Top 13 Video Editing Software for All Skill Levels (+ Beginner Tips)

video-editing-software
Top 13 Video Editing Software for All Skill Levels (+ Beginner Tips)

Content creators are more focused on video as internet users increasingly favor video formats, and social media platforms push video content more and more. Businesses, marketers, and content creators benefit from video ads and content, which reach a wider audience and capture our attention for longer. This makes video editing tools an important skill for anyone wanting to reach people online.

The right video editing software can dramatically enhance your content with improved storytelling or trendy special effects, helping engage viewers. A polished and well-edited final product is an important element of creating content.

In this article, we’ll go over 13 of the most popular video editing tools available, along with all the features and price tags. We’ll break down each professional video editor to help you choose the right software for your needs, whether you’re a beginner or an expert in editing video clips.

Table of Contents

Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is a well-known video editing tool with a host of features. You can use Premiere Pro to edit video and audio, correct color, adjust layers, and more.

One of its special features is AI-based text editing, which automatically creates an editable video transcript. Their AI features also allow users to enhance speech within the video and access audio tagging, which categorizes audio files automatically. Tone mapping adjusts brightness and colors across a video, ensuring the quality of color is consistent. Premiere Pro integrates with other Creative Cloud Suite applications like Photoshop, making it a seamless editing experience for people who use Adobe products already.

Adobe Premiere Pro is available through a few different subscription plans. Adobe Creative Cloud users have the option of choosing a plan that includes Premiere Pro and other applications. To use Premiere Pro as a standalone software, the cost is USD 20.99 per month for individuals, USD 14.99 for students, and USD 35.99 for businesses. Each plan offers a free trial. For those needing more, a full Creative Cloud subscription includes Premiere Pro along with other Adobe tools.

Although Adobe Premiere Pro has an intuitive interface and offers tutorials, it isn’t beginner-friendly. Adobe offers tutorials for those who are new to the software, and it’s better suited for intermediate video editors. It’s a popular software amongst experts who create videos.

Pros

  • A range of editing features for video editing professionals. 
  • A range of supported file formats.
  • Integration with Adobe Creative Cloud apps. 

Cons

  • Not suitable for beginners.
  • Requires a good computer for better performance and app functionality. 
  • Subscription-based pricing isn’t budget-friendly.

Final Cut Pro

Final Cut Pro is Apple’s video editing software. Although newer on the scene than Adobe Premiere Pro, it’s beloved by video editors, content creators, and even filmmakers for its features.

One of its key features is a magnetic timeline, allowing users to drag and drop clips that snap to other clips on the timeline. The newest feature, Scene Removal Mask, lets users delete or replace the background of a clip. Final Cut Pro has other great functions like color management and multi-camera editing, and it even supports 360-degree VR content.

Unlike many other video editing software, Final Cut Pro is available for a one-time purchase of USD 299.99, with a 90-day free trial and no subscription costs.

Final Cut Pro is a great professional software for intermediate and advanced Apple users more familiar with Apple products. It may present challenges for beginners, but Final Cut Pro has a convenient interface and is manageable if you’re willing to learn to edit clips or enjoy editing videos. 

Pros

  • One-time purchase. 
  • Optimized for macOS.
  • Huge library of effects and transitions. 
  • Advanced audio and color editing tools. 

Cons

  • Requires Apple products for best performance. 
  • Poor compatibility with other platforms.
  • Limited video import and export experience relative to other software. 

iMovie

iMovie is the second video editing software that Apple offers. Unlike Final Cut Pro, iMovie is marketed towards beginners or less serious users. It has a simpler, more streamlined design and easy-to-use interface.

Some of the key features iMovie offers are basic editing tools like split screen and speed changes, transitions, and video trimming. This makes it easy for beginners to create a refined video project without much editing knowledge.

This video editing software is free to macOS and iOS users. It is installed automatically on Apple computers and available for download on iOS products.

As mentioned, iMovie is the best video editing software for beginners and casual users. The software is somewhat limited to its effects and trimming, so expert and professional video editors may need more functionality than what iMovie provides.

For those looking to edit and share video online, iMovie integrates well with other Apple video apps, making it a versatile choice for various video editing needs.

Pros

  • Integrated with other Apple apps. 
  • Simple and easy to use. 
  • Free for macOS and iOS users.

