There is a Quik app for editing on your phone, and there’s a Quik app for Mac and PC as well. I went over the Quik app back in video #25 of this GoPro Series, but you should know that Quik is totally free and it’s kind of an all-in-one “hub” where you can import footage from your GoPro to your computer, update your camera’s firmware. If this fails, GoPro has a help page: Video Fails to Import into GoPro Studio. Advanced editing The premier PC video editing software is Adobe Premier Pro, which runs on both Macs and Windows PCs.
Trying to sort out GoPro editing software? You're in the right place! While GoPro makes it easy to shoot video, it takes the right software to edit all those clips into something useable and shareable. Learn about the best GoPro video editors for Windows and Mac (and Linux).
In this post, you'll learn about your options for great GoPro editing software. I'll cover both free and premium programs – for both Windows and Mac. The list includes the best options for editing your GoPro video – according to user ratings and sales volume.
And while these all come well-rated, some just don't work for me. I cover it all in this post. Not interested in premium software? No worries. Here are the best free GoPro editing software.
GoPro Editing Software: Winners
Before we get into all the details, here are the programs that you should check out:
- Quik Desktop(Free) Best Free GoPro Software Here's why: Quik Desktop was made for their footage. It comes with some great presets and it's easy to combine clips, speed up / slow down footage, and render for a variety of platforms (including YouTube, Vimeo, UHD 4K or custom). It's free and has decent tutorials.
- Magix Movie Edit Pro ($70) Best Consumer GoPro SoftwareHere's why: For just seventy bucks, you get 1500+ effects / templates, 32 editing tracks, and motion tracking. I like this program – and it comes highly recommended and has a solid feature set. Check out our tutorial about creating video with Movie Edit Pro.
- Adobe Premiere Pro ($20.99/month) Best Premium GoPro SoftwareHere's why: If you are going to make your living with video editing, you should choose Premiere Pro by Adobe. This is the best, cross-platform (Mac and Windows) premium video editor.
9 GoPro Video Editing Apps
Before we get into the full set of programs, there are also a few mobile apps for editing GoPro video. Many of these integrate with the full programs below.
- Splice(iOS) Free. Acquired by GoPro in 2016, this app is highly rated. It edits videos and makes short movies. Available on iPhone and iPad.
- GoPro AppFree. (iOS and Android) Also acquired in 2016, Replay Video Editor (iOS) was relaunched as GoPro App on Android devices.
- PowerDirector by CyberLink(Android) Free. Multiple track timeline, free video effects, slo-mo and reverse video. Output at 4K. Highly rated.
- iMovie(iOS) Free This is a lightweight and easy to use video editor. Just copy your video clips to your iPhone or iPad and get started.
- Antix(Android) Free. Quickly create videos (cut, add music, filters, effects) and easily save and share.
- FilmoraGo(iOS and Android) Free. Offers a nice set of templates and filters. Well rated on Google Play – not so much on the AppStore.
- Corel Pinnacle Studio Pro(iOS) $17.99 Available, but not well rated.
- Magix Movie Edit Touch(Windows)Free. Cut, arrange, add music, and output your clips right on your Windows device.
- Adobe Premiere Clip(iOS and Android) Free. This is the mobile version of the best video editing software. And while it is available on both platforms, it isn't well rated on iOS – it is probably skipping this on Apple devices. But if you have an Android phone or tablet, this is a great option for you. Projects can be easily opened in the desktop version (Adobe Premiere Pro CC) to continue editing.
13 GoPro Editing Software Options
Okay, with the editing apps out of the way, let's get started! Here are the GoPro editing software options that I'll cover in this post.
- Quik Desktop by GoPro (Free) Windows and Mac Get your free copy here.
- iMovie for Mac (Free) Mac OS Get your free copy here.
- Magix Movie Edit Pro ($69.99) Windows with Android App Learn more here.
- Cyberlink PowerDirector Ultra 17 ($100) Windows Learn more here.
- Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018 ($100) Windows Learn more here.
- Corel Pinnacle Studio 22 ($59.99) Windows with iOS App Learn more here.
- Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 15 ($79.95) Windows Learn more here.
- Vegas Pro 16 Suite ($399.99) Mac OS and Windows Learn more here.
- Adobe Premiere Elements 2019 ($99.99) Windows and Mac Learn more here.
- Adobe Premiere Pro ($20.99 / month) Mac OS and Windows Learn more here.
- Final Cut Pro ($399.99) Mac OS X Learn more here.
- Animoto (Free trial, Online subscription $13-39/month, Apps start at $5) Online video editor with iOS / Android apps and Lightroom plugin Learn more here.
- Davinci Resolve 15 / Studio (Free / $299) Windows, Mac and Linux This is definitely an advanced editor, and the only one on the list to run one all three platforms. Learn about the free and premium versions.
Honorable mentions: Blender Editor(Free) While this goes waaaay beyond a basic video editor, I feel my list wouldn't be complete without it. This is a complex open source 3D creation program. If you're interested to develop your video skills, this is a great program to play with. Plus, it's free!
While most of the programs on the list are great, a few of the options might be better to avoid.
- Animoto:Disappointing upload limit. While I was initially excited about this app, when I realized their 400MB upload limit, I quickly fell out of love. While many of your video clips will be less than 1 minute 47 seconds, how will you edit all your 2 minute+ clips? Not with Animoto.
