Choosing the right video editing software is crucial for creating stunning videos. With the rise of video marketing and platforms like YouTube, high-quality video content is more important than ever.
But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming trying to decide which video editor fits your needs and budget best.
After 15 years of experience as a webmaster and avid YouTube user, I‘ve tested all the top video editing programs extensively. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll compare the top 6 video editors to help you find the perfect software for your next video project.
Contents
- Video Is King
- 1. Adobe Premiere Pro – Best Overall Video Editor
- 2. Final Cut Pro – Top Choice for Mac Users
- 3. DaVinci Resolve – Best Free Video Editor
- 4. Filmora – Best Intro Video Editor
- 5. iMovie – Best Free Video Editing for Mac
- 6. Shotcut – Best Free Pro Video Editor
- How to Select the Right Video Editor
- Get Started with Video Editing Today
Video Is King
Let‘s start with some statistics that highlight the importance of video:
- YouTube has over 2 billion monthly users who watch over 1 billion hours of video daily [1].
- 96% of consumers say they‘ve watched an explainer video to learn more about a product or service [2].
- Simply including video on a landing page can increase conversions by 80% or more [3].
It‘s clear that video content is highly engaging and effective for education and marketing. And using the right software editor can optimize your video quality.
But with a dizzying array of options out there, it can be hard to decide which tool is best – which is why I‘ve put together this in-depth comparison guide.
1. Adobe Premiere Pro – Best Overall Video Editor
Price: $20.99/month with annual plan
Pros
- Industry standard used by professionals
- Packed with advanced features
- Great integration with other Adobe apps
- Support for 360, 4K, 8K video
- Highly customizable timeline
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Higher monthly cost
- Some interface quirks
Adobe Premiere Pro is considered the best overall video editor on the market. It contains absolutely everything you could ever want for professional video post-production.
The wealth of tools, effects, and features make it super versatile for any type of video content – from Hollywood productions to YouTube product reviews.
While it does have a steeper learning curve, the power and control you get with Premiere Pro is unmatched. If you‘re willing to invest the time to master it, you‘ll reap rewards through faster editing and higher quality videos.
I use Premiere Pro for all my professional client work due to its robust capabilities. The sensible timeline, precision editing tools, and integration with After Effects make it ideal for complex projects.
If you‘re planning to produce high-quality videos regularly, the monthly subscription to Premiere Pro is money well spent.
Best For: Professionals, agencies, filmmakers, YouTubers
2. Final Cut Pro – Top Choice for Mac Users
Price: $299.99 one-time payment
Pros
- Smoother performance on Mac
- User-friendly drag and drop editor
- Ideal for beginners
- Affordable single payment
- Integration with Motion graphics
Cons
- Only available on Mac
- Lacks some features of Premiere Pro
- Less control vs. pro software
For Mac users, Final Cut Pro is one of the top choices for video editing software. It contains many high-end features but with an interface that‘s easier to use.
The magnetic timeline makes it simple to trim clips and arrange your edit. I love the drag-and-drop functionality that enables faster editing.
While Final Cut Pro trails behind Premiere Pro in some advanced capabilities, it‘s still powerful enough for professional work. The one-time price point makes it accessible too.
For creative professionals on a Mac, it‘s easy to recommend Final Cut Pro as a superb video editing solution.
Best For: Creative pros on Mac
3. DaVinci Resolve – Best Free Video Editor
Price: Free or $299 for Studio
Pros
- Completely free version available
- Advanced color correction tools
- Used for Hollywood films
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux
- Excellent audio mastering options
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- No native mobile editing
- Mostly geared towards cinema
DaVinci Resolve combines professional-level video editing with unmatched color correction tools. Given its capabilities, the fact that it has a free version makes this an incredibly appealing choice.
The free DaVinci Resolve offers multicam editing, Fusion VFX, and Fairlight audio tools that rival expensive options. If you upgrade to the Studio version, you get additional features like 4K output, 3D tools, and DaVinci Neural Engine.
