If you’re looking to create visually captivating content, whether for professional tasks or personal projects, you’re going to need reliable video editing software. When you’re on a budget, the price tag hanging on heavyweights such as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro might be discouraging, but don’t worry; the market is also teeming with free video editing software that offer a wealth of impressive features.
In this guide, we’re going to explore some of the most popular free video editing software available today. We’ll explain their functionalities, expound on their pros and cons, and help you decide which one could potentially be the best fit for your editing needs. Ready to discover your next go-to editing tool? Let’s get started.
Introduction: The World of Free Video Editing Softwares
Immersing yourself in the fascinating universe of video editing doesn’t have to be an expensive affair. Thanks to the array of free video editing software available to us today, you can cut, paste and tweak to your heart’s content without dipping into your savings. From creating captivating content for your website, blog or YouTube channel, these tools could be your magic wand. So, let’s dive in and explore some of the top contenders in the realm of free video editing software.
List down the top 10 best video editing softwares
If you are on a mission to find the best free video editing software, then you’re in the right place. Below are the top 10 free video editing softwares that could augment your video-making journey:
- Lightworks
- HitFilm Express
- DaVinci Resolve
- Shotcut
- VideoLAN Movie Creator
- OpenShot
- Avidemux
- Biteable
- FilmoraGo
- Blender
1. Lightworks
Stepping onto the stage first is Lightworks, an advanced piece of free video editing software that has been gracing the digital world for over 25 years. Hailing from the realms of professional filmmaking, Lightworks offers a suite of comprehensive tools and features perfectly suited for both novices and seasoned editors.
Impressive History and Proven Track Record
With a pedigree that stretches back to some of the biggest Hollywood blockbusters, Lightworks offers reliability and trustworthiness. This software has been used in the editing rooms of classics such as “The Wolf of Wall Street” and “Heat”, showcasing its capabilities to enhance storytelling through seamless editing.
High-Quality Features
While it offers advanced features, Lightworks doesn’t get overly complex. It provides you with simple timeline editing and trimming functionality, coupled with real-time audio and video FX.’s ready-to-use audio and video FX templates are a big plus, specially for beginners.
Drawbacks
On the flip side, Lightworks’ free version has some limitations. Namely, it caps your video exports at 720p. But the pay-off is unlimited access to high-quality software that makes editing your projects a breeze to accomplish.
Lightworks runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux operating systems. The minimum system requirements call for an Intel i7 chipset or faster, 3GB RAM or higher, and a 256MB graphics subsystem with support for DirectX 9. A high-resolution display (1920 x1080) and a compatible sound card are also recommended.
Software Specifications and System Requirements
| Operating System | Processor | RAM | Graphics | Display | Sound Card |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Windows, macOS, Linux | Intel i7 chipset or faster | 3GB or higher | 256MB with support for DirectX 9 | High-Resolution (1920 x 1080) | Compatible Sound Card |
2. HitFilm Express
If you’re looking for something with a blend of video editing and visual effects capabilities, HitFilm Express might be your ideal choice. This free video editing software brings the sophistication of professional-level software to the average user. With an intuitive interface and a wealth of tutorials available, it has never been easier to create stunning, high-quality videos.
Standout Features
HitFilm Express boasts a robust set of features that make it a favorite among both casual and professional editors. These include advanced cutting tools, audio and video filters, layers and masking, and compositing tools. Moreover, it has a 3D video support that lets you import and animate 3D models.
Notable Advantages
One of the main selling points of HitFilm Express is its seamless blend of editing and VFX tools, creating a unified workflow. It’s an ideal choice for editors who want both functionality and versatility. Additionally, the software is compatible with both Windows and Mac, plus, it provides video training for users who might need a little help getting started.
Limited Drawbacks
With all these features, the learning curve might be a bit steep for beginners. However, thanks to a multitude of tutorials and guides available on the software’s website, you can get the hang of things quite quickly. Another con is that some additional features are not free, but this doesn’t take away from the wealth of tools available in the free version.
