10 Best Video Editing Software for 2023

You can generate high-quality videos in a reasonable amount of time using the best video editing software options.

Video editing has risen in popularity in recent years.

Video-based social media platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and others have taken over the airwaves, or should I say Wi-Fi signals. This has made video editing widely available. Everyone aspires to create a flawless video to share. And, since more individuals have started spending more time at home and working from home this year, video editing software has become more popular.

There are numerous editing programs available, each with its own set of functions and pricing. With so many possibilities, it might be difficult to pick the finest software for you while staying within your budget.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the finest video editing software. You’ll find a wonderful selection below whether you’re a newbie, a pro, or somewhere in between. Continue reading to discover the best video editing software for you.

Here’s our list of the best video editing software

1. PowerDirector 365- The Best Choice for Anyone

Cyberlink’s PowerDirector 365 is at the top of the list when it comes to basic video editing platforms. This program provides a complete set of free features plus fair add-ons to satisfy editors of all skill levels. It is the editor to use if you want to build your own YouTube channel or clip together some home footage.

It was released by the world leader in multimedia software and AI facial recognition technology, Cyberlink.

CyberLink Corp. is a global pioneer in multimedia software and artificial intelligence facial recognition technologies, having been founded in 1996. CyberLink provides a comprehensive range of solutions to meet the needs of the consumer, business, and educational markets, including digital content creation, multimedia playback, video conferencing, live casting, mobile applications, and artificial intelligence facial recognition. CyberLink’s multimedia software and programs, such as the award-winning PowerDirector, PhotoDirector, and PowerDVD, have sold hundreds of millions of copies worldwide. The FaceMe® Facial Recognition Engine was developed by CyberLink after years of study in the disciplines of artificial intelligence and facial recognition. FaceMe® is a deep learning-based face recognition system that provides dependable, high-precision, and real-time facial identification for AIoT applications like smart retail, smart security and surveillance, smart city, and smart home.

Key features 

• Interface that is efficient
• Latest Features
• Performance that is fast 

Cons 

• Thousands of premium templates are included in the subscription edition, however downloading all of the extra content will take up a few GB of space.
• Confusing payment schemes
• In the lack of color tools

Pricing 

PowerDirector is available for a one-time fee of $19.99 each month. There is no free version available. A free trial of PowerDirector is offered.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro- Best video editing software for Professionals

Adobe Premiere Pro is the program you need if you want to make professional-looking videos. Professionals use this program to create content for mainstream media, and it is an industry-standard. The extensive feature set and professional-level quality justify the expensive price tag.

It is a software firm based in the United States. The company’s official name is well recognized for its multimedia and creativity tools. Photoshop, Acrobat Reader, and Adobe Creative Cloud are some of the most popular Adobe products.

It was founded in 1982 by John Warnock and Charles Geschke in San Jose, California. Adobe was named after Adobe Creek in California, which ran behind the company’s founders’ homes.

Digital typefaces were one of Adobe’s initial offerings when it entered the consumer software industry in the 1980s. Adobe Illustrator, a vector-based drawing application for Mac, was the company’s first consumer offering.

Key features 

• The “Metal Engine” function makes it possible to perform at high frame rates and with high file sizes.
• Software is optimized to the Mac Pro, taking advantage of all of the GPUs and using multithreading to distribute tasks across up to 28 cores.
• Multicam editing allows you to sync up to 64 different angles of video at the same time.
• Magnetic Timelines makes use of advanced metadata to make editing easier and faster.
• Tools for a media organization that will help you stay on track and interact more effectively.
• Effects that can be customized in 2D and 3D
• Audio editing is integrated into the timeline, allowing you to edit multichannel files right in the timeline.
• For Apple devices, a one-step optimized output is available.

Cons 

• Beginners should expect a steep learning curve.
• It requires a good computer.
• Expensive (depending on a subscription)
• Only available with a subscription.
• Some editing tasks require the use of other Adobe products, such as After Effects.
• A 64-bit operating system is necessary.
• The user interface isn’t as smooth as some others.
• If you’re not used to it, project setup can be a little odd.
• Noise reduction, color correction, and audio correction tasks can all be automated.

