New In 2024, Animation Mastery The 10 Best 2D Software for Creators Free & Paid

New In 2024, Animation Mastery The 10 Best 2D Software for Creators Free & Paid

Morgan Lv12

Animation Mastery: The 10 Best 2D Software for Creators [Free & Paid]

10 Best 2D Animation Software in 2024 [Free/Paid]

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

When you are trying to make funny cartoons within seven steps , explainer videos, or informative shorts to post online, 2D animation software can come in handy. With access to a 2D animation maker, you can create intricate and interesting stories that will help you connect with your audience.

Whether you are turning photos into cartoons , teaching a group of kids , showing employees how to do their job, introducing a new product, or trying to elicit an emotional reaction from your audience, 2D cartoon animation can be very useful.

If you are new to the world of 2D animation as a beginner and want to be a professional animation maker, you will be interested in our review of the top 10 free download 2D animation software options that may prove useful to you.

Recommend free download animation maker Filmora

If you want to create a 2D animation video, we recommend using 2D animation software-Filmora.

It is a powerful and straightforward video maker for all levels from middle to advanced. With keyframing, you can make smooth 2D animation quickly. Auto color correction can save you a lot of time to make high-quality animation.

Now free download it on Windows and Mac to make 2D animated videos, and connect with other video creators in the Wondershare Video Community to get more creative ideas.

filmora logo

A cross-platform for making videos anywhere for all creators

filmora-02

Why your video editing isn’t good enough? How about some creative inspo?

  • 100 Million+ Users
  • 150+ Countries and Regions
  • 4 Million+ Social Media Followers
  • 5 Million+ Stock Media for Use

Try It Free Try It Free

Try It Free

Try It Free

* Secure Download

filmora12

Have a Quick Look at The Best 10 Free/Paid 2D Animation Software to Download

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for
1 Synfig Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
2 Opentoonz Windows and OSX Free Beginners
3 Maefloresta iPhone and Android Free Beginners
4 Pencil 2D Windows, Linux, and OSX Free Beginners
5 Toon Boom Harmony Windows, Linux, and OSX $109 per month Professionals
6 CelAction2D Windows, Linux, and OSX $1300 for one single license Professionals
7 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro Windows and OSX $399.99 for the full package Professionals
8 Stop Motion Studio Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS $59.99 for the full package Professionals
9 FlipBook Windows and OSX $19.99/$49.99/$149.99/$199.99 Professionals
10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator Windows and OSX $199 for the pipeline, $99 for pro Professionals

Part 1 Best Free 2D Animation Software for Beginners

01 Synfig - Open Source 2D Animation Software for Beginners

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers more than 50 layers to make simple or advanced animation, so you don’t need to worry about its limitation though it is free to use.

Con: Few tutorials are available in the market to start making an animation for beginners.

Synfig Studio is an open-source, free 2D animation software that is the perfect place for beginners to learn about 2D animation. There are two versions available for free download - stable and testing.

The testing version has some experimental features if users want to try those ahead of their introduction into the stable release.

Features:

  • Supports multiple layers of content
  • The bone system allows for the creation of cutout animations from bitmap images
  • Has sound support to allow for the addition and syncing of narration and/or music to the video

02 Opentoonz - Free-to-Use Effects for 2D Animation

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can use a plug-in to make beautiful animation effects automatically without further editing.

Con: The UI design is outdated compared with other animation software, but it won’t affect user experience.

Based on the Toonz software, Opentoonz is the best free alternative that will help you create 2D animated content. Anyone can use the software, free of charge, and download it.

And users can modify the source code to add specific features to this simple animation software.

Features:

  • GTS scanning tool
  • Ability to change picture styles
  • Add distortion and light effects
  • Compatible with black and white and colored scans

03 Maefloresta - Easy-to-Use 2D Animation Software on Phone

Price: Free

Compatibility: iPhone and Android

Pro: It is free to use with easy to start introduction, even for kids.

Con: You need to email its staff to get the installer online, which is inconvenient sometimes.

The beauty of the Maefloresta app is that you can use your Android or iOS tablet and smartphone to create free 2D animated videos.

There is no need to pay for expensive software if you just want to create some fun videos to show your friends. It also offers school solutions for teachers and students.

Features:

  • The free downloadable app that works on smartphones and tablets
  • Easy animation software with tutorials
  • Intuitive interface that beginners can use with ease

04 Pencil 2D - Cross-Platform Software with Intuitive Interface

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It offers English, Spanish, and Portuguese language tutorials to use.

Con: It doesn’t support the shapes tool. If you like to make shapes and draw something, you’d be disappointed.

Want an open-source and free 2D animation design software to help you create videos? Pencil2D animation is the type of program that can help beginners.

You can get to grips with how 2D animation works, and you can create some very fun and interesting videos along the way.

Features:

  • Minimalist design to let you make animation easily
  • Raster and vector workflow switching
  • Cross-platform compatibility to free download

Part 2: Best Professional 2D Animation Software

05 Toon Boom Harmony - Leading Animation Software for Professional

Price: The first 21 days of using the product are free. After the 21 days are up, you will need to pay $109 per month.

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: You can make 2D and 3D animation, both with models.

Con: It may take some time to learn how to make 2D animation for beginners.

Whether you are trying to create an art piece, showcase a story through 2D images, or craft a unique message for your audience, Toon Boom Harmony will help you immensely.

This professional 2D animation software may take time to learn, but it is worth using. It has bitmap and vector tools for creating art, 3D imported models for hybrid productions, and the option to create multiplane scenes with Z-depth.

You can also check the Toon Boom Harmony Advanced Review from the TopTenReview website for more information.

Features:

  • Revolutionary vector and bitmap drawing technology - Brush Engine
  • Advanced color palettes and paint options
  • 2D and 3D integration to make professional animation
  • Cut-out animation tools
  • Traditional paperless animation.

06 CelAction2D - Low System Requirement for Professional 2D Animation

Price: If you go with the Studio Edition, it costs $1,300 to obtain a single license to use the product for a lifetime. Studio Edition is $1300 for one single license

Compatibility: Windows, Linux, and OSX

Pro: It is fast to use with low system requirements.

Con: You can draw animation in itself, so you need to import all words from third-party software.

Want to create unique and complex 2D animations for your upcoming projects? CelAction2D is the type of product that is going to help you create wonderful and professional animations.

While getting a full license is a financial commitment, you are getting a product that has all the features that you could need.

You can create a palette using up to 16 million colors, and you will have a very easy time getting to grips with the way the software works.

It is designed for beginners and intermediate users, but still has all the advanced features that a pro would want.

Features:

  • Easy and fast to use for professional users
  • Features ergonomic controls
  • Easily handles complex projects with thousands of layers
  • Works with all modern Windows machines - 32 and 64-bit Also work with Macs through Boot Camp
  • The multiplane camera features let you have more controls

07 Moho (Anime Studio) Pro - All-In-One Professional 2D Animation Software

Price: $399.99 for the full package.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: Its update is regular with advanced and newest features to use.

Con: It is not user-friendly for beginners as the functions are too advanced a little bit.

Anime Studio Pro is a fantastic option for anyone who is looking to get into professional 2D animation creation. It is affordable and designed for Flash-style animations.

While you cannot create frame-by-frame animations using this program, you will be able to create some fantastic videos nonetheless.

There is an Anime Studio Debut - simple animation software, which is targeted towards the beginner user and free download. But if you want all the features of a high-end 2D animation software, you will want to go with the Pro version.

Features:

  • Enhanced freehand drawing tools
  • Beizer handles to make it easier for you to design your videos the way that you want
  • Smart warp feature helps create custom meshes to bend and twist your animations
  • Realistic motion blur
  • Animation for multiple layers at the same time

08 Stop Motion Studio - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $59.99 to download the software onto your PC.

Compatibility: Windows, OSX, Android, and iOS

Pro: You can use a built-in sound to make your animation unique. You can also record voice and use it in the video.

Con: You can only use it to make 2D stop motion animation.

Want to create fun, 2D animated videos? Hoping to impress your bosses with a 2D animated presentation to highlight a product’s features?

Using Stop Motion Studio will help you achieve all that you want in the world of 2D animation.

You can capture content with ease, whether you change up the focus, exposure, or white balance. There is DSLR support, so you can use your high-end camera in conjunction with this professional software.

And with a unique, frame-by-frame editor, you will be able to get the result that you want for your 2D stop animation movie.

Features:

  • Onionskin allows you to view previous frames through a transparent overlay, which helps you create your next frame
  • Comes with Chroma key and audio recording to better narrate and add voice effects to your videos
  • Easy one-click uploading to YouTube and Facebook
  • DSLR camera support for creating perfect 1080p recordings

09 FlipBook - Fun and Well Designed 2D Animation Software

Price: $19.99 for FlipBook Lite, $49.99 for FlipBook Studio, $149.99 for FlipBook Pro, $199.99 for FlipBook ProHD

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: From drawing, scanning to sound, this 2D animation software can make you powerful video.

Con: You can’t use it to make subtle changes as bone rigging is not available.

FlipBook is easy to use for beginners and pros who want to improve the editing experience. It is a powerful video editor that you can make 2D animation with various functions like syncing sound with animation, scanning cells, and more.

If you like to make a cartoon video like a pro, this 2D animation maker is best for you. It is free to download.

Features:

  • Changes will be made while you change the animation, so FlipBook is fast to use
  • You can use the shift key to make speed painting once you select one color
  • Ten layers in animation for adding extra touches
  • You can use a scanner to import images

10 Reallusion CrazyTalk Animator - Professional 2D Animation/Cartoon Software for Designers

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

Compatibility: Windows and OSX

Pro: You can always find the feature you like for beginners and professionals. You can control characters even in expression levels.

Con: It integrates with PhotoShop to import and export video.

CrazyTalk is a 2D animation maker for professional users, so you can use this one if you don’t know which one to use. It supports controlling characters with your expression and lip-syncing. It is popular among YouTubers, educators and marketers.

Features:

  • Capture real-time facial expression with precise changing
  • Black magic to turn the image into a moving cartoon
  • For advanced users, you can make 2D visual effects

Price: USD199 for the pipeline, USD99 for pro.

You may also like: Best Free Animated Logo Makers >>

Part 3: How to Make 2D Animation

Step 1 Put forward an idea

A story ides is priceless. It is always important to build an essential story frame. Sometimes it is in a blink to have come up with an idea.

It will help if you decide the gist of your 2D animation because the whole process of making animation is evolving. You may need to add or cut some scenes, but the overall concept and story ideas are always the same.

Put forward an idea

Step 2 Make a storyboard

After all the ideas are fixed, you need to make a storyboard for animation . You don’t need to produce every scene, but it is suggested to make a storyboard in some crucial scenes. Storyboarding is probably the best way to show 2D animation to other people and get feedback.

Thus, it is a step that you should not neglect during the preliminary.

make storyboard

Step 3 Produce materials

At this stage, you need to prepare all the 2D animation materials, including characters, background, and props. One thing you need to know is all the preparations in steps 2 and 3 should be ready before proceeding to step 3.

Produce materials

Step 4 Animation

After all, materials are ready, and you need to make animation alive. In this step, you need to make sure all the movements are natural. Stiff moves are not liked by the audience, so you need to think about how to design gestures, movements, and facial expressions.

Animation

Step 5 Animation editing

In this step, the software is the key to relive the 2D animation. Background audio is essential and needs to be added to the video. Color correction and grading are also necessary. Besides, scene transition, voiceover, and even text credit need to be added.

Above are the five 2D animation steps. If you think there are extra steps, you are free to add them according to your needs.

Bonus tip: Create an Animation Video with Anireel

Anireel provides a faster and smoother animated video creation experience with customizable elements to bring anyone’s imagination to life. All you have to do is choose your script, input the content, and Anireel will instantly match your script to rich animation explainer scenes, convert the text into voice-over, and generate a vivid, complete animation video.

anireel animation software

Download Win Version

Part 3 FAQ about Professional 2D Animation Software

01 What is the best 2D animation software?

It is hard to directly give you an answer and tell you which is the best 2D animation software. However, we can give you some recommendations based on your needs. If you are a beginner, Pencil 2D is a great start. You can use it to make minimalist animation to give you a quick-to-start 2D animation experience. If you are in the middle level, Stop Motion Studio is what we recommend. The interface is intuitive with powerful features like voiceover and Chroma key.

02 What is the best 2D animation software for beginners?

For 2D animation software for beginners, Pencil 2D would come to mind for many people. It is an excellent animation software for beginners. If you also want to try other tools, Synfig and FlipBook are also great choices. It is your call for the final decision.

03 Is there any free animation software?

For beginners, free animation software includes Synfig, Opentoonz, Maefloresta, and Pencil 2D. For advanced users, you can use Blender and Maya.

Conclusion

Creating a 2D animation video is a lot easier when you have the right software available to you. You already have a script and storyboard in mind, but now you can realize your vision in intricate and unique ways.

If you want to make 3D animation, there are also various 3D animation software options for you. If anyone of the products above will serve you well, you could use Filmora.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Ultimate Video Editing Software Roundup: Top Picks for Every Platform

Best Video Editors for Windows/Mac/iOS/Android/Linux [All in One]

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Now, videos are getting increasingly important for you to present your thoughts and feeling on Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.

But how to make your video looks professional, creative, stunning and deserved to share? A free video editing software can do you a favor.

So, Which is the best video editor available in the market?

If you are not quite certain about the video editing software you should use to edit your videos, you’ve come to the right place. Because we are going to take you through the best video editors including free versions.

Newcomers to the world of the video editing as well as seasoned professionals can use this guide to find the video editing software that will help them produce better visual content.

Let’s dive in and explore all aspects worth considering before you decide which software is best for you. And you can click the Filter button at the left side in this article to find the best video editing software for you.

We spent about a month for researching and testing all popular video making software in the market and now collect 35 best video editors for you. This list of film makers can be used on Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Besides, some of them are online video editors you can use directly.

Now, let’s filter through the list to find the best video editor for you. Check it out :

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for Overview Download Link
1 Wondershare Filmora Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Android, iOS Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year Beginners, Semi-Pros 4.9 Download
2 Windows Movie Maker Windows7/8/10 Free Beginners 4.1 Download
3 iMovie Mac OS, iOS Free Beginners 4.3 Download
4 Final Cut Pro Mac OS 30 days free trial; $299.99 Professionals 4.4 Download
5 Wondershare Filmii Windows 7/8/10 Free trial; $9.99 Beginners 4.3 Download
6 Lightworks Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free trial; $437.99 Professionals 4.2 Download
7 ShotCut Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Semi-Pros 3.9 Download
8 HitFilm Express Windows, Mac OS Free Semi-Pros 4.1 Download
9 Blender Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free; Fund $6/mo for support Professionals 3.8 Download
10 Avidemux Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Beginners 3.5 Download
11 VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac OSX, iOS, Kindle Free Beginners 3.9 Download
12 OpenShot Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Beginners 3.8 Download
13 Kdenlive Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Semi-pros 4.1 Download
14 Adobe Premiere Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS 7 days free trial; $20.99/mo; $33.99 /mo Professionals 4.5 Download
15 Magix Vegas Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $399-$799 Professionals 4.2 Download
16 Adobe Premiere Elements Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $99.99 Semi-pros 4.7 Download
17 CyberLink PowerDirector Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $69,99 - $129,99 Semi-pros 4.5 Download
18 Magix Movie Video Easy Windows only Free trial; $49,99 Semi-pros 3.6 Download
19 Magix Video Pro Windows 10 Free trial; $79.99 Beginners 4.1 Download
20 Media Online Free Beginners 4.75 Check
21 YouTube Online Free Beginners 4.8 Check
22 Online Video Cutter Online Free Beginners 3.6 Check
23 Movie Maker Online Online Free Beginners 3.7 Check
24 ClipChamp Online 14 day free trial; $7/mo Beginners 4.1 Check
25 WeVideo Online Free trial; $11.99-$79.99 Beginners 4.4 Check
26 Kizoa Online Freemium Beginners 3.8 Check
27 Wideo Online Freemium Beginners 4.3 Check
28 Filmora iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.1 Download
29 Vlogit iOS, Android Free Beginners 3.6 Download
30 VideoShop iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.8 Download
31 Filmmaker Pro iOS Freemium; $5.99/mo Semi-pros 4.6 Download
32 KineMaster iOS, Android Freemium Semi-pros 4.4 Download
33 LumaFusion iOS $29.99 Semi-pros 4.8 Download
34 Vizzywig 2019 iOS $79.99 Semi-pros 4.1 Download
35 PowerDirector iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.5 Download

Part I: Best Video Editing Software for Windows/Mac/Linux


1. Wondershare Filmora

Platform: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Price: Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year

Level: Beginners

Free Download

Free Download

Even though it is widely considered as one of the premium entry-level video editing software options, Wondershare Filmora also offers advanced editing tools. The software product comes with detailed learning resources and provides support to its users who have little editing experience. The wide range of file formats and remarkably diverse Export options make Filmora an interesting choice for those who are just entering the world of video editing, but also for more experienced editors.

Features: Filmora’s rich effect library contains over a thousand modern special effects from niches such as gaming, blockbuster or tutorial, and new effects are added every month. The Action Cam tool is designed to make merging footage shot on action cameras easy and quick. Filmora supports a wide range of file formats including AVI, MP4 or MKV, so you don’t have to worry if your footage was shot in 4K or HD because you can easily edit it with this software.

Advantages:

A large number of professional video editing features Filmora offers as well as its modernly designed interface makes it one of the best options for amateur video creators.

Limitations:

You can use all the features in the free trial version, but have to pay to remove the watermark.

Lear more about Wondershare Filmora here: Filmora Official YouTube Channel


2. Windows Movie Maker

Platform: Windows

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This is probably one of the oldest if not the oldest video editing software for PCs. Microsoft has announced that Windows Movie Maker will no longer be available for download. This software can still be found online, although not on Microsoft’s website, and currently, there are two different versions of Windows Movie Maker available. Even the least experienced video editors can master each of the Movie Maker versions easily.

Features: The classic video editing software is equipped with all the tools you’ll need for basic editing tasks like trimming, changing the video playback speed or rotating videos. It even features a Video Stabilization option that can be useful if you’d like to stabilize a video and remove the distracting camera shakes. Windows Movie Maker lets you add text effects to your video, insert Transitions between two takes, perform basic audio editing or record a screen.

Advantages:

Free, meets your basic editing demands

Limitations:

Service discontinued

No support for modern file formats

Lacks color correction tools, visual effects or any other advanced video editing options.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: Windows Movie Maker User Guide


3. iMovie

Platform: Mac OS, iOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

imovie video editor

As the Apple’s version of the Windows Movie Maker, iMovie has a similar status of a classic video editor that is at its best when used for simple video editing tasks. The video editor can also be used on an iPhone or an iPad if you want to edit your videos on the go. Learning your way around iMovie won’t take much of your time since all of its features are easy to use.

Features: Editing 4K videos or making credits or titles are just a few among many options provided by iMovie. Adding transitions, applying split-screen effects or creating PIP videos doesn’t require you to be a skilled video editor, because all of these options are easily accessible and they can be used in any project you are working on.

The iMovie’s audio editing options are equally impressive since the software enables you to add music, use built-in sound effects and record voiceovers. The video editor supports most of the popular file formats.

Advantages:

Free, and comes bundled with your Mac

Intuitive interface

Limitations:

This classic video editor for Apple’s devices doesn’t offer advanced video editing options such as motion tracking or keyframe marking.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: iMovie User Guide


4. Final Cut Pro

Platform: macOS

Price: Paid, $299

Level: Professionals

final cut pro

Final Cut Pro is probably one of the highest praised video editing software ever created. It has been used to edit cinematic masterpieces such as ‘What happened Miss Simone’ or ‘The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo’, which speaks volumes about the software’s capability. Final Cut Pro’s Magnetic Timeline 2 is one of the kind, and it makes organizing large amounts of video and audio files look easy. Although the software’s price may seem discouraging, those who invested in it never had to use another video editor.

Features: A brief look at the list of Final Cut Pro’s video editing tools will leave you wondering if there is anything this software can’t do. Besides basic video editing features, the video editor is also equipped with 360 degrees VR video editing option, Multicam editing, and advanced color grading tools. Final Cut Pro allows its users to add as many audio tracks to the timeline as they want, thus enabling them to create impeccable soundtracks for their videos.

Advantages: Working with large numbers of video files is simplified by the software’s timeline, while options such as 3D titles or VR contribute to the strong impression this editor leaves on all of its users.

Limitations: Final Cut Pro has some lingering glitches that still haven’t been fixed, and its audio editing tool set lacks some important pieces.

If you are new to video editing and you will need a video maker that is tailored for beginners. In such case, you can read this article to get: Best Free Video Editing Software for Beginners >> They are really very easy to use. You can make a stunning video less than an hour.


5. Wondershare Filmii

Platform: Windows

Price: Free, Paid versions

Level: Beginners

filmii

This delicate video editing software is one of the best video editors for newbies. The free version of the software offers a lot of powerful video editing tools, but in order to get rid of the watermnark, you have to pay 9.99$ for its monthly plan. One of the advantages of Filmii is that it has a variety of video templates that can help beginners edit amazing videos with ease due to its auto-create functionality. Besides, its audio editing or creative tools are equally impressive.


6. Lightworks

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free, Paid versions: $437.99

Level: Professionals

lightworks

Lightworks is one of the best video editing software on this list with a long history in the movie-making business. The free version of the software is available, but it has limited export options. A $25 monthly subscription is required in order to gain access to all of the software’s features. Although it may be a somewhat pricey option, purchasing Lightworks is a profitable investment that may help you improve the quality of your videos.

Features: Both free and paid versions of this video editing suite offer support for wide range of video file formats. This can be very useful for video editors who often work on projects shot on different cameras. Multi-cam editing feature enables the software’s users to work with footage shot from separate angles, using more than just one camera. The videos edited with the free version of the software can only be exported to an MPEG4 file format with the maximum size of 1280X 790 pixels, and they must be uploaded to YouTube directly from the editor.

Advantages: Royalty-free media and a remarkable VFX panel make Lightworks a tempting option for professional and amateur video editors alike.

Limitations: The export options on the free version of the software are extremely limited and the software doesn’t provide much support for inexperienced users.


7. ShotCut

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

shotcut

If you need a video editing software just to piece together a few clips you recorded on the family vacation, then ShotCut may be a bit overwhelming choice for such a task. This open-source software is equipped with a rich collection of audio and video editing features, while it also offers support for nearly all video file formats. It is best suited for users in need of powerful video editing software who don’t want to spend a fortune on purchasing a professional editing suite.

Features: Screen capturing, webcam video recording or audio capturing options are all made available by ShotCut. The software’s video and audio editing features surpass all expectations and allow the software’s users to have complete creative control over their projects. Features such as Chroma Key, Crop or Blur are accompanied by a number of amazing video effects that can be used to enhance the colors in a video. Using ShotCut requires you to just download the software and run its executable file, which means that you don’t have to go through the installation process in order to start editing with this software.

Advantages: 4K videos, as well as numerous other video and audio file formats, are supported by this open-source video editing software. To make things even better ShotCut grants you access to fully customizable filters.

Limitations: The software doesn’t feature preset export profiles, and the transitions it offers are a bit scarce.