- Windows Movie Maker: Has begun it's slow death. This is a solid free option – but because it is no longer supported in Windows 10, you can do better. If you're going to learn a new piece of software, choose one that will be around for a while.
Only a few players… The options in this list are dominated by a few companies. Apple, Adobe, Corel, and BlackMagic Design all have two programs each. Magix has three programs – now with their acquisition of the Vegas line from Sony. In addition to the above video-focused options. you can also edit video with Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom.
Here's what I'm using: I use Quik and Sony Movie Studio. I have used Adobe Premiere Pro but found it to be too complex for my needs. I also use Camtasia occasionally.
Note: I have not tested the majority of the programs in this list. Over the coming months, I plan to review some of my favorite options (Magix, Cyberlink, and Corel). I'll be publishing detailed reviews of each of these.
1. Quik Desktop (Free) Windows and Mac
This is solid video editing software – especially for being free. It does take a little getting used to – but once you have it, it's super easy to output great video edits.
Quik is aptly named – as you can quickly create awesome videos from your footage (and synced to music). Automatically import your photos and footage and then share the best ones.
- Video formats handled: mp4 and .mov. Supports only GoPro video footage and photos. This means you can't use Quik to output footage from your other cameras.
- Video resolution handled: From the super basic WVGA up to the huge 4K video. Editing 4K video requires more video RAM: Under 4K resolution, you will require a minimum of 512 MB RAM (more is always better). For 4K video playback, you will need a minimum of 1GB RAM on your video card.
- Motion tracking: No
- Additional features: Auto import your GoPro media, and update your GoPro camera firmware (Supported models include: HERO, HERO+, HERO+LCD, HERO3+: Silver Edition, HERO3+: Black Edition, HERO4 Session, HERO4: Silver Edition, HERO4: Black Edition, HERO5 Session, HERO5 Black). Use Gauges in Quik to show your GPS path, speed, elevation gain with overlaid gauges and graphs.
- Where to get it:gopro.com
- Price: Free
2. iMovie for Mac (Free) iOS
This is great software for Mac users.
In addition to footage captured with the iPhone and iPad, it also edits 4K video from GoPro, and lots of cameras like GoPro (including DJI, Sony, Panasonic and Leica).
Similar to GoPro Studio's templates, iMovie provides 15 movie themes that include titles and transitions. Download music from youtube onto mac. This will speed up your editing process and give it a professional (or playful) feel.
- Video formats handled: AVCHD / MPEG-4
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K.
- Motion tracking: Not automatically. Here is a way to manually keyframe your video.
- Additional features: The ability to begin editing on your iPhone (iMovie for iOS) and complete the edit on your Mac is pretty nice.
- Where to get it:Apple.com
- Price: Free
3. Magix Movie Edit Pro ($70) Windows w/ Android App
This is a dynamic piece of software. Its feature list reads more like a premium program – than one that costs just $70.
It comes with 1500+ templates (effects, menus, and sounds) for fast, professional videos. They have a great set of short, video tutorials.
It has 32 multimedia tracks. This is significant when compared to other base models that have just a couple. I can't image a video edit that will require more than 32 tracks.
Both Dena and I own and use this program. It is simple to use, feature-rich, and just $70. Watch for a full review in the coming months.
- Video formats handled: In addition to GoPro's MP4 format, it also handles (DV-)AVI, HEVC/H.265, M(2)TS/AVCHD, MJPEG, MKV, MOV, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MXV, VOB, WMV(HD)
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K / Ultra HD
- Motion tracking: Their object tracking allows text titles to be pinned to moving objects, and pixelate license plates and people's faces (for privacy).
- Additional features: 1500+ templates, additional app on Android and Windows tablets.
- Where to buy:Magix.com
- Price: USD$69.99 (Available via instant download)
Get your copy of Magix Movie Edit Pro
4. Cyberlink PowerDirector Ultra 17 Windows
Although I still haven't used CyberLink, I like the looks of this software. Hundreds of our readers have opted to use PowerDirector to edit their GoPro footage. It was made with action cameras in mind.
It can edit up to 100 media tracks simultaneously. And it has a powerful MultiCam Designer feature that allows switching between 4 simultaneous camera shots. Footage can be synced by audio, timecode or time taken.
It has one-click color correction, customizable design tools (transition designer, title and subtitle designs) and has integrated video collages. It can also edit footage from a 360º camera – like the GoPro Fusion.
PowerDirector is a 10-Time Editors' choice and rated 4.5 out of 5 by PCMag.com.
“PowerDirector continues to lead the way among consumer video editing software. The latest version's Precut, Nested Projects, and advanced titling features bring it closer to the professional level.” PCMag, US, 09/2018
- Video formats handled:
- H.265/HEVC
- MOD
- MVC (MTS)
- MOV
- Side-by-Side Video
- MOV (H.264)
- Top-under Video
- MPEG-1
- Dual-Stream AVI
- MPEG-2
- FLV (H.264)
- MPEG-4 AVC (H.264)
- MKV (multiple audio streams)
- MP4 (XAVC S)
- 3GPP2
- TOD
- AVCHD (M2T, MTS)
- VOB
- AVI
- VRO
- DAT
- WMV
- DivX*
- WMV-HD
- DV-AVI
- WTV in H.264/MPEG2 (multiple video and audio streams)
- DVR-MS
- DSLR video clip in H.264 format with LPCM/AAC/ Dolby Digital audio
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K
- Motion tracking: Yes. I haven't used it yet, but the tutorial video makes it look very easy.
