Video editing has become an essential skill in 2024, not just for professionals but also for hobbyists and content creators. Whether you’re creating content for YouTube, social media, or professional projects, the right video editor can make all the difference. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. This article aims to simplify that process by highlighting the top seven video editors of 2024 based on their features, ease of use, and value for money.
How to Choose the Right Video Editor
Choosing the right video editor depends on your needs, budget, and level of expertise.
Here are some tips to help you decide:
Assessing Your Needs
Think about the type of projects you’ll be working on. Are you creating simple videos for social media or complex films with advanced effects? This will help you determine the level of features you need.
- Simple projects: Look for easy-to-use editors like iMovie or Filmora.
- Complex projects: Opt for powerful tools like Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve.
- Specialized needs: If you need specific features like motion tracking or VR editing, ensure the software supports them.
Considering Your Budget
Video editing software can range from free to several hundred dollars. Decide how much you’re willing to spend and whether a subscription model or one-time purchase suits you better.
- Free options: VSDC Free Video Editor, HitFilm Express, iMovie.
- Subscription-based: Adobe Premiere Pro.
- One-time purchase: Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve.
Looking at Ease of Use
If you’re a beginner, opt for software with a user-friendly interface. More advanced users might prefer software with a steeper learning curve but more powerful features.
- Beginners: iMovie, Filmora.
- Intermediate: VSDC Free Video Editor, HitFilm Express.
- Advanced: Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve.
Best Video Editors in 2024
Adobe Premiere Pro
Overview
Adobe Premiere Pro is a leading video editing software used by professionals around the world. It’s known for its comprehensive set of features and seamless integration with other Adobe products, making it an industry standard for high-quality video production.
Key Features
- Multi-cam editing: Allows you to work with multiple camera angles easily.
- Advanced color correction tools: Offers Lumetri Color tools for precise color grading.
- Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud: Syncs well with After Effects, Photoshop, and other Adobe apps.
- VR editing capabilities: Supports 360-degree video editing for immersive experiences.
- Extensive format support: Compatible with a wide range of video formats.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Industry-standard tool: Widely recognized and used in the film and TV industry.
- Powerful features: Robust set of tools for professional editing.
- Regular updates: Continuous improvements and new features.
- Strong community support: Extensive tutorials and user forums available.
Cons:
- Steep learning curve: Requires time and effort to master.
- Expensive subscription model: Costs can add up over time.
Pricing
Adobe Premiere Pro is available through a subscription model, with plans starting at $20.99 per month. It’s part of the Adobe Creative Cloud suite, which includes other powerful tools like Photoshop and After Effects.
VSDC Free Video Editor
Overview
VSDC Free Video Editor is a versatile and accessible editing software designed for Windows users. It offers a wide range of features that cater to both beginners and advanced users without the burden of subscription fees.
Key Features
- Non-linear editing: Edit your video in any sequence you prefer.
- Advanced visual and audio effects: Includes blending modes, Instagram-like filters, and various audio effects.
- Masking: Apply special effects inside or outside the masked area.
- Motion tracking: Add text or images that follow moving objects in the video.
- Export in various formats: Supports all popular video formats for easy sharing.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Free to use: Offers a comprehensive set of tools without any cost.
- Non-linear editing: More flexibility in editing.
- Advanced effects: Wide range of effects for both visual and audio.
- Low system requirements: Runs smoothly even on less powerful computers.
Cons:
- Windows-only: Not available for Mac users.
- User interface: Can be a bit overwhelming for complete beginners.
Pricing
VSDC Free Video Editor is completely free, but there is a Pro version available with additional features like hardware acceleration and advanced settings, priced at $19.99 per year.
DaVinci Resolve
Overview
DaVinci Resolve by Blackmagic Design is renowned for its color grading capabilities. It’s a powerful tool that combines professional editing, color correction, visual effects, and audio post-production all in one software, making it a favorite among filmmakers and video professionals.
Key Features
- Advanced color grading: Industry-leading color correction tools.
- Fusion visual effects: Integrated 2D and 3D compositing.
- Fairlight audio post-production: Comprehensive audio editing tools.
- Multi-user collaboration: Work with multiple editors on the same project simultaneously.
- Extensive format support: Compatible with a wide range of video formats.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Free version available: Offers a lot of features at no cost.
- Comprehensive toolset: All-in-one solution for editing, color grading, and audio post-production.
- Powerful color correction: Unmatched color grading capabilities.
- Collaborative features: Great for team projects.
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve: Can be challenging for beginners.
- Resource-intensive: Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly.
Pricing
DaVinci Resolve offers a free version with limited features. The full studio version is available for a one-time purchase of $299, making it a cost-effective choice for professionals.
HitFilm Express
Overview
HitFilm Express is a free video editor that offers professional-grade tools and effects. It’s perfect for beginners and intermediate users who need powerful features without the hefty price tag. Its combination of editing and visual effects tools makes it a standout choice.
Key Features
- 2D and 3D compositing: Combine multiple layers of video and effects.
- Advanced editing tools: Trim, cut, and splice with precision.