8. HitFilm Express

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

hitfilm express

This cross-platform video editor ranks among best video editing software products currently available on the market. Its secret lies in uniting visual effect compositing and video editing options under the same roof. HitFilm Express is aimed at users with an enviable amount of video editing experience, since inexperienced video editors may find the software’s interface difficult to navigate. This video editing suite offers a lot of video editing tools as well as visual and audio effect, that can be easily used to improve the quality of your videos.

Features: The rare combination of VFX compositing and video editing makes HitFilm Express unique, while its motion design and tracking options offer support for more complex video editing actions. The software supports 2D and 3D effects compositing, as well as 4K and 360-degree videos.

HitFilm Express’ titling options are at the basic level, while its Export options are alarmingly narrow. This free editing software doesn’t provide too many options for color adjustments, but its audio editing features can be used to create a video with a superior soundtrack.

Advantages: The software offers a wide spectrum of transitions and video effects and it supports most popular video file formats. HitFilm Express lets you use semi-professional video editing tools for free.

Limitations: In order to export a video from the software you must share a link on a social media platform and then download the file. People who are not familiar with the video editing process may find using HitFilm Express difficult.


9. Blender

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Professionals

blender

Blender started out as an open-source project and over the years animators, scientists, VFX artists and numerous other people have participated in developing this 3D creation suite. The software can be used for modeling, animation, video editing or compositing, to mention only a few of its many purposes. Editing video footage isn’t Blender’s strong suit, but its video editing features are powerful enough to enable you to perform basic editing tasks. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t use this software to create videos that grab the viewer’s attention.

Features: Cutting or trimming videos, adjusting the video’s playback speed or adding keyframes to a video clip is an easy process in Blender. The software’s true strength lies in its animation, 3D modeling or motion tracking features. The latest version of Blender is equipped with a motion tracking option that allows you to import the footage into the software directly from a camera. You can utilize this feature to mask areas of the shot and see the movement on camera in a 3D environment.

Advantages: Blender’s price and its powerful features make it an interesting choice as your primary video editing software.

Limitations: You must have in-depth knowledge of animation, compositing, and 3D techniques in order to be able to use Blender.


10. Avidemux

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

avidemux

This simple video editing software has all the tools you’ll ever need to quickly polish your videos. Its audio and video effects can be utilized to make your videos look and sound professionally, but Avidemux doesn’t offer much more than these basic video editing options.

The software provides support for most of popular video file formats, but its export options are far from perfect. Avidemux doesn’t feature visual effects or transitions, which significantly limits its video editing capabilities.

Features: Newcomers to the video editing world will love the software’s interface, because of its simplicity. The Transform feature allows you to fade in and fade out shots, crop or rotate video clips and even add logos to your videos. Blur or Sharpen effects enable users to enhance their videos, while contrast, brightness, saturation or hue values can be adjusted to make the colors in the video look more vivid. Avidemux also features the Subtitle option, but the software can only add hardcoded subtitles to videos.

Advantages: Solves all your basic video editing problems, and lets you have fun while editing videos. Avidemux also has solid encoding options and its interface is user-friendly.

Limitations: There are no video effects or transitions, which narrows down the software’s video editing options.


11. VideoPad Video Editor

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

videopad

VideoPad is one of the best entry-level cross-platform software products you can use for easy video editing tasks. The free version of the software is available to both Mac and PC users, although the Windows version limits the video exporting options to just two file formats. The VideoPad’s interface doesn’t take much time to get used to, and it perfectly adjusted to the needs of inexperienced video editors. Paid versions of the software are available to advanced editors who want to use VideoPad for more than just basic video editing.

Features: The list of video editing features VideoPad provides includes several pleasant surprises. The 4K video support, as well as 360-video editing features, are aimed at GoPro owners who want a quick and easy way to process their footage. The visual effects this free video editing software provides are impressive, while the Chroma Key option enables its users to create green screen videos. Even though VideoPad allows its users to edit audio files, its audio editing features are fairly modest.

Advantages: Learning how to use VideoPad is simplified by its intuitively designed interface.

Limitations: There are no advanced video editing options like multi-cam editing and motion tracking and certain features become unavailable when using the free version of the software over a longer period of time.

Download link: If you download the trial version instead of the free non-commercial home edition, or do not find a specific link to it on the website, you can trydownloading it from this link , or contact tech support , and they will send you a direct link.


12. OpenShot

Platform: Window, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

openshot best video editor

This award-winning open-source video editor offers a wide range of video editing tools that span from trimming and slicing to Slow Motion and Time effects. OpenShot is an excellent software for training and learning new video editing tricks, but it is best avoided if you are working on a large project. The software’s basic video editing features make it an excellent choice for users who only want to perform simple edits without having to waste too much time.

Features: OpenShot lets you add unlimited video and audio tracks to your projects, but its file management capabilities are far from impressive. The software allows you to trim or arrange the video files in any way you want, and it also provides a lot of different Transitions that can be used to make the videos look smoother. The collection of video and audio effects allows users to try out different solutions for the scenes in their video clips. OpenShot features a Vector Title Editor that can assist you in creating perfect opening titles or end credits.

Advantages: The interface of this open-source video editing software is designed to assist its users through every step of the video editing process. OpenShot is a great choice for all video editors who want to save money and use a powerful video editing software at the same time.

Limitations: More complex video editing options such as Rotoscoping, are not available. You may have to install add-ons if the OS you are using doesn’t meet the software’s system requirements.


13. Kdenlive

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-pros

Almost two decades ago, this open-source project was started by Jason Wood in order to develop a video editing software for Linux OS. Over the years, a small team of developers has created Windows and MacOS versions of the editor that now have a loyal fan base. Even though the software’s features make it a reliable choice for more complex projects, Kdnelive can also be used to perform simple edits. This video editing software combines the simplicity of entry-level video editors with advanced video editing tools frequently used by experienced professionals.

Features: The functionality of this video editor will surprise even the greatest of skeptics. The software’s timeline lets you to add as many videos and audio files to your project as you want, making it a perfect tool for large-scale projects. The visual effects and transitions enable users to manipulate the footage in any way they see fit, while the extremely powerful analysis tools such as histograms, waveforms or vectorscopes enable them to monitor all the adjustments they make on their footage.

Advantages: Kdnlive provides support for nearly all input file formats that can be added easily to the software’s multitrack timeline. The free open-source add-ons can extend the video editor’s capability and thus enable you to perform a wider range of video editing actions.

Limitations: Even though the software provides the screencast recording option, it doesn’t feature the PIP effect. Multi frame-rate editing isn’t possible and software’s updates can last for hours.


14. Adobe Premiere Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Paid, $19.99 per month

Level: Professionals

adobe premiere pro

There are very few video editing suites that can offer as much to its users as Adobe Premiere Pro can. It is probably one of the best video editors ever created, as it has been setting the industry standards for a long time. High-end professionals frequently use Adobe Premiere Pro on their projects, while aspiring filmmakers strive to learn every option this unique video editor has to offer. The much-famed software isn’t the best choice for video editors who are just learning the basics of the trade, although it supplies a staggering amount of tutorials and learning materials.

Features: With each new version of Adobe Premiere Pro the list of the software’s features becomes longer. Its timeline is famous for its ease of use because it enables you to add as much new audio or video tracks as your project requires. This is arguably one of the best color correction software packages on the market, while its color grading features are no less impressive. Adobe Premiere Pro provides support for a wide range of video file formats including 4K, HDR, and 360 VR videos.

Advantages: Perfect for collaborative projects that involve large teams of experienced professionals. The software is at its best when used with other Adobe’s products that enable you to develop projects beyond the boundaries set by the Adobe Premiere Pro’s limitations.

Limitations: You cannot purchase the lifetime license to use this video editing software, and paying monthly subscriptions may be hard on the budget of some of its potential users.


15. Magix Vegas Pro

Platform: Windows

**Price:**Paid: $399

Level: Professionals

vegas pro

Successful independent artists, film producers, and all other film and video enthusiasts can only benefit from purchasing this video editing suite. The software belonged to Sony Creative Software for much of its history, but on May 20. 2016 the company sold it to Magix. Previously known as Vegas Pro or just Vegas, this video editing software is widely accepted as one of the best professional video editing tools ever created. There is virtually no video editing task that cannot be completed in Magix Vegas Pro video editing software.

Features: This video editor is designed to provide support to its users from the beginning until the very end of the video editing process. Magix Vegas Pro recognizes almost all video file formats, even those captured with professional RED or ARRI Alexa cameras. You can use this software to edit 3D or 4K videos, while the Multicamera-Editing feature lets you switch between any number of video sources with a single mouse click. Effects such as Automatic Crossfades allow you to create transitions between shots effortlessly.

Advantages: The seemingly unlimited amount of learning resources makes editing with Magix Vegas Pro a lot easier and it enables less experienced video editors to learn new tricks.

Limitations: There aren’t as many visual effects as you would hope for and the software’s interface isn’t aesthetically pleasing, but it is very functional.


16. Adobe Premiere Elements

Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Paid: $99.99

Level: Semi-pros

Although it is often regarded as a simplified version of Premiere Pro, this video editing suite offers enough video editing tools to edit videos at the semi-professional level. Adobe Premiere Elements contains automated versions of Premiere Pro’s features and in this manner it enables its users to utilize professional video editing tools on their prosumer level projects. Even though this Adobe’s software product lacks the power of professional video editing software packages, it still offers enough video editing tools for the production of nicely polished and well-rounded videos.

Features: Adobe Premiere Elements recognizes all popular video file formats, and it offers support for 4K content. In addition to its remarkable file format compatibility, the video editor also features 3D editing and face detection options that can be very useful when working on more complex video projects. The haze-removal effect is extremely efficient at reducing the fog or cigarette smoke in a shot, while the motion titles let you create visually impressive opening titles or end credits. The Adobe Premiere Elements has performed exceptionally well when rendering large video files.

Advantages: The software’s Guided mode provides support to its users and helps them learn how to perform all video editing actions. The asset management tool offers assistance with the organization of large amounts of video and audio files.

Limitations: When compared to other video editors in this guide Adobe Premiere Elements’ device and social media optimization features seem to be in short supply.


Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Free trial, Paid version: $69,99 - $129,99

Level: Semi-pros

cyberlink powerdirector

This is probably one of the best and most popular video editing software packages aimed at amateur and semi-professional users. There are several versions of the software available, and each of them contains a different amount of options and video editing tools. Even with somewhat reduced capability, the least expensive version of the editor supports 360-degree as well as VR options for posting on social media such as Vimeo, Facebook or YouTube. CyberLink PowerDirector isn’t a professional video editing software, but it still offers a lot of extraordinary options that can take you a step closer to producing a professional video.

Features: The 360-degree video editing options are probably the first thing that catches the eye when you look at the list of features the software provides, but its true power lies in its color tools. LUTs, HDR effects or Split Toning options are just the tip of the iceberg since PowerDirector offers countless tools for fine-tuning of the colors in your videos. Animated PIP effects and video collages make this video editing software a perfect choice for the production of tutorials and all other types of online videos.

Advantages: The audio editing options provided by CyberLink PowerDirector are nothing short of amazing since they enable the software’s users to manipulate the audio files in any way they see fit.

Limitations: Motion tracking and color lookup features are not always reliable. The software is a bit overpriced when compared with similar video editing suits.


18. Magix Movie Video Easy

Platform: Windows

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $49,99

Level: Semi-pros

This video editor is a great choice for people who have never edited a video before and who want to learn how to perform basic video editing tasks. Video Easy’s intuitive user interface can be mastered by anyone with enough determination to edit videos with this software on a constant basis. Features this editor offers may not be as impressive as to ones provided by professional video editing suites, but they are powerful enough to produce clean edits that give your videos a professional look.

Features: If you choose to make Magix Movie Video Easy your primary video editing software, you will never have to worry about what type of camera you used to record your videos since the software is compatible with all standard camcorders, digital cameras, and Smartphones. The rich collection of transitions and effects, as well as the intro and outro animations, can all be used to create amazing videos. You can export videos to DVDs, Blu-Ray discs or YouTube directly from the software.

Advantages: If you are looking for a video editor that will enable you to add music to your videos, trim or cut videos quickly and choose from hundreds of effects, then you should look no further because Magix Movie Video Easy provides all of these options, and much more.

Limitations: Doesn’t perform well when used for demanding video editing tasks.


19. Magix Video Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $62,99

Level: Beginners

Magix has been the largest European video editing software manufacturer for more than two decades. Its software products may not enjoy the fame of Adobe’s video editing software packages, but this doesn’t mean that a video editor such as Magix Video Pro cannot be used for the production of professional-looking videos. Besides offering basic video editing tools this video editor also features advanced video editing options such as Stop Motion animation or 360-degree video editing. Magix Video Pro is often labeled as ‘one of the best video editing programs out there’.

Features: Audio editing features that come with this video editor include an audio mixer that enables you to reduce noise levels, control the low, mid and high sounds or simply equalize the sound volume across the entire project. The video editing tools supplied by the Magix Video Pro are as impressive as its audio editing options. Lens correction features, Split screen videos or 360-degree video editing options reveal only a fraction of the software’s capabilities. Magix Video Pro delivers professional video editing features to consumer-level users.

Advantages: The software allows you to place any type of media file on its timeline and use it in your project.

Limitations: The effects library installation process can be time-consuming, although it is well worth the wait.


Part II: Best Video Making Editors Online

20. YouTube

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The world’s largest video sharing platform also offers basic video editing services. Although Google has discontinued its built-in video editor, it still allows tts users to trim or rotate videos, apply filters or even create time-lapse and slow-motion videos on line. Brightness, contrast or saturation levels can be altered if you want to enhance the colors in your videos. Audio editing features are limited because the platform only allows you to add a single audio file to a project you’re working on. However, some of the most important video editing features like adding the text or creating titles are not available.

Advantages: Allows you to polish your videos before posting them on YouTube for free.

Cons: This online video editor lacks some basic video editing tools such as transitions or audio controls.


21. Online Video Cutter

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

If you were looking for a web app that contains all the tools required to cut a small video file, then Online Video Cutter is one of your best options. You won’t even have to create an account before you start the video editing process. The videos you upload to this online editor can’t exceed the 500 MB size limit. Besides cutting their videos, users of this editor can also rotate or trim their footage for free. Online Video Cutter provides support for nearly all video file formats, so you don’t have to worry about the file format in which your video was captured.

Advantages: Offers a quick way to trim videos online and it is exceptionally easy to use.

Limitations: Lacks even the most basic video editing features other than cutting, trimming and rotating videos.


22. Movie Maker Online

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This free online editing tool lets you process videos without even registering or creating an account. You can add videos, photos, text, and music into a single project and mix them together into an awesome video. The platform grants you access to its rich filter library, and it also allows you to add text overlays, fade audio and video files or create smooth transitions between shots. Movie Maker Online features its own collection of royalty free music and photos you can use to make your videos look and sound better. The webpage’s design is a little odd, and it may take some time to get used to it.

Advantages: The app offers a lot of different video editing tools and it allows you to perform all basic video editing actions online.

Limitations: Movie Maker Online is funded by ads, and requires you to disable your AdBlock app before you can start editing a video.


23. ClipChamp

Platform: Online

Price: Free trial, Paid: $7 per month

Level: Beginners

clipchamp

ClipChamp lets you upload videos you already recorded or capture new footage using your computer’s webcam. The free version of this web app allows you to export in 1080p video files, but you can’t produce more than five videos in a single month. Both versions of the online video editor require you to create an account, and the videos exported from the free version of the app don’t have a watermark. ClipChamp provides numerous video editing tools, including transition, color adjustments or cropping. The exporting process doesn’t last too long and you can choose whether you want to share the video on social media or download it to your computer.

Advantages: Makes creating webcam videos as well as editing preexisting footage look easy while providing excellent export options.

Limitations: The free version of ClipChamp allows you export only five videos in a month.


24. WeVideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

wevideo

The capabilities of WeVideo online video editor surpass the basic level of video editing. The platform offers support for iOS and Android devices as well as desktop computers. Producing square or horizontal videos, creating motion titles or publishing videos in 720p HD resolution are just a few amazing options this online video editor provides. The paid versions of the web app are best suited for skilled video editing professionals or large teams that are working on demanding projects. WeVideo’s free version doesn’t allow its users to publish more than 30 minutes of video content each month and each exported video contains a watermark.

Advantages: Produces videos with great picture quality and offers tons of advanced video editing options.

Limitations: Creating an account is mandatory even for video editors who want to use the free version of WeVideo.


25. Kizoa

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

Kizoa offers a broad spectrum of transitions, visual effects, animation and text effects to its users for free. The video editing platform is frequently used to create goofy short videos that can be easily shared on Facebook or Twitter. The app allows you to add photos to your video projects and it grants you access to an incredibly rich royalty free music collection. However, you will have to create an account on Kizoa in order to be able to export the videos you created. The editor’s timeline is rudimentary, but still functional enough to enable users to combine audio, video, and photo files.

Advantages: Kizoa is a powerful tool for the creation of entertaining social media videos.

Limitations: You must create an account in order to be able to export your projects, and the online video editor doesn’t feature any advanced video editing options.


26. Wideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

All video enthusiasts can use Wideo platform to edit their videos, regardless of their skill level. In addition to amazing video editing options, this online video editor also features animations that can be used to create professional presentations. All video content uploaded to Wideo is stored on the cloud, and pricing plans for professionals include unlimited storage space. The Basic version of the editor allows for just ten downloads in a month and it doesn’t let its users upload videos to YouTube. Even though this video editor is easy to use, it is better suited for skilled professionals than it is for inexperienced video editors.

Advantages: Even the Basic pricing plan enables users to export HD videos, while Professional and Enterprise pricing plans include the Full HD export option.

Limitations: Limited audio editing options significantly reduce the capabilities of this online video editing platform.

Read More to Get: 10 Best Free Online Video Editors With No Watermark >>


Part III: Best Video APP for iOS/Android

27. Filmora

Platform: iOS, Andoird

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

You can edit your videos with Filmora in just three simple steps. All you have to do is choose the videos and photos from your phone’s gallery, Instagram or Facebook account, select a theme, insert transitions or add a song and share the video directly from the app on social media or to your email address. Besides the powerful video editing features, this app for iOS and Android devices also allows you to set your video’s aspect ratio to Square 1:1 if you would like to share the clip on Instagram or Cinema 16:9 if the video is shared to YouTube.

Advantages: Supports HD export options and provides a diverse set of video editing options.

Limitations: The app can’t perform advanced video editing tasks.


28. Vlogit

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The Wondershare’s video editing app for Android and iOS devices is designed to offer assistance to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos directly from their Smartphones. Vlogit is equipped with video editing tools that enable you to cut, trim or rotate videos, while its sound editing features include recording voiceovers, adding sound effects or choosing the music you want to use as a soundtrack to your video. The app lets you combine photos and videos within the same project, and it also enables you to create customized openers from animated templates. The videos created and exported with the Vlogit app don’t contain watermarks.

Advantages: Offers powerful video editing features to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos from their Smartphones for free.

Limitations: The list of visual effects the app provides could be longer.


29. VideoShop

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

The extensive list of features VideoShop app offers makes it one of the best options for novice video editors who want to quickly create visually impressive videos. This video editing app allows you to work with multiple video files or merge them into a single video. The animated titles enable users of the VideoShop app to create professional-looking intros for their videos, while the transitions feature allows them to seamlessly piece together all shots featured in a project. Tilt-Shift and Stop Motion options are also available to video editors who want to make their videos look more professional.

Advantages: Fun and easy to use video editing app that lets you manipulate footage in any way you want.

Limitations: VideoShop contains ads, and the app’s version for iOS devices only supports videos recorded with iPhones and iPads.


30. Filmmaker Pro

Platform: iOS

Price: Freemium, $5,99 monthly subscription

Level: Semi-pros

iPhone videographers who need access to semi-professional video editing tools will certainly enjoy using this app. Filmmaker Pro offers support for 4K footage filmed on the latest models of iPhone and it enables its users to add an unlimited number of text overlays, video clips, voiceovers or audio tracks to the app’s timeline. The video editor grants you access to over 30 filters, video grading features, as well as Chroma Key and Ken Burns effects. In addition to impressive video and audio editing features, Filmmaker Pro’s users can also record videos with a camera that lets them adjust settings manually directly from the app, although this option must be paid for.

Advantages: Text overlays, audio editing features and the ability to select the aspect ratio for each video you edit with this app, make it one of the best video editing options for iOS devices.

Limitations: Nearly all of the app’s best features must be purchased.


31. KineMaster

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium, contains adds

Level: Semi-pros

This cross-platform video editor is one of the premier options for mobile video editing on both iOS and Android devices. KineMaster is currently the only app that enables Android Smartphone owners to add as many layers of videos, photos, and text to their projects as they want. However, it only supports a limited number of video file formats, which means that the app shouldn’t be used to edit videos that weren’t recorded on an iPhone or Android phone. KineMaster provides a wide range of video exporting options and allows you to share videos on popular social media networks.

Pros: Above average video and audio editing features.

Limitations: Offers a lot of options mobile video editors seldom use.


32. LumaFusion

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $29.99

Level: Semi-pros

Creating neatly organized projects with LumaFusion is a simple task because the app features a powerful Project Manager that lets you sort files or select aspect ratios for your videos. In addition, the Media Library lets you import all types of files from a cloud storage or drag and drop media from other apps. Producing slow-motion videos that have 120 or 240fps or creating green screen videos using the Chroma Key effect is easy with LumaFusion. The app’s audio editing features are as impressive as its video editing tools since they provide the complete control over the audio files to the video editor’s users.

Advantages: Color correction options, LUTs or numerous visual effects are all part of the reason why LumaFusion is one of the best apps for mobile video editing.

Limitations: Only available for iOS devices.


33. Vizzywig 2019 4K Video Editor

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $79.99

Level: Semi-pros

This award-winning app for iOS devices provides all the tools a skilled video editor could desire. Its features include support for 4K videos, wide selection of aspect ratios as well as stylish intros, end credits, and titles. Besides offering professional video editing tools, Vizzywig also features Multi-Camera recording options that can capture videos in 8K resolution. In addition, the app is capable of producing videos that have eight times more pixels than the Apple’s Facetime HD Camera. The non-linear timeline lets you arrange video clips in any way you see fit, and allows you to add multiple media files to each project you are working on.

Advantages: Lets you control the focus and exposure manually and produce videos with stunning picture quality.

Limitations: Single platform compatibility and a high price narrow down the number of the app’s potential users.


34. PowerDirector

Platform: Android

Price: Freemium, contains ads and in-app purchases

Level: Beginners

Unlike the Adobe’s app for mobile video editing, PowerDirector lives up to all expectations. This user-friendly app lets you create reverse, 4K, or green screen videos. To make things even better, you can easily apply visual and audio effects or add voiceovers to your projects. In addition to the video editor, the PowerDirector app is also equipped with a powerful photo editor that lets you manipulate images in a professional manner. You can use almost any type of video or audio file in this app because it provides support for all commonly used file formats.

Advantages: PowerDirector is designed to help its users polish their video quickly and effortlessly.

Limitations: Videos in 1080p and 4K resolutions can only be exported after you’ve made an in-app purchase.

Ooops…It looks like there isn’t any tool that matches your demand. Please give it another try.

Which Video Editor Do You Think Is Best for You?