- Additional features: With 30 animated theme templates, you only need to drag-and-drop your footage to create great videos.
Watch on YouTube
Where to buy PowerDirector Ultra:CyberLink | Amazon
5. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018 Windows
https://memepotent.weebly.com/tuxera-software-free-download-for-mac.html. It's been more than 12 years since I used a Corel product – but this video editor has caught my attention.
This version comes with multi-camera editor – editing up to six different cameras in one project. The less expensive Pro version will edit footage from up to four cameras in the same project.
There are presets for beginners (FastFlick and Instant Projects) and advanced settings (stabilization, motion effects, and color correction). Edit up to 21 video tracks and 8 audio tracks in each project.
Check this out on Corel.com and Amazon
- Video formats handled: XAVC, HEVC (H.265), MP4-AVC/H.264, MKV, and MOV.
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K, and even 360 video.
- Motion tracking: Yes. You can track up to four points at a time in your video. Easily obscure logos, faces or license plates, or add moving text and graphics.
- Additional features: Create time lapse, stop motion and screen capture video as well.
Corel makes another video editing program called Roxio Studio. Scansnap download mac wifi setup. While it can edit footage, this is primarily for DVD authoring.
6. Corel Pinnacle Studio 22 Ultimate Windows
This is a popular choice. Corel also makes a supporting premium app for iOS (Basic $3.99 and Professional $17.99).
The desktop version comes in three levels (Standard, Plus, and Ultimate). The details in this profile are based on the entry level version. Some advanced features (4K editing, motion tracking, effects) are only available in either Plus or Ultimate versions.
See current price on Pinnacle and on Amazon
The basic version comes with 1500+ transitions, titles, templates and 2D/3D effects. The entry-level Standard version appears to be too stripped down to compete against some of the other options included in this list.
Video formats handled:[Import] MVC, AVCHD, DV, HDV, AVI, MPEG-1/-2/-4, DivX, Flash, 3GP (MPEG-4, H.263), WMV, QuickTime (DV, MJPEG, MPEG-4, H.264), DivX Plus MKV. [Export] AVCHD, DVD, Apple, Sony, Nintendo, Xbox, DV, HDV, AVI, DivX, WMV, MPEG-1/-2/-4, Flash, 3GP, WAV, MP2, MP3, MP4, QuickTime, H.264, DivX Plus MKV, JPEG, TIF, TGA, BMP, Dolby Digital 2-channel- Video resolution handled: 1080 HD Video. For 4K Ultra HD, you'll need to buy the more robust Pinnacle Studio 19 Ultimate.
- Motion tracking: Not available in the Standard version. Both Plus and Ultimate versions offer this feature.
- Additional features: All versions offer multi-camera editing [Standard (2), Plus (4), and Ultimate (4)]. The standard version comes with a 6-track editing timeline and lots of presets great for beginners.
7. Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 15 ($79.95) Windows
This consumer level software has a number of user-friendly features. For example, with Direct upload you can upload your video to YouTube or Facebook directly from the application.
The instant Color Match feature will make two different scenes appear as though they were shot on the same day, at the same time, and with the same filter.
The basic (Platinum) version comes with 10 audio and 10 video tracks – perfect for 99% of all video edits. It also comes equipped with 350+ video effects and 200+ video transitions.
Where to buy Vegas Movie Studio: Direct from Magix or Amazon
I've been using Vegas Movie Studio for many years and it is super powerful. The basic version is a great upgrade from Quik Desktop. As you need more function, you can easily upgrade within the Sony line. There are three more editions (Suite, Vegas Pro Edit, and Vegas Pro) each with increasing power and features.
- Video formats handled: AAC, AA3, AIFF, AVI, BMP, CDA, FLAC, GIF, JPEG, MP3, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MVC, OGG, OMA, PCA, PNG, QuickTime®, SND, SFA, W64, WAV, WDP, WMA, WMV, XAVC S.
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K.
- Motion tracking: Yes.
- Additional features: Color match, image stabilization, easy slideshow creation and color correction all help create solid videos – in less time.
- Price: USD$79.95
8. Vegas Pro 16 Suite ($399.95) Mac OS X and Windows
Catalyst focuses on fast production of 4K, RAW and HD video. Set-up specifically for action camera footage (including GoPro, Sony, Canon, etc). It is touch and gesture enabled and works on both Mac OS and Windows.
Catalyst Production Suite includes both Prepare and Edit modules. It also comes with a free trial.
This is powerful, flexible software with a price to match.
- Video formats handled: Sony RAW 4K, Sony RAW 2K, XAVC Long, XAVC Intra, XAVC S, XDCAM 422, XDCAM SR (SStP), DNxHD, ProRes (OS X), AVC H.264/MPEG-4, AVCHD, HDV, DV, XDCAM MPEG IMX, JPEG, PNG, WAV, and MP3.
- Video resolution handled: 4K
- Motion tracking: Not noted.
- Additional features: Get Catalyst Browse (the clip-management too) for free. This is a great way to give it a try and see if you like the navigation and feel the software.
- Where to buy:Magix or Amazon
- Price: USD$399.95
9. Adobe Premiere Elements 2019 Windows and Mac
This is a stripped-down, basic version of Adobe Premiere Pro (see #10 below). While I'm a huge fan of Photoshop, Bridge, and Illustrator – I don't care for Adobe's video editing tools. A few years ago I reviewed Premiere Pro (I still have CS6 version installed) and found it overwhelmingly complicated.