Even the free version has been used to edit major Hollywood films like Deadpool and Legend of Tarzan. So for aspiring filmmakers who don‘t want to pay a monthly fee, DaVinci Resolve is a fantastic video editor.
Best For: Students, aspiring filmmakers, YouTubers
4. Filmora – Best Intro Video Editor
Price: $39.99/year for individuals
Pros
- Easy drag and drop workflow
- Comes packed with effects, texts, transitions
- Great for beginners
- Huge library of royalty-free media
- Affordable subscription pricing
Cons
- Advanced features require upgrading
- Limited collaboration options
For video editors who are just starting out, Filmora is my top recommendation. Its simple interface is incredibly beginner-friendly.
Filmora makes it easy to trim clips, customize text, apply effects, and create a professional looking video. The huge library of visual and audio effects are great for spicing up your footage.
While advanced users may want more control, Filmora hits the sweet spot for hobbyists. It has all the features needed for basic editing but with an intuitive workflow.
Priced at $39.99/year, Filmora is affordable yet still packed with features. For beginner to intermediate editors, it‘s a great choice.
Best For: New video editors, hobbyists, YouTubers
5. iMovie – Best Free Video Editing for Mac
Price: Free (included with Mac devices)
Pros
- Completely free editing software
- Easy to use interface
- Great starter option for kids
- Tons of trailer templates
- Simple video enhancements
Cons
- Only available on Mac ecosystem
- Very limited advanced features
- Lean export options
For Mac users who want to try basic editing at no cost, iMovie is a solid free video editor. It comes pre-installed on every new Mac computer and iOS device.
iMovie makes it simple to create good looking home movies and trailers. The multi-track timeline is easy to navigate for beginners. And features like green screen, slow motion, filters add some pizazz to your videos.
Think of iMovie as a great way to get started with video editing. Advanced users will want more customizable options and effects. But as free software, iMovie packs a capable punch.
Best For: Casual users, students, children
6. Shotcut – Best Free Pro Video Editor
Price: 100% Free
Pros
- Professional grade features
- Completely open source
- Compatible with Mac, Windows, Linux
- Supports 4K, HD, and 360-degree video
- Extremely customizable
Cons
- Steep learning curve
- Unintuitive interface
- Lack of templates or guides
If you‘re an advanced or professional video editor who doesn‘t want to pay a monthly fee, Shotcut is a compelling option worth considering.
The open-source video editing tool is packed with pro features like multi-cam editing, LUTs, histogram, chroma keying, and hundreds of audio/video effects.
For experienced video editors, Shotcut provides an incredibly deep toolset. But the complexity makes it a poor choice for beginners.
For users with video editing know-how who want expanded capabilities for free, Shotcut is a superb option. The price makes it great for independent users, students, and those on a budget.
Best For: Advanced and professional users
How to Select the Right Video Editor
When picking the best video editing software for your needs, there are several key factors to keep in mind:
Platform – Make sure the software is compatible with your operating system (Mac, Windows, Linux). Some options are platform restricted.
Learning Curve – Beginners will want an intuitive, easy-to-use editor. Professionals may prefer a steeper learning curve with more features.
Pricing – Paid options range from around $25-50 per month for subscriptions. Free software lacks capabilities but is ideal for getting started.
Features – Consider what core editing tools you require – trimming, text, effects, animations, multicam etc.
Formats – Certain programs work better with common video formats like MP4 and MOV. Make sure your chosen editor can import your video files.
Get Started with Video Editing Today
I hope this detailed comparison of the top 6 video editing options assists you in picking the best software for your video content needs.
Think about your skill level, available budget, and the types of videos you want to make. This will determine whether free, beginner, or professional grade editing software makes the most sense.
Try taking advantage of free trials from your top choices. Hands-on experience will reveal if the interface, workflow, and tools meet your needs.
With the right video editing program, you‘ll be ready to produce stunning videos that captivate audiences and boost your brand. Get started with editing your first video project today!