Thank you to read this so far. It’s a long but the most comprehensive reviews ever for all hot video editing software compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux, as well as online video editors. I hope you find the tools that you like.

If you want to get quick selections without too much reading, here is my recommendation:

  • Best video editor for Windows and Mac to download: Filmora
  • Best video editing software for Linux to download: Lightworks
  • Best video editor for Android, iOS to download: Filmora , VideoShop
  • Best online video editor to use: WeVideo

If you still can’t find a one Or we missed one of the tools you think which deserves to be listed above?

Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Now, videos are getting increasingly important for you to present your thoughts and feeling on Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.

But how to make your video looks professional, creative, stunning and deserved to share? A free video editing software can do you a favor.

So, Which is the best video editor available in the market?

If you are not quite certain about the video editing software you should use to edit your videos, you’ve come to the right place. Because we are going to take you through the best video editors including free versions.

Newcomers to the world of the video editing as well as seasoned professionals can use this guide to find the video editing software that will help them produce better visual content.

Let’s dive in and explore all aspects worth considering before you decide which software is best for you. And you can click the Filter button at the left side in this article to find the best video editing software for you.

We spent about a month for researching and testing all popular video making software in the market and now collect 35 best video editors for you. This list of film makers can be used on Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Besides, some of them are online video editors you can use directly.

Now, let’s filter through the list to find the best video editor for you. Check it out :

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for Overview Download Link
1 Wondershare Filmora Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Android, iOS Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year Beginners, Semi-Pros 4.9 Download
2 Windows Movie Maker Windows7/8/10 Free Beginners 4.1 Download
3 iMovie Mac OS, iOS Free Beginners 4.3 Download
4 Final Cut Pro Mac OS 30 days free trial; $299.99 Professionals 4.4 Download
5 Wondershare Filmii Windows 7/8/10 Free trial; $9.99 Beginners 4.3 Download
6 Lightworks Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free trial; $437.99 Professionals 4.2 Download
7 ShotCut Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Semi-Pros 3.9 Download
8 HitFilm Express Windows, Mac OS Free Semi-Pros 4.1 Download
9 Blender Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free; Fund $6/mo for support Professionals 3.8 Download
10 Avidemux Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Beginners 3.5 Download
11 VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac OSX, iOS, Kindle Free Beginners 3.9 Download
12 OpenShot Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Beginners 3.8 Download
13 Kdenlive Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Semi-pros 4.1 Download
14 Adobe Premiere Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS 7 days free trial; $20.99/mo; $33.99 /mo Professionals 4.5 Download
15 Magix Vegas Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $399-$799 Professionals 4.2 Download
16 Adobe Premiere Elements Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $99.99 Semi-pros 4.7 Download
17 CyberLink PowerDirector Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $69,99 - $129,99 Semi-pros 4.5 Download
18 Magix Movie Video Easy Windows only Free trial; $49,99 Semi-pros 3.6 Download
19 Magix Video Pro Windows 10 Free trial; $79.99 Beginners 4.1 Download
20 Media Online Free Beginners 4.75 Check
21 YouTube Online Free Beginners 4.8 Check
22 Online Video Cutter Online Free Beginners 3.6 Check
23 Movie Maker Online Online Free Beginners 3.7 Check
24 ClipChamp Online 14 day free trial; $7/mo Beginners 4.1 Check
25 WeVideo Online Free trial; $11.99-$79.99 Beginners 4.4 Check
26 Kizoa Online Freemium Beginners 3.8 Check
27 Wideo Online Freemium Beginners 4.3 Check
28 Filmora iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.1 Download
29 Vlogit iOS, Android Free Beginners 3.6 Download
30 VideoShop iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.8 Download
31 Filmmaker Pro iOS Freemium; $5.99/mo Semi-pros 4.6 Download
32 KineMaster iOS, Android Freemium Semi-pros 4.4 Download
33 LumaFusion iOS $29.99 Semi-pros 4.8 Download
34 Vizzywig 2019 iOS $79.99 Semi-pros 4.1 Download
35 PowerDirector iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.5 Download

Part I: Best Video Editing Software for Windows/Mac/Linux


1. Wondershare Filmora

Platform: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Price: Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year

Level: Beginners

Free Download

Free Download

Even though it is widely considered as one of the premium entry-level video editing software options, Wondershare Filmora also offers advanced editing tools. The software product comes with detailed learning resources and provides support to its users who have little editing experience. The wide range of file formats and remarkably diverse Export options make Filmora an interesting choice for those who are just entering the world of video editing, but also for more experienced editors.

Features: Filmora’s rich effect library contains over a thousand modern special effects from niches such as gaming, blockbuster or tutorial, and new effects are added every month. The Action Cam tool is designed to make merging footage shot on action cameras easy and quick. Filmora supports a wide range of file formats including AVI, MP4 or MKV, so you don’t have to worry if your footage was shot in 4K or HD because you can easily edit it with this software.

Advantages:

A large number of professional video editing features Filmora offers as well as its modernly designed interface makes it one of the best options for amateur video creators.

Limitations:

You can use all the features in the free trial version, but have to pay to remove the watermark.

Lear more about Wondershare Filmora here: Filmora Official YouTube Channel


2. Windows Movie Maker

Platform: Windows

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This is probably one of the oldest if not the oldest video editing software for PCs. Microsoft has announced that Windows Movie Maker will no longer be available for download. This software can still be found online, although not on Microsoft’s website, and currently, there are two different versions of Windows Movie Maker available. Even the least experienced video editors can master each of the Movie Maker versions easily.

Features: The classic video editing software is equipped with all the tools you’ll need for basic editing tasks like trimming, changing the video playback speed or rotating videos. It even features a Video Stabilization option that can be useful if you’d like to stabilize a video and remove the distracting camera shakes. Windows Movie Maker lets you add text effects to your video, insert Transitions between two takes, perform basic audio editing or record a screen.

Advantages:

Free, meets your basic editing demands

Limitations:

Service discontinued

No support for modern file formats

Lacks color correction tools, visual effects or any other advanced video editing options.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: Windows Movie Maker User Guide


3. iMovie

Platform: Mac OS, iOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

imovie video editor

As the Apple’s version of the Windows Movie Maker, iMovie has a similar status of a classic video editor that is at its best when used for simple video editing tasks. The video editor can also be used on an iPhone or an iPad if you want to edit your videos on the go. Learning your way around iMovie won’t take much of your time since all of its features are easy to use.

Features: Editing 4K videos or making credits or titles are just a few among many options provided by iMovie. Adding transitions, applying split-screen effects or creating PIP videos doesn’t require you to be a skilled video editor, because all of these options are easily accessible and they can be used in any project you are working on.

The iMovie’s audio editing options are equally impressive since the software enables you to add music, use built-in sound effects and record voiceovers. The video editor supports most of the popular file formats.

Advantages:

Free, and comes bundled with your Mac

Intuitive interface

Limitations:

This classic video editor for Apple’s devices doesn’t offer advanced video editing options such as motion tracking or keyframe marking.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: iMovie User Guide


4. Final Cut Pro

Platform: macOS

Price: Paid, $299

Level: Professionals

final cut pro

Final Cut Pro is probably one of the highest praised video editing software ever created. It has been used to edit cinematic masterpieces such as ‘What happened Miss Simone’ or ‘The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo’, which speaks volumes about the software’s capability. Final Cut Pro’s Magnetic Timeline 2 is one of the kind, and it makes organizing large amounts of video and audio files look easy. Although the software’s price may seem discouraging, those who invested in it never had to use another video editor.

Features: A brief look at the list of Final Cut Pro’s video editing tools will leave you wondering if there is anything this software can’t do. Besides basic video editing features, the video editor is also equipped with 360 degrees VR video editing option, Multicam editing, and advanced color grading tools. Final Cut Pro allows its users to add as many audio tracks to the timeline as they want, thus enabling them to create impeccable soundtracks for their videos.

Advantages: Working with large numbers of video files is simplified by the software’s timeline, while options such as 3D titles or VR contribute to the strong impression this editor leaves on all of its users.

Limitations: Final Cut Pro has some lingering glitches that still haven’t been fixed, and its audio editing tool set lacks some important pieces.

If you are new to video editing and you will need a video maker that is tailored for beginners. In such case, you can read this article to get: Best Free Video Editing Software for Beginners >> They are really very easy to use. You can make a stunning video less than an hour.


5. Wondershare Filmii

Platform: Windows

Price: Free, Paid versions

Level: Beginners

filmii

This delicate video editing software is one of the best video editors for newbies. The free version of the software offers a lot of powerful video editing tools, but in order to get rid of the watermnark, you have to pay 9.99$ for its monthly plan. One of the advantages of Filmii is that it has a variety of video templates that can help beginners edit amazing videos with ease due to its auto-create functionality. Besides, its audio editing or creative tools are equally impressive.


6. Lightworks

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free, Paid versions: $437.99

Level: Professionals

lightworks

Lightworks is one of the best video editing software on this list with a long history in the movie-making business. The free version of the software is available, but it has limited export options. A $25 monthly subscription is required in order to gain access to all of the software’s features. Although it may be a somewhat pricey option, purchasing Lightworks is a profitable investment that may help you improve the quality of your videos.

Features: Both free and paid versions of this video editing suite offer support for wide range of video file formats. This can be very useful for video editors who often work on projects shot on different cameras. Multi-cam editing feature enables the software’s users to work with footage shot from separate angles, using more than just one camera. The videos edited with the free version of the software can only be exported to an MPEG4 file format with the maximum size of 1280X 790 pixels, and they must be uploaded to YouTube directly from the editor.

Advantages: Royalty-free media and a remarkable VFX panel make Lightworks a tempting option for professional and amateur video editors alike.

Limitations: The export options on the free version of the software are extremely limited and the software doesn’t provide much support for inexperienced users.


7. ShotCut

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

shotcut

If you need a video editing software just to piece together a few clips you recorded on the family vacation, then ShotCut may be a bit overwhelming choice for such a task. This open-source software is equipped with a rich collection of audio and video editing features, while it also offers support for nearly all video file formats. It is best suited for users in need of powerful video editing software who don’t want to spend a fortune on purchasing a professional editing suite.

Features: Screen capturing, webcam video recording or audio capturing options are all made available by ShotCut. The software’s video and audio editing features surpass all expectations and allow the software’s users to have complete creative control over their projects. Features such as Chroma Key, Crop or Blur are accompanied by a number of amazing video effects that can be used to enhance the colors in a video. Using ShotCut requires you to just download the software and run its executable file, which means that you don’t have to go through the installation process in order to start editing with this software.

Advantages: 4K videos, as well as numerous other video and audio file formats, are supported by this open-source video editing software. To make things even better ShotCut grants you access to fully customizable filters.

Limitations: The software doesn’t feature preset export profiles, and the transitions it offers are a bit scarce.


8. HitFilm Express

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

hitfilm express

This cross-platform video editor ranks among best video editing software products currently available on the market. Its secret lies in uniting visual effect compositing and video editing options under the same roof. HitFilm Express is aimed at users with an enviable amount of video editing experience, since inexperienced video editors may find the software’s interface difficult to navigate. This video editing suite offers a lot of video editing tools as well as visual and audio effect, that can be easily used to improve the quality of your videos.

Features: The rare combination of VFX compositing and video editing makes HitFilm Express unique, while its motion design and tracking options offer support for more complex video editing actions. The software supports 2D and 3D effects compositing, as well as 4K and 360-degree videos.

HitFilm Express’ titling options are at the basic level, while its Export options are alarmingly narrow. This free editing software doesn’t provide too many options for color adjustments, but its audio editing features can be used to create a video with a superior soundtrack.

Advantages: The software offers a wide spectrum of transitions and video effects and it supports most popular video file formats. HitFilm Express lets you use semi-professional video editing tools for free.

Limitations: In order to export a video from the software you must share a link on a social media platform and then download the file. People who are not familiar with the video editing process may find using HitFilm Express difficult.


9. Blender

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Professionals

blender

Blender started out as an open-source project and over the years animators, scientists, VFX artists and numerous other people have participated in developing this 3D creation suite. The software can be used for modeling, animation, video editing or compositing, to mention only a few of its many purposes. Editing video footage isn’t Blender’s strong suit, but its video editing features are powerful enough to enable you to perform basic editing tasks. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t use this software to create videos that grab the viewer’s attention.

Features: Cutting or trimming videos, adjusting the video’s playback speed or adding keyframes to a video clip is an easy process in Blender. The software’s true strength lies in its animation, 3D modeling or motion tracking features. The latest version of Blender is equipped with a motion tracking option that allows you to import the footage into the software directly from a camera. You can utilize this feature to mask areas of the shot and see the movement on camera in a 3D environment.

Advantages: Blender’s price and its powerful features make it an interesting choice as your primary video editing software.

Limitations: You must have in-depth knowledge of animation, compositing, and 3D techniques in order to be able to use Blender.


10. Avidemux

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

avidemux

This simple video editing software has all the tools you’ll ever need to quickly polish your videos. Its audio and video effects can be utilized to make your videos look and sound professionally, but Avidemux doesn’t offer much more than these basic video editing options.

The software provides support for most of popular video file formats, but its export options are far from perfect. Avidemux doesn’t feature visual effects or transitions, which significantly limits its video editing capabilities.

Features: Newcomers to the video editing world will love the software’s interface, because of its simplicity. The Transform feature allows you to fade in and fade out shots, crop or rotate video clips and even add logos to your videos. Blur or Sharpen effects enable users to enhance their videos, while contrast, brightness, saturation or hue values can be adjusted to make the colors in the video look more vivid. Avidemux also features the Subtitle option, but the software can only add hardcoded subtitles to videos.

Advantages: Solves all your basic video editing problems, and lets you have fun while editing videos. Avidemux also has solid encoding options and its interface is user-friendly.

Limitations: There are no video effects or transitions, which narrows down the software’s video editing options.


11. VideoPad Video Editor

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

videopad

VideoPad is one of the best entry-level cross-platform software products you can use for easy video editing tasks. The free version of the software is available to both Mac and PC users, although the Windows version limits the video exporting options to just two file formats. The VideoPad’s interface doesn’t take much time to get used to, and it perfectly adjusted to the needs of inexperienced video editors. Paid versions of the software are available to advanced editors who want to use VideoPad for more than just basic video editing.

Features: The list of video editing features VideoPad provides includes several pleasant surprises. The 4K video support, as well as 360-video editing features, are aimed at GoPro owners who want a quick and easy way to process their footage. The visual effects this free video editing software provides are impressive, while the Chroma Key option enables its users to create green screen videos. Even though VideoPad allows its users to edit audio files, its audio editing features are fairly modest.

Advantages: Learning how to use VideoPad is simplified by its intuitively designed interface.

Limitations: There are no advanced video editing options like multi-cam editing and motion tracking and certain features become unavailable when using the free version of the software over a longer period of time.

Download link: If you download the trial version instead of the free non-commercial home edition, or do not find a specific link to it on the website, you can trydownloading it from this link , or contact tech support , and they will send you a direct link.


12. OpenShot

Platform: Window, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

openshot best video editor

This award-winning open-source video editor offers a wide range of video editing tools that span from trimming and slicing to Slow Motion and Time effects. OpenShot is an excellent software for training and learning new video editing tricks, but it is best avoided if you are working on a large project. The software’s basic video editing features make it an excellent choice for users who only want to perform simple edits without having to waste too much time.

Features: OpenShot lets you add unlimited video and audio tracks to your projects, but its file management capabilities are far from impressive. The software allows you to trim or arrange the video files in any way you want, and it also provides a lot of different Transitions that can be used to make the videos look smoother. The collection of video and audio effects allows users to try out different solutions for the scenes in their video clips. OpenShot features a Vector Title Editor that can assist you in creating perfect opening titles or end credits.

Advantages: The interface of this open-source video editing software is designed to assist its users through every step of the video editing process. OpenShot is a great choice for all video editors who want to save money and use a powerful video editing software at the same time.

Limitations: More complex video editing options such as Rotoscoping, are not available. You may have to install add-ons if the OS you are using doesn’t meet the software’s system requirements.


13. Kdenlive

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-pros

Almost two decades ago, this open-source project was started by Jason Wood in order to develop a video editing software for Linux OS. Over the years, a small team of developers has created Windows and MacOS versions of the editor that now have a loyal fan base. Even though the software’s features make it a reliable choice for more complex projects, Kdnelive can also be used to perform simple edits. This video editing software combines the simplicity of entry-level video editors with advanced video editing tools frequently used by experienced professionals.

Features: The functionality of this video editor will surprise even the greatest of skeptics. The software’s timeline lets you to add as many videos and audio files to your project as you want, making it a perfect tool for large-scale projects. The visual effects and transitions enable users to manipulate the footage in any way they see fit, while the extremely powerful analysis tools such as histograms, waveforms or vectorscopes enable them to monitor all the adjustments they make on their footage.

Advantages: Kdnlive provides support for nearly all input file formats that can be added easily to the software’s multitrack timeline. The free open-source add-ons can extend the video editor’s capability and thus enable you to perform a wider range of video editing actions.

Limitations: Even though the software provides the screencast recording option, it doesn’t feature the PIP effect. Multi frame-rate editing isn’t possible and software’s updates can last for hours.


14. Adobe Premiere Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Paid, $19.99 per month

Level: Professionals

adobe premiere pro

There are very few video editing suites that can offer as much to its users as Adobe Premiere Pro can. It is probably one of the best video editors ever created, as it has been setting the industry standards for a long time. High-end professionals frequently use Adobe Premiere Pro on their projects, while aspiring filmmakers strive to learn every option this unique video editor has to offer. The much-famed software isn’t the best choice for video editors who are just learning the basics of the trade, although it supplies a staggering amount of tutorials and learning materials.

Features: With each new version of Adobe Premiere Pro the list of the software’s features becomes longer. Its timeline is famous for its ease of use because it enables you to add as much new audio or video tracks as your project requires. This is arguably one of the best color correction software packages on the market, while its color grading features are no less impressive. Adobe Premiere Pro provides support for a wide range of video file formats including 4K, HDR, and 360 VR videos.

Advantages: Perfect for collaborative projects that involve large teams of experienced professionals. The software is at its best when used with other Adobe’s products that enable you to develop projects beyond the boundaries set by the Adobe Premiere Pro’s limitations.

Limitations: You cannot purchase the lifetime license to use this video editing software, and paying monthly subscriptions may be hard on the budget of some of its potential users.


15. Magix Vegas Pro

Platform: Windows

**Price:**Paid: $399

Level: Professionals

vegas pro

Successful independent artists, film producers, and all other film and video enthusiasts can only benefit from purchasing this video editing suite. The software belonged to Sony Creative Software for much of its history, but on May 20. 2016 the company sold it to Magix. Previously known as Vegas Pro or just Vegas, this video editing software is widely accepted as one of the best professional video editing tools ever created. There is virtually no video editing task that cannot be completed in Magix Vegas Pro video editing software.

Features: This video editor is designed to provide support to its users from the beginning until the very end of the video editing process. Magix Vegas Pro recognizes almost all video file formats, even those captured with professional RED or ARRI Alexa cameras. You can use this software to edit 3D or 4K videos, while the Multicamera-Editing feature lets you switch between any number of video sources with a single mouse click. Effects such as Automatic Crossfades allow you to create transitions between shots effortlessly.

Advantages: The seemingly unlimited amount of learning resources makes editing with Magix Vegas Pro a lot easier and it enables less experienced video editors to learn new tricks.

Limitations: There aren’t as many visual effects as you would hope for and the software’s interface isn’t aesthetically pleasing, but it is very functional.


16. Adobe Premiere Elements

Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Paid: $99.99

Level: Semi-pros

Although it is often regarded as a simplified version of Premiere Pro, this video editing suite offers enough video editing tools to edit videos at the semi-professional level. Adobe Premiere Elements contains automated versions of Premiere Pro’s features and in this manner it enables its users to utilize professional video editing tools on their prosumer level projects. Even though this Adobe’s software product lacks the power of professional video editing software packages, it still offers enough video editing tools for the production of nicely polished and well-rounded videos.

Features: Adobe Premiere Elements recognizes all popular video file formats, and it offers support for 4K content. In addition to its remarkable file format compatibility, the video editor also features 3D editing and face detection options that can be very useful when working on more complex video projects. The haze-removal effect is extremely efficient at reducing the fog or cigarette smoke in a shot, while the motion titles let you create visually impressive opening titles or end credits. The Adobe Premiere Elements has performed exceptionally well when rendering large video files.

Advantages: The software’s Guided mode provides support to its users and helps them learn how to perform all video editing actions. The asset management tool offers assistance with the organization of large amounts of video and audio files.

Limitations: When compared to other video editors in this guide Adobe Premiere Elements’ device and social media optimization features seem to be in short supply.


Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Free trial, Paid version: $69,99 - $129,99

Level: Semi-pros

cyberlink powerdirector

This is probably one of the best and most popular video editing software packages aimed at amateur and semi-professional users. There are several versions of the software available, and each of them contains a different amount of options and video editing tools. Even with somewhat reduced capability, the least expensive version of the editor supports 360-degree as well as VR options for posting on social media such as Vimeo, Facebook or YouTube. CyberLink PowerDirector isn’t a professional video editing software, but it still offers a lot of extraordinary options that can take you a step closer to producing a professional video.

Features: The 360-degree video editing options are probably the first thing that catches the eye when you look at the list of features the software provides, but its true power lies in its color tools. LUTs, HDR effects or Split Toning options are just the tip of the iceberg since PowerDirector offers countless tools for fine-tuning of the colors in your videos. Animated PIP effects and video collages make this video editing software a perfect choice for the production of tutorials and all other types of online videos.

Advantages: The audio editing options provided by CyberLink PowerDirector are nothing short of amazing since they enable the software’s users to manipulate the audio files in any way they see fit.

Limitations: Motion tracking and color lookup features are not always reliable. The software is a bit overpriced when compared with similar video editing suits.


18. Magix Movie Video Easy

Platform: Windows

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $49,99

Level: Semi-pros

This video editor is a great choice for people who have never edited a video before and who want to learn how to perform basic video editing tasks. Video Easy’s intuitive user interface can be mastered by anyone with enough determination to edit videos with this software on a constant basis. Features this editor offers may not be as impressive as to ones provided by professional video editing suites, but they are powerful enough to produce clean edits that give your videos a professional look.

Features: If you choose to make Magix Movie Video Easy your primary video editing software, you will never have to worry about what type of camera you used to record your videos since the software is compatible with all standard camcorders, digital cameras, and Smartphones. The rich collection of transitions and effects, as well as the intro and outro animations, can all be used to create amazing videos. You can export videos to DVDs, Blu-Ray discs or YouTube directly from the software.

Advantages: If you are looking for a video editor that will enable you to add music to your videos, trim or cut videos quickly and choose from hundreds of effects, then you should look no further because Magix Movie Video Easy provides all of these options, and much more.

Limitations: Doesn’t perform well when used for demanding video editing tasks.


19. Magix Video Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $62,99

Level: Beginners

Magix has been the largest European video editing software manufacturer for more than two decades. Its software products may not enjoy the fame of Adobe’s video editing software packages, but this doesn’t mean that a video editor such as Magix Video Pro cannot be used for the production of professional-looking videos. Besides offering basic video editing tools this video editor also features advanced video editing options such as Stop Motion animation or 360-degree video editing. Magix Video Pro is often labeled as ‘one of the best video editing programs out there’.

