Capturing or recording video isn't a difficult task anymore. The real magic lies in presentation of your video which needs a powerful video editing software.
To know which video editing software is the best to use, you have to look at the features that the video editing software offers and what you need.
Windows Movie Maker is a simple lightweight video editor for Windows. It is quite a popular software to edit videos. It comes with standard editing tools to enhance videos. You can edit a video individually. Create and edit videos for free using Adobe Spark Video and Adobe Spark Post. With Adobe Spark Video, you can edit videos for YouTube, tutorials, and presentations. Adobe Spark Post allows you to create short videos.
Having lots of features doesn't necessarily mean that the video editor is the best for you. In fact, that could be the opposite of what you need. Too many features make the video editing software complex.
For a newbie, using such video editors will require intensive research and learning. Of course, you are in a hurry and you need something that responds in binary. That's where the simplified video editors come in.
Don't take it the wrong way, however. Complex video editors like Adobe Premier can produce outstanding outputs. If you have the knowledge on how to use these software programs, you shouldn't forgo them.
It is clear that not every video editor is the best for everyone. This article will highlight the best video editing software for Windows 10 and highlight the various features, including their pros and cons.
Before we dig in, here are just a few things you should be looking for when you are trying to find the best video editing software for your work:
Encoders
Encoders are the plugins responsible for the conversion of videos from one format to another. The existing ones are regularly improved and updated while developers work on new ones.
Let's take, for example, you are trying to edit and compress a 4K video. An ‘h.264' encoder might not be the best one to work with because of the final file size. A more robust ‘h 265' encoder in the best in this case.
Complexity
As mentioned earlier, the complexity of the work you are trying to do should determine which video editor should be used. It is not advisable to use complex software for a simple job if you are a beginner.
System Requirements
Some of the best video editors require high-end computers to function. You should choose a video editing software that can be able to function on your computer without lag for quality output. There are also some video editors that will not work on certain operating systems.
Let's have a look at the top video editing software that you can choose from;
Best Video Editing Software
1. Movavi Video Editor Plus
Movavi Video Editor Plus is a feature packed video editor for both Windows 10 and Mac.
It's simple enough to have lower learning curve for a beginner and advanced enough for production of high quality professional videos.
Movavi Video Editor Plus offers a lot of features which include:
- Object Animation
- Built-in Media (e.g. stickers and clip art you can include in the videos)
- Automatic Video Creation
The features are simplified to make them usable to all of the consumers, no matter where their video editing experience lies. Movavi Video Editor Plus has completely outdone other software programs that lie in its price range.
- PROs
- Minimum system requirements
- Simple GUI – It has almost no learning curve.
- In-built object animations
- Price is reasonable and within the reach. Value for money!
- CONs
- Most of the good features come with the premium upgrade.
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2. Shotcut
Shotcut is yet another one of the best video editors for Windows 10, MacOS and Linux. The video editor also has lots of great features which are packed into a small program.
Shotcut supports a wide array of video formats. You can be able to work with most of the video formats that are currently available.
Even though it is a small program, Shotcut can be able to produce UHD videos after rendering. You no longer have to trim down the size of 4K videos in order for you to edit them.
To sweeten the deal even further, the developers of the software made it as an open source program. This means that they have given the public a pass to improvise the code and make it better.
Pros
- Classic video editor interface
- Open Source – You get faster updates and minimal bugs as more people improvise it
Cons
- The software is not suitable for new beginners as it has a somewhat complex interface
3. DaVinci Resolve Studio
If you want to take your expertise to the next level, then DaVinci Resolve Studio is the best video editing software for you.
It's the go-to product if you're interested in powerful, professional-level video editing, with features like timeline-based editing, keyframes, advanced media management, plugin support and more.
The video editing software itself is incredibly advanced hence gives off some of the best video outputs you could ever have. It also gives you the ability to insert 2D and 3D titles in your videos.
Pros
- The GUI is ideal for video editing
- The color correction feature delivers outstanding results.
Cons
- It is complex to use hence a person requires specialized training to make most out of it.
4. PowerDirector
Power director is a video editing software developed by CyberLink; a company that has been in the industry for quite a while.
Over the years, the developers have been able to improvise the software time by time, making it one of the best video editing software in the market.
You can either purchase the full version with an unlimited license or purchase the premium features every year with a lower price tag. The premium PowerDirector offers UHD video editing with unlimited time. You can, therefore, work with large files without file splitting.
Pros
- It has all the advanced features which you'll need.