Cons

  • Not suited for complex projects and advanced video editing.
  • Limited editing features relative to other video editing software.

DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is video editing software run by Blackmagic Design and is popular in the filmmaking industry thanks to its dynamic features.

Its features include color correction, Magic Mask, and face refinement tools. The Smart Reframe feature centers the most crucial part of the video automatically. They also have a host of visual effects like grain, blur, and contrast pop. Additionally, it supports video tracks for complex editing needs.

DaVinci Resolve has a free version that allows access to most of its features, including color correction and audio tools. The paid version costs USD 295 and offers a faster workflow as well as access to additional features like 3D tools and noise reduction, among others.

DaVinci Resolve is a great tool for experts as well as beginners. For new users, they offer detailed tutorials, and their interface is easy to use. Windows users will find it especially compatible with their systems. Their advanced features offer a lot of functionality for more professional video editors with serious projects.

Pros

  • A free version with limited features. 
  • Compatible with a range of platforms like Windows, MacOS, and Linux.  
  • Extensive visual effects and audio post-production tools. 

Cons

  • Requires a powerful computer for better operation. 
  • A steeper learning curve for beginners. 
  • Poor integration with other editing software compared to other apps. 

Filmora

Filmora, developed by Wondershare, is one of the best video editing software for beginners. Their user experience is smooth and simple, and they offer a range of basic editing functions.

One key feature of Filmora is AI Co-piloting, which allows users to edit their video with assistance from Filmora’s AI. They have a host of other AI-powered tools, like thumbnail creation, smart masking, and translation. Their library of pre-made templates is extensive, with over 5,000 options.

Filmora offers a free version that includes basic editing functions, but videos exported for free will also include a watermark. They offer paid plans per quarter, at USD 29.99, and per year, at USD 49.99, as well as the option of a one-time cost of USD 79.99. These plans offer extra features and no watermark on edited videos.

Filmora is suitable for beginners and casual users who need easy-to-use video editing software. Users can drag and drop within the app, making it perfect for novices. Advanced video editors with more complex needs might be limited by Filmora’s functions in the video editing field.

Pros

  • Offers a free version. 
  • Beginner-friendly interface. 
  • Premade templates and effects. 
  • Consistent updates and content packs. 

Cons

  • Limited editing for professionals. 
  • Not suited for complicated video projects. 
  • Watermark on videos exported in the free version. 

Vimeo

Vimeo is a platform for video sharing and hosting. It’s popular among businesses and content creators, but unlike YouTube videos, it’s ad-free thanks to its business subscription model. They also offer software as a service that includes video creation and editing as well as broadcasting.

Vimeo’s key video editing software features are analytics and customization options, as well as the ability to monetize videos with tools like video selling and subscription options.

Vimeo has a free version that allows for content creation, editing, and sharing, but only allows 3 videos. Their Starter paid plan, at USD 10 per month, includes 60 videos and additional features like privacy controls and auto-closed captioning. Their USD 15 Standard plan has text-based editing and an AI script generator. Advanced is USD 50 per month and allows users to host live broadcasts and stream to multiple destinations. Larger businesses have the option of customizing a plan with more seats and storage.

Vimeo is suitable for beginners to experts, depending on your needs. While beginners can find the platform easy to navigate, some of its advanced features, like analytics and marketing integrations, are better for businesses with experienced content creators.

Pros

  • Community features allow content creators to network and connect.
  • Advanced insights and analytics. 
  • High-quality video playback. 
  • Monetization options. 

Cons

  • Not as long a reach as other social media and video hosting platforms. 
  • Higher pricing plans. 

CapCut

CapCut is a video editing app created by Bytedance. It has a range of editing tools and effects and is more popular among content creators using mobile for shorter social media posts on apps like TikTok.

The key features of CapCut are its effects for video and audio. Users can add sound effects, music, and visual effects like filters, stickers, and presets, making it a great choice for users who want to post engaging content to a social media platform. This free software is available as an app download.

CapCut is one of the best free video editors for beginners since it has a user-friendly interface and a large library of effects, making it easy for content creators to add effects with little editing experience. Once an edited video is complete, it can be exported videos directly to social media platforms or saved to the device.

Pros

  • Completely free. 
  • Library of visual effects, music, and filters. 
  • Integration with social media platforms. 
  • User-friendly. 

