For any video editor and producer, selecting the best video editing application can be laborious. You might be great at making videos for Youtube, your websites, vlogs, or any other social media, but if you do not have the right tools to edit them, the video will probably be very unappealing.
However, most of the top-performing video editing applications are generally expensive and require a high-performing computer. In case you do not have a graphics-heavy system and are struggling to find video editing software that can work with your PC, we have got just the right guide for you. After extensive research, we have compiled a list of the best video editing applications for all kinds of different needs. Our list not only contains the industry standards but also some other -and cheaper- less popular options that require less computer performance as well! Check out our list below.
Photo by Mylene Tremoyet on Unsplash
1. Premiere Pro 🔗
Premiere Pro is one of the first apps that comes to our minds when we talk about video production. Developed by Adobe, Premiere Pro has become an industry standard over the years thanks to its amazing timeline-based and non-linear editing features and incredible tools. After becoming a professional Premiere Pro user, the only obstacle remaining on your path to becoming a great video producer will be your imagination!
However, becoming a professional on Premiere Pro might seem like a daunting task, especially if you have no prior experience. Online Premiere Pro courses (https://vagon.io/blog/video-production-courses/) might help you to start learning the basics.
Though Premiere Pro is one of the greatest and most-preferred applications for video editing and production, it is also an expensive one. So, we suggest you keep scrolling down our list for cheaper options before making your final decision!
2. After Effects 🔗
Another well-known, industry-standard Adobe product for video production in After Effects. With the amazing features of the software, you can create animations, visual effects, motion picture compositions, and everything else you will need for your video in the post-production phase.
Whether you would like to create some primary visual effects or build an amazing 3D world inside your videos After Effects would be a great option for any video producer regardless of their experience and goals. Though After Effects is a relatively more beginner-friendly video production app, if you could still use some help with starting I would suggest you start with an online course (https://vagon.io/blog/after-effects-online-courses/) as learning it from the professionals would be so much easier!
However, the most important trick about After Effects is to know when to use it. Though it is an excellent tool to create stunning videos when it is used right, it might be confusing to decide whether After Effects is the right choice for your goal or not. Many professional video producers choose multidimensional approaches such as using Premiere Pro first and then finishing up with After Effects. Once you get used to the differences between Premiere Pro and After Effects (https://vagon.io/blog/after-effects-vs-premiere-pro/) and learn the strengths of each one of them, you will have limitless flexibility!
3. Final Cut Pro 🔗
If we are here to talk about the best applications for video production, we cannot make a list without Final Cut Pro. Though it is one of the more expensive applications out there, its stability, speed, and easiness make it one of the most-preferred apps. Especially if you are using a Mac, Final Cut Pro would be the best choice for you as it is optimized for the Mac environment.
If you are having second thoughts about whether it is worth the price or not, we can say that it is without any second thoughts. Once you see how extremely fast and efficient the software is and how you can use it for basically every scenario -creating, editing, production, etc.- you will also agree with me!
However, if you are not using a Mac, the decision of choosing between the Final Cut Pro or the Premiere Pro might be even harder. If you are stuck in that situation best thing you can do is compare both of the software detailedly (https://vagon.io/blog/premiere-pro-vs-final-cut-pro-comparison-guide/) regarding not only their prices but also their interface, timelines, workflow, integration, performance, and many other aspects.
4. DaVinci Resolve 🔗
Another one of the go-to choices for video production software is DaVinci Resolve. The best part about this option is that you can find every single solution in one software, and we mean everything! Whether you need it for color correction, motion graphics, visual effects, editing, post-production, or anything else you can think of, DaVinci Resolve would be more than enough to solve all your problems.
Though it is kind of pricey, if you have an opportunity to afford it, that would be well-spent money. Also, if you are taking your first steps in video production, DaVinci Resolve is super beginner-friendly and does work great in Mac, Windows, and Linus all at once! However, one of the hottest topics about video production applications is the question of whether you should use DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro. Though you must make your final decision regarding your goals and expectations, making a more detailed advantages/disadvantages list (https://vagon.io/blog/premiere-pro-vs-davinci-resolve/) about those two software would assure you to make the right decision for yourself.