- Support for 360 degree videos.
- Quick and Easy to learn.
Cons
- Advanced video editing tools offer less flexibility.
5. Adobe Premiere
Adobe Premier is most powerful among all the others in the list but at the same time, most complicated and expensive. This is the reason we listed it at #5 position.
With Adobe Premiere, it is a guarantee that you will be capable to achieve anything with its numerous features. It is perfectly suited for someone who wants to make living with editing business.
Pros
- It's really advanced hence gives you more power and control.
- Cost outweighs functionality if you know what you are doing.
Cons
- It is meant for professionals as it is super complex and has a hefty price tag.
6. Blender
Blender is a well-known 3D animation software which is used by game developers as well as directors. Don't worry, you do not have to learn all about animation.
The software itself has a video editor that can be used to edit videos as any other program. It is also open source. This is why the animation software has advanced to be the best video editing software in a short period of time.
Since Blender was made for creating animated content, you should not expect many professional features from it.
Pros
- Perfect for animations and post-production.
Cons
- Learning curve is pretty steep.
7. Filmora
Filmora is a video editing software provided by Wondershare. If you have been using video converters in the recent past, you must have heard about the company once or twice.
Wondershare specializes in video production software and has strived to make Filmora the best video editing software in the market. It offers a special green screen effect together with a dozen other great features for video production.
Pros
- Can support editing of 4K videos
- It's relatively compact as compared to other video editors
- You can sync between cross-platform devices
Cons
- Requires high-end machines even for HD videos
Best Video Editing Software
8. HitFilm Express
What makes HitFilm Express one of the best video editing software for Windows 10 is not its features, but its versatility. The video editing software can be able to edit almost all the video formats available.
With a significant number of features, HitFilm Express gets you where no other compact video editing software can.
Pros
- It's compact but has a significant amount of features
Cons
- It is basically meant for movie production hence some features are left out
9. Lightworks
Lightworks is also another one of the best video editing software for Windows 10 you should definitely check out. The software offers:
- High precision video trimmer.
- Exporting videos to 720p for Youtube.
- A wide range of video formats support
There are also a lot of other cool features that come with the pro version. For example, you can only receive an output of 4K at 60p with the pro version only.
Pros
- It is fast even on low-end PCs
- It offers quite a number of features to maximize quality
Cons
- The pro version carries almost all the good stuff
10. Microsoft Photos
Microsoft Photos is labeled as the best video editing software for Windows 10 as it comes preinstalled on Windows. The Software provides some basic features you need to make a video out of photos and clips.
Pros
- The program is preinstalled on Windows 10 hence its optimized for us on the operating system.
- It is readily available with all its features at no extra cost.
Cons
- It is pretty basic hence can only do so much. It may not be the best video editing software to use when you are creating something professional.
Before 2017, YouTube Video Editor was the best editor for all YouTubers, but then Google announced that only people having more than 100,000 views on their videos could save the changes they made. It put creators in a frenzy, making them find free alternatives that offer the same features.
But don't worry anymore, because we have ten free video editing software that have all the essential features, including cutting, cropping, rotating, and trimming.
The 10 Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube in 2020
Small Video Editing Software
1. Shotcut
Shotcut is one of the best video editing software on Microsoft, Linux, and Mac as it supports a variety of video formats. Since it is an open source software, once you download it you can start using it immediately without upgrading to the paid version. It was initially developed for Linux and later adapted to Microsoft and Mac, so you might find the interface a bit quirky. Two features that we love about the YouTube video editor are timeline editing and 4K HD resolution support. It is one of the few free software that offers 4K support. It is the best software for HD and 4K video projects.
2. Blender
Another open source software that runs on all operating systems including iOS, Microsoft, and Linux, Blender was first introduced as a 3D animation suite and then developed into a video editor for YouTube. Apart from the basic functions like splicing and video cutting, Blender offers a plethora of advanced features including luma waveform, audio mixing, chroma vectorscope, waveform visualization, speed control, and filters.
Most of these features are something that you won't find on other average free video editing software for YouTube. All of them are enough for you to produce a clear and professional quality video. The only downside of Blender is that there aren't too many videos available as most of them are focused on modeling and 3D animation.
3. Avidemux
Avidemux is a basic video editor for YouTube, which is perfect for beginners. It comes with basic functions, including encoding, filtering, and cutting. It works on all three platforms, including Mac, Linux, and Microsoft. Since it is a simple software, use it only to fine tune your video editing skills. Once you get the hang of the basic features, you can download more complex software like Shotcut and Blender.
