In recent years, video editing has reached new levels of popularity. This is a result of social networking sites that have put focus on video-based content. Platforms such as TikTok, YouTube, and even now, Instagram receive more engagement through videos. Everyone wants to post the next best video but aspiration requires the right set of tools.
For a long time, Windows PC was the number one choice of device for editors. However, Apple Mac has currently become the quality that creative professionals, or beginners desire to use. Though there are more iOS Mac users, Windows PC still remains the first choice for many.
There are many impressive video editing apps to benefit any skill level and project. It’s just about choosing the right one for you.
Software and programs differ in cost and capabilities. One should keep in mind that just because the platform is more expensive, doesn’t mean it offers the capabilities you need. Over the years, programs will forever change and adapt to meet consumer needs.
Are you ready to tackle your first video edit, but aren’t sure what program to use? Continue reading to check out the plethora of options for both Mac iOS and Windows PCs!
Don’t want to download software on your laptop or desktop? Read the rest of this blog to also learn about a favoured browser-based editing program.
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Apple Macs
iMovie (Free) - Best for Learning the Basics
Available only on iOS
iMovie is a great editing tool for individuals who are new to the video editing world and have little experience. It is straightforward, easy to use, and requires no training. With iMovie, anyone can easily create professional-looking videos. It doesn’t take any rocket science to add photos and videos to projects, to trim clips, and to add transitions.
Even better, iMovie is amongst the other applications that are built-in to your Mac. If you’re unable to retrieve it, hop over to the app store; it’s free to download from there!
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Easy sharing Audio tools Colour matching Easy to learn Video speed change Timeline Titling |
Limited to two video tracks No 360-degree video editing Lacks motion tracking capabilities
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Adobe Premiere Pro (Subscription) - Best for Industry Professionals
Available on iOS and Windows
Adobe Premiere Pro has a reputation and is recognized for being one of the best professional video editing software available.
Though Adobe Premiere Pro is available for windows, the Creative Cloud apps are most compatible and function best with Apple devices and iOS. The app has new updates that ultimately create an effective workflow for movie-making and editing.
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Clear and flexible Colour correcting effects Responsive speed Stabilization tool Audio editing Synchronized editing |
Can be intimidating No sound effect samples included Subscription-based Requires a strong computer system (specs)
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Cost
Adobe Premiere Pro is only available by subscription. You can receive a free trial for seven days, but to continue after the trial, it will cost US $31.49/mo. Another option would be to buy the “Creative Cloud All Apps” subscription, where you’ll have access to not only Premiere Pro, but all the apps like Photoshop, Illustrator, Lightroom, InDesign, etc. The monthly cost starts at US $54.99/mo depending on what package you choose. For instance, there is a personal, students and teachers, teams and businesses, and a school and university package.
So, the question then becomes whether or not Premiere Pro is worth the money? If it helps with your decision at all, here at Spivo, all of our editors use Premiere to edit your videos!
Want to see how Premiere Pro would make your final video look? Let us edit your adventure videos with our Video Editing Service!
OpenShot (Free) - Best for Beginners
Available on iOS and Windows
OpenShot is a safe and free software that can be downloaded from OpenShot’s official website. Their website also offers tutorials and installation lessons.
OpenShot is a simple software to use, which makes it applicable to newbies. Though it is simple to use, at the same time, it is powerful enough to edit high-quality videos. Last year, the program earned the award of, “Top 20 - Most Popular,” which was awarded by SaaSworthy. SaaSworthy chooses the right platform based on detailed product information.
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Step-by-step instruction Supports 360p to 4k HD video output Drag and drop feature - fast editing 50+ effects No watermarks |
Download package is large - takes time Application sometimes crashes Lacks some basic features
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Final Cut Pro (Paid) - Best for Experienced Editors
Available only on iOS
Final Cut Pro is Apple’s professional video editing software. It is a software that is precise for individuals who want more than the basic level of editing that iMovie offers.
Final Cut Pro has been recognized as having features that both beginners and professionals can work with. For instance, it is used by hobbyist filmmakers, but also industry professionals. Many influencers on YouTube use Final Cut Pro to edit their content.
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Trackless timeline Organization tools Tagging Colour correcting Fast performance Auto-save |
No free trial Pricey Professional editors are probably no accustomed to magnetic timeline
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Cost
Final Cut Pro is US $299.99 and can be bought in the App Store. Yes, it is pricey… However, Final Cut Pro remains a PCMag Editors’ Choice winner for video editing software.