Pricing 

Premiere Pro is now accessible only as a subscription service. The program alone costs $20.99 per month with an annual commitment or $31.49 per month on a month-to-month basis. If you pay $239.88 in advance for a full year, you’ll pay $19.99 per month.

3. DaVinci Resolve- Best video editing software for color correction and audio

DaVinci Resolve (formerly known as da Vinci Resolve) is a color correcting and non-linear video editing (NLE) tool for macOS, Windows, and Linux, developed by da Vinci Systems before being acquired by Blackmagic Design in 2009.

For the feature film, post-production, and television broadcast industries, Blackmagic Design creates the world’s highest quality video editing products, digital film cameras, color correctors, video converters, video monitoring, routers, live production switchers, disk recorders, waveform monitors, and film restoration software.

Blackmagic Design continues to push the envelope with groundbreaking technologies like stereoscopic 3D and 4K processes. Blackmagic Design has offices in the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Singapore, and Australia, and was founded by world-renowned post production editors and engineers.

Key features 

(option 1) DaVinci Resolve delivers exceptional high-end functionality that goes above and beyond ordinary editing tools for a free application. The program’s sophisticated color correction allows you to modify skin tones and eye color, and its audio production capabilities are fairly vast. It’s designed for pros.

(option 2) DaVinci Resolve is the only software application in the world that integrates editing, color correction, visual effects, motion graphics, and audio postproduction all in one! Its sleek, modern UI is simple enough for new users to pick up but powerful enough for pros. Because you don’t have to master various apps or switch software for different jobs, DaVinci Resolve allows you to work faster and more effectively. That means you’ll be able to work with high-resolution photographs captured by the camera throughout the entire procedure. In a single app, it’s like having your post-production studio! The best part is that by learning DaVinci Resolve, you’ll be learning how to use the same tools that Hollywood professionals use.

• For professional video production, especially for YouTube, the free version is more than enough.
• It’s simple to learn and comes with a variety of free training videos and instructions.
• The software’s ability to manage both video and audio post-production makes it unique.
• The DaVinci Neural Engine is a set of AI-powered tools for quickly resolving complicated issues.
• There are many affordable hardware options for professional editors.
• Available for Windows, Mac OS, and Linux.

Cons 

• The learning curve is steep.
• This task necessitates the use of a powerful computer.
• It is not possible to export directly to social media.
• It works best with pricey, custom-designed hardware.

Pricing 

The one-time cost for DaVinci Resolve starts at $357.01 per feature. A free version is available. There is no free trial available for DaVinci Resolve.

4. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate- Best Video editing software for Windows users on a budget

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate is a basic video editing tool for Windows that allows users to create high-quality videos for a low one-time cost. Its one-of-a-kind interface is simple to pick up, even if you have no prior experience with other systems.

Michael Cowpland established it as a research laboratory in 1985. Corel Corporation from the abbreviation “Cowpland Research Laboratory”) is a Canadian graphics processing software firm headquartered in Ottawa, Ontario. It is notable for acquiring AfterShot Pro, PaintShop Pro, Painter, Video Studio, and WordPerfect, as well as generating software titles such as CorelDRAW.

Corel produces the tools, procedures, and environments that motivate people and teams to continuously develop, in which their software allows you to pivot and adapt in a quickly changing world.

Corel enjoys a unique position as a digital frontier pioneer, drawing on 35 years of the invention. Today, this commitment has resulted in technologies that eliminate the constraints of the past. Creative talent is amplified by collaboration tools. Timelines are shortened when workflows are efficient. Productivity and virtualization solutions that are both powerful and flexible provide you with the ability to work from anywhere.

Key features 

• Basic to use. The user interface is clear and straightforward.
• Uploading to Facebook and YouTube is easy.
• Burning Blu-ray and AVCHD
• The user interface is clear and straightforward.
• Rendering is incredibly quick.
• 360-degree VR, 4K Ultra HD, and 3D media are all supported.
• Motion tracking using many points
• Color grading
• Stop-motion animation is a special value.

