25 Free Video Editing Software For Beginners & Experts

These days video editing is so much more important than you can imagine. Believe it or not, you’re probably the one looking for a video tutorial to cook a meal or to laugh it off with some video clips. While it’s true that a photo can tell you something but it really can’t tell more than what you see. After all, videos are proven to facilitate and further convey a message that a photo seems to have difficulties with. It’s a sure thing that devices like DSLR, action cameras, and even smartphones come in handy to produce better quality video content. But, a free video editing software comes in as a bonus to make it even better.

Ever heard or seen a professional turn a mediocre recording into something fascinating? Or any fancy images you found on Instagram? Yes, they don’t have magic. All they used is some help with some video and photo editing software to give it a little aesthetic boost. May it be multitrack editing, advanced color grading, audio mixing, or transitions, these video editing tools are here to top up the unique characters and feelings from the raw videos.

So, whether you’re a social media influencer, professional videographer, or just a hobbyist in filming, these free video editing software programs promise to do the best of their job. We rounded up some of the best software and you really don’t have to spend much to make a career out of it.

Best Free Video Editing Software on PC

1. Magisto

It is also a platform where businesses and editors to create videos at an affordable rate with outstanding results. Users are free to enjoy unlimited footages that are available on Magisto and it ranges from real estate fitness, travel, automotive, and so on. The upshot? Magisto is packed with professional-grade video editing tools to help you craft and design the video that best suits your style. Besides, Magisto also comes with pre-defined template that is perfect for quick videos edit for your Youtube ads, social media, and so on.

However, if you’re in search of something that allows you to do split-screen editing, picture in picture, tilt-shift, slow-mo, voiceover, and more, this software is a great choice. Combining with the AI technology that helps you to analyze your footage visually, emotionally, and through the audio analysis, you’ll be surprised as to what this software is capable of. Magisto subscription comes at $4.99 per month. Though you can also opt for the free trial.

Free Trial

2. Adobe Premiere Pro

Virtually anyone who has ever dabbled in video editing knows that Adobe Premiere Pro is a top-tier software. In fact, if you are wondering what video editing software YouTubers use, most of the time, the answer is Adobe Premiere Pro. Apart from online content-makers, film and TV vets use Premiere Pro as well. If you want to up your video editing skills, give this one a shot.

Some of its features include the ability to edit clips in any format, including 8K and virtual reality, seamless integration with other Adobe software. If you want something quick and easy-to-use, this software certainly won’t disappoint. Adobe Premiere Pro is available on Mac, Linux, and Windows. And while it is not exactly a free video editing software, it still deserves a spot on this list.

You can try out Adobe Premiere Pro for free for seven days. After that, you need to pay a monthly subscription price of $20.99.

Download Free Trial

3. Adobe Premiere Rush

Another Adobe software on the list, Premiere Rush is designed for use on both a computer and a mobile device. It is very easy to use, which makes it a great choice for beginners. In fact, it is one of the easiest video editing software in Adobe’s lineup.

Using Rush, you can add transitions, auto-correct color, and add music to your clips. You can even add your own music if you wish. Otherwise, use the ones that were already included in Adobe’s library. If you want to share your video after editing, Rush integrates seamlessly with socials as well.

One of the reasons why Rush is easy to use is because of its Automatic mode, which takes away much of the editing work from you. Adobe edits your clips for you. The software selects transitions and even uses its video trimmer to shorten your footage automatically. Of course, you can also use the Freeform mode, which gives you full editing control.

Adobe Premiere Rush starts at $9.99 per month. The mobile app version of the software, though, is free to download. However, it also comes with some in-app purchases that are totally optional.

Download Free Trial

4. Avidemux

If you want a clutter-free and simple interface, Avidemux is the free video editing software for you. This software works great for beginners, as it takes away much of the complicated tools. Yet, it still manages to deliver everything you need in a simple video editing software. Its functionalities include video trimming, encoding, and filtering. However, the downside is its lack of complex features might make it immediately obsolete if you upgrade your skills quickly.

Perhaps the best part about Avidemux is that it is totally free. That means you do not have to worry about enterprise costs or individual subscriptions. You can download Avidemux as a free video editing software on Mac, Linux, or Windows.