Software Specifications and System Requirements
| Software Specifications | System Requirements |
|---|---|
| Video editing and VFX software 2D and 3D compositing Over 410+ effects and presets Free video tutorials and projects | Windows 8 (64-bit) or macOS 10.15 Catalina or above 4th Generation Intel Core Processors or AMD equivalent 4GB RAM (8GB Recommended) Graphics card with at least 2GB memory |
3. DaVinci Resolve
Stepping into the realm of professional-grade video editing, we couldn’t ignore DaVinci Resolve. Renowned in the filmmaking industry, DaVinci Resolve rises above the competition with its packed suite of features. It boasts powerful color correction and audio post-production tools, which are practically unparalleled in the world of free video editing software.
Outstanding Features of DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is a robust software that stands out for its unique strengths:
- Advanced color correction: undesputedly one of the best in the market.
- Audio mastering tools: With the inclusion of Fairlight, a powerful audio post-production interface, you can fine-tune your audio to professional standards.
- Visual effects and motion graphics capabilities: Offers Fusion, a feature-packed visual effects and motion graphics tool.
Noteworthy Pros
DaVinci Resolve is a boon for seasoned video editors because:
- It offers multi-user collaboration: This feature, commonly seen in high-end professional software, are included free in Resolve.
- No watermark: Unlike many free video editing tools, Resolve does not leave a watermark on exported videos, adding to the professional appeal.
Potential Cons
However, as comprehensive as DaVinci Resolve is, it may not be for everyone:
- Steep learning curve: With its complex features, beginners might find it overwhelming.
- Requires a powerful PC: With such advanced features, Resolve requires a high-performance PC to function smoothly.
| Operating System | RAM | Graphics Card |
|---|---|---|
| Windows 10, macOS 10.14.6 Mojave, or later | Minimum 16 GB (32 GB recommended) | Minimum 2 GB VRAM |
4. Shotcut
Next in our list is Shotcut, a free and open-source video editing application. It’s favored for its simplicity and powerful capabilities, offering a good balance for novice editors who want more than basic functionality without the steep learning curve of professional software.
Key Features:
Shotcut’s notable features include support for a wide range of formats, no import required (meaning native timeline editing), frame accuracy, and several audio editing features, such as mixing across all tracks.
The Upside:
One of the main draws of Shotcut is its user-friendly nature. The interface is clean and intuitive, which is great for beginners. Moreover, it offers comprehensive tutorials that guide users through each feature and process, making it even easier to get the hang of it.
The Downside:
Despite its many benefits, Shotcut does come with a few setbacks. Some users may find it lacks advanced features found in other free video editing software. Additionally, some users have reported stability issues, indicating that the application occasionally crashes.
| Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wide range of formats, No import required, Frame accuracy, Audio editing features | User-friendly interface, Comprehensive tutorials | Lacks some advanced features, May be prone to crashes |
PC Hardware Requirements
- Operating System: Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit).
- Processor: Intel i5 or better.
- RAM: Minimum of 8GB but 16GB recommended.
- Graphics card: DirectX 10 compatible or better.
- HDD Space: Minimum 1GB free space. More might be required for big projects.
5. VideoLAN Movie Creator
VideoLAN Movie Creator, also known as VLMC, is another excellent free video editing software. This open-source program, best recognized for its VLC media player, offers a user-friendly interface and powerful editing capabilities, ideal for beginners and pros alike.
Highlight Features of VLMC
With a comprehensive list of editing tools, VideoLAN Movie Creator allows basic cutting, filtering, and encoding tasks. It also supports a wide range of video formats, making it flexible and versatile.
What Makes VLMC Stand Out
VLMC shines with its straightforward, intuitive interface and robust functionality. Its strength lies in the ability to handle numerous multimedia formats, providing the user with great editing freedom.
Areas for Improvement
Though powerful, VLMC can be a bit heavy on system resources. Additionally, it does not offer the same degree of advanced features as some of the other entries on this list.
