With an abundance of video content available today, having a high-quality and versatile video editing software is crucial. The ideal software should be efficient, user-friendly, fast, and provide excellent results. We’ve ranked the software based on the latest versions available online.
While paid options are great for professionals, beginners can also take advantage of free software readily available on the web. Choosing from the vast array of options can be overwhelming for beginners, but with this list, you can determine which software is right for you. Our selection criteria carefully balances the benefits and drawbacks of each software to provide you with the best options. We hope this review meets your expectations!
Free Video Editing Software for Windows
Blender
This all-in-one tool can handle a wide range of video editing tasks and features royalty-free image support. It offers convenient features such as splicing, masking, and video cuts, and allows you to preview up to 32 edited versions at the same time. Blender is a top pick for both beginner and advanced editors alike, providing a comprehensive suite of tools.
Hitfilm Express
Ideal for filmmakers, Hitfilm Express offers a customizable interface and professional-level editing features such as 3D effects and 4K support. The software is easy to use, even for those new to video editing, thanks to its range of free how-to videos and user-friendly drag-and-drop effects.
Clipchamp
This user-friendly software excels in color effects. If you are a professional seeking a software that combines audio and video while allowing real-time effects, Lightworks is the way to go.
With features such as high precision, up to 720 pixels export (especially useful for YouTube videos) and multicam support, Clipchamp offers a comprehensive format.
Promo
Don’t let the name fool you. Promo, known for its high-quality clips and easily customizable video templates, offers an all-in-one solution for your editing needs. With support for ten brands per account, exceptional customer service, and a marketing-friendly environment, over 1.2 million professionals trust Promo.
Shotcut
This free, open-source, cross-platform video editor lives up to its tagline. With a wealth of tutorials and a detailed UI, Shotcut offers quickstart guidelines for a smooth editing journey. Edit your content without the need for exporting the source file for a time-saving experience. Additional features such as interlacing, grading, and wipe transitions make Shotcut a reliable choice.
DaVinci Resolve 17
This updated software by Blackmagicdesign is ideal for those seeking a fusion and Fairlight platform. DaVinci Resolve is designed for speed, making it a perfect choice for those in a hurry. The new image processing features support high-definition resolution (HDR), and the balanced use of artificial intelligence is noteworthy.
DaVinci Resolve provides unlimited access to video editing without the use of watermarks, making it a great choice for those looking for free software. Its learning curve is sure to help you along the way.
Horizon
This software is exclusively designed for mobile devices and currently, no desktop version is available. It’s highly efficient for portrait mode and allows for easy zoom by tilting. Horizon offers 8 high-quality real-time features, and its Crisp mode, designed for 2K resolution, is a standout feature.
An added bonus is the ability to capture slow-motion footage. As a mobile application, it primarily focuses on accessibility.
VideoPad
This software focuses primarily on basic video editing and is perfect for beginners in the field. With over 50 types of video effects at your disposal, it supports most commonly used video formats. Its high level of stability is remarkable.
VideoPad allows for easy direct exporting to any social media platform of your choice. The effect library and transition features are great for first-time users seeking guidance and hands-on experience.
VSDC
If you’re a creative editor with an eye for style, then VSDC is the right software for you. With a modern, well-designed interface, VSDC offers free non-linear tools. The full name, Video Soft Dev, comes with a built-in DVD burning tool. There are also several audio filters to minimize the need for additional software.
Although it cannot edit 360-degree videos, the screen capture tool allows you to record videos, which is a unique and valuable feature. Some users may find it outdated, but overall VSDC is highly multifunctional and can meet nearly all your audio and video editing needs.
Machete Video Editor Lite
Machete Lite is a simple video editing app that offers all functions except audio editing. The free version allows for easy video slicing. If you prefer a user-friendly interface, give it a try.
Machete Lite offers comprehensive tools for cutting, copying, and deleting individual sections of both AVI and WMV files. The improved fifth version allows for customization of shortcut keys.
In conclusion, we suggest utilizing this review as a reference in determining the most appropriate video editing software for you. Each software has its unique capabilities, with the only difference being the compatibility with audio and video.
By carefully considering the various features each software offers, we aim to make your decision-making process easier. For a quick reference, please refer to our categorization.