- Visual effects library: Includes hundreds of customizable effects.
- Green screen keying: Easily remove backgrounds with chroma key tools.
- Built-in tutorials: Extensive library of tutorials to help you learn.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Free to use: Professional-grade features at no cost.
- Professional-grade features: Comparable to paid software.
- Extensive online tutorials: Helpful resources to get started.
- Regular updates: Continuous improvements and new features.
Cons:
- Some features locked behind paywalls: Additional effects packs can be costly.
- Can be resource-intensive: Requires a good computer for smooth operation.
Pricing
HitFilm Express is free, but additional features and effects packs can be purchased separately, allowing you to expand its capabilities as needed.
CyberLink PowerDirector
Overview
CyberLink PowerDirector is a versatile video editor suitable for both beginners and professionals. It offers a wide range of features and an intuitive interface, making it a popular choice for various types of video projects.
Key Features
- 360-degree video editing: Create and edit immersive videos.
- Motion tracking: Add text or graphics that follow moving objects.
- Multi-cam editing: Work with footage from multiple cameras seamlessly.
- AI-powered tools: Features like AI style effects and audio denoise.
- Extensive effects library: Hundreds of transitions, effects, and templates.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- User-friendly interface: Easy to learn and use.
- Powerful features: Suitable for both beginners and pros.
- Affordable pricing: Good value for money.
- Regular updates: Keeps up with the latest trends and technologies.
Cons:
- Windows-only: Not available for Mac users.
- Some features require additional purchases: Extra packs can be pricey.
Pricing
PowerDirector offers several pricing plans, starting at $99.99 for a one-time purchase. There are also subscription options available, providing flexibility based on your needs.
Filmora
Overview
Filmora by Wondershare is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it ideal for beginners and casual users. It offers a range of features that are easy to navigate and apply, ensuring that anyone can start creating professional-looking videos in no time.
Key Features
- Drag-and-drop interface: User-friendly and intuitive.
- Advanced text editing: Customize text with various fonts and animations.
- Split-screen functionality: Create engaging videos with multiple screens.
- Built-in effects and transitions: Over 800 effects and transitions.
- Screen recording: Record your screen for tutorials and presentations.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Easy to use: Ideal for beginners and casual users.
- Affordable: Budget-friendly pricing options.
- Rich feature set: Comprehensive tools for basic to intermediate editing.
- Regular updates: Continuously improved with new features.
Cons:
- Watermark on free version: Requires purchase to remove.
- Less advanced compared to professional tools: May not meet the needs of advanced users.
Pricing
Filmora offers both a subscription model and a one-time purchase option. The annual subscription starts at $39.99, while the one-time purchase is available for $69.99.
iMovie
Overview
iMovie is Apple’s free video editing software that comes pre-installed on all Mac computers. It’s perfect for beginners who need a straightforward tool for basic video editing. Despite its simplicity, iMovie offers enough features to create high-quality videos.
Key Features
- Simple timeline interface: Easy to use for beginners.
- Built-in themes and trailers: Pre-designed templates to jumpstart your projects.
- Basic color correction: Adjust colors with simple tools.
- Integration with iCloud: Sync projects across all your Apple devices.
- Supports 4K video: Edit and export high-resolution videos.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Free to use: No cost for Mac users.
- Simple and intuitive: Easy for anyone to start editing.
- Optimized for Mac: Runs smoothly on Apple devices.
- Good for basic editing: Includes all the essential tools.
Cons:
- Limited features compared to professional tools: Not suitable for complex projects.
- Only available on Mac: No Windows version.
Pricing
iMovie is completely free for all Mac users, making it an excellent choice for those just starting out with video editing.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Adobe Premiere Pro | VSDC Free Video Editor | DaVinci Resolve | HitFilm Express | PowerDirector | Filmora | iMovie |
| Price | $20.99/month | Free | Free/$299 | Free | $99.99 | $39.99/year | Free |
| Platform | Win/Mac | Windows | Win/Mac | Win/Mac | Windows | Win/Mac | Mac |
| Free Version | No | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Advanced Editing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Ease of Use | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Moderate | Easy | Easy | Easy |
| Key Features | Multi-cam, VR | Motion tracking | Color grading | 2D/3D compositing | AI tools | Screen recording | Templates |
| Pros | Powerful, Industry standard | Free, Non-linear | Free version, Comprehensive | Free, Professional-grade | Affordable, User-friendly | Easy to use, Affordable | Free, Simple |
| Cons | Steep learning curve, Expensive | Windows-only, Overwhelming UI | Resource-intensive, Steep learning curve | Paywalls, Resource-intensive | Windows-only, Some features extra | Watermark, Less advanced | Limited features, Mac-only |
Conclusion
In 2024, there will be many excellent video editors available, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Whether you’re a professional editor or just getting started, there’s a tool out there that’s perfect for your needs. Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve are great for professionals, while HitFilm Express and iMovie are excellent choices for beginners. VSDC Free Video Editor offers a powerful free option, and CyberLink PowerDirector provides a balance of features and affordability. Ultimately, the best video editor for you will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.