The Best 5 Video Editing Software in 2024

Article ImageIn the ever-evolving landscape of digital content creation, the best video editing software serves as the backbone for filmmakers, content creators, and videography enthusiasts, empowering them to bring their visions to life with precision and flair. As the demand for high-quality video content continues to rise across various digital platforms, selecting the right editing tool has become crucial. The importance of this choice cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the quality of the final product, not to mention the efficiency of the editing process. Therefore, identifying the top video editing software that meets one’s needs—be it for professional engagements or personal projects—is paramount.

This article explores a comprehensive selection of the best video editing software available in 2024, presenting options suited for different levels of expertise and requirements. From CyberLink PowerDirector 365, earning accolades as the best overall choice, to Adobe Premiere Pro, which stands out as the top pick for professionals, and Apple Final Cut Pro, tailored for Mac users, this guide has you covered. Additionally, it highlights the best free version with DaVinci Resolve and the most user-friendly software for beginners, Wondershare Filmora. Each option is dissected to showcase its unique features, capabilities, and suitability for various user needs, providing a clear pathway to making an informed decision. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting, finding the right tool among the top video editing software has never been easier.

Best Overall - CyberLink PowerDirector 365

Why It's the Best Overall

CyberLink PowerDirector 365 is widely acclaimed for its blend of professional-grade capabilities and user-friendly design, making it the top choice for both novice and experienced video editors. It is recognized for its intuitive timeline interface that simplifies complex editing tasks and supports a wide range of video formats, including the latest ones for high-definition content. This software is particularly noted for its rapid rendering speeds and regular updates that introduce new features and creative packs, ensuring that users always have access to cutting-edge tools.

Notable Features

PowerDirector 365 stands out with its extensive array of features designed to enhance video production. Users can enjoy advanced options like AI-powered editing tools, which include AI Auto Face Blur and AI Background Remover, making intricate editing tasks more accessible through automation. The software also supports multi-camera editing and offers a vast library of transitions, effects, and title templates, catering to all editing needs from simple vlogs to complex cinematic projects.

User Feedback

Despite its many strengths, user feedback highlights some areas of concern. Some users have reported issues with software stability, noting occasional crashes and bugs, particularly when working on more demanding projects. Additionally, the recent updates have drawn criticism for making the interface more cumbersome and removing previously available functionalities, which has led to frustration among long-term users.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Comprehensive feature set suitable for all levels of video editing expertise.
• Regular updates that add new tools and improve existing functionalities.
• High compatibility with various video formats and optimized for recent hardware.

Cons:

• Some users report stability issues and software bugs.
• Recent updates have complicated the user interface and removed useful features.
• Pricing

CyberLink PowerDirector 365 offers flexible pricing options to suit different users' needs. The subscription model is priced at $74.99 per year, often available at a discount, making it a cost-effective choice for regular users. Additionally, there is a more comprehensive bundle available with CyberLink's ColorDirector, AudioDirector, and PhotoDirector for $129.99 per year, providing a complete suite of creative tools.

Best for Professionals - Adobe Premiere Pro

Why It's Best for Professionals

Adobe Premiere Pro is heralded as the industry standard in video editing, offering a robust platform that turns raw footage into polished productions. It's particularly favored for professional applications due to its comprehensive toolset that caters to film, broadcast, web, and more. The software's integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications enhances workflow efficiency, allowing seamless file transfers and a unified creative process.

Standout Features

Premiere Pro excels with its advanced editing capabilities, including intuitive Lumetri Color tools for cinematic color grading, streamlined audio mixing, and versatile onscreen graphics and titling options. The inclusion of free Motion Graphics templates and the ability to export projects in virtually any format further establish its prowess in professional video editing. Additionally, its support for VR editing and multiple file formats ensures that professionals can push creative boundaries without technical constraints.

User Feedback

While Adobe Premiere Pro is highly regarded for its performance, some users have noted challenges with stability and the complexity of updates which occasionally disrupt the user experience. However, the vast majority appreciate the regular updates that enhance functionality and the extensive support community that Adobe fosters, which is invaluable for troubleshooting and learning.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Unmatched versatility and powerful editing tools.
• Seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud apps enhances productivity.
• Supports a broad range of video formats and resolutions.

Cons:

• Some users report stability issues and complexities with new updates.
• Higher learning curve due to advanced features .

Pricing

Adobe Premiere Pro offers various subscription options tailored to different user needs, including individual, student, and business plans. Prices vary, with individual plans typically starting around $20.99 per month, providing affordability alongside professional-grade capabilities .

Best for Mac Users - Apple Final Cut Pro

Why It's Best for Mac Users

Apple Final Cut Pro is specifically optimized for Mac, leveraging the full potential of Apple silicon chips like the M3 Pro, M3 Max, and M2 Ultra, which dramatically enhance performance. This seamless integration with macOS not only ensures superior efficiency but also maintains a user-friendly environment that is ideal for Mac users.

Distinguishing Features

Final Cut Pro offers robust features including the ability to edit everything from standard-definition to 8K video and even immersive 360° video. The software supports a wide range of professional camera formats and includes advanced tools like the Magnetic Timeline and Multicam editing, which can sync up to 64 angles of video. Additionally, new AI-driven features like Enhance Light and Color and Smooth Slo-Mo have been integrated to streamline the post-production process.

User Feedback

Users have expressed mixed feelings about the pricing model, especially regarding the separate charges for using the software on both Mac and iPad. While the performance and features are highly praised, some users are dissatisfied with the recurring subscription fees for iPad despite purchasing the Mac version.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional integration with macOS and optimized performance with Apple silicon.
• Comprehensive video editing capabilities from HD to 8K and beyond.
• Innovative features like AI-driven editing tools and efficient organizational updates.