Cons 

• For sophisticated editors, an unusual interface is used.
• The capacity for keyframing is limited.

Pricing 

VideoStudio pricing starts at $79.99 as a flat rate, as a one-time payment. They do not have a free version. VideoStudio offers a free trial.

5. Pinnacle Studio- Video editing software for moderate budgets 

Pinnacle Studio is a video editing program that was first launched as consumer software by Pinnacle Systems. Pinnacle merged the professional codebase of FAST’s editing software (now rebranded as Pinnacle Liquid) into Pinnacle Studio version 10 following Pinnacle System’s acquisition of Munich-based FAST Multimedia. In July 2012, it was purchased by Avid and afterwards by Corel. Pinnacle Studio enables users to create video content for Video CDs, DVD-Video, AVCHD, or Blu-ray discs, as well as add menus and burn them to disc.

Pinnacle released VideoSpin, a shareware version of Studio with fewer features, in the second half of 2007, but it was cancelled in March 2009.

Pinnacle Studio is a straightforward application with minimal features for newbies. It costs roughly $50 to download, but it includes thousands of effects and capabilities that are not available in a free version.

You can try the program for free for 30 days if you aren’t ready to commit to the pricing. Pinnacle has everything a user needs to conduct basic edits or produce entertaining videos.

Key features 

• Allows us to create “commercials” for our announcements fast and easy.
• To assist individuals in beginning and ending worship services, pre and post worship service movies were prepared.
• Used to make unique videos for unique music.

Cons 

• Advanced features are limited.
• Importing files is simple, but finding them might be tricky.
• This could be a user error, however, it would be wonderful to have folders within the imported files.
• I don’t utilize special effects too often, but they can be difficult to find.

Pricing 

Pinnacle Studio 24 Ultimate is a great video editing program with a lot of features for only $129.95.

6. Hitfilm Express – Best Video editing software for professionals on a budget 

FXhome’s HitFilm Express is a free video editing and visual effects program. It’s the only free software that offers all-in-one editing and sophisticated visual effects, as well as a variety of tutorials and outstanding service quality. It was created to make VFX and filmmaking more accessible to newbies.

FXhome, which was founded in 2001, is a software and visual effects developer for the next generation of content creators who are ready to explore horizons of creativity and pursue cutting-edge technology. FXhome was founded by a group of dedicated indie filmmakers who wanted to provide the creative community with simple tools for creating Star Wars lightsaber visual effects. Since then, the business has launched HitFilm, the industry-leading editing and visual effects software.

Key features 

• Video timeline editor that is reliable
• Editing options that speed up playback
• Export options that are both flexible and intuitive
• The ability to continue editing while the file is being exported

Cons 

• Tricky interface to learn
• Special effects are removed in several playback options.
• The performance of exports is poor.
• Some popular features require the purchase of add-ons.

Pricing 

HitFilm Express’ video editing tool does not offer a free trial period. Instead, the customer must purchase the software once for $299 and then pay no more membership fees for the next 12 months. Free software updates and technical support are included in the HitFilm Express price. It may be used by three users simultaneously.

7. Adobe Premiere Elements- Video editing software for absolute beginners

Adobe’s basic video editing tool is Premiere Elements. The User experience is simple to navigate and contains all of the necessary capabilities for those who are new to video editing or who want to edit videos for fun. Even better, the AI tools in the application will guide you through some of the video editing phases.

In 2004, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0 became the first version to be included with Premiere Elements. Since Photoshop Elements 2018, which was released on October 4, 2017, version numbers have been substituted by dates for marketing purposes. Photoshop Elements 2021 is the most recent version, which was released on October 8, 2020.

Adobe Photoshop Elements is a low-cost version of Adobe Photoshop targeted towards small enterprises, casual users, and budget-conscious families. Photoshop LE and PhotoDeluxe were replaced by it.