Software Specifications and System Requirements
| Specifications of VideoLAN Movie Creator: | System Requirements: |
|---|---|
| Multi-platform: Windows, Linux, and macOS. Support for multiple video and audio formats. Non-linear editing features. Advanced visual effects and filters. | Operating System: Windows 7 or higher, macOS X 10.12 or higher, Linux. CPU: At least a dual-core processor. RAM: Minimum 4GB but 8GB or more for optimum performance. Storage: 5GB of available hard-disk space for installation. |
6. OpenShot
OpenShot is another robust and free-to-use video editing software that offers an intuitive interface rendering speed and simplicity in manipulating video files. It provides a selection of powerful features that suit both beginners and advanced video editors. Let’s delve into the details about the offerings of OpenShot.
Unraveling OpenShot’s Feature Collection
OpenShot is equipped with a host of capabilities to render a seamless editing experience, such as unlimited layers, advanced animation options, and 3D animated titles and effects. The software also supports vast video, audio, and image formats, enhancing its compatibility range.
Why OpenShot shines
What sets OpenShot apart is its user-friendly interface and accessibility on multiple platforms (Windows, Linux, and Mac). It provides an easy learning curve and is also available in multiple languages, offering an inclusive global user experience.
Possible Improvement Zones
Some users claim that the software occasionally has performance-related issues, such as software lags. Also, more advanced editing features could be a worthy addition in future updates to cater to professional editing requirements.
Minimum System Requirements
| Operating System: | Linux/OS X (above 10.9)/Windows (version 7, 8, and 10) |
|---|---|
| Processor: | Multi-core processor with 64-bit support |
| RAM: | 4 GB (for SD), 8GB (for HD), 16GB or more (for 4K) |
| Screen Resolution: | 1024×768 display |
Please note that for optimal performance, your system should surpass these requirements.7. Avidemux
6. Blender
If you are a 3D enthusiast, you might already have heard about Blender. This free software isn’t just a video editor: it’s a comprehensive 3D creation suite which brings robust features for the entire 3D pipeline. However, it also includes powerful video editing functionalities, making it a highly versatile choice.
Outstanding Features:
With Blender, you can create 3D animations and models, which adds a unique flair to your video editing prowess, something not many free video editors can offer. Its video editing capabilities include anything from basic actions like video cuts and splicing to more complex tasks such as video masking. Other features include audio mixing, sync, scrubbing, and waveform visualization.
The Positives:
One of the greatest strengths of Blender lies in its immense flexibility and versatility. It has plenty of advanced features that are usually accessible only through expensive, professional applications. The 3D modeling and animation features are quite robust, enabling the creation of intricate 3D animations right within the platform.
The Areas for Improvement:
However, it’s worth noting that Blender has a relatively steep learning curve, especially for users who are new to 3D modeling or animation. Moreover, due to its extensive list of features, the interface might seem a little intimidating and cluttered for new users.
Software Specifications and System Requirements:
| Operating System: | Windows, macOS, and Linux |
|---|---|
| Processor: | Minimum dual-core 2GHz CPU |
| Memory: | Minimum 4GB RAM, recommended 16GB |
| Graphics Card: | OpenGL 3.3 compatible card with 2GB VRAM |
8. Biteable
Delving into the user-friendly realm of video editing, Biteable proves its mettle with a fantastic array of templates and an intuitive interface. Ideal for businesses, marketers, and even beginners without editing experience, Biteable allows you to create absorbing content for a host of platforms. Let’s dive in to explore the software’s excellent features and discover where it could improve.
Striking Features of Biteable:
With Biteable, you can quickly craft stunning videos using a plethora of pre-designed templates. You’ll also find a selection of audio options within the platform to accentuate your video content. Its in-built animation feature is perfect for adding extra flair to your projects.
What Makes Biteable Shine:
Biteable truly shines in its ability to ease the video creation process, making it achievable for anyone, regardless of their skill level. The software is particularly known for its seamless ability to create engaging social media videos and compelling presentations.
Room for Improvement:
In spite of its many pros, Biteable could enhance its flexibility by introducing a greater variety of video editing features. The current absence of advanced editing tools might disappoint users who seek a more professional finish.