Download on Mac
Download on Windows

5. Blender Video Editing Software

What is a good video editing software that is also completely free at the same time? Blender. Many editors have given Blender rave reviews for its fully customizable interface, an extensive collection of visual effects, a large variety of animation features, and a comprehensive modeling toolset. 

If you want a video editing software that works for 3D clips, this is it. Blender supports all 3D functionalities, including rigging, simulation, rendering, modeling, compositing, and motion tracking. Additionally, it also offers video editing and 2D animation capabilities. If you are big on animations, Blender is the free video editing software for you.

Blender is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux.

Download on Desktop

6. DaVinci Resolve

If you are used to working on a project with other people, DaVinci Resolve is your best bet. Its shining feature is its multi-user collaboration capabilities. This means you and other editors can work on the same project simultaneously, allowing you to save time and get things done quicker.

With DaVinci Resolve, you have access to professional 8K editing, blend modes, visual effects, color correction and grades, transformations, and audio post-production. The built-in Neural Engine feature allows the software to detect faces in your videos. Furthermore, if you have shaky footage, you can easily stabilize it with various controls on the edit page.

You can download DaVinci Resolve on your Windows, Mac, or Linux computer. It has a free version, which does come with limitations but gives you decent mobility. If you want the extended version, you will need to pay $269.

Download on Mac
Download on Windows

7. Final Cut Pro

Arguably one of the most well-known video editing software in the industry today, Final Cut Pro is widely touted as the best. Whether you are a beginner or an expert in video editing, you will find the functionalities this tool offers to be extensive and comprehensive.

Final Cut Pro allows you to edit complicated works. It gives you access to higher frame rates and larger frame sizes, too. If you want a substantial library of special effects, Final Cut Pro delivers on that front as well. Other features include advanced color grading, 360° video editing, HDR support, VR headset playback, advanced Multicam editing, ProRes RAW, and noise reduction tools.

Unfortunately, Windows and Linux users will not be able to experience Final Cut Pro, as it is only available on Mac. If you hesitate to use it because you do not know if it will be a good fit for you, do not worry. Final Cut Pro offers a 90-day free trial. For continued use after that, you will need to pay $299.99.

Download Free Trial

8. Freemake Video Converter

If you need a simple and free video editing software without all the bells and whistles, check out Freemake Video Converter. With this tool, you can easily convert and alter videos, extract audio clips from them, and even embed videos to webpages. It can work with over 500 video file formats and supports 4K resolution, too. Other than that, you can use Freemake Video Converter to rotate, trim, or join video clips. 

Freemake Video Converter is perfect for beginners for its straightforward functionalities. You can download the software for free on Windows. Some features are inaccessible for the first three days. However, after that, you can unlock them and use the full software, no holds barred.

Download on Windows

9. HitFilm Express

Learning the ropes of film editing can be a rollercoaster, but HitFilm Express makes it seem like a smooth train ride. This free video editing software not only comes with tools but also gives you access to various tutorials based on many popular Hollywood films. Some of its video editing features include advanced cutting tools, audio, and video filters, 3D video support, layers and masking, compositing tools, and even keying for green screen effects.

HitFilm Express packs a whole lot of functions in one free package. There is a paid version, too, which comes with extra features and a wider collection of effects. However, the free version is enough for most people, especially beginners. In fact, it already offers more than 180 special effects to choose from. The only price you need to pay to download HitFilm Express for free is to share a status update on your social media page — a fair and easy trade.

Download

10. iMovie

Mac users looking for something a little simpler than Final Cut Pro can make use of iMovie, a built-in video editing software on macOS devices. iMovie is perfect for beginners because its user interface is both intuitive and minimalistic. With this free video editing software, you can just drag and drop clips for editing. Some tools you can use include pre-made transitions, video trimming, split-screen, and audio editing. iMovie also supports 4K resolution footage.

Primarily a Mac software, iMovie does not come with Windows support. Apple has yet to announce any intention to make iMovie for Windows at this time.