Cons

  • Limited advanced editing features. 
  • There are no tutorials for more complex editing skills.

Pinnacle Studio

Pinnacle Studio is video editing software created by Corel. It offers many of the benefits you expect from video editing programs, like multi-camera editing, timelines editing, and effects.

It has several special features, like motion tracking and masks, where users can add effects like blur, oil painting, noise reduction, pencil sketch, and more. The Magic Wand tool lets users select everything with the same color, making editing faster, which is especially useful for green screen effects.

Pinnacle Studio offers a one-time license purchase, at USD 60, for lifetime access. Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is USD 129.99 and offers extra features like 4K capability, extra templates, unlimited audio tracks, and full audio editing.

This video editing software is good for both beginners and professionals alike. The platform is easy to use and intuitive, with guided workflows for newcomers, but also offers advanced features for more complicated projects.

Pros

  • Regular updates with content packs. 
  • Different pricing plans, with the option of a one-time purchase. 
  • Easy to use with drag-and-drop functions. 

Cons

  • Available for Windows only. 
  • Large, complex projects may result in performance lag.
  • A steeper learning curve for beginners. 

Avid Media Composer

Avid Media Composer is used by filmmakers and video editing professionals. It’s popular among professionals since it supports high-resolution formats and is reliable for larger projects, allowing them to create stunning videos.

Its key features include AI editing tools like Scryptsync and Phrasefind, which automate transcription and streamline the process of finding a clip. Their Avid Huddle feature lets users share instantly using Microsoft Teams and offers other collaborative workflow tools.

Avid Media Composer has a free version with scaled-down features. Their basic plan costs USD 239 per year and includes video and audio tracks as well as color management. Their Ultimate plan includes AI features and collaboration functions, at USD 499.99 with a free trial.

Avid Media Composer is more useful for intermediate or expert video editors with professional needs. It has advanced features and collaborative workflows, which are great for complicated projects in film, television, and broadcast.

Pros

  • Collaborative workflows.
  • Customer support and training resources. 
  • Stable performance for large projects. 
  • Supports high-resolution formats. 

Cons

  • Steeper pricing than other video editors. 
  • Not suitable for beginners. 

Lightworks

Lightworks is video editing software with professional features and advanced tools. It’s popular among filmmakers and video editors thanks to its range of functions and capabilities. 

One of its key features is a customizable interface layout, allowing users to choose their layout based on their editing needs. It offers multicam editing and flexible workflow, as well as visual effects like motion graphics and transitions. 

Lightworks has a free version with access to basic editing and export options. Lightworks Create, at USD 5.49 per month, has extra features like social media templates and color controls, while Lightworks Pro, at USD 13.20, has extra features like Boris FX plugins and project sharing. 

Due to its professional-grade editing capacity, Lightworks is better suited for intermediate and advanced users. Everyone from filmmakers to content creators can use its customizable interface and advanced editing features. 

Pros

  • Flexible interface. 
  • Advanced editing tools like real-time effects. 
  • Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux. 
  • Supports various video formats. 

Cons

  • Larger projects may experience performance lag. 
  • Not beginner friendly 
  • Limited customer support for free users. 

Magix Movie Edit Pro

Magix Movie Edit Pro is video editing software by Magix Software GmbH. It has a simple interface with advanced features, making it a popular option for users with a range of experiences. 

One of its features is the storyboard view, which has icons for text, sound, and transitions along with other actions. They also offer templates, and effects like distortion, speed, and lens correction. Their Snap and Project Markers are great for noting important parts of your video.  

Users can purchase this video editing software for a one-time cost. Different versions offer extra features, and prices range from USD 65 to USD 2090. They also offer free trials and subscription-based pricing, starting from USD 39 per year. This video editor is great for beginner and intermediate users who want a refined finished product but lack extensive video editing experience. It has an intuitive interface and guided workflows for beginners while offering more advanced features. 

Pros

  • A one-time purchase option in addition to subscription plans. 
  • Easy to use. 
  • Regular updates and extra content packs. 

Cons

  • Available for Windows only. 
  • Larger projects may cause performance lag. 
  • Limited advanced editing features. 

Shotcut

Shotcut is an open-source video editing software with a range of editing tools and effects. Its interface is simple, making it great for a range of users.