It's not that they don't make a good product. Their quality is solid. I just feel that with all the intuitive video editing software available, I'm not eager to invest the time to learn the complicated menu structure. I'll be reviewing this in the coming months and my opinion may change.
Adobe is good at organizing media. Premiere Elements allows you to order, label, find and view your videos and photos.
- Video formats handled: In addition to GoPro's MP4 format, it also handles Adobe Flash (.swf), AVI Movie (.avi), AVCHD (.m2ts, .mts, .m2t), DV Stream (.dv), MPEG Movie (.mpeg, .vob, .mod, .ac3, .mpe, .mpg, .mpd, .m2v, .mpa, .mp2, .m2a, .mpv, .m2p, .m2t, .m1v, .mp4, .m4v, .m4a, .aac, 3gp, .avc, .264), QuickTime Movie (.mov, .3gp, .3g2, .mp4, .m4a, .m4v), TOD (.tod), Windows Media (.wmv, .asf).
- Video resolution handled: Up to 4K.
- Motion tracking: Not noted.
- Additional features: Animated titles, powerful color correction, image stabilization, and easy speed-up / slow-down video controls.
10. Adobe Premiere Pro ($19.99 / month) Mac OS and Windows
This is the full, pro version of Adobe Premiere Elements.
It can do all you want – and about 100x more. While the depth of features makes it powerful – it's also what makes it a poor choice for most content creators.
Ready to make a Hollywood blockbuster? Many major motion pictures (including Avatar, Hail Caesar!, and The Social Network) were all cut on Adobe Premiere.
Unless you have many days (to learn the basics) or many weeks (to become proficient) this isn't the best choice for the average GoPro user. While this is amazing software, it is best suited for the super complex production – or someone with lots of free time on their hands.
- Video formats handled: Everything.
- Video resolution handled: Everything the GoPro camera can produce – and then some.
- Motion tracking: Yes
- Additional features: The list is long. See all the features here.
- Where to buy:Adobe
- Price: USD$20.99 / month, subscription.
11. Final Cut Pro ($399.99) Mac OS X
This Mac-only software will output some incredible edits.
While I have yet to test this program, I expect it to be similar to Adobe Premiere Pro: both powerful and complicated.
More than 40 major motion pictures have been cut on Final Cut Pro including John Carter, Focus, and X-Men Origins.
Unless video editing is your living, there are probably better options.
- Video formats handled: Everything. I couldn't find an excluded format.
- Video resolution handled: Everything GoPro does and more.
- Motion tracking: Yes
- Additional Features: Color grading, masks, 3D titles, and custom effect presets.
- Where to buy:Apple.com
- Price: USD$399.99
12. Animoto ($13-39/month) Online video editor with iOS / Android apps and Lightroom plugin
This is the only web-based video editor in the list. Their combination web-based editor and iOS/Android apps make this an attractive choice.
Because it is web-based, you don't download any software. Just log in and start using.
This subscription-based software as a service (SaaS) program is great for a few reasons. You don't have to worry about the cost of upgrading (time and money) when the new version comes out. And you get to use their computing power to render your videos.
Generally speaking, a SaaS video editor should be much more stable (and fast) than software installed on an older home computer.
Something I discovered inside of their help section is that they limit video uploads to just 400MB. While this sounds like a lot, it doesn't take long to reach 400MB. For example, the Hero4 Black shooting 1080p at 30fps generates 3.75MB of data per second (3.75MBps or 30Mbps). On a side note, here's the difference between MBps and Mbps and here's a megabyte / megabit converter. Also, here's a chart that shows the GoPro video sizes (Mbps) by video resolution and frame rate. That means that you'll reach your Animoto limit in 107 seconds (or 1 minute 47 seconds) of average video. Switch to 4K resolution and you'll reach your limit in just 53 seconds.
- Video formats handled: MP4, AVI, MOV, QT, 3GP, M4V, MPG, MPEG, MP4V, H264, WMV, MPG4, MOVIE, M4U, FLV, DV, MKV, MJPEG, OGV, MTS, and MVI. Video clip uploads are limited to 400MB.
- Video resolution handled: Resolutions vary. 720p (personal plan), 1080p (professional and business plans).
- Motion tracking: Not noted.
- Additional features: I like the web-based editing with the option for iOS and Android apps. Just watch the upload limit to make sure you'll be able to edit all your footage.
- Where to buy:Animoto.com
- Price: Varies from $8 to $34 per month, when purchased on an annual plan. The mobile apps are less and start at $5. Their web-based editor comes with a free 14-day trial to get started.
13. Davinci Resolve 15 / Studio (Free / $299) Windows, Mac, Linux
If you want to produce Hollywood-quality films (or at least have full creative control) then this Davinci Resolve should be at the top of your list.
This is the only professional video editor that runs on all popular platforms: Windows, Mac, and Linux.
And this is the first video editor to combine professional online / offline editing, color correction, audio post production, and visual effects in one tool.
Download the free version or purchase the full version (Davinci Resolve 15 Studio)
“DaVinci Resolve 15 is the standard for high end post production and is used for finishing more Hollywood feature films, episodic television programing and TV commercials than any other software.” ~ blackmagicdesign.com
Fusion Effects include: vector paint, rotoscoping (isolate objects to quickly draw and animate custom shapes), 3D particle systems, powerful keying (Delta, Ultra, Chroma, and Luna), true 3D compositing, and tracking and stabilization.