Download on Mac
Download on iOS

11. InVideo

If you want an online video editor like Clipchamp but with more comprehensive tools, try using InVideo. This free video editing software gives you a full range of features, such as video stabilization, video templates, audio tools, text overlay, speed adjustment, and split/merge capabilities. It also supports HD resolution and team collaboration.

InVideo has a free version, which, of course, comes with its fair share of limitations. However, you can gain access to its complete set of functionalities by paying a monthly subscription of $29. You can also get a free trial first to test out the waters before committing to a purchase.

Use Online

12. Lightworks

An equally formidable free video editing software, Lightworks packs some great features. This includes Multicam support, export to 720p for YouTube, high-precision video trimming, and support for various video formats. It is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux.

You can download Lightworks for free, and most of its functionalities also come with the free version. Beginners will find the free version to have everything they need. However, if you want something a little more advanced, you may need to pay $25 a month to get full access to its unlimited potential. This includes 4K video support for both Vimeo and YouTube.

Download on Windows
Download on Mac

13. Media Composer

With Media Composer, beginners and experts alike can easily cut and join together clips from a collection. You can also directly access footage from your camera or mobile device. Media Composer is a free video editing software that offers powerful tools but is, at the same time, fairly simple to use. With this software, you can quickly add visual effects and transitions. You can also adjust the audio to your liking before sharing it straight to YouTube or Vimeo.

Media Composer is compatible with both Mac and Windows. The free version of this software comes with limitations, while the paid version gives you unbarred access. You can choose from a number of subscriptions, the cheapest option being $19.99 a month for a one-year subscription.

Download

14. Movie Maker 10

A lot of free video editing software nowadays offer complicated tools for advanced editors. However, if you are looking for something that is easier to use, Movie Maker 10 is a good option. This software for Windows lets you do the basics with none of the confusion. You can add text, music, and effects with relative ease. Additionally, Movie Maker 10 also supports a number of different formats. This tool is perfect for those who are just looking to create or edit short videos.

Movie Maker 10 is absolutely free, which means you do not have to worry about ads or limitations hindering your use. 

Download

15. OpenShot Video Editor

OpenShot is an open-source video editing software that lets you make alterations to your clips with no fuss. It offers a wide range of tools, such as trimming and animation, built-in audio editors, keyframe animation framework, and drag-and-drop support. Moreover, the simple user interface makes it easy for you to navigate through the software. To top it all off, OpenShot is completely free to use on Windows, Mac, and Linux. If you want a beginner-friendly free video editing software, OpenShot is the one for you.

Download on Mac
Download on Windows

16. Shotcut

Another great video editing software you can use is Shotcut. With this open-source, cross-platform tool, you can use several audio and video filters as well as effects. You can import your files directly to the editing screen, which is different compared to other software that requires you to load it to your library first. Beyond that, Shotcut is one of the few free video editing software that supports 4K resolution in addition to other formats.

You can download Shotcut free of charge on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It requires no paid subscription to use, which is good news for those who are on a budget or just starting out.

Download on Mac
Download on Windows

17. VideoPad

Expert video editors who are looking for a free video editing software can benefit from VideoPad. With this software, you can edit and create videos with no hassle. Its functionalities include 360° camera editing and output, tons of video effects and transitions, and several exporting preset. It also supports plenty of video formats and languages, including English, French, German, Korean, Italian, Chinese, Russian, and Spanish.

While VideoPad has some great features for veteran editors, that does not mean beginners cannot use it. In fact, it has a simple and easy enough interface that amateurs will not find confusing. VideoPad is free to use and is compatible with Windows.

Download on Windows

18. VSDC Free Video Editor

Perhaps you have heard of VSDC, a free video editing software that offers 3D diagram templates and 4K resolution support. This software also features video stabilization tools, color-correction tools, and even a complete tutorial for beginner editors. No matter your skill level, VSDC is a great video editing software that will get the job done.

While there is a free version of VSDC, you will receive access to more features if you get the paid version. This will cost you $19.99. That is not to say, however, that the free version is not enough. For most people, especially amateurs, the free version offers sufficient support and tools.

Download on Windows

19. WeVideo

WeVideo is a free video editing software that allows you to publish up to five minutes’ worth of video content every month. It also gives you a cloud storage space of 1 GB and 480p resolution support. With this, you can edit videos and choose from over 125,000 music assets to add. Aside from being compatible with computers, WeVideo is also available on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. 