Their features include effects like transitions, 360-degree video filters, color correction and white balancing, and auto-rotate. Users can add keyframes to do things like adjust blur or contrast and change audio. It also supports 4K and 8K video resolution.

Shotcut is a free video editor, with no cost to download or use, and no subscription fees. This software is suitable for beginners through to experts, although novice video editors might need to invest some time in learning to use the program. It has an intuitive interface with a range of features for a variety of project levels.

Using Shotcut, you can edit as many videos as you want without worrying about limitations or costs.

Pros

  • Free to use.
  • Available for Windows, macOS, and Linux. 
  • Easy to use interface. 

Cons

  • Steep learning curve for a beginner-friendly video editor. 
  • Limited customer support relative to paid software. 
  • Larger projects may cause performance problems. 

Canva

Canva is a content creation and graphic design software that also functions as a video editor. Users can access Canva to create posters, graphics, presentations, images, and brochures, and it has a range of video editing functions.

One great feature is the sharing functionality of Canva. Users can download videos or share them directly to social media with just a few clicks. It offers collaboration tools, so multiple users can work together on the same project. It also has icons, templates, and filters.

Canva has a free version with a library of templates and limited features. Their paid plan, Canva Pro, is USD 14.99 per month or USD 119 annually and offers additional features like collaborative tools, a larger library of templates and assets, and various creative apps. Canva for Teams, at USD 29.99 monthly, is for businesses with additional users.

Canva is great for beginners through to experts, as it has an intuitive interface and a library of templates that makes video editing easy for beginners. More advanced content creators will enjoy its advanced features and customization options, streamlining the editing process for users with an annual subscription.

Pros

  • Library of templates, icons, and illustrations. 
  • User friendly. 
  • Collaboration tools. 
  • A free version is available. 

Cons

  • Some features are only accessible on paid plans.
  • Fewer customization options compared to other graphic design software.

Submagic

Submagic is an AI-powered tool designed for content creators, enabling you to craft eye-catching and trendy captions with emojis for your short-form videos in under 2 minutes. Simply upload your video, customize your captions, and watch your social media engagement soar!

With AI-powered subtitle generation, you can instantly add dynamic subtitles in over 50 languages. Enhance your video engagement by up to 25% by seamlessly integrating high-quality stock footage B-Rolls from Storyblocks. Effortlessly cut and trim your videos without compromising on time or quality using Submagic’s innovative trimming tool. You can also emphasize key moments in your video with precise zoom-in and zoom-out effects, all while enjoying an incredibly user-friendly interface. Plus, streamline and enhance your video descriptions with our accurate YouTube video description generator, designed to boost your views!

Best Places to Get Started with Video Editing Tools

video-editing-software

If you’re new to video editing, the first step can feel overwhelming. Start your learning journey by picking the best video editor to suit your needs. This may be a free video editing software, a beginner-friendly tool, or a program your employer wants you to learn. 

- Watch videos: If this article didn’t help narrow down your choices, try YouTube channels like Primal Video, and watch some of their comparison videos to find your ideal software. If you have a good idea of the video editor you’d like to use, find online video tutorials that will break down the software for beginners.
- Online courses: Find an online course specific to your chosen video editing software. Many courses are cheap but detailed. 
- Network: Online communities can help you build skills and find advice on anything to do with video editing. Try LinkedIn to connect with other creators, or Reddit’s Video Editing Forum to seek advice and research trends. 
- Practice: If you’ve started to create using video editing software, try an online challenge to test your skills. Also, a free online video editor is a good place to start practicing your video editing skills.

💡Pro tips: For Adobe Premiere Pro, this course from Udemy, or this one from Skillshare, are great places to start. 

Conclusion

Video content is important for anyone with an online presence, from businesses to content creators. Learning to create engaging video content requires a basic grasp of video editing apps. Some programs, like iMovie or Filmora, are the best video editing software for beginners, while experts turn to more advanced programs like Lightworks or DaVinci Resolve. You can even find free video editing apps like Shotcut and Capcut. Do some research to find the best video editor for your needs and try a few online tutorials to get started.

For more advice on video editing and content creation, check out Cake’s blog of tailored career guidance and tips.

Cake is a free resume builder and portfolio builder that provides you with hundreds of resume templates (free download) and various job resume examples that help showcase the best you. Landing your dream job will be a piece of cake!

--- Originally Written by Tiffany Quinn ---

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