- Video formats handled: Hundreds of formats (at least 10 pages). It is unlikely that you'll have a format that isn't handled by DaVinci Resolve.
- Video resolution handled: All resolutions.
- Motion tracking: Yes
- Additional features: Advanced trimming, multicam editing, speed effects, timeline curve editor, transitions and effects. Also color correction, Fairlight audio, and multi user collaboration.
- Where to get it: Download the free version or purchase the full Studio version
- Price: Free / $299
Curious about which camera to get? Here's how to choose the best 4K video camera.
Your Turn
There you have it. The best options for GoPro editing software. Check out my 3 favorite GoPro editing software options: free, consumer, and premium.
Have I missed one? What's your question about editing GoPro videos? Please share it below!
Editing a video in 2018 can’t get easier, with the latest technology and the new super duper video capturing devices like Action Cameras, DSLR etc. the quality of videos we make has gone far better. Still, you should always edit a video if you want to impress someone. And if you are looking to become a professional video editor, then starting out with following tools will make the process quick and easy. In this article, you will find twenty-seven best video editing software (free and paid) that let you edit videos with the help of your computer.
Do check the section of frequently asked questions at the bottom of this page and find out the common queries and I hope this article will provide you with ample information about video editing.
See Also –Video Editing Apps for iPhone & Android
Another thing to note before moving into the list of software is understanding your needs and wants. If you plan to make simple videos, then there are plenty of free video editing software and you don’t need to buy anything for it. But if you plan to earn from your videos from platforms like YouTube, then you should buy video editing software that fulfils your needs.
You get all sort of different options in the software below, so just go through each of them and decide what software you would require as per your plans and wants. You don’t have to pay a higher cost if you are not planning to make it that big. The software in the list are very renowned and being used by millions of users. So, take a cup of coffee and go through everything we have in this article.
1. CyberLink PowerDirector 16 Ultra
(Best video editing software for Windows) | Price: $72.99
It’s an easy-to-use home video editing software with 500+ editing tools and effects. PowerDirector is one of the fastest and most advanced consumer-level video editing software for PC (Windows) and it also has 360-degree video editor for the VR Footage
You will be able to create amazing videos in minutes! It has creation modes that ensure you spend less time learning and more time creating.
Effects like – Transition, Animated titles, PiP objects, Particle Effects, Color presets and much more are present to help make your videos quickly and easily.
Supported formats and codecs include MOV, MKV, H.264, FLAC and many more. PowerDirector 15 has significantly improved video performance when working with the popular WMV format, as well as adding FLAC audio editing support.
Read – CyberLink PowerDirector 16 Ultra Review
2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC
(Best overall performance and compatibility, Price: $19.99 per month or $239.88 yearly)
Platform: Mac, Windows
Adobe Premiere is the most sophisticated, user-friendly and feature-rich video editor that is also cross-platform, and it has a huge number of output format choices for your convenience.
All the things you need every day are covered with new features like audio remix, haze removal, video collage, enhanced face detection and adjustment layers focus. For Windows 10 users you also get the touch-friendly interface that is complemented with the good old Organizer app to keep photo, videos etc. in a more searchable organized fashion.
Adobe’s Premiere Pro CC enables you to make visually stunning videos from virtually anywhere.
With the industry-leading video production toolset, you can work across desktop and devices to edit virtually any media in its native format and create professional productions with brilliant color for film, TV, and web. What is a good photo editor for mac.
The new version CC is the most powerful Premiere Pro yet. Premiere Pro is part of Creative Cloud, and it comes with Adobe CreativeSync, so your assets are always at your fingertips right when you need them.
CreativeSync powers your Libraries, and it connects your mobile and desktop apps to get your files wherever you need. And read my detailed review and why I consider this as the best video editing software in 2017.
Read – Adobe Premiere Pro CC Review
3. Final Cut Pro
(Best video editing software for Mac, Price: $299.99)
Supported platforms: Mac only
FCP or Final Cut Pro is a premium software developed by Apple Inc. for Mac computers. I have started using this recently and until now it is the most efficient tool I have ever used. It has tons of features that no other software possess. The intuitive interface and timeline features are just perfect for post-production. In version 10.3, which is the latest at the time of writing it has got some powerful set of features that have been introduced recently.
The best of them all is the timeline color coding, where you can see different colors for timeline objects.
More Salient Features :
- Customized window layouts to suit your style.
- Easy to follow workflow with color coding and magnetic timeline.
- Support for RAW videos and Rec. 2020 wide colour space.
- Accelerated rendering to watch the preview in real time.
- Timecode effect to check which footage was used.
- A new browser for content and media surfing.
- Full height inspector, flow transitions, Support for professional formats like MXF-wrapped ProRes
- Instantly remove any effects and attributes added previously and much much more.
Surely the best video editing software for Mac lovers and do read the review below for extra information on Final Cut Pro X.
Read – Final Cut Pro Review
4. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018
(For Beginners – easy & simple interface,Price: $98.38)
Platform: Windows only
Make your most engaging movies ever with VideoStudio Pro X10. Smart new features take routine editing tasks out of your way, freeing you to explore exciting new creative options.