4. Machete Video Editor Lite
Machete Video Editor Lite is another wonderful free video editing software that runs only on Windows computers and laptops. It is available in two versions — free and paid. In the free version, it supports only two video formats, including AVI and WMV. The paid version costs $19.95 and gives access to audio editing and supports a number of formats. It is best known for its video splicing feature but as it is a basic software, you can't use it for a long time if you plan to turn into a professional YouTube creator.
5. HitFilm Express
Another efficient YouTube video maker, HitFilm Express is available on Windows and iOS platforms. It is a professional YouTube video editor that comes with all basic editing features, including trimming and audio editing along with advanced features like cutting tools, keying for green screen effects, 3D video support, and multiple composition tools.
The free version offers over 180 premium features. HitFilm Express also has a paid version, which is affordable, so you purchase it to upgrade the software. Most video editing tutorials are for superhero action movies including Star Wars, so you will need a little time getting used to it.
6. DaVinci Resolve
One of the most advanced YouTube video editing software, DaVinci Resolve has an intuitive interface that makes editing easier. Advanced features offered by the software, including advanced trimming, audio mastering, color correction, and multicam editing. You can also add 2D and 3D titles to your videos and give them a professional touch. The only con of DaVinci Resolve is that there are too many features, which can overwhelm a beginner. Also, not all tutorials are free, so that's an added cost you will have to pay to learn the software.
Tip: Need to download videos from YouTube or other sites? Here are 12 of the best YouTube video downloaders recommended for you.
7. VideoPad
Best Video Editing Software
8. HitFilm Express
What makes HitFilm Express one of the best video editing software for Windows 10 is not its features, but its versatility. The video editing software can be able to edit almost all the video formats available.
With a significant number of features, HitFilm Express gets you where no other compact video editing software can.
Pros
- It's compact but has a significant amount of features
Cons
- It is basically meant for movie production hence some features are left out
9. Lightworks
Lightworks is also another one of the best video editing software for Windows 10 you should definitely check out. The software offers:
- High precision video trimmer.
- Exporting videos to 720p for Youtube.
- A wide range of video formats support
There are also a lot of other cool features that come with the pro version. For example, you can only receive an output of 4K at 60p with the pro version only.
Pros
- It is fast even on low-end PCs
- It offers quite a number of features to maximize quality
Cons
- The pro version carries almost all the good stuff
10. Microsoft Photos
Microsoft Photos is labeled as the best video editing software for Windows 10 as it comes preinstalled on Windows. The Software provides some basic features you need to make a video out of photos and clips.
Pros
- The program is preinstalled on Windows 10 hence its optimized for us on the operating system.
- It is readily available with all its features at no extra cost.
Cons
- It is pretty basic hence can only do so much. It may not be the best video editing software to use when you are creating something professional.
Before 2017, YouTube Video Editor was the best editor for all YouTubers, but then Google announced that only people having more than 100,000 views on their videos could save the changes they made. It put creators in a frenzy, making them find free alternatives that offer the same features.
But don't worry anymore, because we have ten free video editing software that have all the essential features, including cutting, cropping, rotating, and trimming.
The 10 Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube in 2020
Small Video Editing Software
1. Shotcut
Shotcut is one of the best video editing software on Microsoft, Linux, and Mac as it supports a variety of video formats. Since it is an open source software, once you download it you can start using it immediately without upgrading to the paid version. It was initially developed for Linux and later adapted to Microsoft and Mac, so you might find the interface a bit quirky. Two features that we love about the YouTube video editor are timeline editing and 4K HD resolution support. It is one of the few free software that offers 4K support. It is the best software for HD and 4K video projects.
2. Blender
Another open source software that runs on all operating systems including iOS, Microsoft, and Linux, Blender was first introduced as a 3D animation suite and then developed into a video editor for YouTube. Apart from the basic functions like splicing and video cutting, Blender offers a plethora of advanced features including luma waveform, audio mixing, chroma vectorscope, waveform visualization, speed control, and filters.
Most of these features are something that you won't find on other average free video editing software for YouTube. All of them are enough for you to produce a clear and professional quality video. The only downside of Blender is that there aren't too many videos available as most of them are focused on modeling and 3D animation.
3. Avidemux
Avidemux is a basic video editor for YouTube, which is perfect for beginners. It comes with basic functions, including encoding, filtering, and cutting. It works on all three platforms, including Mac, Linux, and Microsoft. Since it is a simple software, use it only to fine tune your video editing skills. Once you get the hang of the basic features, you can download more complex software like Shotcut and Blender.