Features: Audio editing features that come with this video editor include an audio mixer that enables you to reduce noise levels, control the low, mid and high sounds or simply equalize the sound volume across the entire project. The video editing tools supplied by the Magix Video Pro are as impressive as its audio editing options. Lens correction features, Split screen videos or 360-degree video editing options reveal only a fraction of the software’s capabilities. Magix Video Pro delivers professional video editing features to consumer-level users.

Advantages: The software allows you to place any type of media file on its timeline and use it in your project.

Limitations: The effects library installation process can be time-consuming, although it is well worth the wait.


Part II: Best Video Making Editors Online

20. YouTube

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The world’s largest video sharing platform also offers basic video editing services. Although Google has discontinued its built-in video editor, it still allows tts users to trim or rotate videos, apply filters or even create time-lapse and slow-motion videos on line. Brightness, contrast or saturation levels can be altered if you want to enhance the colors in your videos. Audio editing features are limited because the platform only allows you to add a single audio file to a project you’re working on. However, some of the most important video editing features like adding the text or creating titles are not available.

Advantages: Allows you to polish your videos before posting them on YouTube for free.

Cons: This online video editor lacks some basic video editing tools such as transitions or audio controls.


21. Online Video Cutter

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

If you were looking for a web app that contains all the tools required to cut a small video file, then Online Video Cutter is one of your best options. You won’t even have to create an account before you start the video editing process. The videos you upload to this online editor can’t exceed the 500 MB size limit. Besides cutting their videos, users of this editor can also rotate or trim their footage for free. Online Video Cutter provides support for nearly all video file formats, so you don’t have to worry about the file format in which your video was captured.

Advantages: Offers a quick way to trim videos online and it is exceptionally easy to use.

Limitations: Lacks even the most basic video editing features other than cutting, trimming and rotating videos.


22. Movie Maker Online

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This free online editing tool lets you process videos without even registering or creating an account. You can add videos, photos, text, and music into a single project and mix them together into an awesome video. The platform grants you access to its rich filter library, and it also allows you to add text overlays, fade audio and video files or create smooth transitions between shots. Movie Maker Online features its own collection of royalty free music and photos you can use to make your videos look and sound better. The webpage’s design is a little odd, and it may take some time to get used to it.

Advantages: The app offers a lot of different video editing tools and it allows you to perform all basic video editing actions online.

Limitations: Movie Maker Online is funded by ads, and requires you to disable your AdBlock app before you can start editing a video.


23. ClipChamp

Platform: Online

Price: Free trial, Paid: $7 per month

Level: Beginners

clipchamp

ClipChamp lets you upload videos you already recorded or capture new footage using your computer’s webcam. The free version of this web app allows you to export in 1080p video files, but you can’t produce more than five videos in a single month. Both versions of the online video editor require you to create an account, and the videos exported from the free version of the app don’t have a watermark. ClipChamp provides numerous video editing tools, including transition, color adjustments or cropping. The exporting process doesn’t last too long and you can choose whether you want to share the video on social media or download it to your computer.

Advantages: Makes creating webcam videos as well as editing preexisting footage look easy while providing excellent export options.

Limitations: The free version of ClipChamp allows you export only five videos in a month.


24. WeVideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

wevideo

The capabilities of WeVideo online video editor surpass the basic level of video editing. The platform offers support for iOS and Android devices as well as desktop computers. Producing square or horizontal videos, creating motion titles or publishing videos in 720p HD resolution are just a few amazing options this online video editor provides. The paid versions of the web app are best suited for skilled video editing professionals or large teams that are working on demanding projects. WeVideo’s free version doesn’t allow its users to publish more than 30 minutes of video content each month and each exported video contains a watermark.

Advantages: Produces videos with great picture quality and offers tons of advanced video editing options.

Limitations: Creating an account is mandatory even for video editors who want to use the free version of WeVideo.


25. Kizoa

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

Kizoa offers a broad spectrum of transitions, visual effects, animation and text effects to its users for free. The video editing platform is frequently used to create goofy short videos that can be easily shared on Facebook or Twitter. The app allows you to add photos to your video projects and it grants you access to an incredibly rich royalty free music collection. However, you will have to create an account on Kizoa in order to be able to export the videos you created. The editor’s timeline is rudimentary, but still functional enough to enable users to combine audio, video, and photo files.

Advantages: Kizoa is a powerful tool for the creation of entertaining social media videos.

Limitations: You must create an account in order to be able to export your projects, and the online video editor doesn’t feature any advanced video editing options.


26. Wideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

All video enthusiasts can use Wideo platform to edit their videos, regardless of their skill level. In addition to amazing video editing options, this online video editor also features animations that can be used to create professional presentations. All video content uploaded to Wideo is stored on the cloud, and pricing plans for professionals include unlimited storage space. The Basic version of the editor allows for just ten downloads in a month and it doesn’t let its users upload videos to YouTube. Even though this video editor is easy to use, it is better suited for skilled professionals than it is for inexperienced video editors.

Advantages: Even the Basic pricing plan enables users to export HD videos, while Professional and Enterprise pricing plans include the Full HD export option.

Limitations: Limited audio editing options significantly reduce the capabilities of this online video editing platform.

Read More to Get: 10 Best Free Online Video Editors With No Watermark >>


Part III: Best Video APP for iOS/Android

27. Filmora

Platform: iOS, Andoird

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

You can edit your videos with Filmora in just three simple steps. All you have to do is choose the videos and photos from your phone’s gallery, Instagram or Facebook account, select a theme, insert transitions or add a song and share the video directly from the app on social media or to your email address. Besides the powerful video editing features, this app for iOS and Android devices also allows you to set your video’s aspect ratio to Square 1:1 if you would like to share the clip on Instagram or Cinema 16:9 if the video is shared to YouTube.

Advantages: Supports HD export options and provides a diverse set of video editing options.

Limitations: The app can’t perform advanced video editing tasks.


28. Vlogit

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The Wondershare’s video editing app for Android and iOS devices is designed to offer assistance to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos directly from their Smartphones. Vlogit is equipped with video editing tools that enable you to cut, trim or rotate videos, while its sound editing features include recording voiceovers, adding sound effects or choosing the music you want to use as a soundtrack to your video. The app lets you combine photos and videos within the same project, and it also enables you to create customized openers from animated templates. The videos created and exported with the Vlogit app don’t contain watermarks.

Advantages: Offers powerful video editing features to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos from their Smartphones for free.

Limitations: The list of visual effects the app provides could be longer.


29. VideoShop

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

The extensive list of features VideoShop app offers makes it one of the best options for novice video editors who want to quickly create visually impressive videos. This video editing app allows you to work with multiple video files or merge them into a single video. The animated titles enable users of the VideoShop app to create professional-looking intros for their videos, while the transitions feature allows them to seamlessly piece together all shots featured in a project. Tilt-Shift and Stop Motion options are also available to video editors who want to make their videos look more professional.

Advantages: Fun and easy to use video editing app that lets you manipulate footage in any way you want.

Limitations: VideoShop contains ads, and the app’s version for iOS devices only supports videos recorded with iPhones and iPads.


30. Filmmaker Pro

Platform: iOS

Price: Freemium, $5,99 monthly subscription

Level: Semi-pros

iPhone videographers who need access to semi-professional video editing tools will certainly enjoy using this app. Filmmaker Pro offers support for 4K footage filmed on the latest models of iPhone and it enables its users to add an unlimited number of text overlays, video clips, voiceovers or audio tracks to the app’s timeline. The video editor grants you access to over 30 filters, video grading features, as well as Chroma Key and Ken Burns effects. In addition to impressive video and audio editing features, Filmmaker Pro’s users can also record videos with a camera that lets them adjust settings manually directly from the app, although this option must be paid for.

Advantages: Text overlays, audio editing features and the ability to select the aspect ratio for each video you edit with this app, make it one of the best video editing options for iOS devices.

Limitations: Nearly all of the app’s best features must be purchased.


31. KineMaster

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium, contains adds

Level: Semi-pros

This cross-platform video editor is one of the premier options for mobile video editing on both iOS and Android devices. KineMaster is currently the only app that enables Android Smartphone owners to add as many layers of videos, photos, and text to their projects as they want. However, it only supports a limited number of video file formats, which means that the app shouldn’t be used to edit videos that weren’t recorded on an iPhone or Android phone. KineMaster provides a wide range of video exporting options and allows you to share videos on popular social media networks.

Pros: Above average video and audio editing features.

Limitations: Offers a lot of options mobile video editors seldom use.


32. LumaFusion

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $29.99

Level: Semi-pros

Creating neatly organized projects with LumaFusion is a simple task because the app features a powerful Project Manager that lets you sort files or select aspect ratios for your videos. In addition, the Media Library lets you import all types of files from a cloud storage or drag and drop media from other apps. Producing slow-motion videos that have 120 or 240fps or creating green screen videos using the Chroma Key effect is easy with LumaFusion. The app’s audio editing features are as impressive as its video editing tools since they provide the complete control over the audio files to the video editor’s users.

Advantages: Color correction options, LUTs or numerous visual effects are all part of the reason why LumaFusion is one of the best apps for mobile video editing.

Limitations: Only available for iOS devices.


33. Vizzywig 2019 4K Video Editor

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $79.99

Level: Semi-pros

This award-winning app for iOS devices provides all the tools a skilled video editor could desire. Its features include support for 4K videos, wide selection of aspect ratios as well as stylish intros, end credits, and titles. Besides offering professional video editing tools, Vizzywig also features Multi-Camera recording options that can capture videos in 8K resolution. In addition, the app is capable of producing videos that have eight times more pixels than the Apple’s Facetime HD Camera. The non-linear timeline lets you arrange video clips in any way you see fit, and allows you to add multiple media files to each project you are working on.

Advantages: Lets you control the focus and exposure manually and produce videos with stunning picture quality.

Limitations: Single platform compatibility and a high price narrow down the number of the app’s potential users.


34. PowerDirector

Platform: Android

Price: Freemium, contains ads and in-app purchases

Level: Beginners

Unlike the Adobe’s app for mobile video editing, PowerDirector lives up to all expectations. This user-friendly app lets you create reverse, 4K, or green screen videos. To make things even better, you can easily apply visual and audio effects or add voiceovers to your projects. In addition to the video editor, the PowerDirector app is also equipped with a powerful photo editor that lets you manipulate images in a professional manner. You can use almost any type of video or audio file in this app because it provides support for all commonly used file formats.

Advantages: PowerDirector is designed to help its users polish their video quickly and effortlessly.

Limitations: Videos in 1080p and 4K resolutions can only be exported after you’ve made an in-app purchase.

Ooops…It looks like there isn’t any tool that matches your demand. Please give it another try.

Which Video Editor Do You Think Is Best for You?

Thank you to read this so far. It’s a long but the most comprehensive reviews ever for all hot video editing software compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux, as well as online video editors. I hope you find the tools that you like.

If you want to get quick selections without too much reading, here is my recommendation:

  • Best video editor for Windows and Mac to download: Filmora
  • Best video editing software for Linux to download: Lightworks
  • Best video editor for Android, iOS to download: Filmora , VideoShop
  • Best online video editor to use: WeVideo

If you still can’t find a one Or we missed one of the tools you think which deserves to be listed above?

Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Now, videos are getting increasingly important for you to present your thoughts and feeling on Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.

But how to make your video looks professional, creative, stunning and deserved to share? A free video editing software can do you a favor.

So, Which is the best video editor available in the market?

If you are not quite certain about the video editing software you should use to edit your videos, you’ve come to the right place. Because we are going to take you through the best video editors including free versions.

Newcomers to the world of the video editing as well as seasoned professionals can use this guide to find the video editing software that will help them produce better visual content.

Let’s dive in and explore all aspects worth considering before you decide which software is best for you. And you can click the Filter button at the left side in this article to find the best video editing software for you.

We spent about a month for researching and testing all popular video making software in the market and now collect 35 best video editors for you. This list of film makers can be used on Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Besides, some of them are online video editors you can use directly.

Now, let’s filter through the list to find the best video editor for you. Check it out :

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for Overview Download Link
1 Wondershare Filmora Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Android, iOS Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year Beginners, Semi-Pros 4.9 Download
2 Windows Movie Maker Windows7/8/10 Free Beginners 4.1 Download
3 iMovie Mac OS, iOS Free Beginners 4.3 Download
4 Final Cut Pro Mac OS 30 days free trial; $299.99 Professionals 4.4 Download
5 Wondershare Filmii Windows 7/8/10 Free trial; $9.99 Beginners 4.3 Download
6 Lightworks Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free trial; $437.99 Professionals 4.2 Download
7 ShotCut Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Semi-Pros 3.9 Download
8 HitFilm Express Windows, Mac OS Free Semi-Pros 4.1 Download
9 Blender Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free; Fund $6/mo for support Professionals 3.8 Download
10 Avidemux Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Beginners 3.5 Download
11 VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac OSX, iOS, Kindle Free Beginners 3.9 Download
12 OpenShot Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Beginners 3.8 Download
13 Kdenlive Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Semi-pros 4.1 Download
14 Adobe Premiere Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS 7 days free trial; $20.99/mo; $33.99 /mo Professionals 4.5 Download
15 Magix Vegas Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $399-$799 Professionals 4.2 Download
16 Adobe Premiere Elements Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $99.99 Semi-pros 4.7 Download
17 CyberLink PowerDirector Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $69,99 - $129,99 Semi-pros 4.5 Download
18 Magix Movie Video Easy Windows only Free trial; $49,99 Semi-pros 3.6 Download
19 Magix Video Pro Windows 10 Free trial; $79.99 Beginners 4.1 Download
20 Media Online Free Beginners 4.75 Check
21 YouTube Online Free Beginners 4.8 Check
22 Online Video Cutter Online Free Beginners 3.6 Check
23 Movie Maker Online Online Free Beginners 3.7 Check
24 ClipChamp Online 14 day free trial; $7/mo Beginners 4.1 Check
25 WeVideo Online Free trial; $11.99-$79.99 Beginners 4.4 Check
26 Kizoa Online Freemium Beginners 3.8 Check
27 Wideo Online Freemium Beginners 4.3 Check
28 Filmora iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.1 Download
29 Vlogit iOS, Android Free Beginners 3.6 Download
30 VideoShop iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.8 Download
31 Filmmaker Pro iOS Freemium; $5.99/mo Semi-pros 4.6 Download
32 KineMaster iOS, Android Freemium Semi-pros 4.4 Download
33 LumaFusion iOS $29.99 Semi-pros 4.8 Download
34 Vizzywig 2019 iOS $79.99 Semi-pros 4.1 Download
35 PowerDirector iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.5 Download

Part I: Best Video Editing Software for Windows/Mac/Linux


1. Wondershare Filmora

Platform: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Price: Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year

Level: Beginners

Free Download

Free Download

Even though it is widely considered as one of the premium entry-level video editing software options, Wondershare Filmora also offers advanced editing tools. The software product comes with detailed learning resources and provides support to its users who have little editing experience. The wide range of file formats and remarkably diverse Export options make Filmora an interesting choice for those who are just entering the world of video editing, but also for more experienced editors.

Features: Filmora’s rich effect library contains over a thousand modern special effects from niches such as gaming, blockbuster or tutorial, and new effects are added every month. The Action Cam tool is designed to make merging footage shot on action cameras easy and quick. Filmora supports a wide range of file formats including AVI, MP4 or MKV, so you don’t have to worry if your footage was shot in 4K or HD because you can easily edit it with this software.

Advantages:

A large number of professional video editing features Filmora offers as well as its modernly designed interface makes it one of the best options for amateur video creators.

Limitations:

You can use all the features in the free trial version, but have to pay to remove the watermark.

Lear more about Wondershare Filmora here: Filmora Official YouTube Channel


2. Windows Movie Maker

Platform: Windows

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This is probably one of the oldest if not the oldest video editing software for PCs. Microsoft has announced that Windows Movie Maker will no longer be available for download. This software can still be found online, although not on Microsoft’s website, and currently, there are two different versions of Windows Movie Maker available. Even the least experienced video editors can master each of the Movie Maker versions easily.

Features: The classic video editing software is equipped with all the tools you’ll need for basic editing tasks like trimming, changing the video playback speed or rotating videos. It even features a Video Stabilization option that can be useful if you’d like to stabilize a video and remove the distracting camera shakes. Windows Movie Maker lets you add text effects to your video, insert Transitions between two takes, perform basic audio editing or record a screen.

Advantages:

Free, meets your basic editing demands

Limitations:

Service discontinued

No support for modern file formats

Lacks color correction tools, visual effects or any other advanced video editing options.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: Windows Movie Maker User Guide


3. iMovie

Platform: Mac OS, iOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

imovie video editor

As the Apple’s version of the Windows Movie Maker, iMovie has a similar status of a classic video editor that is at its best when used for simple video editing tasks. The video editor can also be used on an iPhone or an iPad if you want to edit your videos on the go. Learning your way around iMovie won’t take much of your time since all of its features are easy to use.

Features: Editing 4K videos or making credits or titles are just a few among many options provided by iMovie. Adding transitions, applying split-screen effects or creating PIP videos doesn’t require you to be a skilled video editor, because all of these options are easily accessible and they can be used in any project you are working on.

The iMovie’s audio editing options are equally impressive since the software enables you to add music, use built-in sound effects and record voiceovers. The video editor supports most of the popular file formats.

Advantages:

Free, and comes bundled with your Mac

Intuitive interface

Limitations:

This classic video editor for Apple’s devices doesn’t offer advanced video editing options such as motion tracking or keyframe marking.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: iMovie User Guide


4. Final Cut Pro

Platform: macOS

Price: Paid, $299

Level: Professionals

final cut pro

Final Cut Pro is probably one of the highest praised video editing software ever created. It has been used to edit cinematic masterpieces such as ‘What happened Miss Simone’ or ‘The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo’, which speaks volumes about the software’s capability. Final Cut Pro’s Magnetic Timeline 2 is one of the kind, and it makes organizing large amounts of video and audio files look easy. Although the software’s price may seem discouraging, those who invested in it never had to use another video editor.

Features: A brief look at the list of Final Cut Pro’s video editing tools will leave you wondering if there is anything this software can’t do. Besides basic video editing features, the video editor is also equipped with 360 degrees VR video editing option, Multicam editing, and advanced color grading tools. Final Cut Pro allows its users to add as many audio tracks to the timeline as they want, thus enabling them to create impeccable soundtracks for their videos.

Advantages: Working with large numbers of video files is simplified by the software’s timeline, while options such as 3D titles or VR contribute to the strong impression this editor leaves on all of its users.

Limitations: Final Cut Pro has some lingering glitches that still haven’t been fixed, and its audio editing tool set lacks some important pieces.

If you are new to video editing and you will need a video maker that is tailored for beginners. In such case, you can read this article to get: Best Free Video Editing Software for Beginners >> They are really very easy to use. You can make a stunning video less than an hour.


5. Wondershare Filmii

Platform: Windows

Price: Free, Paid versions

Level: Beginners

filmii

This delicate video editing software is one of the best video editors for newbies. The free version of the software offers a lot of powerful video editing tools, but in order to get rid of the watermnark, you have to pay 9.99$ for its monthly plan. One of the advantages of Filmii is that it has a variety of video templates that can help beginners edit amazing videos with ease due to its auto-create functionality. Besides, its audio editing or creative tools are equally impressive.


6. Lightworks

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free, Paid versions: $437.99

Level: Professionals

lightworks

Lightworks is one of the best video editing software on this list with a long history in the movie-making business. The free version of the software is available, but it has limited export options. A $25 monthly subscription is required in order to gain access to all of the software’s features. Although it may be a somewhat pricey option, purchasing Lightworks is a profitable investment that may help you improve the quality of your videos.

Features: Both free and paid versions of this video editing suite offer support for wide range of video file formats. This can be very useful for video editors who often work on projects shot on different cameras. Multi-cam editing feature enables the software’s users to work with footage shot from separate angles, using more than just one camera. The videos edited with the free version of the software can only be exported to an MPEG4 file format with the maximum size of 1280X 790 pixels, and they must be uploaded to YouTube directly from the editor.

Advantages: Royalty-free media and a remarkable VFX panel make Lightworks a tempting option for professional and amateur video editors alike.

Limitations: The export options on the free version of the software are extremely limited and the software doesn’t provide much support for inexperienced users.


7. ShotCut

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

shotcut

If you need a video editing software just to piece together a few clips you recorded on the family vacation, then ShotCut may be a bit overwhelming choice for such a task. This open-source software is equipped with a rich collection of audio and video editing features, while it also offers support for nearly all video file formats. It is best suited for users in need of powerful video editing software who don’t want to spend a fortune on purchasing a professional editing suite.

Features: Screen capturing, webcam video recording or audio capturing options are all made available by ShotCut. The software’s video and audio editing features surpass all expectations and allow the software’s users to have complete creative control over their projects. Features such as Chroma Key, Crop or Blur are accompanied by a number of amazing video effects that can be used to enhance the colors in a video. Using ShotCut requires you to just download the software and run its executable file, which means that you don’t have to go through the installation process in order to start editing with this software.

Advantages: 4K videos, as well as numerous other video and audio file formats, are supported by this open-source video editing software. To make things even better ShotCut grants you access to fully customizable filters.

Limitations: The software doesn’t feature preset export profiles, and the transitions it offers are a bit scarce.


8. HitFilm Express

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

hitfilm express

This cross-platform video editor ranks among best video editing software products currently available on the market. Its secret lies in uniting visual effect compositing and video editing options under the same roof. HitFilm Express is aimed at users with an enviable amount of video editing experience, since inexperienced video editors may find the software’s interface difficult to navigate. This video editing suite offers a lot of video editing tools as well as visual and audio effect, that can be easily used to improve the quality of your videos.

Features: The rare combination of VFX compositing and video editing makes HitFilm Express unique, while its motion design and tracking options offer support for more complex video editing actions. The software supports 2D and 3D effects compositing, as well as 4K and 360-degree videos.

HitFilm Express’ titling options are at the basic level, while its Export options are alarmingly narrow. This free editing software doesn’t provide too many options for color adjustments, but its audio editing features can be used to create a video with a superior soundtrack.

Advantages: The software offers a wide spectrum of transitions and video effects and it supports most popular video file formats. HitFilm Express lets you use semi-professional video editing tools for free.

Limitations: In order to export a video from the software you must share a link on a social media platform and then download the file. People who are not familiar with the video editing process may find using HitFilm Express difficult.


9. Blender

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Professionals

blender

Blender started out as an open-source project and over the years animators, scientists, VFX artists and numerous other people have participated in developing this 3D creation suite. The software can be used for modeling, animation, video editing or compositing, to mention only a few of its many purposes. Editing video footage isn’t Blender’s strong suit, but its video editing features are powerful enough to enable you to perform basic editing tasks. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t use this software to create videos that grab the viewer’s attention.

Features: Cutting or trimming videos, adjusting the video’s playback speed or adding keyframes to a video clip is an easy process in Blender. The software’s true strength lies in its animation, 3D modeling or motion tracking features. The latest version of Blender is equipped with a motion tracking option that allows you to import the footage into the software directly from a camera. You can utilize this feature to mask areas of the shot and see the movement on camera in a 3D environment.

Advantages: Blender’s price and its powerful features make it an interesting choice as your primary video editing software.