New Audio Ducking automatically detects audio and narration to keep foreground and background sound balanced. Helpful features make it easier to manage clips, combine projects, and re-use custom filters and transitions.
Get creative with new overlay objects, Video Masking, Freeze Frame and bonus effects from NewBlue. Access 6 weeks of free training from StudioBacklot.tv to get started quickly and learn about advanced editing techniques.
With proven 64-bit performance and support for multiple formats, including new XAVC S, Video Studio Pro X10 makes it fast and fun to create movies you’ll love to share.
Read – Corel VideoStudio Ultimate 2018 Review
5. VEGAS Movie Studio 15 Platinum
Platform: Windows only – Price $79.99
Even beginners can easily remove unwanted scenes from videos or add incredible effects, transitions, and suitable music to turn raw video footage into movies that will impress any viewer.
Comprehensive support for the latest camcorders and faster video import makes Magix Movie Edit Pro a favorite for may. It also contains resolutions up to 4K for truly enjoyable editing. Create impressive videos in a flash with brand new title templates and proDAD Mercalli V2 for image stabilization.
Accurate editing down to the frame, 32 tracks, and an intuitive user interface let you stay one step ahead.
Export your movies to DVD, Blu-ray Disc, mobile devices, YouTube and Facebook.
Read – MAGIX Movie Edit Pro Review
6. EDIUS Pro 9 – Buy Now (Starts at $429)
EDIUS Pro 9 is among the best nonlinear video editing software that we have tested, and it has proven itself on various parameters. It provides a wide range of support and offers a whole range of editing options for different audio, video etc. formats. Video editor enhancer for mac v1.0.61. It has a fast as well as a flexible user interface that includes an unlimited amount of audio, title, video as well as graphics track. It provides an entire spectrum of editing features for creating some of the best appearance and appealing output for captivating the audience.
6. Pinnacle Studio 21 Ultimate – Buy Now (Price: $125.35)
Platform: Windows only
Make your most interesting and exciting movies ever with the new Multi-Camera Editor in Pinnacle Studio 20.
View and edit footage from 2 cameras, and align clips automatically with Audio Syncing. See results faster with 64-bit power, support for Intel’s 6th Generation processor (Skylake), and enhanced HD processing and playback performance.
Add style with 1,500+ 2D/3D effects and choose the perfect sounds and music from the ScoreFitter library.
Share your movie directly to Facebook, YouTube, and Vimeo, on the latest devices, or enjoy an easy authoring experience with Pinnacle MyDVD.
Read – Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Review
7. Nero 2017 Platinum – Buy Now (Price: $39.99)
Platform – Windows only
With its ability to simply import photos and videos from almost any device; edit with the aid of cutting, text, image, and sound effects; create DVDs, AVCHD, and Blu-ray™ Discs; and play back and stream images – Nero Video 2017 is the powerful all-rounder for your next movie project.
Nero Video 2017 offers a full range of tools for top image quality for your discs and files as well as dazzling 4D effects. Full-HD video edit previews, a choice between single or double monitor setup, and automated use of project settings – can making movies get any easier?
Read – Nero 2017 Platinum Review
8. AVS Video Editor 7.5 – Buy Now (Price: $49)
Platform – Windows only
Trim, cut, split, merge, rotate, mix videos. Apply effects and overlays, insert menus, audio, texts, and subtitles. Burn DVD/Blu-ray discs.
AVS Video Editor supports all key video formats. Edit & save video files in AVI, VOB, MP4, DVD, WMV, 3GP, MOV, MKV, H.263/H.264 codecs, etc.
Transfer video from DVR, web or VHS-cameras and save the video on hard drive or burn DVD discs. Or record media files from your PC screen and create video guides, training videos or demos. Share Your Video by uploading newly made video files to all popular video hostings such as Facebook, Flickr, MySpace, etc., directly from AVS Video Editor interface.
Read – AVS Video Editor Review
9. Lightworks – Buy Now (Price: $437.99)
Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux
Lightworks is EditShare Academy and Emmy award-winning, professional Non-Linear Editing (NLE) software supporting resolutions up to 4K as well as video in SD and HD formats.
In the last 25 years, Lightworks has been used to edit some of the finest films in cinema history: The Wolf of Wall Street, LA Confidential, Pulp Fiction, Heat, Road to Perdition, Hugo, The King’s Speech and many more! We’re proud of its heritage, and we want to share it with you.
Discover the incredible features of this application and why Oscar-nominated editors around the world use Lightworks Pro every day. Another best video editing software that I love due to ease of use especially for beginners.
Read – Lightworks Pro Review
10. Vegas Pro 14 – Buy Now (Price: $394.99)
Platform – Windows only
(formerly Sony Vegas Movie Studio) Smartphones make it easy to make movies and Sony Movie Studio makes it even simpler to make those movies stand out. With a streamlined workflow, powerful editing tools, and a vast array of video and audio effects, the art of moviemaking is right at your fingertips.
Add titles and music. Add color correction and transitions. Movie Studio offers all the tools and features you’ll need to put your masterpiece together, fast.
Movie Studio is touch-enabled for touch PCs, which means that using a mouse to drag and drop clips to the timeline is a thing of the past! Make edits, add transitions and effects, and record a voiceover – all with the touch of a finger.
Share your movies with others. Upload them directly to YouTube™ or Facebook™ from the Movie Studio application!