4. Machete Video Editor Lite
Machete Video Editor Lite is another wonderful free video editing software that runs only on Windows computers and laptops. It is available in two versions — free and paid. In the free version, it supports only two video formats, including AVI and WMV. The paid version costs $19.95 and gives access to audio editing and supports a number of formats. It is best known for its video splicing feature but as it is a basic software, you can't use it for a long time if you plan to turn into a professional YouTube creator.
5. HitFilm Express
Another efficient YouTube video maker, HitFilm Express is available on Windows and iOS platforms. It is a professional YouTube video editor that comes with all basic editing features, including trimming and audio editing along with advanced features like cutting tools, keying for green screen effects, 3D video support, and multiple composition tools.
The free version offers over 180 premium features. HitFilm Express also has a paid version, which is affordable, so you purchase it to upgrade the software. Most video editing tutorials are for superhero action movies including Star Wars, so you will need a little time getting used to it.
6. DaVinci Resolve
One of the most advanced YouTube video editing software, DaVinci Resolve has an intuitive interface that makes editing easier. Advanced features offered by the software, including advanced trimming, audio mastering, color correction, and multicam editing. You can also add 2D and 3D titles to your videos and give them a professional touch. The only con of DaVinci Resolve is that there are too many features, which can overwhelm a beginner. Also, not all tutorials are free, so that's an added cost you will have to pay to learn the software.
Tip: Need to download videos from YouTube or other sites? Here are 12 of the best YouTube video downloaders recommended for you.
7. VideoPad
VideoPad is the best video editing software for YouTube available on Windows. If you want to try your hand at video compositions, we recommend you to use this software. It isn't for advanced editors as they will find it too essential. Some features offered by the software include sound effects library, pre-made transitions, camera shake reduction, 3D video editing, and supports multiple resolutions. One of the best features of VideoPad is that it lets you export videos to YouTube and other social media platforms directly.
8. iMovie
If you are a Mac or MacBook user, iMovie is the best free video editing software for you. It has an intuitive interface and a great tool for learners to furnish their skills and get ready for using more advanced software. If you don't upload regularly on YouTube, you can continue using iMovie as it has a number of good features including audio editing, video trimming, pre-made transitions, 4K resolution support, and split screen. It is easy to learn. The disadvantage of using this software is that it takes too long to export the video, which will delay the upload.
9. Openshot
If you are a Mac user and have little bit knowledge of iMovie, you will find Openshot easy to use. This YouTube video editing software has more features than iMovie and a variety of layers and audio mixing options. With its simple interface and combination of premium features, Openshot makes video editing easy.
You can watch real-time previews before you transition one scene into another. Features that Openshot offers include scaling, snapping, tripping, image overlays, subtitles 3D animated titles, title creation, watermarks, and advanced timeline, among others. There aren't many tutorials available, so you will have to figure out how the YouTube video editor works on your own.
10. Lightworks
Lightworks is one of the best free video editing software for YouTube with powerful features. It is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems. It is free software, but there's a premium version available only for $25 a month. But you don't need to purchase that because the free version offers some very advanced features like multicam support, high precision video trimming, and export to 720p to YouTube.
It supports a range of video formats as well. One massive advantage of Lightworks is that you get access to many tutorial videos. Unfortunately, 4K video support for Youtube and Vimeo only comes with the premium version. It isn't too advanced either, so you will have to switch software or purchase the paid version once your YouTube channel starts growing.
Conclusion
If you want to know how to edit YouTube videos, open YouTube, and check tutorials of the software you plan to use. We tried all 10 YouTube video editing software to find out the best among them, so you can download them for editing your YouTube videos. Blender is our favorite choice because it offers premium features for zero costs including audio mixing, chroma vectorscope, waveform visualization, speed control, filters, and luma waveform. You will find many tutorials online that will help you furnish your skills and add cool animations to your videos.
Also Read: Top 3 Free Video Grabbers to Download YouTube Videos Online
Allow yourself some time to get used to the complex functions as the software is a bit advanced for beginners. You start with basic software like iMovie or Avidemux and work your way up. Another software that we liked is DaVinci Resolve. It is a professional software, but the intuitive interface makes it easy to learn. The features can be overwhelming at first, so experiment with one feature at a time.
Video Editing Software List
Have you used any of these software before? Let us know your review in the comments below.
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