System Requirements:
| Operating System | Processor | Memory | Graphics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS X 10.10 or higher | Intel Dual Core or equivalent | 4GB | DirectX 9.0c compatible |
| Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS X 10.10 or higher | Intel Quad Core or equivalent | 8GB | DirectX 11 or higher compatible |
9. FilmoraGo
In the realm of mobile video editing, FilmoraGo emerges as a strong contender. This intuitive software offers straightforward yet potent tools that transform the way you tell your video stories. Let’s deep dive into the chief features, pros, and cons of this application.
Core Features of FilmoraGo:
FilmoraGo takes pride in its accessible user interface and diversified features. They span from basic editing tools like crop and trim to sophisticated options such as picture-in-picture, voiceover, and fast/slow motion.
FilmoraGo Advantages:
FilmoraGo distinguishes itself with its significant versatility and ease of use. The software offers a plethora of in-app assets like stylish filters, overlays, and animated stickers that embellish your videos.
Potential Drawbacks:
Despite its strengths, FilmoraGo isn’t without limitations. Notably, the app applies a FilmoraGo watermark on your projects unless you purchase a subscription. Moreover, sophisticated editing may be somewhat restricted due to mobile limitations.
Software Specifications and System Requirements:
| System Requirement | Minimum | Recommended |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows 7/8/10 (64-bit) | Windows 10 (64-bit) |
| Processor | Intel i3 or better multicore processor, 2GHz or above | Intel i5 or better multicore processor, 2.8GHz or above |
| RAM | At least 3GB physical RAM (8GB required for HD and 4K videos) | 8GB or above (16GB required for HD and 4K videos) |
| Screen Resolution | 1366×768 or better | 1920×1080 or better |
| Disk | At least 2GB free hard-disk space for installation (SSD-Solid State Disk recommended for editing HD and 4K videos) | 5GB or above (SSD recommended for editing HD and 4K videos) |
| Graphics | Intel HD Graphics 5000 or later; NVIDIA GeForce GTX 700 or later; AMD Radeon R5 or later | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 960 or above |
10. Blender
Blender is a free and open-source 3D computer graphics suite that also possesses a robust video editing module. It’s a comprehensive toolkit that covers a myriad of tasks, suitable for both beginners and professionals. Let’s detail its functionalities, pros and cons:
Feature Highlights of Blender:
Blender’s video editor comes with a strong array of features that includes multi-format support, keyframes, filters, speed control, adjustments layers, transitions, and more. Its 3D capabilities offer an unparalleled range of animation and modeling options, making it a versatile choice.
Positives:
Unlike most free editors, Blender provides a wide-ranging suite of 3D modeling, animating, and rendering tools. It supports a variety of add-ons to enhance its functionality. Its robust community of users and developers ensures regular updates and readily available tutorials.
Drawbacks:
The extensive functionalities of Blender can be overwhelming for beginners. Its interface, which is mainly designed for 3D modeling, might appear confusing to unseasoned users. Furthermore, rendering videos can take a substantial amount of time, particularly on lower-end machines.
Software Specifications and System Requirements:
| Platform | Required Processor | Required RAM | Required Disk Space |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows | 64-bit quad core CPU | 8 GB RAM | 1 GB disk space |
| macOS | 64-bit quad core CPU | 8 GB RAM | 1 GB disk space |
| Linux | 64-bit quad core CPU | 8 GB RAM | 1 GB disk space |
Functionality Comparison: Which Software Offers the Best Features?
Choosing the best video editing software can be a confusing task given the number of options available. It’s important to consider which software provides the most value in terms of functionality, user-friendliness, flexibility, and technical requirements. Here, you’ll find a direct comparison of all the previously discussed software tools, allowing you to swiftly identify the best fit for your editing needs.
Functionality
Different software tools cater to different needs. While Lightworks and DaVinci Resolve provide a professional suite of tools suitable for complex edits, software like Biteable and FilmoraGo is more beginner-friendly. These offer easy-to-use interfaces with a focus on basic editing and effects.
User-Friendliness
User-friendliness is a crucial factor, especially for beginners. For straightforward, intuitive interfaces, consider options like OpenShot or VideoLAN Movie Creator. If you prefer learning advanced features over time and don’t mind a learning curve, software like Blender may suit.