Key features 

• Price: Unlike Adobe Premiere Pro, which requires a subscription, Adobe Premiere Elements is a one-time purchase. In comparison to other video-editing products, the pricing is relatively reasonable.
• Ease of Use: This program is simple to use and has a clean interface.
• Video Editing: Tons of video effects, useful text tools, and guided edits are just a few of the video editing features. Premiere Elements can also handle 4K video and does advanced edits with the help of AI.
• Compatibility: This program is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems.
• Customer Service: Adobe provides great customer service, with representatives available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, community forums, and a comprehensive learning site.

Cons 

• With heavy use, it can run slowly.
• Has a limited set of capabilities
• The output rendering speed is slow.
• There will be no 360-degree VR or 3D editing.
• There is no support for multiple cameras.
• There is no way to record your screen.

Pricing 

Premiere Elements is available for a one-time fee of $99.99, which includes annual upgrades. Each license upgrade will set you back $79.99.

8. Nero Video- Video editing software with advanced exporting 

Richard Lesser founded a German software company in 1995, and it is best known for its CD/DVD/BD burning solution. NERO Burning ROM is currently the most popular recording program in the world. Ahead Software GmbH was the company’s original name.

Nero Video is a video editing software from Nero AG that is most known for burning files to discs.

Nero Video is a decent video editing tool that has two editing modules that let you choose which editing style is suitable for you. It has a large number of effects, transitions, video upgrades, and other features. However, due to its unusual process, you may need to devote several hours to fully comprehending how everything works.

You may not be aware of Nero Video, but don’t ignore it before giving it a shot. This little-known program is reasonably priced and includes a variety of video creation and editing tools, as well as advanced exporting and playback capabilities.

Create professional-quality videos with a variety of professional templates and effects, then export your film to DVD with a high-quality menu and chapter options.

Key features 

• Nero Video 2018 comes with a ton of effects, transitions, color grading tools, and ready-to-use opening and closing title templates, allowing you to create videos in your unique manner. Nero Video 2018 is one of the best options when compared to other similar low-cost video editing software.
• Editing in 4K is supported.
• In comparison to other similar video editing suites on the market, the price is reasonable.

Cons 

• Usability issues
• It takes patience to excel in the usage
• Other similar video editing tools, such as Filmora Video Editor or Movavi Video Editor, have a more intuitive user interface.
• During the trial time, exporting a video in 30 seconds means nothing. Purchasing the program is risky if we can’t export a finished product.
• Nero Video 2018 is only compatible with Windows.

Pricing 

The one-time purchase for Nero 9 starts at $42.95 per feature. A free version is available. A free trial of Nero 9 is available.

9. Final Cut Pro- Best Video Editor Software for newbies for Apple users

Macromedia Final Cut (codenamed “Key Grip”) was a collection of non-linear video editing software produced by a team led by Randy Ubillos of Macromedia and developed afterwards by Apple Inc.

After seeing the Final Cut project at the 1998 NAB Show, Apple’s interim CEO Steve Jobs expressed interest in it. In May 1998, they purchased Final Cut’s source code and development team. Final Cut Pro was released in April 1999. It was later included in a suite dubbed Final Cut Studio, along with other production tools.

Apple’s solution to video editing software is Final Cut Pro. The user interface is sleek and modern, the workflow is clear and simple to use. This software is great for newbies who want professional-level video editing software, it brings a wealth of power in an interface simple enough for them.

Final Cut Pro is the definitive option for many Mac users who are looking for powerful video editing software that is optimized for macOS.

Key features 

• It’s incredibly quick.
• It has a lot of editing features and capabilities.
• There are cinematic openers and transitions.
• Works flawlessly with Apple computers.
• Interfaces and layouts that are simple to use and comprehend

Cons 

• Software for Mac users only
• Large project files can often take quite some time to load.
• It was challenging for some users because of the lack of compatibility with Adobe software.
• It’s a step back to have to use Apple’s Motion for Final Cut.
• Various programs can do the same functions as Final Cut.

Pricing 

Final Cut Pro X is available via the Apple Store for a one-time charge of $299.99. If you buy a computer with software already installed or if you are a student, you can typically get a discount on this rate.