Limitations: You must have in-depth knowledge of animation, compositing, and 3D techniques in order to be able to use Blender.


10. Avidemux

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

avidemux

This simple video editing software has all the tools you’ll ever need to quickly polish your videos. Its audio and video effects can be utilized to make your videos look and sound professionally, but Avidemux doesn’t offer much more than these basic video editing options.

The software provides support for most of popular video file formats, but its export options are far from perfect. Avidemux doesn’t feature visual effects or transitions, which significantly limits its video editing capabilities.

Features: Newcomers to the video editing world will love the software’s interface, because of its simplicity. The Transform feature allows you to fade in and fade out shots, crop or rotate video clips and even add logos to your videos. Blur or Sharpen effects enable users to enhance their videos, while contrast, brightness, saturation or hue values can be adjusted to make the colors in the video look more vivid. Avidemux also features the Subtitle option, but the software can only add hardcoded subtitles to videos.

Advantages: Solves all your basic video editing problems, and lets you have fun while editing videos. Avidemux also has solid encoding options and its interface is user-friendly.

Limitations: There are no video effects or transitions, which narrows down the software’s video editing options.


11. VideoPad Video Editor

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

videopad

VideoPad is one of the best entry-level cross-platform software products you can use for easy video editing tasks. The free version of the software is available to both Mac and PC users, although the Windows version limits the video exporting options to just two file formats. The VideoPad’s interface doesn’t take much time to get used to, and it perfectly adjusted to the needs of inexperienced video editors. Paid versions of the software are available to advanced editors who want to use VideoPad for more than just basic video editing.

Features: The list of video editing features VideoPad provides includes several pleasant surprises. The 4K video support, as well as 360-video editing features, are aimed at GoPro owners who want a quick and easy way to process their footage. The visual effects this free video editing software provides are impressive, while the Chroma Key option enables its users to create green screen videos. Even though VideoPad allows its users to edit audio files, its audio editing features are fairly modest.

Advantages: Learning how to use VideoPad is simplified by its intuitively designed interface.

Limitations: There are no advanced video editing options like multi-cam editing and motion tracking and certain features become unavailable when using the free version of the software over a longer period of time.

Download link: If you download the trial version instead of the free non-commercial home edition, or do not find a specific link to it on the website, you can trydownloading it from this link , or contact tech support , and they will send you a direct link.


12. OpenShot

Platform: Window, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

openshot best video editor

This award-winning open-source video editor offers a wide range of video editing tools that span from trimming and slicing to Slow Motion and Time effects. OpenShot is an excellent software for training and learning new video editing tricks, but it is best avoided if you are working on a large project. The software’s basic video editing features make it an excellent choice for users who only want to perform simple edits without having to waste too much time.

Features: OpenShot lets you add unlimited video and audio tracks to your projects, but its file management capabilities are far from impressive. The software allows you to trim or arrange the video files in any way you want, and it also provides a lot of different Transitions that can be used to make the videos look smoother. The collection of video and audio effects allows users to try out different solutions for the scenes in their video clips. OpenShot features a Vector Title Editor that can assist you in creating perfect opening titles or end credits.

Advantages: The interface of this open-source video editing software is designed to assist its users through every step of the video editing process. OpenShot is a great choice for all video editors who want to save money and use a powerful video editing software at the same time.

Limitations: More complex video editing options such as Rotoscoping, are not available. You may have to install add-ons if the OS you are using doesn’t meet the software’s system requirements.


13. Kdenlive

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-pros

Almost two decades ago, this open-source project was started by Jason Wood in order to develop a video editing software for Linux OS. Over the years, a small team of developers has created Windows and MacOS versions of the editor that now have a loyal fan base. Even though the software’s features make it a reliable choice for more complex projects, Kdnelive can also be used to perform simple edits. This video editing software combines the simplicity of entry-level video editors with advanced video editing tools frequently used by experienced professionals.

Features: The functionality of this video editor will surprise even the greatest of skeptics. The software’s timeline lets you to add as many videos and audio files to your project as you want, making it a perfect tool for large-scale projects. The visual effects and transitions enable users to manipulate the footage in any way they see fit, while the extremely powerful analysis tools such as histograms, waveforms or vectorscopes enable them to monitor all the adjustments they make on their footage.

Advantages: Kdnlive provides support for nearly all input file formats that can be added easily to the software’s multitrack timeline. The free open-source add-ons can extend the video editor’s capability and thus enable you to perform a wider range of video editing actions.

Limitations: Even though the software provides the screencast recording option, it doesn’t feature the PIP effect. Multi frame-rate editing isn’t possible and software’s updates can last for hours.


14. Adobe Premiere Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Paid, $19.99 per month

Level: Professionals

adobe premiere pro

There are very few video editing suites that can offer as much to its users as Adobe Premiere Pro can. It is probably one of the best video editors ever created, as it has been setting the industry standards for a long time. High-end professionals frequently use Adobe Premiere Pro on their projects, while aspiring filmmakers strive to learn every option this unique video editor has to offer. The much-famed software isn’t the best choice for video editors who are just learning the basics of the trade, although it supplies a staggering amount of tutorials and learning materials.

Features: With each new version of Adobe Premiere Pro the list of the software’s features becomes longer. Its timeline is famous for its ease of use because it enables you to add as much new audio or video tracks as your project requires. This is arguably one of the best color correction software packages on the market, while its color grading features are no less impressive. Adobe Premiere Pro provides support for a wide range of video file formats including 4K, HDR, and 360 VR videos.

Advantages: Perfect for collaborative projects that involve large teams of experienced professionals. The software is at its best when used with other Adobe’s products that enable you to develop projects beyond the boundaries set by the Adobe Premiere Pro’s limitations.

Limitations: You cannot purchase the lifetime license to use this video editing software, and paying monthly subscriptions may be hard on the budget of some of its potential users.


15. Magix Vegas Pro

Platform: Windows

**Price:**Paid: $399

Level: Professionals

vegas pro

Successful independent artists, film producers, and all other film and video enthusiasts can only benefit from purchasing this video editing suite. The software belonged to Sony Creative Software for much of its history, but on May 20. 2016 the company sold it to Magix. Previously known as Vegas Pro or just Vegas, this video editing software is widely accepted as one of the best professional video editing tools ever created. There is virtually no video editing task that cannot be completed in Magix Vegas Pro video editing software.

Features: This video editor is designed to provide support to its users from the beginning until the very end of the video editing process. Magix Vegas Pro recognizes almost all video file formats, even those captured with professional RED or ARRI Alexa cameras. You can use this software to edit 3D or 4K videos, while the Multicamera-Editing feature lets you switch between any number of video sources with a single mouse click. Effects such as Automatic Crossfades allow you to create transitions between shots effortlessly.

Advantages: The seemingly unlimited amount of learning resources makes editing with Magix Vegas Pro a lot easier and it enables less experienced video editors to learn new tricks.

Limitations: There aren’t as many visual effects as you would hope for and the software’s interface isn’t aesthetically pleasing, but it is very functional.


16. Adobe Premiere Elements

Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Paid: $99.99

Level: Semi-pros

Although it is often regarded as a simplified version of Premiere Pro, this video editing suite offers enough video editing tools to edit videos at the semi-professional level. Adobe Premiere Elements contains automated versions of Premiere Pro’s features and in this manner it enables its users to utilize professional video editing tools on their prosumer level projects. Even though this Adobe’s software product lacks the power of professional video editing software packages, it still offers enough video editing tools for the production of nicely polished and well-rounded videos.

Features: Adobe Premiere Elements recognizes all popular video file formats, and it offers support for 4K content. In addition to its remarkable file format compatibility, the video editor also features 3D editing and face detection options that can be very useful when working on more complex video projects. The haze-removal effect is extremely efficient at reducing the fog or cigarette smoke in a shot, while the motion titles let you create visually impressive opening titles or end credits. The Adobe Premiere Elements has performed exceptionally well when rendering large video files.

Advantages: The software’s Guided mode provides support to its users and helps them learn how to perform all video editing actions. The asset management tool offers assistance with the organization of large amounts of video and audio files.

Limitations: When compared to other video editors in this guide Adobe Premiere Elements’ device and social media optimization features seem to be in short supply.


Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Free trial, Paid version: $69,99 - $129,99

Level: Semi-pros

cyberlink powerdirector

This is probably one of the best and most popular video editing software packages aimed at amateur and semi-professional users. There are several versions of the software available, and each of them contains a different amount of options and video editing tools. Even with somewhat reduced capability, the least expensive version of the editor supports 360-degree as well as VR options for posting on social media such as Vimeo, Facebook or YouTube. CyberLink PowerDirector isn’t a professional video editing software, but it still offers a lot of extraordinary options that can take you a step closer to producing a professional video.

Features: The 360-degree video editing options are probably the first thing that catches the eye when you look at the list of features the software provides, but its true power lies in its color tools. LUTs, HDR effects or Split Toning options are just the tip of the iceberg since PowerDirector offers countless tools for fine-tuning of the colors in your videos. Animated PIP effects and video collages make this video editing software a perfect choice for the production of tutorials and all other types of online videos.

Advantages: The audio editing options provided by CyberLink PowerDirector are nothing short of amazing since they enable the software’s users to manipulate the audio files in any way they see fit.

Limitations: Motion tracking and color lookup features are not always reliable. The software is a bit overpriced when compared with similar video editing suits.


18. Magix Movie Video Easy

Platform: Windows

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $49,99

Level: Semi-pros

This video editor is a great choice for people who have never edited a video before and who want to learn how to perform basic video editing tasks. Video Easy’s intuitive user interface can be mastered by anyone with enough determination to edit videos with this software on a constant basis. Features this editor offers may not be as impressive as to ones provided by professional video editing suites, but they are powerful enough to produce clean edits that give your videos a professional look.

Features: If you choose to make Magix Movie Video Easy your primary video editing software, you will never have to worry about what type of camera you used to record your videos since the software is compatible with all standard camcorders, digital cameras, and Smartphones. The rich collection of transitions and effects, as well as the intro and outro animations, can all be used to create amazing videos. You can export videos to DVDs, Blu-Ray discs or YouTube directly from the software.

Advantages: If you are looking for a video editor that will enable you to add music to your videos, trim or cut videos quickly and choose from hundreds of effects, then you should look no further because Magix Movie Video Easy provides all of these options, and much more.

Limitations: Doesn’t perform well when used for demanding video editing tasks.


19. Magix Video Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $62,99

Level: Beginners

Magix has been the largest European video editing software manufacturer for more than two decades. Its software products may not enjoy the fame of Adobe’s video editing software packages, but this doesn’t mean that a video editor such as Magix Video Pro cannot be used for the production of professional-looking videos. Besides offering basic video editing tools this video editor also features advanced video editing options such as Stop Motion animation or 360-degree video editing. Magix Video Pro is often labeled as ‘one of the best video editing programs out there’.

Features: Audio editing features that come with this video editor include an audio mixer that enables you to reduce noise levels, control the low, mid and high sounds or simply equalize the sound volume across the entire project. The video editing tools supplied by the Magix Video Pro are as impressive as its audio editing options. Lens correction features, Split screen videos or 360-degree video editing options reveal only a fraction of the software’s capabilities. Magix Video Pro delivers professional video editing features to consumer-level users.

Advantages: The software allows you to place any type of media file on its timeline and use it in your project.

Limitations: The effects library installation process can be time-consuming, although it is well worth the wait.


Part II: Best Video Making Editors Online

20. YouTube

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The world’s largest video sharing platform also offers basic video editing services. Although Google has discontinued its built-in video editor, it still allows tts users to trim or rotate videos, apply filters or even create time-lapse and slow-motion videos on line. Brightness, contrast or saturation levels can be altered if you want to enhance the colors in your videos. Audio editing features are limited because the platform only allows you to add a single audio file to a project you’re working on. However, some of the most important video editing features like adding the text or creating titles are not available.

Advantages: Allows you to polish your videos before posting them on YouTube for free.

Cons: This online video editor lacks some basic video editing tools such as transitions or audio controls.


21. Online Video Cutter

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

If you were looking for a web app that contains all the tools required to cut a small video file, then Online Video Cutter is one of your best options. You won’t even have to create an account before you start the video editing process. The videos you upload to this online editor can’t exceed the 500 MB size limit. Besides cutting their videos, users of this editor can also rotate or trim their footage for free. Online Video Cutter provides support for nearly all video file formats, so you don’t have to worry about the file format in which your video was captured.

Advantages: Offers a quick way to trim videos online and it is exceptionally easy to use.

Limitations: Lacks even the most basic video editing features other than cutting, trimming and rotating videos.


22. Movie Maker Online

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This free online editing tool lets you process videos without even registering or creating an account. You can add videos, photos, text, and music into a single project and mix them together into an awesome video. The platform grants you access to its rich filter library, and it also allows you to add text overlays, fade audio and video files or create smooth transitions between shots. Movie Maker Online features its own collection of royalty free music and photos you can use to make your videos look and sound better. The webpage’s design is a little odd, and it may take some time to get used to it.

Advantages: The app offers a lot of different video editing tools and it allows you to perform all basic video editing actions online.

Limitations: Movie Maker Online is funded by ads, and requires you to disable your AdBlock app before you can start editing a video.


23. ClipChamp

Platform: Online

Price: Free trial, Paid: $7 per month

Level: Beginners

clipchamp

ClipChamp lets you upload videos you already recorded or capture new footage using your computer’s webcam. The free version of this web app allows you to export in 1080p video files, but you can’t produce more than five videos in a single month. Both versions of the online video editor require you to create an account, and the videos exported from the free version of the app don’t have a watermark. ClipChamp provides numerous video editing tools, including transition, color adjustments or cropping. The exporting process doesn’t last too long and you can choose whether you want to share the video on social media or download it to your computer.

Advantages: Makes creating webcam videos as well as editing preexisting footage look easy while providing excellent export options.

Limitations: The free version of ClipChamp allows you export only five videos in a month.


24. WeVideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

wevideo

The capabilities of WeVideo online video editor surpass the basic level of video editing. The platform offers support for iOS and Android devices as well as desktop computers. Producing square or horizontal videos, creating motion titles or publishing videos in 720p HD resolution are just a few amazing options this online video editor provides. The paid versions of the web app are best suited for skilled video editing professionals or large teams that are working on demanding projects. WeVideo’s free version doesn’t allow its users to publish more than 30 minutes of video content each month and each exported video contains a watermark.

Advantages: Produces videos with great picture quality and offers tons of advanced video editing options.

Limitations: Creating an account is mandatory even for video editors who want to use the free version of WeVideo.


25. Kizoa

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

Kizoa offers a broad spectrum of transitions, visual effects, animation and text effects to its users for free. The video editing platform is frequently used to create goofy short videos that can be easily shared on Facebook or Twitter. The app allows you to add photos to your video projects and it grants you access to an incredibly rich royalty free music collection. However, you will have to create an account on Kizoa in order to be able to export the videos you created. The editor’s timeline is rudimentary, but still functional enough to enable users to combine audio, video, and photo files.

Advantages: Kizoa is a powerful tool for the creation of entertaining social media videos.

Limitations: You must create an account in order to be able to export your projects, and the online video editor doesn’t feature any advanced video editing options.


26. Wideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

All video enthusiasts can use Wideo platform to edit their videos, regardless of their skill level. In addition to amazing video editing options, this online video editor also features animations that can be used to create professional presentations. All video content uploaded to Wideo is stored on the cloud, and pricing plans for professionals include unlimited storage space. The Basic version of the editor allows for just ten downloads in a month and it doesn’t let its users upload videos to YouTube. Even though this video editor is easy to use, it is better suited for skilled professionals than it is for inexperienced video editors.

Advantages: Even the Basic pricing plan enables users to export HD videos, while Professional and Enterprise pricing plans include the Full HD export option.

Limitations: Limited audio editing options significantly reduce the capabilities of this online video editing platform.

Read More to Get: 10 Best Free Online Video Editors With No Watermark >>


Part III: Best Video APP for iOS/Android

27. Filmora

Platform: iOS, Andoird

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

You can edit your videos with Filmora in just three simple steps. All you have to do is choose the videos and photos from your phone’s gallery, Instagram or Facebook account, select a theme, insert transitions or add a song and share the video directly from the app on social media or to your email address. Besides the powerful video editing features, this app for iOS and Android devices also allows you to set your video’s aspect ratio to Square 1:1 if you would like to share the clip on Instagram or Cinema 16:9 if the video is shared to YouTube.

Advantages: Supports HD export options and provides a diverse set of video editing options.

Limitations: The app can’t perform advanced video editing tasks.


28. Vlogit

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The Wondershare’s video editing app for Android and iOS devices is designed to offer assistance to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos directly from their Smartphones. Vlogit is equipped with video editing tools that enable you to cut, trim or rotate videos, while its sound editing features include recording voiceovers, adding sound effects or choosing the music you want to use as a soundtrack to your video. The app lets you combine photos and videos within the same project, and it also enables you to create customized openers from animated templates. The videos created and exported with the Vlogit app don’t contain watermarks.

Advantages: Offers powerful video editing features to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos from their Smartphones for free.

Limitations: The list of visual effects the app provides could be longer.


29. VideoShop

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

The extensive list of features VideoShop app offers makes it one of the best options for novice video editors who want to quickly create visually impressive videos. This video editing app allows you to work with multiple video files or merge them into a single video. The animated titles enable users of the VideoShop app to create professional-looking intros for their videos, while the transitions feature allows them to seamlessly piece together all shots featured in a project. Tilt-Shift and Stop Motion options are also available to video editors who want to make their videos look more professional.

Advantages: Fun and easy to use video editing app that lets you manipulate footage in any way you want.

Limitations: VideoShop contains ads, and the app’s version for iOS devices only supports videos recorded with iPhones and iPads.


30. Filmmaker Pro

Platform: iOS

Price: Freemium, $5,99 monthly subscription

Level: Semi-pros

iPhone videographers who need access to semi-professional video editing tools will certainly enjoy using this app. Filmmaker Pro offers support for 4K footage filmed on the latest models of iPhone and it enables its users to add an unlimited number of text overlays, video clips, voiceovers or audio tracks to the app’s timeline. The video editor grants you access to over 30 filters, video grading features, as well as Chroma Key and Ken Burns effects. In addition to impressive video and audio editing features, Filmmaker Pro’s users can also record videos with a camera that lets them adjust settings manually directly from the app, although this option must be paid for.

Advantages: Text overlays, audio editing features and the ability to select the aspect ratio for each video you edit with this app, make it one of the best video editing options for iOS devices.

Limitations: Nearly all of the app’s best features must be purchased.


31. KineMaster

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium, contains adds

Level: Semi-pros

This cross-platform video editor is one of the premier options for mobile video editing on both iOS and Android devices. KineMaster is currently the only app that enables Android Smartphone owners to add as many layers of videos, photos, and text to their projects as they want. However, it only supports a limited number of video file formats, which means that the app shouldn’t be used to edit videos that weren’t recorded on an iPhone or Android phone. KineMaster provides a wide range of video exporting options and allows you to share videos on popular social media networks.

Pros: Above average video and audio editing features.

Limitations: Offers a lot of options mobile video editors seldom use.


32. LumaFusion

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $29.99

Level: Semi-pros

Creating neatly organized projects with LumaFusion is a simple task because the app features a powerful Project Manager that lets you sort files or select aspect ratios for your videos. In addition, the Media Library lets you import all types of files from a cloud storage or drag and drop media from other apps. Producing slow-motion videos that have 120 or 240fps or creating green screen videos using the Chroma Key effect is easy with LumaFusion. The app’s audio editing features are as impressive as its video editing tools since they provide the complete control over the audio files to the video editor’s users.

Advantages: Color correction options, LUTs or numerous visual effects are all part of the reason why LumaFusion is one of the best apps for mobile video editing.

Limitations: Only available for iOS devices.


33. Vizzywig 2019 4K Video Editor

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $79.99

Level: Semi-pros

This award-winning app for iOS devices provides all the tools a skilled video editor could desire. Its features include support for 4K videos, wide selection of aspect ratios as well as stylish intros, end credits, and titles. Besides offering professional video editing tools, Vizzywig also features Multi-Camera recording options that can capture videos in 8K resolution. In addition, the app is capable of producing videos that have eight times more pixels than the Apple’s Facetime HD Camera. The non-linear timeline lets you arrange video clips in any way you see fit, and allows you to add multiple media files to each project you are working on.

Advantages: Lets you control the focus and exposure manually and produce videos with stunning picture quality.

Limitations: Single platform compatibility and a high price narrow down the number of the app’s potential users.


34. PowerDirector

Platform: Android

Price: Freemium, contains ads and in-app purchases

Level: Beginners

Unlike the Adobe’s app for mobile video editing, PowerDirector lives up to all expectations. This user-friendly app lets you create reverse, 4K, or green screen videos. To make things even better, you can easily apply visual and audio effects or add voiceovers to your projects. In addition to the video editor, the PowerDirector app is also equipped with a powerful photo editor that lets you manipulate images in a professional manner. You can use almost any type of video or audio file in this app because it provides support for all commonly used file formats.

Advantages: PowerDirector is designed to help its users polish their video quickly and effortlessly.

Limitations: Videos in 1080p and 4K resolutions can only be exported after you’ve made an in-app purchase.

Ooops…It looks like there isn’t any tool that matches your demand. Please give it another try.

Which Video Editor Do You Think Is Best for You?

Thank you to read this so far. It’s a long but the most comprehensive reviews ever for all hot video editing software compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux, as well as online video editors. I hope you find the tools that you like.

If you want to get quick selections without too much reading, here is my recommendation:

  • Best video editor for Windows and Mac to download: Filmora
  • Best video editing software for Linux to download: Lightworks
  • Best video editor for Android, iOS to download: Filmora , VideoShop
  • Best online video editor to use: WeVideo

If you still can’t find a one Or we missed one of the tools you think which deserves to be listed above?

Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Now, videos are getting increasingly important for you to present your thoughts and feeling on Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.

But how to make your video looks professional, creative, stunning and deserved to share? A free video editing software can do you a favor.

So, Which is the best video editor available in the market?

If you are not quite certain about the video editing software you should use to edit your videos, you’ve come to the right place. Because we are going to take you through the best video editors including free versions.

Newcomers to the world of the video editing as well as seasoned professionals can use this guide to find the video editing software that will help them produce better visual content.

Let’s dive in and explore all aspects worth considering before you decide which software is best for you. And you can click the Filter button at the left side in this article to find the best video editing software for you.

We spent about a month for researching and testing all popular video making software in the market and now collect 35 best video editors for you. This list of film makers can be used on Windows, Mac OS, iOS, Android, and Linux. Besides, some of them are online video editors you can use directly.