Read – Vegas Pro 14 Review
Bonus: 11. Wondershare Filmora – Buy Now (Price: $59.99)
Platform – Windows and Mac
Use Filmora video editor to express your creativity and amaze with beautiful results. Cut, edit, merge and trim clips.
Add music and text. Apply special effects. Get a professional-looking movie in minutes. Share with any social media sites like Facebook, Vimeo, YouTube. A nice choice for beginners in video editing. The interface is quite simple and intuitive.
Read – Wondershare Filmora Review
Rest of the Best Free Video Editing Software
12. Apple iMovie – Download
Platform – Mac only
This is the entry level video editing software for your Mac that can turn your photos and footage into a brilliant production in no time, plus it now supports the 4k video. Its comes free with Mac and you download it from the Mac App Store.
PROS – Simple interface, good themes and color matching option to make movies look smoother and consistent. Good solid chroma-keying functionality, with enough audio tools and a theatre features that allow you to share movies with your other Apple gadgets and gear.
CONS – Limit of two video tracks, missing of few controls like tagging, motion tracking and multi-cam capabilities.
It doesn’t have all the tools but for basic video editing like putting together clips and images for good-looking movies, it provides a lot of support and appeal. iPhone movies can be easily imported and you can make a good impression by adding few effects. Beginners should go for this, before moving to anything flashy on Mac.
13. Windows Movie Maker – Resources
Platform – Windows only
Although Windows Movie Maker is now not supported by Microsoft anymore and on January 2017, everything was removed from their website, Still you will be able to access the old archives via Wayback machine in the download link above. It was the best free video editing software for many years in the past.
Windows Movie Maker was perfect at a time as it had tons of things within for a home video editing enthusiasts. My first movie with me friends was edited on Windows Movie Maker I thoroughly loved the interface back then, it was simple and easy to grasp.
You had the options of Import/Edit slideshows and videos. To make a movie with Movie Maker, you’ll need some photos and videos on your PC. Import photos and videos from your phone or another device to get started.
Trim it, split it, speed it up or slow it down, you can also choose a theme to express your unique style.
Bring your movie to life with a soundtrack that you can edit yourself. When your movie’s done, publish it to the web so you can share it with family and friends.
So, if you still go the old Windows, then you can use the Windows Movie Maker by clicking the Start button, point to All Programs, point to Accessories, and then click Windows Movie Maker.
Read – Windows Movie Maker Review
14. Lightworks Free – Download
Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux
Lightworks Free version is considered to the best free video editing software by TechRadar.com and rightly so, it has a number of features available in free version and all the basic video editing can be done in a proper way.
The major difference are listed here. Lightworks is not very easy to use at first, but once you start using it more often you will see how it can be customized to user preference. Another good about this software is that its multi platform, be it on a Mac, PC or a Linux machine it will run smoothly on all.
15. HITFILM 4 EXPRESS – Download
Platform – Windows and Mac
HitFilm 4 Express has all the great cinematic, stylish abilities and interface. You have good resources on their website to learn this software, as it will take time for beginners to get the look and feel.
The free version is actually pretty good and has 1080 HD capabilities with 8-bit pixel depth. You also got the 180+ effects and presets to play with your editing tricks. The graphic editor of HitFilm is pretty good as well, many other software can’t match the quality of editing and tools within.
You get almost 10 premium effects packs in the free version and chroma key with extraction tools at disposal. Rightly referred to as the best place to start filmmaking. Aiml editor for mac.
16. DaVinci Resolve 12.5 – Download
DaVinci Resolve 12.5 is said to be the best advanced editing plus the color grading toolset for user that need to work with SD, HD & UHD projects. For beginners that want to get intense with video editing in future, this software will give them a good boost.
Their website features all the advanced features their pro version supports and if you want to take it to the next level, the hardware provided is absolutely amazing. You will definitely want to look what’s inside this heavyweight video editing suite.
17. Shotcut – Download
Platform – Windows, Mac, Linux
Its a free, cross-platform video editors that is also open source. It came to linux at first and slowly it got converted in Windows and Mac. It supports video up to a resolution of 4k and has a wide variety of format that can be imported for video editing.
The interface before was hard to figure out, but it has improved a lot and you can feel the sleek and intuitiveness in the interface in the current version. Definitely a worth spending time on.
18. VideoPad Video Editor – Download
![Gopro editing app for mac Gopro editing app for mac](/uploads/1/2/6/8/126889791/224028300.jpg)
Platform – Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Designed to be intuitive, VideoPad is a fully featured video editor for creating professional quality videos in minutes.
Drag and drop video clips for easy video editing. Apply effects and transitions, adjust video speed and more. One of the fastest video stream processors on the market.
Upload to YouTube – save your login credentials to upload videos directly to YouTube, Facebook or Flickr from VideoPad.
Read – VideoPad Video Editor Review
19. Wax – Download
Wax is a high performance and flexible video compositing and special effects software.
The idea for Wax is to be a very general purpose and flexible in video compositing and effects so that you can compose your dream video sequence with ease every time.
Wax can create 2D & 3D special effects and can work in two modes – as a standalone application which would appeal for home users/beginners, and as a “plug-in” to video editors/NLEs which would be more useful for professional editors.
Currently, Wax can work as a plug-in with Sony Vegas®, Pure Motion EditStudio and Adobe Premiere® and work for integrating with various other NLEs is in progress.
20. Avidemux – Download
Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux
A free video editor to cut, filter, and encode projects.
