Video editing is a powerful tool for anyone looking to create dynamic content, whether for
personal projects, social media, or professional use. However, the cost of
professional video editing software can be overwhelming when starting out, but many free options provide powerful features suitable for beginners.
This guide shows you the 12 best free video editing software for 2024. These tools are
perfect for YouTubers, small business owners, or anyone who wants to make great videos
without spending a lot.
Best Free Video Editing Software
1. DaVinci ResolveDaVinci Resolve is a free video editing software that offers considerably more professional-grade features. It is particularly famous for color correction and grading, making it great for beginners interested in video editing. Initially, the interface could be incredibly confusing, but with time, it's a great choice for Windows users who want to improve their editing skills.
Key Features:
⦁ Advanced color grading and correction
⦁ Multi-track timeline
⦁ Professional-grade effects
⦁ Support for 4K editing
2. HitFilm Express
HitFilm Express is free video editing software with many features for beginners and intermediate levels. It's easy to use but still possesses many advanced tools. Due to various built-in effects, this software can be helpful for YouTubers and those looking to create videos similar to movies.
Key Features:
⦁ Professional-grade visual effects
⦁ 3D editing tools
⦁ Extensive collection of transitions and templates
⦁ Supports all popular file formats
3. Shotcut
Shotcut is an open-source video editor software that's quite friendly to users but can cope with complex editing. It has a user-friendly interface that offers various functions such as multi-format timeline editing, 4K resolution, and audio/video editing on separate tracks.
Key Features:
⦁ Wide format support
⦁ 4K resolution editing
⦁ Multi-track timeline
⦁ Audio and video effects
4. VSDC Free Video Editor
It is an excellent source for beginners who want to produce quality videos without going up the steepest learning curve. This software has a wide range of special effects and color correction tools and also supports non-linear editing. The free one is full of features, but many premium features are limited to the paid version.
Key Features:
⦁ Non-linear video editing
⦁ Supports a variety of video formats
⦁ Wide range of visual effects
⦁ Color correction tools
5. Lightworks
Lightworks is one of the oldest video editing software and is used by professionals in the film industry. This free version includes all the editing features required for trimming, cutting, and applying its numerous effects. The program takes time to learn but remains the best free editing option for those willing to invest time into learning how to use it.
Key Features:
⦁ Multicam editing
⦁ Professional-grade effects
⦁ Fast export options
⦁ Easy timeline editing
6. iMovie (Mac Only)
For Mac users, iMovie is an excellent entry-level video editing tool. Its clean interface and simple drag-and-drop editing make it an ideal choice for beginners. It also provides a variety of templates and themes, making it easy to create polished videos quickly.
Key Features:
⦁ Drag-and-drop interface
⦁ Built-in templates and themes
⦁ Simple color correction tools
⦁ 4K support
7. Openshot
Openshot is another free, open-source video editing tool for new users. Its interface is user-friendly and straightforward, which helps focus more on the creative aspects of video production instead of being burdened with complicated tools. It also allows unlimited layers and many animation features.
Key Features:
⦁ Multi-track timeline
⦁ Unlimited layers
⦁ 3D animation support
⦁ Easy drag-and-drop interface
8. Blender
Blender is a well-known tool for 3D modeling and animation. It also has an outstanding video editor. It will benefit people who want to create animations and edit video content in one program. It takes time to learn, yet it is a flexible and complete tool for someone who wants to explore one's creativity.
Key Features:
⦁ 3D modeling and animation
⦁ Advanced video editing features
⦁ Multi-track editing
⦁ Open-source and free
9. Avid Media Composer First
Avid Media Composer First is the accessible version of Avid's professional-grade video editing software, widely used in the film industry. It is way more advanced than most free editing software, so it offers a fantastic way to learn essential professional editing. The free version has some limitations but still provides the tools you need to create high-quality videos.
Key Features:
⦁ Professional-grade editing tools
⦁ Multicam editing support
⦁ A wide variety of media import options
⦁ Timeline editing with drag-and-drop features
10. Kdenlive
Kdenlive is a free video editor ideal for beginners who want a powerful and customizable tool. It uses many professional features, including multi-track, effects, and transitions. This software is quite flexible and can be changed according to the user's needs.
Key Features:
⦁ Multi-track editing
⦁ A variety of effects and transitions
⦁ Customizable interface
⦁ Open-source and free
11. Adobe Premiere Pro (Free Trial)
Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most widely used video editing software in the professional industry. While it's not entirely free, they have a 7-day free trial edition of Adobe Premiere Pro. This is enough for beginners who wish to get a feel of using high-quality editing tools without risking money on paid subscriptions. The interface is user-friendly and packed with powerful features, making it an ideal choice for serious video editors.
Key Features:
⦁ Multi-camera editing
⦁ Advanced transitions and effects
⦁ Integration with other Adobe tools
⦁ Support for a variety of file formats
12. Final Cut Pro (Free for Mac)
For Mac users, Final Cut Pro offers a free trial that's ideal for beginners interested in exploring professional-level video editing. It's an intuitive and powerful tool focusing on speed and high-quality results. The 90-day trial is a great way to explore its capabilities before deciding if it's worth the investment.
Key Features:
⦁ Magnetic timeline for smooth editing
⦁ High-performance video editing tools
⦁ Multi-track support
⦁ Advanced color grading and effects