Now, let’s filter through the list to find the best video editor for you. Check it out :

No. Product Name Supported OS Price Best for Overview Download Link
1 Wondershare Filmora Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Android, iOS Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year Beginners, Semi-Pros 4.9 Download
2 Windows Movie Maker Windows7/8/10 Free Beginners 4.1 Download
3 iMovie Mac OS, iOS Free Beginners 4.3 Download
4 Final Cut Pro Mac OS 30 days free trial; $299.99 Professionals 4.4 Download
5 Wondershare Filmii Windows 7/8/10 Free trial; $9.99 Beginners 4.3 Download
6 Lightworks Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free trial; $437.99 Professionals 4.2 Download
7 ShotCut Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Semi-Pros 3.9 Download
8 HitFilm Express Windows, Mac OS Free Semi-Pros 4.1 Download
9 Blender Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free; Fund $6/mo for support Professionals 3.8 Download
10 Avidemux Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Beginners 3.5 Download
11 VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac OSX, iOS, Kindle Free Beginners 3.9 Download
12 OpenShot Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Open Source Video Editor Beginners 3.8 Download
13 Kdenlive Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS, Linux Free Semi-pros 4.1 Download
14 Adobe Premiere Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS 7 days free trial; $20.99/mo; $33.99 /mo Professionals 4.5 Download
15 Magix Vegas Pro Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $399-$799 Professionals 4.2 Download
16 Adobe Premiere Elements Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $99.99 Semi-pros 4.7 Download
17 CyberLink PowerDirector Windows 7/8/10, Mac OS $69,99 - $129,99 Semi-pros 4.5 Download
18 Magix Movie Video Easy Windows only Free trial; $49,99 Semi-pros 3.6 Download
19 Magix Video Pro Windows 10 Free trial; $79.99 Beginners 4.1 Download
20 Media Online Free Beginners 4.75 Check
21 YouTube Online Free Beginners 4.8 Check
22 Online Video Cutter Online Free Beginners 3.6 Check
23 Movie Maker Online Online Free Beginners 3.7 Check
24 ClipChamp Online 14 day free trial; $7/mo Beginners 4.1 Check
25 WeVideo Online Free trial; $11.99-$79.99 Beginners 4.4 Check
26 Kizoa Online Freemium Beginners 3.8 Check
27 Wideo Online Freemium Beginners 4.3 Check
28 Filmora iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.1 Download
29 Vlogit iOS, Android Free Beginners 3.6 Download
30 VideoShop iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.8 Download
31 Filmmaker Pro iOS Freemium; $5.99/mo Semi-pros 4.6 Download
32 KineMaster iOS, Android Freemium Semi-pros 4.4 Download
33 LumaFusion iOS $29.99 Semi-pros 4.8 Download
34 Vizzywig 2019 iOS $79.99 Semi-pros 4.1 Download
35 PowerDirector iOS, Android Freemium Beginners 4.5 Download

Part I: Best Video Editing Software for Windows/Mac/Linux


1. Wondershare Filmora

Platform: Windows, Mac, Android, iOS

Price: Free trial; $79.99 perpetual, $49.99/year

Level: Beginners

Free Download

Free Download

Even though it is widely considered as one of the premium entry-level video editing software options, Wondershare Filmora also offers advanced editing tools. The software product comes with detailed learning resources and provides support to its users who have little editing experience. The wide range of file formats and remarkably diverse Export options make Filmora an interesting choice for those who are just entering the world of video editing, but also for more experienced editors.

Features: Filmora’s rich effect library contains over a thousand modern special effects from niches such as gaming, blockbuster or tutorial, and new effects are added every month. The Action Cam tool is designed to make merging footage shot on action cameras easy and quick. Filmora supports a wide range of file formats including AVI, MP4 or MKV, so you don’t have to worry if your footage was shot in 4K or HD because you can easily edit it with this software.

Advantages:

A large number of professional video editing features Filmora offers as well as its modernly designed interface makes it one of the best options for amateur video creators.

Limitations:

You can use all the features in the free trial version, but have to pay to remove the watermark.

Lear more about Wondershare Filmora here: Filmora Official YouTube Channel


2. Windows Movie Maker

Platform: Windows

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This is probably one of the oldest if not the oldest video editing software for PCs. Microsoft has announced that Windows Movie Maker will no longer be available for download. This software can still be found online, although not on Microsoft’s website, and currently, there are two different versions of Windows Movie Maker available. Even the least experienced video editors can master each of the Movie Maker versions easily.

Features: The classic video editing software is equipped with all the tools you’ll need for basic editing tasks like trimming, changing the video playback speed or rotating videos. It even features a Video Stabilization option that can be useful if you’d like to stabilize a video and remove the distracting camera shakes. Windows Movie Maker lets you add text effects to your video, insert Transitions between two takes, perform basic audio editing or record a screen.

Advantages:

Free, meets your basic editing demands

Limitations:

Service discontinued

No support for modern file formats

Lacks color correction tools, visual effects or any other advanced video editing options.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: Windows Movie Maker User Guide


3. iMovie

Platform: Mac OS, iOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

imovie video editor

As the Apple’s version of the Windows Movie Maker, iMovie has a similar status of a classic video editor that is at its best when used for simple video editing tasks. The video editor can also be used on an iPhone or an iPad if you want to edit your videos on the go. Learning your way around iMovie won’t take much of your time since all of its features are easy to use.

Features: Editing 4K videos or making credits or titles are just a few among many options provided by iMovie. Adding transitions, applying split-screen effects or creating PIP videos doesn’t require you to be a skilled video editor, because all of these options are easily accessible and they can be used in any project you are working on.

The iMovie’s audio editing options are equally impressive since the software enables you to add music, use built-in sound effects and record voiceovers. The video editor supports most of the popular file formats.

Advantages:

Free, and comes bundled with your Mac

Intuitive interface

Limitations:

This classic video editor for Apple’s devices doesn’t offer advanced video editing options such as motion tracking or keyframe marking.

Check how to use Windows Movie Maker here: iMovie User Guide


4. Final Cut Pro

Platform: macOS

Price: Paid, $299

Level: Professionals

final cut pro

Final Cut Pro is probably one of the highest praised video editing software ever created. It has been used to edit cinematic masterpieces such as ‘What happened Miss Simone’ or ‘The Girl With a Dragon Tattoo’, which speaks volumes about the software’s capability. Final Cut Pro’s Magnetic Timeline 2 is one of the kind, and it makes organizing large amounts of video and audio files look easy. Although the software’s price may seem discouraging, those who invested in it never had to use another video editor.

Features: A brief look at the list of Final Cut Pro’s video editing tools will leave you wondering if there is anything this software can’t do. Besides basic video editing features, the video editor is also equipped with 360 degrees VR video editing option, Multicam editing, and advanced color grading tools. Final Cut Pro allows its users to add as many audio tracks to the timeline as they want, thus enabling them to create impeccable soundtracks for their videos.

Advantages: Working with large numbers of video files is simplified by the software’s timeline, while options such as 3D titles or VR contribute to the strong impression this editor leaves on all of its users.

Limitations: Final Cut Pro has some lingering glitches that still haven’t been fixed, and its audio editing tool set lacks some important pieces.

If you are new to video editing and you will need a video maker that is tailored for beginners. In such case, you can read this article to get: Best Free Video Editing Software for Beginners >> They are really very easy to use. You can make a stunning video less than an hour.


5. Wondershare Filmii

Platform: Windows

Price: Free, Paid versions

Level: Beginners

filmii

This delicate video editing software is one of the best video editors for newbies. The free version of the software offers a lot of powerful video editing tools, but in order to get rid of the watermnark, you have to pay 9.99$ for its monthly plan. One of the advantages of Filmii is that it has a variety of video templates that can help beginners edit amazing videos with ease due to its auto-create functionality. Besides, its audio editing or creative tools are equally impressive.


6. Lightworks

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free, Paid versions: $437.99

Level: Professionals

lightworks

Lightworks is one of the best video editing software on this list with a long history in the movie-making business. The free version of the software is available, but it has limited export options. A $25 monthly subscription is required in order to gain access to all of the software’s features. Although it may be a somewhat pricey option, purchasing Lightworks is a profitable investment that may help you improve the quality of your videos.

Features: Both free and paid versions of this video editing suite offer support for wide range of video file formats. This can be very useful for video editors who often work on projects shot on different cameras. Multi-cam editing feature enables the software’s users to work with footage shot from separate angles, using more than just one camera. The videos edited with the free version of the software can only be exported to an MPEG4 file format with the maximum size of 1280X 790 pixels, and they must be uploaded to YouTube directly from the editor.

Advantages: Royalty-free media and a remarkable VFX panel make Lightworks a tempting option for professional and amateur video editors alike.

Limitations: The export options on the free version of the software are extremely limited and the software doesn’t provide much support for inexperienced users.


7. ShotCut

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

shotcut

If you need a video editing software just to piece together a few clips you recorded on the family vacation, then ShotCut may be a bit overwhelming choice for such a task. This open-source software is equipped with a rich collection of audio and video editing features, while it also offers support for nearly all video file formats. It is best suited for users in need of powerful video editing software who don’t want to spend a fortune on purchasing a professional editing suite.

Features: Screen capturing, webcam video recording or audio capturing options are all made available by ShotCut. The software’s video and audio editing features surpass all expectations and allow the software’s users to have complete creative control over their projects. Features such as Chroma Key, Crop or Blur are accompanied by a number of amazing video effects that can be used to enhance the colors in a video. Using ShotCut requires you to just download the software and run its executable file, which means that you don’t have to go through the installation process in order to start editing with this software.

Advantages: 4K videos, as well as numerous other video and audio file formats, are supported by this open-source video editing software. To make things even better ShotCut grants you access to fully customizable filters.

Limitations: The software doesn’t feature preset export profiles, and the transitions it offers are a bit scarce.


8. HitFilm Express

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Semi-Pros

hitfilm express

This cross-platform video editor ranks among best video editing software products currently available on the market. Its secret lies in uniting visual effect compositing and video editing options under the same roof. HitFilm Express is aimed at users with an enviable amount of video editing experience, since inexperienced video editors may find the software’s interface difficult to navigate. This video editing suite offers a lot of video editing tools as well as visual and audio effect, that can be easily used to improve the quality of your videos.

Features: The rare combination of VFX compositing and video editing makes HitFilm Express unique, while its motion design and tracking options offer support for more complex video editing actions. The software supports 2D and 3D effects compositing, as well as 4K and 360-degree videos.

HitFilm Express’ titling options are at the basic level, while its Export options are alarmingly narrow. This free editing software doesn’t provide too many options for color adjustments, but its audio editing features can be used to create a video with a superior soundtrack.

Advantages: The software offers a wide spectrum of transitions and video effects and it supports most popular video file formats. HitFilm Express lets you use semi-professional video editing tools for free.

Limitations: In order to export a video from the software you must share a link on a social media platform and then download the file. People who are not familiar with the video editing process may find using HitFilm Express difficult.


9. Blender

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Professionals

blender

Blender started out as an open-source project and over the years animators, scientists, VFX artists and numerous other people have participated in developing this 3D creation suite. The software can be used for modeling, animation, video editing or compositing, to mention only a few of its many purposes. Editing video footage isn’t Blender’s strong suit, but its video editing features are powerful enough to enable you to perform basic editing tasks. However, this doesn’t mean you can’t use this software to create videos that grab the viewer’s attention.

Features: Cutting or trimming videos, adjusting the video’s playback speed or adding keyframes to a video clip is an easy process in Blender. The software’s true strength lies in its animation, 3D modeling or motion tracking features. The latest version of Blender is equipped with a motion tracking option that allows you to import the footage into the software directly from a camera. You can utilize this feature to mask areas of the shot and see the movement on camera in a 3D environment.

Advantages: Blender’s price and its powerful features make it an interesting choice as your primary video editing software.

Limitations: You must have in-depth knowledge of animation, compositing, and 3D techniques in order to be able to use Blender.


10. Avidemux

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

avidemux

This simple video editing software has all the tools you’ll ever need to quickly polish your videos. Its audio and video effects can be utilized to make your videos look and sound professionally, but Avidemux doesn’t offer much more than these basic video editing options.

The software provides support for most of popular video file formats, but its export options are far from perfect. Avidemux doesn’t feature visual effects or transitions, which significantly limits its video editing capabilities.

Features: Newcomers to the video editing world will love the software’s interface, because of its simplicity. The Transform feature allows you to fade in and fade out shots, crop or rotate video clips and even add logos to your videos. Blur or Sharpen effects enable users to enhance their videos, while contrast, brightness, saturation or hue values can be adjusted to make the colors in the video look more vivid. Avidemux also features the Subtitle option, but the software can only add hardcoded subtitles to videos.

Advantages: Solves all your basic video editing problems, and lets you have fun while editing videos. Avidemux also has solid encoding options and its interface is user-friendly.

Limitations: There are no video effects or transitions, which narrows down the software’s video editing options.


11. VideoPad Video Editor

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

videopad

VideoPad is one of the best entry-level cross-platform software products you can use for easy video editing tasks. The free version of the software is available to both Mac and PC users, although the Windows version limits the video exporting options to just two file formats. The VideoPad’s interface doesn’t take much time to get used to, and it perfectly adjusted to the needs of inexperienced video editors. Paid versions of the software are available to advanced editors who want to use VideoPad for more than just basic video editing.

Features: The list of video editing features VideoPad provides includes several pleasant surprises. The 4K video support, as well as 360-video editing features, are aimed at GoPro owners who want a quick and easy way to process their footage. The visual effects this free video editing software provides are impressive, while the Chroma Key option enables its users to create green screen videos. Even though VideoPad allows its users to edit audio files, its audio editing features are fairly modest.

Advantages: Learning how to use VideoPad is simplified by its intuitively designed interface.

Limitations: There are no advanced video editing options like multi-cam editing and motion tracking and certain features become unavailable when using the free version of the software over a longer period of time.

Download link: If you download the trial version instead of the free non-commercial home edition, or do not find a specific link to it on the website, you can trydownloading it from this link , or contact tech support , and they will send you a direct link.


12. OpenShot

Platform: Window, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

openshot best video editor

This award-winning open-source video editor offers a wide range of video editing tools that span from trimming and slicing to Slow Motion and Time effects. OpenShot is an excellent software for training and learning new video editing tricks, but it is best avoided if you are working on a large project. The software’s basic video editing features make it an excellent choice for users who only want to perform simple edits without having to waste too much time.

Features: OpenShot lets you add unlimited video and audio tracks to your projects, but its file management capabilities are far from impressive. The software allows you to trim or arrange the video files in any way you want, and it also provides a lot of different Transitions that can be used to make the videos look smoother. The collection of video and audio effects allows users to try out different solutions for the scenes in their video clips. OpenShot features a Vector Title Editor that can assist you in creating perfect opening titles or end credits.

Advantages: The interface of this open-source video editing software is designed to assist its users through every step of the video editing process. OpenShot is a great choice for all video editors who want to save money and use a powerful video editing software at the same time.

Limitations: More complex video editing options such as Rotoscoping, are not available. You may have to install add-ons if the OS you are using doesn’t meet the software’s system requirements.


13. Kdenlive

Platform: Windows, macOS, Linux

Price: Free

Level: Semi-pros

Almost two decades ago, this open-source project was started by Jason Wood in order to develop a video editing software for Linux OS. Over the years, a small team of developers has created Windows and MacOS versions of the editor that now have a loyal fan base. Even though the software’s features make it a reliable choice for more complex projects, Kdnelive can also be used to perform simple edits. This video editing software combines the simplicity of entry-level video editors with advanced video editing tools frequently used by experienced professionals.

Features: The functionality of this video editor will surprise even the greatest of skeptics. The software’s timeline lets you to add as many videos and audio files to your project as you want, making it a perfect tool for large-scale projects. The visual effects and transitions enable users to manipulate the footage in any way they see fit, while the extremely powerful analysis tools such as histograms, waveforms or vectorscopes enable them to monitor all the adjustments they make on their footage.

Advantages: Kdnlive provides support for nearly all input file formats that can be added easily to the software’s multitrack timeline. The free open-source add-ons can extend the video editor’s capability and thus enable you to perform a wider range of video editing actions.

Limitations: Even though the software provides the screencast recording option, it doesn’t feature the PIP effect. Multi frame-rate editing isn’t possible and software’s updates can last for hours.


14. Adobe Premiere Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Paid, $19.99 per month

Level: Professionals

adobe premiere pro

There are very few video editing suites that can offer as much to its users as Adobe Premiere Pro can. It is probably one of the best video editors ever created, as it has been setting the industry standards for a long time. High-end professionals frequently use Adobe Premiere Pro on their projects, while aspiring filmmakers strive to learn every option this unique video editor has to offer. The much-famed software isn’t the best choice for video editors who are just learning the basics of the trade, although it supplies a staggering amount of tutorials and learning materials.

Features: With each new version of Adobe Premiere Pro the list of the software’s features becomes longer. Its timeline is famous for its ease of use because it enables you to add as much new audio or video tracks as your project requires. This is arguably one of the best color correction software packages on the market, while its color grading features are no less impressive. Adobe Premiere Pro provides support for a wide range of video file formats including 4K, HDR, and 360 VR videos.

Advantages: Perfect for collaborative projects that involve large teams of experienced professionals. The software is at its best when used with other Adobe’s products that enable you to develop projects beyond the boundaries set by the Adobe Premiere Pro’s limitations.

Limitations: You cannot purchase the lifetime license to use this video editing software, and paying monthly subscriptions may be hard on the budget of some of its potential users.


15. Magix Vegas Pro

Platform: Windows

**Price:**Paid: $399

Level: Professionals

vegas pro

Successful independent artists, film producers, and all other film and video enthusiasts can only benefit from purchasing this video editing suite. The software belonged to Sony Creative Software for much of its history, but on May 20. 2016 the company sold it to Magix. Previously known as Vegas Pro or just Vegas, this video editing software is widely accepted as one of the best professional video editing tools ever created. There is virtually no video editing task that cannot be completed in Magix Vegas Pro video editing software.

Features: This video editor is designed to provide support to its users from the beginning until the very end of the video editing process. Magix Vegas Pro recognizes almost all video file formats, even those captured with professional RED or ARRI Alexa cameras. You can use this software to edit 3D or 4K videos, while the Multicamera-Editing feature lets you switch between any number of video sources with a single mouse click. Effects such as Automatic Crossfades allow you to create transitions between shots effortlessly.

Advantages: The seemingly unlimited amount of learning resources makes editing with Magix Vegas Pro a lot easier and it enables less experienced video editors to learn new tricks.

Limitations: There aren’t as many visual effects as you would hope for and the software’s interface isn’t aesthetically pleasing, but it is very functional.


16. Adobe Premiere Elements

Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Paid: $99.99

Level: Semi-pros

Although it is often regarded as a simplified version of Premiere Pro, this video editing suite offers enough video editing tools to edit videos at the semi-professional level. Adobe Premiere Elements contains automated versions of Premiere Pro’s features and in this manner it enables its users to utilize professional video editing tools on their prosumer level projects. Even though this Adobe’s software product lacks the power of professional video editing software packages, it still offers enough video editing tools for the production of nicely polished and well-rounded videos.

Features: Adobe Premiere Elements recognizes all popular video file formats, and it offers support for 4K content. In addition to its remarkable file format compatibility, the video editor also features 3D editing and face detection options that can be very useful when working on more complex video projects. The haze-removal effect is extremely efficient at reducing the fog or cigarette smoke in a shot, while the motion titles let you create visually impressive opening titles or end credits. The Adobe Premiere Elements has performed exceptionally well when rendering large video files.

Advantages: The software’s Guided mode provides support to its users and helps them learn how to perform all video editing actions. The asset management tool offers assistance with the organization of large amounts of video and audio files.

Limitations: When compared to other video editors in this guide Adobe Premiere Elements’ device and social media optimization features seem to be in short supply.


Platform: Windows, macOS

**Price:**Free trial, Paid version: $69,99 - $129,99

Level: Semi-pros

cyberlink powerdirector

This is probably one of the best and most popular video editing software packages aimed at amateur and semi-professional users. There are several versions of the software available, and each of them contains a different amount of options and video editing tools. Even with somewhat reduced capability, the least expensive version of the editor supports 360-degree as well as VR options for posting on social media such as Vimeo, Facebook or YouTube. CyberLink PowerDirector isn’t a professional video editing software, but it still offers a lot of extraordinary options that can take you a step closer to producing a professional video.

Features: The 360-degree video editing options are probably the first thing that catches the eye when you look at the list of features the software provides, but its true power lies in its color tools. LUTs, HDR effects or Split Toning options are just the tip of the iceberg since PowerDirector offers countless tools for fine-tuning of the colors in your videos. Animated PIP effects and video collages make this video editing software a perfect choice for the production of tutorials and all other types of online videos.

Advantages: The audio editing options provided by CyberLink PowerDirector are nothing short of amazing since they enable the software’s users to manipulate the audio files in any way they see fit.

Limitations: Motion tracking and color lookup features are not always reliable. The software is a bit overpriced when compared with similar video editing suits.


18. Magix Movie Video Easy

Platform: Windows

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $49,99

Level: Semi-pros

This video editor is a great choice for people who have never edited a video before and who want to learn how to perform basic video editing tasks. Video Easy’s intuitive user interface can be mastered by anyone with enough determination to edit videos with this software on a constant basis. Features this editor offers may not be as impressive as to ones provided by professional video editing suites, but they are powerful enough to produce clean edits that give your videos a professional look.

Features: If you choose to make Magix Movie Video Easy your primary video editing software, you will never have to worry about what type of camera you used to record your videos since the software is compatible with all standard camcorders, digital cameras, and Smartphones. The rich collection of transitions and effects, as well as the intro and outro animations, can all be used to create amazing videos. You can export videos to DVDs, Blu-Ray discs or YouTube directly from the software.

Advantages: If you are looking for a video editor that will enable you to add music to your videos, trim or cut videos quickly and choose from hundreds of effects, then you should look no further because Magix Movie Video Easy provides all of these options, and much more.

Limitations: Doesn’t perform well when used for demanding video editing tasks.


19. Magix Video Pro

Platform: Windows, macOS

Price: Free trial, Paid version: $62,99

Level: Beginners

Magix has been the largest European video editing software manufacturer for more than two decades. Its software products may not enjoy the fame of Adobe’s video editing software packages, but this doesn’t mean that a video editor such as Magix Video Pro cannot be used for the production of professional-looking videos. Besides offering basic video editing tools this video editor also features advanced video editing options such as Stop Motion animation or 360-degree video editing. Magix Video Pro is often labeled as ‘one of the best video editing programs out there’.

Features: Audio editing features that come with this video editor include an audio mixer that enables you to reduce noise levels, control the low, mid and high sounds or simply equalize the sound volume across the entire project. The video editing tools supplied by the Magix Video Pro are as impressive as its audio editing options. Lens correction features, Split screen videos or 360-degree video editing options reveal only a fraction of the software’s capabilities. Magix Video Pro delivers professional video editing features to consumer-level users.

Advantages: The software allows you to place any type of media file on its timeline and use it in your project.

Limitations: The effects library installation process can be time-consuming, although it is well worth the wait.


Part II: Best Video Making Editors Online

20. YouTube

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The world’s largest video sharing platform also offers basic video editing services. Although Google has discontinued its built-in video editor, it still allows tts users to trim or rotate videos, apply filters or even create time-lapse and slow-motion videos on line. Brightness, contrast or saturation levels can be altered if you want to enhance the colors in your videos. Audio editing features are limited because the platform only allows you to add a single audio file to a project you’re working on. However, some of the most important video editing features like adding the text or creating titles are not available.

Advantages: Allows you to polish your videos before posting them on YouTube for free.

Cons: This online video editor lacks some basic video editing tools such as transitions or audio controls.