As you can see, the free version has its limits. If you want unbridled access to WeVideo, you need to pay a monthly subscription, which starts at $4.99 per month billed annually. The business plan is, by far, their most expensive. It costs $29.99 per month, also billed annually.

Use Online

20. PowerDirector 18

If you want a beginner-friendly yet exhaustive video editing tool, look no further than PowerDirector. The app also comes with an easy-to-navigate interface perfect for the amateur filmmaker. Thanks to its easy workflow, you can work through and organize tracks without hassle.

CyberLink, the developers of PowerDirector, updates the software frequently for more innovative features. In this update, you get a multitude of templates from their media library. This includes the “square” template that we often see on Twitter or Instagram videos. Additionally, you can subscribe to PowerDirector Ultimate for an annual fee of $70. With Ultimate, you get a much wider scope of features at your disposal.

Download for Windows

21. Wondershare Filmora

If you are familiar with FilmoraGo, then you can easily adapt to using Wondershare Filmora. It allows you to create videos of whatever length. Plus, you can share your creations directly to your social media pages. It has a clean user interface that you can easily navigate through as well.

While you have to pay for the full version, it is much more affordable than many flagship video editing tools. The app even comes with a dark mode function that you can customize. Also, you get a lot of audio editing capabilities. You can remove background noise quick as a flash. All in all, it is a powerful video-editing tool that you don’t want to miss.

Download Free Trial

22. Adobe After Effects CC

With Adobe being an industry-grade brand, it’s no wonder it has so many creative tools. With Adobe After Effects, you have an amazing platform to tinker with post-production edits.

You also have access to Adobe Creative Cloud’s media library as well. The software comes with a multitude of features for animators and compositors alike. There is a Pixel Motion Blur, 3D Camera Tracker, and more for easy rendering. While the AfterEffects doesn’t come with built-in support for 3D compositing, you can link it to third party apps like Cinema 4D. You will have to pay for the full version, but it’s definitely a worthy investment.

Download Free Trial

23. VivaVideo

VivaVideo is the perfect app to get you started on video editing. It has a very intuitive layout that will be easy to navigate and use. Aside from any basic editing features, VivaVideo has several features to help you achieve professional-looking videos.

With VivaVideo, you can use any of its stored editing templates for fast editing. It also comes with a ton of great filters that you can layer over video in a snap. This is a great alternative for when you don’t want to spend too much time fine-tuning color correction. You can upgrade to VivaVideo VIP to remove the watermark, and get access to more features. While technically a mobile app, you can use an emulator to use VivaVideo on any of your desktop devices.

Download for Desktop

24. Corel VideoStudio Pro X7

To date, Corel VideoStudio Pro X7 is the only software that supports 360-VR video editing. And this is only the cherry on top of its impressive tools selection. You also have Corel to thank for pioneering the first motion tracking editing feature found on many software today. This means that you can layer another image or video on to the existing video. For example, if you want to put pixelated sunglasses on one of the video characters. Memelords, you’re welcome.

As a result, VideoStudio has much more refined motion tracking capabilities than mainstay competitors. And it has only gotten better over time. It also comes with a sleek and minimalist interface that won’t distract you from video editing.

Download Free Trial

25.  Lumen5

If you want a quick and easy video editing tool for marketing campaigns, look no further. With Lumen5, you can edit videos in a snap just on your browser. The best part? You don’t need to download any software that will only take up space in your disk drives.

Lumen5 has many templates available for social media. With its Instant Videos feature, you can simply apply any template without lifting a finger. It also comes with a vast media library of royalty-free stock videos, photos and more. This is definitely a video editing tool you should add to your repertoire.

Use Online

Upgrade Your Video Editing Skills

These are the best free video editing software programs you can get today. No matter your skill level or interest in video editing, you will surely find one that suits your taste. While not all of them are totally free for an indefinite amount of time, you can give them a shot through various free trials. If you find what you are looking for, then you can commit to a purchase. With these tools, you can hone your skills and become the best video editor you can be!