Flexibility
Flexibility pertains to the types of projects the software can handle, from short clips to long-form videos. While all the mentioned software tools can handle a variety of files, more advanced software like HitFilm Express provides extra support for 3D editing and special effects.
Technical Requirements
The technical requirements needed for each software also vary. Most of these tools are compatible with the majority of systems but for high-level tasks, software like Lightworks may demand greater processing power and dedicated graphics capability.
Pros and Cons of Free Video Editing Softwares
Diving into the world of video editing can seem daunting at first glance. The wealth of options available, all flaunting different features, comes with its own set of challenges. However, understanding the advantages and disadvantages of free video editing software can empower you to make an informed decision. While these tools offer a broad array of features to meet diverse needs, it’s still essential to assess their performance in certain key areas.
Advantages of Free Video Editing Softwares
The major draw of free video editing software is, of course, the affordability aspect. Especially for hobbyists or those just starting out, these tools are an excellent path to gain video editing skills without a hefty initial investment.
- Cost Efficiency: These tools offer a vast array of editing features without any cost, making them suitable for budget-friendly users, learners, and amateurs.
- Feature-rich: Many free softwares contain fully-fledged feature sets that can cater to a range of editing needs, allowing users to create high-quality videos.
- Community Support: These softwares often come with a robust community of users who contribute to the software’s development, troubleshoot issues, and provide helpful tutorials.
Drawbacks of Free Video Editing Softwares
While free video editing tools are a good starting point, they come with their own set of drawbacks. Paid video editing services often offer better support, more frequent updates, and additional features.
- Restricted Features: Some features or effects may be locked behind a premium version, limiting the full potential of the software.
- Lack of Professional Support: With no dedicated customer service, users might find it challenging to resolve potential issues or queries.
- Infrequent Updates: While there are exceptions, some free video editing tools may not receive frequent updates, affecting the overall user experience and product quality.
Choosing the Right Software for Your Editing Needs
Choosing the perfect video editing software for your needs is no easy task. To start, it’s important to understand exactly what you require from a software. Are you looking for basic features like trimming and cropping, or do you need more advanced functionalities for color grating or special effects? Here, we breakdown how to select the best choice for your specific needs.
Consider Your Level of Experience
Your experience with video editing should be one of the first things you consider. If you are a beginner, user-friendly software with a simple interface and essential editing tools, like FilmoraGo, could be the best option. On the other hand, seasoned video editors may look for software with advanced features and functionalities, like those found in DaVinci Resolve.
Analyze Your Requirements
It’s crucial to have a clear understanding of your video editing requirements. Consider your project’s requirements, are you planning to make a YouTube video, a short film, or a simple home movie? Each project might need a different set of features. Software like OpenShot or Lightworks could offer the creative options you need.
Evaluate the Available Resources
Keep in mind the technical specifications of your machine. Some applications, like Blender, are quite resource-intensive and require a powerful PC to run smoothly. However, other tools like HitFilm Express, might offer similar functionalities with less strain on your system. Make sure you choose something that matches your hardware capabilities.
Check for Learning Resources and Support
Community support, tutorial availability, and customer service should also influence your decision. Video editing can often call for assistance, and having plenty of online resources can be immensely beneficial. Lightworks and DaVinci Resolve, for instance, have vast online communities and lots of tutorials to help you master the software.
Conclusion: Your Path to Seamless Video Editing
Wading through the multitude of free video editing software options can be a significant challenge. Each software brings its own set of features, advantages, and limitations to the table, making it tricky to identify the one most suited to your unique editing needs. However, fear not, dear reader. We’ve rolled up our sleeves and dug deep, scrutinizing the top ten free video editing software in the market, so you don’t have to.
These software options come with an array of functionalities, ranging from basic editing tools to advanced features, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner taking baby steps in video production or a seasoned editor seeking comprehensive features, the following comprehensive review will help you navigate these waters competently and make an informed choice. So, sit back and allow us to guide you through the world of free video editing software.