21. Online Video Cutter

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

If you were looking for a web app that contains all the tools required to cut a small video file, then Online Video Cutter is one of your best options. You won’t even have to create an account before you start the video editing process. The videos you upload to this online editor can’t exceed the 500 MB size limit. Besides cutting their videos, users of this editor can also rotate or trim their footage for free. Online Video Cutter provides support for nearly all video file formats, so you don’t have to worry about the file format in which your video was captured.

Advantages: Offers a quick way to trim videos online and it is exceptionally easy to use.

Limitations: Lacks even the most basic video editing features other than cutting, trimming and rotating videos.


22. Movie Maker Online

Platform: Online

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

This free online editing tool lets you process videos without even registering or creating an account. You can add videos, photos, text, and music into a single project and mix them together into an awesome video. The platform grants you access to its rich filter library, and it also allows you to add text overlays, fade audio and video files or create smooth transitions between shots. Movie Maker Online features its own collection of royalty free music and photos you can use to make your videos look and sound better. The webpage’s design is a little odd, and it may take some time to get used to it.

Advantages: The app offers a lot of different video editing tools and it allows you to perform all basic video editing actions online.

Limitations: Movie Maker Online is funded by ads, and requires you to disable your AdBlock app before you can start editing a video.


23. ClipChamp

Platform: Online

Price: Free trial, Paid: $7 per month

Level: Beginners

clipchamp

ClipChamp lets you upload videos you already recorded or capture new footage using your computer’s webcam. The free version of this web app allows you to export in 1080p video files, but you can’t produce more than five videos in a single month. Both versions of the online video editor require you to create an account, and the videos exported from the free version of the app don’t have a watermark. ClipChamp provides numerous video editing tools, including transition, color adjustments or cropping. The exporting process doesn’t last too long and you can choose whether you want to share the video on social media or download it to your computer.

Advantages: Makes creating webcam videos as well as editing preexisting footage look easy while providing excellent export options.

Limitations: The free version of ClipChamp allows you export only five videos in a month.


24. WeVideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

wevideo

The capabilities of WeVideo online video editor surpass the basic level of video editing. The platform offers support for iOS and Android devices as well as desktop computers. Producing square or horizontal videos, creating motion titles or publishing videos in 720p HD resolution are just a few amazing options this online video editor provides. The paid versions of the web app are best suited for skilled video editing professionals or large teams that are working on demanding projects. WeVideo’s free version doesn’t allow its users to publish more than 30 minutes of video content each month and each exported video contains a watermark.

Advantages: Produces videos with great picture quality and offers tons of advanced video editing options.

Limitations: Creating an account is mandatory even for video editors who want to use the free version of WeVideo.


25. Kizoa

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

Kizoa offers a broad spectrum of transitions, visual effects, animation and text effects to its users for free. The video editing platform is frequently used to create goofy short videos that can be easily shared on Facebook or Twitter. The app allows you to add photos to your video projects and it grants you access to an incredibly rich royalty free music collection. However, you will have to create an account on Kizoa in order to be able to export the videos you created. The editor’s timeline is rudimentary, but still functional enough to enable users to combine audio, video, and photo files.

Advantages: Kizoa is a powerful tool for the creation of entertaining social media videos.

Limitations: You must create an account in order to be able to export your projects, and the online video editor doesn’t feature any advanced video editing options.


26. Wideo

Platform: Online

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

All video enthusiasts can use Wideo platform to edit their videos, regardless of their skill level. In addition to amazing video editing options, this online video editor also features animations that can be used to create professional presentations. All video content uploaded to Wideo is stored on the cloud, and pricing plans for professionals include unlimited storage space. The Basic version of the editor allows for just ten downloads in a month and it doesn’t let its users upload videos to YouTube. Even though this video editor is easy to use, it is better suited for skilled professionals than it is for inexperienced video editors.

Advantages: Even the Basic pricing plan enables users to export HD videos, while Professional and Enterprise pricing plans include the Full HD export option.

Limitations: Limited audio editing options significantly reduce the capabilities of this online video editing platform.

Read More to Get: 10 Best Free Online Video Editors With No Watermark >>


Part III: Best Video APP for iOS/Android

27. Filmora

Platform: iOS, Andoird

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

You can edit your videos with Filmora in just three simple steps. All you have to do is choose the videos and photos from your phone’s gallery, Instagram or Facebook account, select a theme, insert transitions or add a song and share the video directly from the app on social media or to your email address. Besides the powerful video editing features, this app for iOS and Android devices also allows you to set your video’s aspect ratio to Square 1:1 if you would like to share the clip on Instagram or Cinema 16:9 if the video is shared to YouTube.

Advantages: Supports HD export options and provides a diverse set of video editing options.

Limitations: The app can’t perform advanced video editing tasks.


28. Vlogit

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Free

Level: Beginners

The Wondershare’s video editing app for Android and iOS devices is designed to offer assistance to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos directly from their Smartphones. Vlogit is equipped with video editing tools that enable you to cut, trim or rotate videos, while its sound editing features include recording voiceovers, adding sound effects or choosing the music you want to use as a soundtrack to your video. The app lets you combine photos and videos within the same project, and it also enables you to create customized openers from animated templates. The videos created and exported with the Vlogit app don’t contain watermarks.

Advantages: Offers powerful video editing features to YouTubers and Vloggers who want to edit their videos from their Smartphones for free.

Limitations: The list of visual effects the app provides could be longer.


29. VideoShop

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium

Level: Beginners

The extensive list of features VideoShop app offers makes it one of the best options for novice video editors who want to quickly create visually impressive videos. This video editing app allows you to work with multiple video files or merge them into a single video. The animated titles enable users of the VideoShop app to create professional-looking intros for their videos, while the transitions feature allows them to seamlessly piece together all shots featured in a project. Tilt-Shift and Stop Motion options are also available to video editors who want to make their videos look more professional.

Advantages: Fun and easy to use video editing app that lets you manipulate footage in any way you want.

Limitations: VideoShop contains ads, and the app’s version for iOS devices only supports videos recorded with iPhones and iPads.


30. Filmmaker Pro

Platform: iOS

Price: Freemium, $5,99 monthly subscription

Level: Semi-pros

iPhone videographers who need access to semi-professional video editing tools will certainly enjoy using this app. Filmmaker Pro offers support for 4K footage filmed on the latest models of iPhone and it enables its users to add an unlimited number of text overlays, video clips, voiceovers or audio tracks to the app’s timeline. The video editor grants you access to over 30 filters, video grading features, as well as Chroma Key and Ken Burns effects. In addition to impressive video and audio editing features, Filmmaker Pro’s users can also record videos with a camera that lets them adjust settings manually directly from the app, although this option must be paid for.

Advantages: Text overlays, audio editing features and the ability to select the aspect ratio for each video you edit with this app, make it one of the best video editing options for iOS devices.

Limitations: Nearly all of the app’s best features must be purchased.


31. KineMaster

Platform: iOS, Android

Price: Freemium, contains adds

Level: Semi-pros

This cross-platform video editor is one of the premier options for mobile video editing on both iOS and Android devices. KineMaster is currently the only app that enables Android Smartphone owners to add as many layers of videos, photos, and text to their projects as they want. However, it only supports a limited number of video file formats, which means that the app shouldn’t be used to edit videos that weren’t recorded on an iPhone or Android phone. KineMaster provides a wide range of video exporting options and allows you to share videos on popular social media networks.

Pros: Above average video and audio editing features.

Limitations: Offers a lot of options mobile video editors seldom use.


32. LumaFusion

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $29.99

Level: Semi-pros

Creating neatly organized projects with LumaFusion is a simple task because the app features a powerful Project Manager that lets you sort files or select aspect ratios for your videos. In addition, the Media Library lets you import all types of files from a cloud storage or drag and drop media from other apps. Producing slow-motion videos that have 120 or 240fps or creating green screen videos using the Chroma Key effect is easy with LumaFusion. The app’s audio editing features are as impressive as its video editing tools since they provide the complete control over the audio files to the video editor’s users.

Advantages: Color correction options, LUTs or numerous visual effects are all part of the reason why LumaFusion is one of the best apps for mobile video editing.

Limitations: Only available for iOS devices.


33. Vizzywig 2019 4K Video Editor

Platform: iOS

Price: Paid, $79.99

Level: Semi-pros

This award-winning app for iOS devices provides all the tools a skilled video editor could desire. Its features include support for 4K videos, wide selection of aspect ratios as well as stylish intros, end credits, and titles. Besides offering professional video editing tools, Vizzywig also features Multi-Camera recording options that can capture videos in 8K resolution. In addition, the app is capable of producing videos that have eight times more pixels than the Apple’s Facetime HD Camera. The non-linear timeline lets you arrange video clips in any way you see fit, and allows you to add multiple media files to each project you are working on.

Advantages: Lets you control the focus and exposure manually and produce videos with stunning picture quality.

Limitations: Single platform compatibility and a high price narrow down the number of the app’s potential users.


34. PowerDirector

Platform: Android

Price: Freemium, contains ads and in-app purchases

Level: Beginners

Unlike the Adobe’s app for mobile video editing, PowerDirector lives up to all expectations. This user-friendly app lets you create reverse, 4K, or green screen videos. To make things even better, you can easily apply visual and audio effects or add voiceovers to your projects. In addition to the video editor, the PowerDirector app is also equipped with a powerful photo editor that lets you manipulate images in a professional manner. You can use almost any type of video or audio file in this app because it provides support for all commonly used file formats.

Advantages: PowerDirector is designed to help its users polish their video quickly and effortlessly.

Limitations: Videos in 1080p and 4K resolutions can only be exported after you’ve made an in-app purchase.

Ooops…It looks like there isn’t any tool that matches your demand. Please give it another try.

Which Video Editor Do You Think Is Best for You?

Thank you to read this so far. It’s a long but the most comprehensive reviews ever for all hot video editing software compatible with Windows, Mac, iOS, Android and Linux, as well as online video editors. I hope you find the tools that you like.

If you want to get quick selections without too much reading, here is my recommendation:

  • Best video editor for Windows and Mac to download: Filmora
  • Best video editing software for Linux to download: Lightworks
  • Best video editor for Android, iOS to download: Filmora , VideoShop
  • Best online video editor to use: WeVideo

If you still can’t find a one Or we missed one of the tools you think which deserves to be listed above?

Either way, let us know by leaving a comment below.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

The Best Free MPEG Video Splitters for Windows, Mac, and Linux

Top 5 Best Free MPEG Video Splitters

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

The growing demand of automated video splitting software provides the users several different options to make the best use of required feature. However, getting benefit of the available attributes is the second task to do; the first most important step is to select the best video splitting software. The purpose of using the video splitter is to slice the video into fragments; it is used to extract particular outlooks and upload to the internet; the splitting files can also be played back. However, this task can be performed through many video splitting tools but the user’s intention is to explore the best; for this purpose, a list of top 5 free MPEG video splitters are under discussion:

Free Video Cutter

This video splitting software is a remarkable tools used to cut different kinds of videos, including MOV, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, WMN, AVI, MKV, MP3 and more. It is really easy-to-use and keeps the original video quality. Meanwhile, it provides different output options in accordance with the user’s expectations.

free mp4 splitter

Pros:

  • Supports multiple video formats;
  • User friendly interface;
  • Multiple output format options.

Cons:

  • Lacks in sound quality;
  • Fewer sound settings.

Easy Video Splitter

The main purpose of this software is to make parts or segments of the large video file into the smaller ones; it is a free applications used to split the files. The videos that cannot be fit into DVD and CD and need to be burnt, are cut or divide using easy video splitter. It supports multiple video formats both as input and output. The best thing about this tool is that it does not need any information from the user; he is supposed to select the way through which he wants to split the video, other functions are performed automatically by the software program.

free MPEG splitter

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface;
  • Lightweight, portable and compatible;
  • Maintains good quality of the input file;
  • Sustains batch processing.

Cons:

  • Expensive system requirements and resources.

VidSplitter

The users prefer VidSplitter to use because of its reliability and durability; it is used to convert large MPEG files into the fragments using several different formats. The large files in video formats such as MPEG, AVI, ASF and WMV are easily cut and assembled into numerous formats at fast speed. Furthermore, VidSplitter enables the users to save the processed file on storage media.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Easily-to-use interface;
  • Splits and converts the clips at fast speed;
  • Focuses on customization.

Cons:

  • Help file is not available;
  • Time-based selection strategy is not supported.

Avidemux

Supporting a variety of video formats such as AVI, DVD compatible MPEG files, MP4 and ASF, Avidemux helps the users split the videos in to small fragments. Tasks can be automated using projects, job queue and powerful scripting capabilities.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Different video editing options;
  • Easy-to-use;
  • Available on different platforms: Windows, Mac and Linux.

Cons:

  • Outdated interface.

MPEG Streamclip

It is one of the leading video editing software programs for MPEG video files. It also supports various other video formats such as VOB, PS, M2P, MOD, VRO, DAT, MOV. It enables the users to split the large video files into small video clips in just few seconds.

free mpeg video spliiter

Pros:

  • Supports a wide range of video formats;
  • Different video editing functions.

Cons:

  • Has a glitched button and window.

Wondershare Filmora is a more advanced video editing tool which enables you to split, merge, crop and rotate as well as adding different video effects. This is a promising program that is worth trying.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

The growing demand of automated video splitting software provides the users several different options to make the best use of required feature. However, getting benefit of the available attributes is the second task to do; the first most important step is to select the best video splitting software. The purpose of using the video splitter is to slice the video into fragments; it is used to extract particular outlooks and upload to the internet; the splitting files can also be played back. However, this task can be performed through many video splitting tools but the user’s intention is to explore the best; for this purpose, a list of top 5 free MPEG video splitters are under discussion:

Free Video Cutter

This video splitting software is a remarkable tools used to cut different kinds of videos, including MOV, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, WMN, AVI, MKV, MP3 and more. It is really easy-to-use and keeps the original video quality. Meanwhile, it provides different output options in accordance with the user’s expectations.

free mp4 splitter

Pros:

  • Supports multiple video formats;
  • User friendly interface;
  • Multiple output format options.

Cons:

  • Lacks in sound quality;
  • Fewer sound settings.

Easy Video Splitter

The main purpose of this software is to make parts or segments of the large video file into the smaller ones; it is a free applications used to split the files. The videos that cannot be fit into DVD and CD and need to be burnt, are cut or divide using easy video splitter. It supports multiple video formats both as input and output. The best thing about this tool is that it does not need any information from the user; he is supposed to select the way through which he wants to split the video, other functions are performed automatically by the software program.

free MPEG splitter

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface;
  • Lightweight, portable and compatible;
  • Maintains good quality of the input file;
  • Sustains batch processing.

Cons:

  • Expensive system requirements and resources.

VidSplitter

The users prefer VidSplitter to use because of its reliability and durability; it is used to convert large MPEG files into the fragments using several different formats. The large files in video formats such as MPEG, AVI, ASF and WMV are easily cut and assembled into numerous formats at fast speed. Furthermore, VidSplitter enables the users to save the processed file on storage media.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Easily-to-use interface;
  • Splits and converts the clips at fast speed;
  • Focuses on customization.

Cons:

  • Help file is not available;
  • Time-based selection strategy is not supported.

Avidemux

Supporting a variety of video formats such as AVI, DVD compatible MPEG files, MP4 and ASF, Avidemux helps the users split the videos in to small fragments. Tasks can be automated using projects, job queue and powerful scripting capabilities.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Different video editing options;
  • Easy-to-use;
  • Available on different platforms: Windows, Mac and Linux.

Cons:

  • Outdated interface.

MPEG Streamclip

It is one of the leading video editing software programs for MPEG video files. It also supports various other video formats such as VOB, PS, M2P, MOD, VRO, DAT, MOV. It enables the users to split the large video files into small video clips in just few seconds.

free mpeg video spliiter

Pros:

  • Supports a wide range of video formats;
  • Different video editing functions.

Cons:

  • Has a glitched button and window.

Wondershare Filmora is a more advanced video editing tool which enables you to split, merge, crop and rotate as well as adding different video effects. This is a promising program that is worth trying.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

The growing demand of automated video splitting software provides the users several different options to make the best use of required feature. However, getting benefit of the available attributes is the second task to do; the first most important step is to select the best video splitting software. The purpose of using the video splitter is to slice the video into fragments; it is used to extract particular outlooks and upload to the internet; the splitting files can also be played back. However, this task can be performed through many video splitting tools but the user’s intention is to explore the best; for this purpose, a list of top 5 free MPEG video splitters are under discussion:

Free Video Cutter

This video splitting software is a remarkable tools used to cut different kinds of videos, including MOV, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, WMN, AVI, MKV, MP3 and more. It is really easy-to-use and keeps the original video quality. Meanwhile, it provides different output options in accordance with the user’s expectations.

free mp4 splitter

Pros:

  • Supports multiple video formats;
  • User friendly interface;
  • Multiple output format options.

Cons:

  • Lacks in sound quality;
  • Fewer sound settings.

Easy Video Splitter

The main purpose of this software is to make parts or segments of the large video file into the smaller ones; it is a free applications used to split the files. The videos that cannot be fit into DVD and CD and need to be burnt, are cut or divide using easy video splitter. It supports multiple video formats both as input and output. The best thing about this tool is that it does not need any information from the user; he is supposed to select the way through which he wants to split the video, other functions are performed automatically by the software program.

free MPEG splitter

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface;
  • Lightweight, portable and compatible;
  • Maintains good quality of the input file;
  • Sustains batch processing.

Cons:

  • Expensive system requirements and resources.

VidSplitter

The users prefer VidSplitter to use because of its reliability and durability; it is used to convert large MPEG files into the fragments using several different formats. The large files in video formats such as MPEG, AVI, ASF and WMV are easily cut and assembled into numerous formats at fast speed. Furthermore, VidSplitter enables the users to save the processed file on storage media.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Easily-to-use interface;
  • Splits and converts the clips at fast speed;
  • Focuses on customization.

Cons:

  • Help file is not available;
  • Time-based selection strategy is not supported.

Avidemux

Supporting a variety of video formats such as AVI, DVD compatible MPEG files, MP4 and ASF, Avidemux helps the users split the videos in to small fragments. Tasks can be automated using projects, job queue and powerful scripting capabilities.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Different video editing options;
  • Easy-to-use;
  • Available on different platforms: Windows, Mac and Linux.

Cons:

  • Outdated interface.

MPEG Streamclip

It is one of the leading video editing software programs for MPEG video files. It also supports various other video formats such as VOB, PS, M2P, MOD, VRO, DAT, MOV. It enables the users to split the large video files into small video clips in just few seconds.

free mpeg video spliiter

Pros:

  • Supports a wide range of video formats;
  • Different video editing functions.

Cons:

  • Has a glitched button and window.

Wondershare Filmora is a more advanced video editing tool which enables you to split, merge, crop and rotate as well as adding different video effects. This is a promising program that is worth trying.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

The growing demand of automated video splitting software provides the users several different options to make the best use of required feature. However, getting benefit of the available attributes is the second task to do; the first most important step is to select the best video splitting software. The purpose of using the video splitter is to slice the video into fragments; it is used to extract particular outlooks and upload to the internet; the splitting files can also be played back. However, this task can be performed through many video splitting tools but the user’s intention is to explore the best; for this purpose, a list of top 5 free MPEG video splitters are under discussion:

Free Video Cutter

This video splitting software is a remarkable tools used to cut different kinds of videos, including MOV, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, WMN, AVI, MKV, MP3 and more. It is really easy-to-use and keeps the original video quality. Meanwhile, it provides different output options in accordance with the user’s expectations.

free mp4 splitter

Pros:

  • Supports multiple video formats;
  • User friendly interface;
  • Multiple output format options.

Cons:

  • Lacks in sound quality;
  • Fewer sound settings.

Easy Video Splitter

The main purpose of this software is to make parts or segments of the large video file into the smaller ones; it is a free applications used to split the files. The videos that cannot be fit into DVD and CD and need to be burnt, are cut or divide using easy video splitter. It supports multiple video formats both as input and output. The best thing about this tool is that it does not need any information from the user; he is supposed to select the way through which he wants to split the video, other functions are performed automatically by the software program.

free MPEG splitter

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface;
  • Lightweight, portable and compatible;
  • Maintains good quality of the input file;
  • Sustains batch processing.

Cons:

  • Expensive system requirements and resources.

VidSplitter

The users prefer VidSplitter to use because of its reliability and durability; it is used to convert large MPEG files into the fragments using several different formats. The large files in video formats such as MPEG, AVI, ASF and WMV are easily cut and assembled into numerous formats at fast speed. Furthermore, VidSplitter enables the users to save the processed file on storage media.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Easily-to-use interface;
  • Splits and converts the clips at fast speed;
  • Focuses on customization.

Cons:

  • Help file is not available;
  • Time-based selection strategy is not supported.

Avidemux

Supporting a variety of video formats such as AVI, DVD compatible MPEG files, MP4 and ASF, Avidemux helps the users split the videos in to small fragments. Tasks can be automated using projects, job queue and powerful scripting capabilities.

free mpeg splitter

Pros:

  • Different video editing options;
  • Easy-to-use;
  • Available on different platforms: Windows, Mac and Linux.

Cons:

  • Outdated interface.

MPEG Streamclip

It is one of the leading video editing software programs for MPEG video files. It also supports various other video formats such as VOB, PS, M2P, MOD, VRO, DAT, MOV. It enables the users to split the large video files into small video clips in just few seconds.

free mpeg video spliiter

Pros:

  • Supports a wide range of video formats;
  • Different video editing functions.

Cons:

  • Has a glitched button and window.

Wondershare Filmora is a more advanced video editing tool which enables you to split, merge, crop and rotate as well as adding different video effects. This is a promising program that is worth trying.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

We Have Listed the Top 10 Free Final Cut Pro X Plugins with Their Respective Uses. Also, You Can Check a Quick Step-by-Step Guide to Install Such Plugins

Top 10 Free Plugins You Should Know for Final Cut Pro X

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How do I get plugins for Final Cut Pro X?”

Let’s explain to you first that each plugin for an application expands its capability. Thus, we are here to discuss awesome FCPX plugins. You probably know already that Final Cut Pro X is on plugins if you wish to do some cool stuff over there. For instance, Final Cut Pro plugins can improve color grading or add some cool effects into the video as the editor itself doesn’t contain many tools to do efficient work.

So, let’s dive deep into the article and know the best free Final Cut Pro plugins as follows!

In case your plugins not working, you may want to see How to Fix Plugins Not Working in Final Cut Pro X?

Part 1: Top 10 Free Plugins for Final Cut Pro X

As we all know, Final Cut Pro X or Final Cut Pro is an incredible motion graphics or video editing platform by Apple Inc., based upon the usage of extra plugins. And, the best Final Cut Pro plugins are available for free, as discussed below.

1 Alex 4D

top 10 free fcpx plugins alex 4d

Let’s keep the Alex 4D as one of the top free Final Cut Pro plugins that will offer you some cool tools, including Feature Overlays, cropping tools, and so on. It is an ideal plugin if you are more in overlay film production. The Switch Channel is one of their noticeable functions, and the transition effect simulates analog TV channels.

2 Stupid Raisins

top 10 free fcpx plugins stupid raisins

You should once check out Stupid Raisins to experience the top and free Final Cut Pro Plugins. However, the site also offers some premium plugins worth considering. The Stupid Raisins provides three sample packs, including the Template Pop, Sign Pop, and Panel Pop. The Template Pop offers animated titles, Sign Pop offers animated icons, and Panel Pop offers custom Final Cut Pro X transitions.