If you are working in a Mac environment, another important decision becomes present, whether you should choose DaVinci Resolve or Final Cut Pro. As suggested before, making a more detailed comparison (https://vagon.io/blog/davinci-resolve-vs-final-cut-pro/) is a good starting point, however, you should keep in mind that the final decision would be subjective according to your needs.
If you decide to move on with DaVinci Resolve and need a bit further guidance about starting as a beginner, you can check out some online courses (https://vagon.io/blog/top-davinci-resolve-courses-and-classes/) which will guide you through your DaVinci Resolve journey.
Though the first 4 applications on our list are the ones that you have probably heard about before, if you still feel like none of them fits you, keep on scrolling to find out more about not-so-industry standards but also amazing apps for video production.
5. VSDC 🔗
VSDC is a video production app developed by Microsoft. It is one of the best products that Microsoft has made in recent years and is especially useful if you are looking to upload videos on Youtube. Most importantly, it is non-linear software, meaning you can combine large video files and photos in multiple sequences for remarkable frameworks.
Non-linear editing techniques make VSDC a unique software along with its great features, including Picture-In-Picture, Side By Side and Split Screen videos, Text Effect in videos, Chroma Key, and double exposure.
6. Blender 🔗
If any of your work requires a focus on 3D designs, Blender is the platform for you. It has free and open-source software with a host of cutting-edge features that enable any video editor to handle the entirety of the 3D design pipeline.
Editors can model characters, build scenery or maps, design logos, and render buildings as well as other 3D objects. You can even run simulations of your designs and then export your final project to the editing software of your choice.
Though Blender is mainly used for 3D modeling, it is worth giving it a chance as a video producer as you will be impressed by the capabilities of the software. If you are interested in learning more about this software, be sure to check out some courses and tutorials that will help you get familiar with Blender as a video editor.
7. Blackmagic Fusion 🔗
Choosing the right software suite for your video editing can make or break a project. The right software for you is also going to depend on your current level of video production skill.If you’re a beginner, you’ll want something simple and you shouldn’t be investing too much money just yet.
Get the basics down before you drop major cash on fancy editing software with all the bells and whistles BlackMagic Fusion is a free video editor that is one of the best options. You can’t go wrong with this one to get your career in video editing started.
8. Shotcut 🔗
Shotcut is widely considered to be one of the best video editing apps and is quite popular. What is unique about Shotcut is that it is pretty straightforward to use, and perhaps one of the reasons why a vast majority of people use it. Moreover, Shotcut is free, open-source software. It is a multi-platform tool, which can be used on Microsoft, Linux, and Mac OS.
Some of its popular features include easy-to-trim and cut-copy-paste operations. It consists of a Multitrack Timeline with Thumbnails and Waveforms. Even though Shotcut is a free tool, it is very well-rounded with numerous features. It gives you the comfort to personalize the interface to suit your needs.
9. Wondershare Filmora 9 🔗
Filmora is one of the most constructive video maker apps and can be a good option for creating videos for business and commercial use. If you are a beginner without much experience in creating innovative videos, then Filmora can be a suitable option for you. It has a simple user interface and contains beautiful templates and one-click tools that help you make a professional-looking video. Filmora has a trial version that can be used before making the final purchasing decision. Gamers and action camera enthusiasts widely use it as it offers tools explicitly dedicated to them, such as screen recorder, lens correction, automatic scene detection, advanced color correction, and instant cutter tool.
10. Lightworks 🔗
A high-performing video editing software for Windows, Lightworks is preferred by novices and experts alike. Lightworks, unlike other video maker apps, does not require an advanced computer to function. It is easy to use, contains exceptional editing tools, and it is compatible with several video formats, and has a high satisfaction rate amongst its users. Lightworks is the go-to video editing tool for film industry professionals and social media users. They benefit from a dedicated web export function. Lightworks has sophisticated features, including in-built presets, multi-cam editing, real-time collaboration, and a highly customizable interface.
11. Cyberlink Powerdirector 365 🔗
If you are an experienced filmmaker and need video editing software that caters to your requirements of editing movies and complex videos, Cyberlink PowerDirector may be one of the suitable video editing apps for you. It comes power-packed with a 100-track timeline with plenty of stabilization and video correction tools. The tool can be difficult for newbies, but experienced filmmakers can take advantage of its remarkable features, such as multi-cam editing mode and motion tracking. It also makes video trimming surprisingly easy. Moreover, it offers comprehensive video editing features and supports all file types and formats.