Windows PC
Windows Movie Maker (Free) - Best for Absolute Basics
Available only on Windows
Similar to Apple’s iMovie, Movie Maker comes built-into Windows. It is also free of cost and unchallenging to use.
Though the software may seem outdated, it has actually come such a long way since it was first released. You can add various backgrounds, music, titles, and transitions to your video content. It should be noted that though it’s Windows’ version of iMovie, it is more limited in its capabilities. With that said, it’s great for beginners.
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Trim clips Video playback view Slow motion editing Edit and capture feed directly for the PC camera Audio feature such as voiceover |
Windows 10 no longer supports Movie Maker Limited Capabilities Easy to miss if you don’t know where to find it No colour corrections |
PowerDirector 365 (Paid) - Best for Beginners
Available for Windows and iOS
CyberLink’s PowerDirector 365 is a software that mends the gap between professional video editing and beginner’s ease.
PowerDirector runs on Microsoft Windows 7, 8.1, 10, and 11. Interestingly enough, the software came out with a macOS version in 2021. Though it can be used with Apple devices, the program still runs better with Windows.
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PROS |
CONS |
|---|---|
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Motion tracking Supports 4K and 3D Encoding and exporting Fastest rendering Lots of effects |
Mac version lacks action camera center Upside-down default timeline Can be intimidating
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Cost
PowerDirector offers lifetime licenses or regular subscriptions. If you choose to go the lifetime license route, there is PowerDirector 20 Ultra at US $99.99 or PowerDirector 20 Ultimate at US $139.99. On the contrary, if you choose to get a subscription, your options broaden. There is the regular PowerDirector 365 at US $19.99/mo, the Director Suite 365 at US $29.99/month, or the PowerDirector 365
Business subscription for US $69.99/mo. There is also a free trial option that one can try but the trial version adds brand watermarks and does not support 4K.
PowerDirector 365 is constantly offering discounts, making their subscriptions more affordable. If you’re not satisfied, the software also offers a 30-day money back guarantee.
Wondershare Filmora (Paid) - Best for Editors with Experience
Available for Windows and iOS
Lastly, the thing with Wondershare Filmora is that it’s for everyone! For instance, Filmora offers a wide range of capabilities, making it easier for people who want to learn how to edit. Yet, it is also strong enough to keep more demanding users pleased. All in all, it is the best of both worlds, as it is suitable for all levels of ability.
Though most programs say that their software is “suitable for all levels of ability,” the saying is quite appropriate for Wondershare Filmora.
Doesn’t it say a lot about a software if it’s able to give individuals the ability to create without the hassle of needing to google a guide or a “how-to” video? Absolutely!
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PROS |
CONS |
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Inexpensive Good title and text tools High quality effects and transitions
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Extra downloads Few interface customization options Occasional crashes |
Cost
Filmora offers a free trial download which allows one to export only 10 times and adds a watermark to all projects.
When you’re ready to pay, Filmora offers a subscription, or for a bit more, a permanent license. The software also offers an individual subscription or a team/businesses subscription. For the individual subscription, both the Windows version and macOS version costs US$49.99/year, or if you purchase the license, it is US $79.99/year. For the team/business subscription, both the Windows and macOS version costs US $155.88/Year. Often, Flimora discounts these prices, making it that much more affordable.
Browser-Based
Movie Maker Online (Free) - Best if You Don’t Want to Download
Let’s be honest, sometimes having to download something to our computers can be a pain. The time could take up to hours! Fear no more, because Movie Maker Online is a browser-based video editing program that easily allows anyone to edit content for free.
It represents a cost-effective option for individuals who want to create videos but without the hassle of downloading large software files.
As an online video editor, the site program offers a decent range of effects and features that are bound to satisfy hobbyists' needs.
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PROS |
CONS |
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Completely free Free photo, video, and effects upload Built-in guides Colour editing Trimming |
Ads Confusing Lacks sophisticated effects
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Nowadays, there are video editing software and programs for any computer. More than that, there are different types that appeal to beginners or professionals. Just mess around with what works for you, try to figure it out, and just have fun.
Video editing is not always going to be easy, regardless of your skill level.
Never give up!
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