Cons:

• Pricing model has led to some user dissatisfaction due to separate charges for Mac and iPad versions.
• Steep learning curve for users transitioning from other editing software.

Pricing

Final Cut Pro is available for a one-time purchase price of $299.99 on the Mac App Store, which includes free updates for existing users. For new users, there is a subscription option for the iPad version priced at $4.99 per month or $49 per year. This pricing strategy allows users to choose the model that best fits their needs, providing flexibility and access to powerful editing tools.

Best Free Version - DaVinci Resolve

Why It's the Best Free Version

DaVinci Resolve stands out as the best free video editing software, offering a comprehensive suite of professional-level features without cost. It includes dedicated workspaces for various post-production needs such as color grading, audio mastering, visual effects, and motion graphics, all within a single application. This makes it an exceptional choice for users ranging from YouTubers to professional filmmakers who require robust editing capabilities without the financial burden.

Core Features

The free version of DaVinci Resolve supports editing and outputting 8-bit video at Ultra HD resolution and up to 60 frames per second. It provides standard editing tools, effects, motion graphics, and color correction. While it lacks some advanced features like the DaVinci Neural Engine and HDR grading found in the paid version, it remains a powerful tool for comprehensive video production.

User Feedback

Users appreciate DaVinci Resolve for its no-cost access to high-quality editing tools. However, they note that mastering its extensive features can be daunting due to its unique interface and workflow. The availability of numerous online resources and community support helps new users navigate the learning curve, enhancing their editing skills without immediate financial investment.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Offers a full suite of editing tools for free, making it accessible to beginners and professionals alike.
• No time limits or watermarks, which is uncommon for free software.
• Regular updates improve functionality and ensure compatibility with modern video formats.

Cons:

• Some advanced features are only available in the paid version, which may limit professional use.
• New users may find the interface complex and the learning curve steep compared to more simplified editors.

Pricing

DaVinci Resolve provides its base version completely free, which includes nearly all features necessary for professional video editing. For users requiring advanced capabilities like HDR support and the DaVinci Neural Engine, the Studio version is available for a one-time fee of $295, which is significantly lower than other professional-grade software.

Best for Beginners - Wondershare Filmora

Why It's Best for Beginners

Wondershare Filmora is celebrated as the ideal choice for beginners in video editing, thanks to its straightforward and intuitive interface. New users can quickly grasp the basics of video editing without extensive training, making it an accessible entry point into the world of video creation. Its simplicity does not compromise on capability, as it offers a rich set of features that are easy to use for creating high-quality videos.

User-Friendly Features

Filmora excels with its user-friendly features, including drag-and-drop functionality, a wide array of pre-made templates, and simple tools for tasks like color correction and audio editing. These features are designed to help beginners produce polished content without the steep learning curve associated with more complex software.

User Feedback

Users frequently praise Filmora for its ease of use and the quality enhancements it brings to their video projects. Beginners, in particular, find the software welcoming and are able to achieve professional-looking results swiftly. However, some users have noted that while the basic features are excellent, accessing more advanced features has a learning curve.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Highly intuitive interface suitable for beginners.
• Comprehensive editing tools that simplify the video creation process.
• Regular updates that introduce new features and improve user experience.

Cons:

• Advanced features may require a learning period for complete mastery.
• Some professional-grade features are limited in the free version.

Pricing

Filmora offers a flexible pricing model, which includes a free version with basic features, and paid versions that provide more advanced tools and capabilities. The full version is available through a subscription model or a one-time purchase, offering options that cater to different budgetary needs. This pricing structure makes Filmora an attractive option for beginners who are just starting out and may not want to invest heavily at first.

Conclusion

Through detailed exploration and analysis, this article has presented a streamlined guide to the best video editing software options available in 2024, catering to a wide range of expertise levels and user requirements. From the versatile capabilities of CyberLink PowerDirector 365, recognized as the best overall choice, to the professional-grade precision of Adobe Premiere Pro, and the exceptional performance of Apple Final Cut Pro for Mac users, each software has been meticulously evaluated to assist you in making an informed decision. Additionally, DaVinci Resolve stands out as the top free option, offering substantial editing tools at no cost, while Wondershare Filmora has been highlighted as the most beginner-friendly, ensuring that newcomers to video editing can also produce high-quality content.

The importance of choosing the right video editing software cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts the quality of the content produced and the efficiency of the editing process. By considering the unique features, pros and cons, and pricing of each option discussed, users are equipped to select a tool that best aligns with their editing needs and skill level. Whether you are a professional filmmaker seeking advanced functionalities or a content creator looking for user-friendly and cost-effective solutions, the insights provided here aim to guide you toward finding the perfect software that not only meets your present requirements but also supports your creative journey as technology and industry standards continue to evolve.

FAQs

What is considered the best video editing software currently?

• The top-rated video editing software as of now is Adobe Premiere Pro, favored for its comprehensive features and professional-grade capabilities.

Is it advisable to learn video editing in the year 2024?

• Absolutely, learning video editing in 2024 is highly recommended. The demand for skilled video editors continues to grow, especially with the increasing popularity of platforms like YouTube and Instagram. These platforms thrive on visually engaging content, making video editing a lucrative and influential career choice.

Which software is recommended for editing music videos in 2024?

• For music video editing in 2024, CyberLink PowerDirector is suggested for enthusiasts, while professionals might prefer Adobe Premiere Pro. For users with Mac systems, Final Cut Pro and iMovie are highly recommended. More options can be considered depending on specific needs and preferences.

What is the top-rated editing app available?

• PicsArt, available for both Android and iOS, is the highest-rated editing app. It is celebrated for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, including extensive creative control, superior image-editing tools, and a wide variety of appealing filters.