12. Hitfilm Express 🔗
Hitfilm Express is a good option for professionals whose computer system is not optimal enough to handle advanced video editing software processing requirements. It includes all the editing attributes required to make professional videos. Hitfilm allows you to easily trim and split footage, edit audio, and access sophisticated features, including 3D Video Support and Chroma Key, and comes with an in-built store, allowing you to purchase more add-ons. Hitfilm Express is generally hard to learn compared to other video editing apps. But there are several tutorials uploaded on Youtube and elsewhere to help you make professional videos using Hitfilm Express.
13. OpenShot 🔗
An open-source video editing software, OpenShot is a highly convenient video editing app, and even though it has a simple user interface, preferred by novices and experts alike, OpenShot is not short on features. It is a cross-platform video maker app, which can be used on Microsoft, Mac, and Linux operating systems. The best thing about OpenShot is that you do not need a high-performing computer to use it, and it can be used online. It contains great features, and intuitive tools, and can help you make your videos look stunning by adding animations, 3D titles, audio tracks, and several other video-enhancing tools.
14. Camtasia 🔗
If you are looking to make tutorials, how-to videos, and technical training tutorials, Camtasia can be one of the best video maker apps for you. It comes with a 30 days trial period and contains all the necessary features to make professional videos effortlessly. It is straightforward to create informative videos on Camtasia, and unlike many other video editing software, it does not require a computer with high specifications. Prominent features include a powerful screen recorder and its built-in video editor, which can edit any recorded footage and allow you to add existing clips to the timeline for editing.
15. Movavi Video Editor 🔗
A low-cost video editing software, Movavi Video Editor, is one of the easy-to-use video editing apps for PC with straightforward UI and video editing tools. Applying filters, effects, transitions, and titles is remarkably easy in Movavi. It is relatively less expensive than other software on the list and is supported by Windows and Mac operating platforms. One of the best things about Movavi is that it can quickly transform raw footage or a clip into a flawless, professional-looking video. Movavi is an excellent tool with a complete set of primary and sophisticated video editing features, including Pan and Zoom, Chroma Key, Highlight and Conceal, and Stabilization.
16. Nuke Studio 🔗
Nuke Studio is an editor or compositing program. You’ll use software like this during the final editing/compilation stage of your project.
Nuke is a notable name in the realm of professional video editing and post-production. Projects can be edited and finished with really high-level features and visual FX. Because of what it offers, Nuke Studio has a high price tag. In the past, it’s been out of the reach of casual video editors, but now the company is offering an educational version.
This version allows you to take advantage of the majority of features Nuke Studio offers, and even publish projects in 1080p resolution. The only catch is that the software prevents use for commercial projects.
17. Audacity 🔗
Different than our other application suggestions, this one focuses on audio correction for your videos. When it comes to adding audio to your video projects, you’ll want to look into a digital audio tool. Audacity is one of the most popular names in the space and will offer you all the functionality you’ll need to get your project off the ground.
The software is a free, multi-track recorder and although its features have a limit, it should get you where you need to go. The platform offers a full suite of effects to help you reduce audio flaws, and the software is open source which means plugins are always being developed to help the software run more smoothly.
18. GIMP 🔗
Our final suggestion is to help you find an application for editing some amazing photos for your videos. GIMP is open-source software for photo editing. Like Audacity, since it’s open-source, developers can make changes to the code. This allows them to add new features and fix any bugs the software has which gives its users a great chance to improve the software.
This software offers plenty of features for you to make your images look top-notch. Besides, the user interface design is clean and easy to use. If you can’t find a feature you’re looking for, chances are there is a plugin designed for GIMP that can add just what you need. Thanks to GIMP, you will have a chance to create the perfect photo you have in your mind for your video, without having to search the Internet for hours.
Choosing The Right Video-Making and Editing Software
Choosing the right video-making and editing software can be exhaustive. Accordingly, we have created this list to help you choose from the best video editing apps. Before investing in video production software, you need to consider plenty of things, including your professional needs, the kind of content you want to produce, your experience in using video editing software, and more. If you are still having difficulties deciding which application you are going to use on your video production path, you can check out our blog (https://vagon.io/blog/) for further comparison guides about the applications that we have listed above.
