In all honesty, the research process can be so freaking time-consuming. But fear not, we’ve done all the legwork today and compiled the ultimate list of video editing tools for you.
10. Windows Video Editor
Platform: Windows 10
Price: Free with Windows 10
Features: Did you know that Windows 10 has a secret video editor? If you’ve ever used Windows Movie Maker in the past, it’s a bit like that. It may not be the sexiest tool, but for some people, it gets the job done. This tool is a part of the photos app. All you need to do is right-click on a video that you’ve uploaded to your computer. Guide your cursor down to “Open With” and click on “Photos.”
This little program will help you trim, draw on, add text, and add 3D effects to your video. It’s surprisingly user-friendly and helps add simple embellishments.
9. Nero Video
Platform: Windows and Mac
Price: One-time payment of $55.95
Features: Also known as Nero Vision, Nero Video is a classic video editing software that provides some of your simple functions. There’s also an advanced mode that provides multitrack keyframe and timeline functions. It’s great for beginners and people who are somewhat accustomed to video editing.
8. Animaker
Platform: Any computer
Price: $10 to $49 per month
Features: What’s cool about Animaker is that it’s an online service. The lightweight app will run right within your web browser. It has a very easy-to-use drag and drop feature, which allows you to seamlessly create professional videos with no hassle.
7. InVideo
Platform: Any computer
Price: $15 or $30 per month, depending on your plan.
Features: InVideo is a completely cloud-based program. There are no downloads and no potential progress loss. It’s a true game-changer amongst video editing tools. Invideo is great for those who truly value convenience. It comes with over 4,000 templates to get any beginner started. Advanced users can begin editing from scratch, adding a list of transitions, frames, and stickers as they go.
6. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate
Platform: Windows 8, 10, and 11
Price: One-time payment of $99.99
Features: If you’re up for more advanced features, Corel VideoStudio may be right up your alley. Not only is this program user-friendly, but it also has a list of distinct features. It offers 360-degree VR and 4K support. It’s also credited for being one of the first video editing tools to offer motion tracking. This allows users to track individual objects within each video cut, making for very precise editing opportunities.
5. Adobe Premiere Elements
Platform: Windows and Mac
Price: One-time payment of $79.99
Features: Adobe Premiere Elements is cited as the best video editing tool for beginners. If your editing skills aren’t up to par yet, but you still want an in-depth program, then this tool is your best bet. This is a simplified version of Adobe Premiere Pro, which we’ll get to later. It gives you automatic motion tracking, video stabilization, and face detection, among other features.
4. Filmora
Platform: Windows and Mac
Price: A lifetime license starts at $68.98
Features: If video editing is your main hobby, Filmora may be a great investment. It has a very clean and simple interface, with many Advanced options. Filmora offers built-in visual effects, along with title and text tools. It also offers 4K support. This video editing tool is all about high quality, with an attractive interface.
And the cherry on top? There’s also a mobile version. You can get FilmoraGo and tap into your video editing hobby anywhere.
3. iMovie
Platform: macOS and iOS
Price: Free with any macOS and iOS 15.3 or later.
Features: There are many reasons why I am an Apple fangirl, and this is one of them. All Apple Macs and newer iOS’ come with this really intuitive video editing tool called iMovie. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced user, iMovie passes the vibe check. It has a very simple drag and drop feature, it has accessible visuals unlike any other, and it comes with a number of templates. Just ask any middle schooler if they’ve worked on a video editing project. Yeah, it’s that easy to use.
If you need any other reason to get an Apple product, this is it.
2. CyberLink PowerDirector
Platform: Windows and Mac
Price: One-time payment of $79.99
Features: Now on to the advanced video editing tools. This is CyberLink PowerDirector. It’s great for those who aren’t beginners but also aren’t necessarily professionals. It’s like a very detailed middle ground software. What stands out about this tool is that it gives access to the Shutterstock library. There are so many options to choose from with this program; it has extra features that you probably didn’t even consider when downloading it. It’s one of the first tools to feature 360-degree video editing. You also get super-fast rendering and 4K visuals.
1. Adobe Premiere Pro
Platform: Windows and Mac
Price: 19.99 per month
Features: If you’re a professional video editor with little time to spare, this is the best option for you. Adobe Premiere Pro is the software that YouTubers and industry workers use to create high-quality, carefully crafted videos. It has everything you’ll need and more. This includes cross-platform compatibility, multi-cam options, multiple collaboration features, and best of all, free updates.