 10. FilmoraPro- Beginner-friendly editor with a much lower learning curve

After seeing the Final Cut project at the 1998 NAB Show, Apple’s interim CEO Steve Jobs expressed interest in it. In May 1998, they purchased Final Cut’s source code and development team. Final Cut Pro was released in April 1999. It was later included in a suite dubbed Final Cut Studio, along with other production tools.

With basic professional tools, you can create anything you can imagine. Fine-tune your footage with care. Raise the standard. FilmoraPro performs the job, although it might be better in terms of playback and rendering, and it lacks some panels that help to apply color and audio tweaks in Premiere go faster. However, at only $149, it is well worth the investment.

Key features 

•  There are numerous preset options available.
• Uploading media and audio is easy.
• A fantastic collection of effects, overlays, and transitions
• Options for 4K video and GIF output
• Fast trimming and editing Video

Cons 

• Several logins are required. The software switches between online and locally installed versions.
• If you don’t have a fast processor and a lot of RAM, long movies can be a little slow.
• Only a portion of the timeline can be selected and produced or exported.
• There aren’t any shortcuts to help you explore and manage the timeline more quickly.
• Some of the transitions are cartoonish.

Pricing 

The macOS and Windows versions both cost $51.99 a year or $79.99 if purchased outright (note these prices are frequently discounted).

What to look in a video editing software? 

Choosing the correct software for you and your project is the first step in improving your video editing process. They usually include all you need to make conventional video edits, but you could choose one over the others owing to its simplicity of use, digital interface, and features. Instead of choosing the latest, most advanced video editing program available, the key is to choose what works best for you and your editing style.

Here are six things to look about:

1. Budget and Pricing

Decide how much you’re willing to pay as a starting point. Free video editing software is available, but it may have poor performance, restricted file format support, a lack of significant editing tools, and other drawbacks. Higher-end software for professionals, on the other hand, might cost thousands of dollars and have numerous functions you would almost certainly never use.

2. User Interface

When selecting video editing software, it’s crucial to think about how simple it is to learn and master. The last thing you want is to spend months learning how to edit your first video after purchasing software.

To get started, look for software that includes video editing templates and auto (express) modes. Auto (express) modes allow you to quickly make videos by allowing you to input media, choose a chosen video style, and then have your video composed for you. Templates are pre-made video projects where all you have to do is replace the placeholder media with your own.

3. Multi-GPGPU Acceleration and Video Format Support

Make sure your video editing software can edit the video output from your camera before you invest in it. This is especially critical if you intend to edit video captured with the latest drone, action, or 360 cameras. Video quality and formats are continuously changing, and software can take some time to catch up.

4. Advanced Editing Tools

With advanced editing tools and features, you can take your videos to the next level. You want your program to have powerful capabilities that will amaze your viewers if you want your films to captivate them.

5. Music, special effects, and other perks

Videos with professional-looking graphics and titles, background music, and other effects are the most popular. Effects and music will either cost extra or require expensive plug-in software depending on the video editing software you choose.

If you don’t acquire video editing software that includes effects and music, you can end up with videos that lack that particular something.

6. Customer service that is second to none

You may never need to use a company’s customer service, but when you do, you want it to be responsive and helpful. Look for a company that offers a wide range of customer support services, such as phone support, product FAQs, and a forum community where you may get assistance from other customers.

What is video editing software used for?

We may need to edit a video for a variety of reasons. You may need to edit a video to delete undesirable footage or to combine clips of videos to form a complete video. A segment of a video or audio clip may need to be removed, or the clip may need to be enhanced with filters or effects. Video editing has a wide range of applications. The following are some of the most common reasons for video editing:

1. Delete or remove undesired video footage
2. Selecting the finest photos
3. Blending and establishing a seamless flow
4. For filters and effects

Conclusion

Video editing is important as it allows us to blend pictures and sounds to make us feel emotionally connected to the video we’re watching. Video editing is, without a doubt, one of the most significant tasks in the movie industry. Professional video editing may help you create an emotional masterpiece, and it can make or break your film, which is why choosing the proper video editor is just as important as choosing the appropriate camera equipment.