Avidemux is a free, open source cross-platform video editor for Microsoft Windows, Linux, Mac OS X, and BSD. It is written in C++, and you can use it for various tasks such as encoding (convert videos from one format to another), cutting (cut certain portions from a recording) or filtering (resize, deinterlacing, add subtitles, color correction, etc.).
Has built-in support for many popular codecs and files: AVI, MP4, ASF, DVD, MPEG, MKV. It is one of the best free video editors whenever you need to automate video processing or editing process.
The software is released under the GNU GPL license and has been released (binaries) in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Read – Avidemux Review
21. Blender – Download
Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux
Blender supports all major operating systems and its a GNU licensed program that enables you to make 3D content.
Some of its features include advanced modelling, animation tools, character animation, node-based material. Its works pretty well on all platforms – Windows and Mac.
Free Video Editor App For Mac
![Music editor app for mac Music editor app for mac](/uploads/1/2/6/8/126889791/486014672.jpg)
22. ZS4 Video Editor – Download
Platform – Windows only
ZS4 Video editor is another good software that is free and it can easily combine clips, trim, add sounds and many good effects that video editor needs.
Althought the interface is not that attractive, but you can sure do the basic stuff and export your files in multiple outputs.
23. Jahshaka – Download
Platform – Windows, Mac and Linux
One more software that is open source and has been in the market from a long time. The total downloads of this software have crossed 3 millions.
Being an open source content creation platform it provides sevral benefits like media management, playback, compositing, editing, animation and special effects that can make your video look fantastic. Video editing software that are free and open source, do have some elements that you can’t ignore.
24. Movica – Download
Platform – Windows XP
Movica is a simple UI based video editor that lets you join files, split movies, select or delete portions, copy-paste and fine tune selections etc.
It is an open source project and it runs on Windows XP with .net framework and it also requires Windows Media player. So, if you are still using Windows XP and haven’t upgraded somehow then Movica can do the trick for you.
26. HyperEngine-AV – Download
Platform – Mac only
HyperEngine-AV is licensed under GNU GPLv2 which means its free and open source. Its an award winning video editing software that previously was paid.
Video editing features like capture, arrange and process video, editing of audio and text, creating movies, slideshows, trackless document and much more can be achieved in this software.
27. VirtualDub – Download
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Platform – Upto Windows 7
VirtualDub has a fast linear operation over video and it has a good number of capabilities for batch operations that can also be extended with third party filters. It doesn’t process files other than AVI as it was meant to be used with AVI only. For MPEG-I it will be able to read it, but it will not be write in this file format.
The development of VirtualDub has stopped and the developer has done the last update in late 2013. So, if you want to do basic editing for videos and need a free software in your Windows PC then you can still use it. Otherwise, you have plenty of more video editors.
Do let us know, if you have used any of the software above, your thoughts and comments are welcome below.
People also ask
How do you edit a video on your computer?
To edit a video on your computer, first, you would require a video clip. Battlefield 1942 mac free download. Let’s assume you have a new video in your mobile phone that you recently shot. Open that video in video editing software from above. Usually, you will need to connect a wire from your mobile phone to you computer and transfer the video. Some of the video editors allow you to directly transfer a video from mobile device to their software.
Once your video is inside your video editor, you then need to see the timeline or storyboard. You can edit your video, cut a particular section or anything in between. For each software, the options may be different but concepts are same. You will have options to add transition effects, titles and credits, audio or music in the background.
After editing your video you can export it in multiple formats, a few video editors will allow you to upload video directly to sites like YouTube, Facebook etc.
Which free software is best for video editing?
By trying almost every other video editing software I would consider CyberLink PowerDirector the best one out of the lot. Its easy to use, affordable for beginners and it doesn’t have a steep learning curve and you will enjoy their video editing interface. But it does have a pro version and hence the free version will export a video with a watermark of their logo. Still, if you want to try before you buy, then this software has all the guns and whistles for pro video editing.
What is the best video editing software for YouTube?
Adobe’s Premier Pro is one such software that need no introduction. People rely on them and they have all kind of resources like support and detailed video tutorials for using their software. The trust factor always play in when you are buying a software, so my advice would be to take their trial for a month and then decide what to do. YouTube videos made by professionals and millions of follower base channel heads have time and again mentioned Adobe for the supreme quality and stability.
What kind of editing software do YouTubers use?
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Again Final Cut Pro & Adobe Premier Pro is the software YouTubers use in all kind of computers, laptops be it on Windows or Mac. Its a bit costly but worthy enough to be mentioned as the best video editing software for YouTube.
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How do you edit a video for YouTube?
If you have a decent internet speed at your location, then YouTube video editor is the best online video editor one could have. It has all the necessary features like Transitions, Trimming, Controlling Video speed plus many more essentials that video editors require everyday.
How do you edit videos on Windows?
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Windows Movie maker is pre-installed software that comes together with Windows 7, 8 and 10. So, editing videos on Windows gets easier with their native application that is the Movie maker.
Can I use iMovie on my PC?
Free App For Mac
No, PC with Windows installed doesn’t have iMovie software as Apple hasn’t made a Windows platform support for their native video editor. People with Windows can use the Windows Movie maker to edit videos for free on their PC.
Video Editor App For Mac
This concludes of our long article on video editing. If you have any questions, suggestion or feedbacks do let us know by commenting below.