3 Color Finale 2.0

top 10 free fcpx plugins color finale 2

Want to improve color grading? Check out this free Color Finale 2.0 Final Cut Pro X plugin. The plugin offers a whole new preset of color grading tools to make your video look genuinely cinematic. You can make the retro look, add emulations, or use integrated masks to apply color grading at different parts into your video. Click the Free Trial tab to enjoy this free plugin.

4 Movie Pop

top 10 free fcpx plugins movie pop

The Movie Pop is there to recreate title sequences of footage in a more efficient manner. Thus, you can easily choose some of your favorite movie clips and add them as title sequences with this plugin’s help. However, this free plugin is only significant for adding title sequences and doesn’t contain other tools. Well, you can easily create movie titles like Harry Potter, Assassin’s Creed, and Star Wars with this free Final Cut Pro plugin.

5 Adjustment Layers

top 10 free fcpx plugins adjustment layers

The Adjustment Layers is among other best free FCPX plugins. It is the must-have plugin if you use the feature of adjustment layers as in Photoshop or After Effects. It attempts to experience this feature with the help of a title generator. With this plugin, you can change the position, scale, and tons of other effects in your footage.

6 mLut

top 10 free fcpx plugins mlut

mLut is also a great tool for color grading essentials. However, this awesome plugin is for free use by Motion VFX with features that are especially accessible for beginners. So, you can easily download LUT files with this plugin and use them further in your video projects. And, the results will come out as cinematic color grading without any hassle.

7 Neat Video’s Noise Removal

top 10 free fcpx plugins neat video noise removal

Neat Video’s Noise Removal plugin will remove those unwanted film grains and image noise from the footage. This free Final Cut Pro plugin effectively removes the color aberrations and noise from the footage.

8 mCamRig

top 10 free fcpx plugins mcamrig

The Automatic Camera Animation plugin, i.e., mCamRig, is another excellent FCPX plugin. This plugin eliminates the difficult keyframing concept that you have to follow to adjust different camera angles and movements. On the other hand, the use of a plugin helps add these movements to an intuitive workflow.

9 Shutterstock

top 10 free fcpx plugins shutterstock

You can add Shutterstock’s plugin to use royalty-free videos and images from the platform. Using a plugin facilitates the user to automate adding images via a simple drag and drop feature. Thus, it’s highly ideal if you want to go for automation.

10 mVertical Video Adjustment

top 10 free fcpx plugins mvertical

Have you taken any vertical shots? If yes, you can use them in your video footage without including that blank space. You can even select up to three backgrounds with the plugin, namely the mirror, scale, and copy. Also, it is super convenient to adjust the size of footage and other background parameters.

Not enough? Ok, maybe you should try Filmora, a popular editor for beginners as well as pros. You can always find up-to-date effects you want! Click to have a try.

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 2: How to Add Plugins to Final Cut Pro X

The first step for installing any plugin is to get out of Final Cut Pro X if you have it open. You can refer to the steps below to install various kinds of Final Cut Pro X plugins.

Step 1: Download the Plugin

Go to your favorite site of plugins and search for tools. Here, we are referring to download the transition tools. Click the Add to Cart tab as shown in the image below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins download transition tools

You will get its download in the form of a zip folder, which you have to unzip for sure.

Here, we have downloaded two transitions contained within one folder.

Step 2: Copy and Paste the Plugin

Now, you need to copy the plugin by right-clicking the entire folder, as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins copy plugin

Afterward, find the Final Cut Pro X in Applications folder from the Finder tab. Right-click the Final Cut Pro X and hit the Show Package Content option.

top 10 free fcpx plugins show package contents

Then go to Contents > Plugins > Media Providers > Motion Effects.fxp > Contents > Resources > Templates > Transitions.

Paste the item in the Transition folder as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins paste item

Finally, there is one last step you need to do with the original files of the transition plugin.

Hit the first transition from the folder that you have just pasted. And, rename the white file that is the actual transition plugin with extension .motr. You are required to do the same thing with other transitions’ folders.

top 10 free fcpx plugins motr

Step 3: Find Your Transitions Plugin in Final Cut Pro X

Now, open the Final Cut Pro X and head to the Transitions folder. Here, you can see your installed plugin - SRG Luma Fade in both black and white transitions.

top 10 free fcpx plugins find transition plugin

You’re good to go now with your installed plugin and enjoy unique transitions.

Conclusion

Thus, these were the steps of plugin installation and top 10 free Final Cut Pro X plugins with their respective uses. Let us know your favorite plugin and read an astonishing fact about that plugin from us!

See more free luts for FCPX here.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How do I get plugins for Final Cut Pro X?”

Let’s explain to you first that each plugin for an application expands its capability. Thus, we are here to discuss awesome FCPX plugins. You probably know already that Final Cut Pro X is on plugins if you wish to do some cool stuff over there. For instance, Final Cut Pro plugins can improve color grading or add some cool effects into the video as the editor itself doesn’t contain many tools to do efficient work.

So, let’s dive deep into the article and know the best free Final Cut Pro plugins as follows!

In case your plugins not working, you may want to see How to Fix Plugins Not Working in Final Cut Pro X?

Part 1: Top 10 Free Plugins for Final Cut Pro X

As we all know, Final Cut Pro X or Final Cut Pro is an incredible motion graphics or video editing platform by Apple Inc., based upon the usage of extra plugins. And, the best Final Cut Pro plugins are available for free, as discussed below.

1 Alex 4D

top 10 free fcpx plugins alex 4d

Let’s keep the Alex 4D as one of the top free Final Cut Pro plugins that will offer you some cool tools, including Feature Overlays, cropping tools, and so on. It is an ideal plugin if you are more in overlay film production. The Switch Channel is one of their noticeable functions, and the transition effect simulates analog TV channels.

2 Stupid Raisins

top 10 free fcpx plugins stupid raisins

You should once check out Stupid Raisins to experience the top and free Final Cut Pro Plugins. However, the site also offers some premium plugins worth considering. The Stupid Raisins provides three sample packs, including the Template Pop, Sign Pop, and Panel Pop. The Template Pop offers animated titles, Sign Pop offers animated icons, and Panel Pop offers custom Final Cut Pro X transitions.

3 Color Finale 2.0

top 10 free fcpx plugins color finale 2

Want to improve color grading? Check out this free Color Finale 2.0 Final Cut Pro X plugin. The plugin offers a whole new preset of color grading tools to make your video look genuinely cinematic. You can make the retro look, add emulations, or use integrated masks to apply color grading at different parts into your video. Click the Free Trial tab to enjoy this free plugin.

4 Movie Pop

top 10 free fcpx plugins movie pop

The Movie Pop is there to recreate title sequences of footage in a more efficient manner. Thus, you can easily choose some of your favorite movie clips and add them as title sequences with this plugin’s help. However, this free plugin is only significant for adding title sequences and doesn’t contain other tools. Well, you can easily create movie titles like Harry Potter, Assassin’s Creed, and Star Wars with this free Final Cut Pro plugin.

5 Adjustment Layers

top 10 free fcpx plugins adjustment layers

The Adjustment Layers is among other best free FCPX plugins. It is the must-have plugin if you use the feature of adjustment layers as in Photoshop or After Effects. It attempts to experience this feature with the help of a title generator. With this plugin, you can change the position, scale, and tons of other effects in your footage.

6 mLut

top 10 free fcpx plugins mlut

mLut is also a great tool for color grading essentials. However, this awesome plugin is for free use by Motion VFX with features that are especially accessible for beginners. So, you can easily download LUT files with this plugin and use them further in your video projects. And, the results will come out as cinematic color grading without any hassle.

7 Neat Video’s Noise Removal

top 10 free fcpx plugins neat video noise removal

Neat Video’s Noise Removal plugin will remove those unwanted film grains and image noise from the footage. This free Final Cut Pro plugin effectively removes the color aberrations and noise from the footage.

8 mCamRig

top 10 free fcpx plugins mcamrig

The Automatic Camera Animation plugin, i.e., mCamRig, is another excellent FCPX plugin. This plugin eliminates the difficult keyframing concept that you have to follow to adjust different camera angles and movements. On the other hand, the use of a plugin helps add these movements to an intuitive workflow.

9 Shutterstock

top 10 free fcpx plugins shutterstock

You can add Shutterstock’s plugin to use royalty-free videos and images from the platform. Using a plugin facilitates the user to automate adding images via a simple drag and drop feature. Thus, it’s highly ideal if you want to go for automation.

10 mVertical Video Adjustment

top 10 free fcpx plugins mvertical

Have you taken any vertical shots? If yes, you can use them in your video footage without including that blank space. You can even select up to three backgrounds with the plugin, namely the mirror, scale, and copy. Also, it is super convenient to adjust the size of footage and other background parameters.

Not enough? Ok, maybe you should try Filmora, a popular editor for beginners as well as pros. You can always find up-to-date effects you want! Click to have a try.

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 2: How to Add Plugins to Final Cut Pro X

The first step for installing any plugin is to get out of Final Cut Pro X if you have it open. You can refer to the steps below to install various kinds of Final Cut Pro X plugins.

Step 1: Download the Plugin

Go to your favorite site of plugins and search for tools. Here, we are referring to download the transition tools. Click the Add to Cart tab as shown in the image below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins download transition tools

You will get its download in the form of a zip folder, which you have to unzip for sure.

Here, we have downloaded two transitions contained within one folder.

Step 2: Copy and Paste the Plugin

Now, you need to copy the plugin by right-clicking the entire folder, as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins copy plugin

Afterward, find the Final Cut Pro X in Applications folder from the Finder tab. Right-click the Final Cut Pro X and hit the Show Package Content option.

top 10 free fcpx plugins show package contents

Then go to Contents > Plugins > Media Providers > Motion Effects.fxp > Contents > Resources > Templates > Transitions.

Paste the item in the Transition folder as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins paste item

Finally, there is one last step you need to do with the original files of the transition plugin.

Hit the first transition from the folder that you have just pasted. And, rename the white file that is the actual transition plugin with extension .motr. You are required to do the same thing with other transitions’ folders.

top 10 free fcpx plugins motr

Step 3: Find Your Transitions Plugin in Final Cut Pro X

Now, open the Final Cut Pro X and head to the Transitions folder. Here, you can see your installed plugin - SRG Luma Fade in both black and white transitions.

top 10 free fcpx plugins find transition plugin

You’re good to go now with your installed plugin and enjoy unique transitions.

Conclusion

Thus, these were the steps of plugin installation and top 10 free Final Cut Pro X plugins with their respective uses. Let us know your favorite plugin and read an astonishing fact about that plugin from us!

See more free luts for FCPX here.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How do I get plugins for Final Cut Pro X?”

Let’s explain to you first that each plugin for an application expands its capability. Thus, we are here to discuss awesome FCPX plugins. You probably know already that Final Cut Pro X is on plugins if you wish to do some cool stuff over there. For instance, Final Cut Pro plugins can improve color grading or add some cool effects into the video as the editor itself doesn’t contain many tools to do efficient work.

So, let’s dive deep into the article and know the best free Final Cut Pro plugins as follows!

In case your plugins not working, you may want to see How to Fix Plugins Not Working in Final Cut Pro X?

Part 1: Top 10 Free Plugins for Final Cut Pro X

As we all know, Final Cut Pro X or Final Cut Pro is an incredible motion graphics or video editing platform by Apple Inc., based upon the usage of extra plugins. And, the best Final Cut Pro plugins are available for free, as discussed below.

1 Alex 4D

top 10 free fcpx plugins alex 4d

Let’s keep the Alex 4D as one of the top free Final Cut Pro plugins that will offer you some cool tools, including Feature Overlays, cropping tools, and so on. It is an ideal plugin if you are more in overlay film production. The Switch Channel is one of their noticeable functions, and the transition effect simulates analog TV channels.

2 Stupid Raisins

top 10 free fcpx plugins stupid raisins

You should once check out Stupid Raisins to experience the top and free Final Cut Pro Plugins. However, the site also offers some premium plugins worth considering. The Stupid Raisins provides three sample packs, including the Template Pop, Sign Pop, and Panel Pop. The Template Pop offers animated titles, Sign Pop offers animated icons, and Panel Pop offers custom Final Cut Pro X transitions.

3 Color Finale 2.0

top 10 free fcpx plugins color finale 2

Want to improve color grading? Check out this free Color Finale 2.0 Final Cut Pro X plugin. The plugin offers a whole new preset of color grading tools to make your video look genuinely cinematic. You can make the retro look, add emulations, or use integrated masks to apply color grading at different parts into your video. Click the Free Trial tab to enjoy this free plugin.

4 Movie Pop

top 10 free fcpx plugins movie pop

The Movie Pop is there to recreate title sequences of footage in a more efficient manner. Thus, you can easily choose some of your favorite movie clips and add them as title sequences with this plugin’s help. However, this free plugin is only significant for adding title sequences and doesn’t contain other tools. Well, you can easily create movie titles like Harry Potter, Assassin’s Creed, and Star Wars with this free Final Cut Pro plugin.

5 Adjustment Layers

top 10 free fcpx plugins adjustment layers

The Adjustment Layers is among other best free FCPX plugins. It is the must-have plugin if you use the feature of adjustment layers as in Photoshop or After Effects. It attempts to experience this feature with the help of a title generator. With this plugin, you can change the position, scale, and tons of other effects in your footage.

6 mLut

top 10 free fcpx plugins mlut

mLut is also a great tool for color grading essentials. However, this awesome plugin is for free use by Motion VFX with features that are especially accessible for beginners. So, you can easily download LUT files with this plugin and use them further in your video projects. And, the results will come out as cinematic color grading without any hassle.

7 Neat Video’s Noise Removal

top 10 free fcpx plugins neat video noise removal

Neat Video’s Noise Removal plugin will remove those unwanted film grains and image noise from the footage. This free Final Cut Pro plugin effectively removes the color aberrations and noise from the footage.

8 mCamRig

top 10 free fcpx plugins mcamrig

The Automatic Camera Animation plugin, i.e., mCamRig, is another excellent FCPX plugin. This plugin eliminates the difficult keyframing concept that you have to follow to adjust different camera angles and movements. On the other hand, the use of a plugin helps add these movements to an intuitive workflow.

9 Shutterstock

top 10 free fcpx plugins shutterstock

You can add Shutterstock’s plugin to use royalty-free videos and images from the platform. Using a plugin facilitates the user to automate adding images via a simple drag and drop feature. Thus, it’s highly ideal if you want to go for automation.

10 mVertical Video Adjustment

top 10 free fcpx plugins mvertical

Have you taken any vertical shots? If yes, you can use them in your video footage without including that blank space. You can even select up to three backgrounds with the plugin, namely the mirror, scale, and copy. Also, it is super convenient to adjust the size of footage and other background parameters.

Not enough? Ok, maybe you should try Filmora, a popular editor for beginners as well as pros. You can always find up-to-date effects you want! Click to have a try.

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 2: How to Add Plugins to Final Cut Pro X

The first step for installing any plugin is to get out of Final Cut Pro X if you have it open. You can refer to the steps below to install various kinds of Final Cut Pro X plugins.

Step 1: Download the Plugin

Go to your favorite site of plugins and search for tools. Here, we are referring to download the transition tools. Click the Add to Cart tab as shown in the image below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins download transition tools

You will get its download in the form of a zip folder, which you have to unzip for sure.

Here, we have downloaded two transitions contained within one folder.

Step 2: Copy and Paste the Plugin

Now, you need to copy the plugin by right-clicking the entire folder, as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins copy plugin

Afterward, find the Final Cut Pro X in Applications folder from the Finder tab. Right-click the Final Cut Pro X and hit the Show Package Content option.

top 10 free fcpx plugins show package contents

Then go to Contents > Plugins > Media Providers > Motion Effects.fxp > Contents > Resources > Templates > Transitions.

Paste the item in the Transition folder as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins paste item

Finally, there is one last step you need to do with the original files of the transition plugin.

Hit the first transition from the folder that you have just pasted. And, rename the white file that is the actual transition plugin with extension .motr. You are required to do the same thing with other transitions’ folders.

top 10 free fcpx plugins motr

Step 3: Find Your Transitions Plugin in Final Cut Pro X

Now, open the Final Cut Pro X and head to the Transitions folder. Here, you can see your installed plugin - SRG Luma Fade in both black and white transitions.

top 10 free fcpx plugins find transition plugin

You’re good to go now with your installed plugin and enjoy unique transitions.

Conclusion

Thus, these were the steps of plugin installation and top 10 free Final Cut Pro X plugins with their respective uses. Let us know your favorite plugin and read an astonishing fact about that plugin from us!

See more free luts for FCPX here.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How do I get plugins for Final Cut Pro X?”

Let’s explain to you first that each plugin for an application expands its capability. Thus, we are here to discuss awesome FCPX plugins. You probably know already that Final Cut Pro X is on plugins if you wish to do some cool stuff over there. For instance, Final Cut Pro plugins can improve color grading or add some cool effects into the video as the editor itself doesn’t contain many tools to do efficient work.

So, let’s dive deep into the article and know the best free Final Cut Pro plugins as follows!

In case your plugins not working, you may want to see How to Fix Plugins Not Working in Final Cut Pro X?

Part 1: Top 10 Free Plugins for Final Cut Pro X

As we all know, Final Cut Pro X or Final Cut Pro is an incredible motion graphics or video editing platform by Apple Inc., based upon the usage of extra plugins. And, the best Final Cut Pro plugins are available for free, as discussed below.

1 Alex 4D

top 10 free fcpx plugins alex 4d

Let’s keep the Alex 4D as one of the top free Final Cut Pro plugins that will offer you some cool tools, including Feature Overlays, cropping tools, and so on. It is an ideal plugin if you are more in overlay film production. The Switch Channel is one of their noticeable functions, and the transition effect simulates analog TV channels.

2 Stupid Raisins

top 10 free fcpx plugins stupid raisins

You should once check out Stupid Raisins to experience the top and free Final Cut Pro Plugins. However, the site also offers some premium plugins worth considering. The Stupid Raisins provides three sample packs, including the Template Pop, Sign Pop, and Panel Pop. The Template Pop offers animated titles, Sign Pop offers animated icons, and Panel Pop offers custom Final Cut Pro X transitions.

3 Color Finale 2.0

top 10 free fcpx plugins color finale 2

Want to improve color grading? Check out this free Color Finale 2.0 Final Cut Pro X plugin. The plugin offers a whole new preset of color grading tools to make your video look genuinely cinematic. You can make the retro look, add emulations, or use integrated masks to apply color grading at different parts into your video. Click the Free Trial tab to enjoy this free plugin.

4 Movie Pop

top 10 free fcpx plugins movie pop

The Movie Pop is there to recreate title sequences of footage in a more efficient manner. Thus, you can easily choose some of your favorite movie clips and add them as title sequences with this plugin’s help. However, this free plugin is only significant for adding title sequences and doesn’t contain other tools. Well, you can easily create movie titles like Harry Potter, Assassin’s Creed, and Star Wars with this free Final Cut Pro plugin.

5 Adjustment Layers

top 10 free fcpx plugins adjustment layers

The Adjustment Layers is among other best free FCPX plugins. It is the must-have plugin if you use the feature of adjustment layers as in Photoshop or After Effects. It attempts to experience this feature with the help of a title generator. With this plugin, you can change the position, scale, and tons of other effects in your footage.

6 mLut

top 10 free fcpx plugins mlut

mLut is also a great tool for color grading essentials. However, this awesome plugin is for free use by Motion VFX with features that are especially accessible for beginners. So, you can easily download LUT files with this plugin and use them further in your video projects. And, the results will come out as cinematic color grading without any hassle.

7 Neat Video’s Noise Removal

top 10 free fcpx plugins neat video noise removal

Neat Video’s Noise Removal plugin will remove those unwanted film grains and image noise from the footage. This free Final Cut Pro plugin effectively removes the color aberrations and noise from the footage.

8 mCamRig

top 10 free fcpx plugins mcamrig

The Automatic Camera Animation plugin, i.e., mCamRig, is another excellent FCPX plugin. This plugin eliminates the difficult keyframing concept that you have to follow to adjust different camera angles and movements. On the other hand, the use of a plugin helps add these movements to an intuitive workflow.

9 Shutterstock

top 10 free fcpx plugins shutterstock

You can add Shutterstock’s plugin to use royalty-free videos and images from the platform. Using a plugin facilitates the user to automate adding images via a simple drag and drop feature. Thus, it’s highly ideal if you want to go for automation.

10 mVertical Video Adjustment

top 10 free fcpx plugins mvertical

Have you taken any vertical shots? If yes, you can use them in your video footage without including that blank space. You can even select up to three backgrounds with the plugin, namely the mirror, scale, and copy. Also, it is super convenient to adjust the size of footage and other background parameters.

Not enough? Ok, maybe you should try Filmora, a popular editor for beginners as well as pros. You can always find up-to-date effects you want! Click to have a try.

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 2: How to Add Plugins to Final Cut Pro X

The first step for installing any plugin is to get out of Final Cut Pro X if you have it open. You can refer to the steps below to install various kinds of Final Cut Pro X plugins.

Step 1: Download the Plugin

Go to your favorite site of plugins and search for tools. Here, we are referring to download the transition tools. Click the Add to Cart tab as shown in the image below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins download transition tools

You will get its download in the form of a zip folder, which you have to unzip for sure.

Here, we have downloaded two transitions contained within one folder.

Step 2: Copy and Paste the Plugin

Now, you need to copy the plugin by right-clicking the entire folder, as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins copy plugin

Afterward, find the Final Cut Pro X in Applications folder from the Finder tab. Right-click the Final Cut Pro X and hit the Show Package Content option.

top 10 free fcpx plugins show package contents

Then go to Contents > Plugins > Media Providers > Motion Effects.fxp > Contents > Resources > Templates > Transitions.

Paste the item in the Transition folder as shown below.

top 10 free fcpx plugins paste item

Finally, there is one last step you need to do with the original files of the transition plugin.

Hit the first transition from the folder that you have just pasted. And, rename the white file that is the actual transition plugin with extension .motr. You are required to do the same thing with other transitions’ folders.

top 10 free fcpx plugins motr

Step 3: Find Your Transitions Plugin in Final Cut Pro X

Now, open the Final Cut Pro X and head to the Transitions folder. Here, you can see your installed plugin - SRG Luma Fade in both black and white transitions.

top 10 free fcpx plugins find transition plugin

You’re good to go now with your installed plugin and enjoy unique transitions.

Conclusion

Thus, these were the steps of plugin installation and top 10 free Final Cut Pro X plugins with their respective uses. Let us know your favorite plugin and read an astonishing fact about that plugin from us!

See more free luts for FCPX here.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Also read:

  • Title: New In 2024, Animation Mastery The 10 Best 2D Software for Creators Free & Paid
  • Author: Morgan
  • Created at : 2024-05-19 16:01:32
  • Updated at : 2024-05-20 16:01:32
  • Link: https://ai-video-tools.techidaily.com/new-in-2024-animation-mastery-the-10-best-2d-software-for-creators-free-and-paid/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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New In 2024, Animation Mastery The 10 Best 2D Software for Creators Free & Paid