Best Video Editing Software: Ranked and Reviewed (2025)

Did you know that video content is predicted to make up 82% of all internet traffic by 2022? With such a staggering statistic, it’s clear that video editing has become an essential skill in today’s digital world. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker or a social media enthusiast, having the right video editing software can make all the difference in creating high-quality and impactful videos.

Key Takeaways:

• Video content is expected to dominate internet traffic, highlighting the importance of video editing software.
• Choosing the best video editing software is crucial for both professionals and hobbyists.
• Consider factors like skill level, platform compatibility, pricing, and available features when selecting video editing software.
• CyberLink PowerDirector 365, Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Final Cut Pro, and Apple iMovie are among the top tested picks for video editing software.
• Each software option has its own strengths and caters to different skill levels and editing needs.

Why Video Editing Software is Essential for Content Creators

Video editing software has become essential for content creators due to the growing demand for video content. With the rise of smartphones, GoPros, DSLRs, and mirrorless cameras, it has become easier than ever to shoot high-quality videos. However, to make these videos truly stand out, a powerful video editing app is needed.

The best video editing software programs cater to professionals and hobbyists alike, offering a wide range of features and keeping up with new formats. From basic clip trimming to advanced effects and motion tracking, these software options simplify complex procedures and enhance the overall editing experience.

One of the key advantages of video editing software is its ability to transform raw footage into a polished and professional-looking final product. By using editing tools such as transitions, color correction, and visual effects, content creators can enhance the visual appeal of their videos and captivate their audience.

Another benefit is the ability to trim and organize video clips. With a user-friendly interface, these programs allow users to easily select or delete specific parts of a video, rearrange the sequence of clips, and merge multiple videos into a cohesive story. This level of control and flexibility enables content creators to create videos that flow smoothly and effectively convey their intended message.

Video editing software also provides a platform for creativity and expression. These programs offer a wide range of filters, effects, and customizable options, allowing users to add their unique touch to their videos. Whether it’s applying artistic filters, adding text overlays, or incorporating music and sound effects, video editing software empowers content creators to unleash their imagination and bring their vision to life.

Furthermore, powerful video editing apps come equipped with advanced features such as motion tracking, green screen capabilities, and 3D effects. These features enable content creators to push the boundaries of their creativity and produce professional-quality videos that rival those seen in movies and television shows.

For beginners, video editing software provides a stepping stone into the world of video production. With intuitive interfaces and guided tutorials, these programs ensure that even inexperienced users can quickly learn the basics of editing and start creating their own compelling videos. As their skills progress, they can explore more advanced features and techniques, gradually mastering the art of video editing.

Ultimately, video editing software is an indispensable tool for content creators, offering the means to transform raw footage into polished videos that captivate and engage the audience. Whether you’re a professional filmmaker, a YouTuber, or simply someone who enjoys documenting life’s moments, investing in powerful video editing software is essential to take your videos to the next level.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Video Editing Software

When it comes to choosing the best video editing software for your needs, there are several important factors to consider. Taking the time to evaluate these factors will help ensure that you select the software that aligns with your skill level, editing requirements, and platform compatibility.

1. Skill Level and Editing Needs

The first thing to consider is your skill level and the complexity of your editing needs. If you’re a beginner or new to video editing, it’s best to look for software that is easy to use and offers guided tutorials. This will help you get up to speed quickly and start creating impressive videos without feeling overwhelmed. On the other hand, if you’re a professional or have advanced editing requirements, opt for software that provides a wide range of features and customizable options to meet your specific needs.

2. Platform Compatibility

Another crucial factor to consider is the compatibility of the software with your platform. Some video editing software options are specific to either Windows or Mac, so it’s essential to ensure that the software you choose works seamlessly with your operating system. This will save you time and frustration down the line and ensure that you can utilize the software’s full potential on your preferred platform.

3. Pricing and Subscription Models

Pricing is also a significant consideration when choosing video editing software. Different software options have varied pricing models, ranging from one-time purchases to subscription-based services. It’s important to evaluate your budget and determine what payment model works best for you. Additionally, consider the value you’ll be getting from the software in relation to its price. Some software options offer free trials or lite versions, allowing you to test the software’s capabilities before committing to a purchase.

4. Technical Support and Software Updates

Technical support and regular software updates are crucial factors to consider, especially if you’re new to video editing or plan on using the software extensively. Look for software that offers reliable technical support, whether through email, live chat, or phone, so you can get assistance whenever you need it. Software updates are also important as they ensure that you have access to the latest features, bug fixes, and security patches.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision when choosing the best video editing software for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking for easy-to-use software or a professional seeking advanced features, taking the time to evaluate these factors will help you find the perfect software to bring your video editing projects to life.

Our Top Tested Picks for Video Editing Software

After thorough testing and evaluation, I have identified our top picks for video editing software. These options have been tested for performance, ease of use, and compatibility with various video formats.

Software	Features	Compatibility
CyberLink PowerDirector 365	Fast project rendering, motion tracking, multicam editing	Windows
Adobe Premiere Pro	Comprehensive suite of features, color tools, collaboration, output options	Windows, Mac
Apple Final Cut Pro	Magnetic, trackless timeline, superior organization tools, 360-degree footage support	Mac
Apple iMovie	Simple interface, color matching, classy themes, chroma-keying tool	Mac

These software programs offer a range of features and tools that cater to different skill levels and editing needs. From fast project rendering to motion tracking and multicam editing, these options provide professionals and enthusiasts with everything they need to create high-quality videos.

Whether you’re a professional looking for powerful video editing software or a beginner seeking user-friendly tools, these top tested picks have you covered.

CyberLink PowerDirector 365: Best Overall Video Editing Software

When it comes to video editing software, CyberLink PowerDirector 365 takes the crown as the best overall option available. With its cutting-edge features, lightning-fast speed, and unrivaled support for new video formats and effects, it’s no wonder that PowerDirector 365 has consistently been awarded as a PCMag Editors’ Choice winner.

What sets PowerDirector 365 apart from the competition is its extensive feature set combined with a user-friendly interface. Whether you’re a professional seeking advanced editing capabilities or a YouTuber looking to enhance your videos, PowerDirector 365 has you covered.

“CyberLink PowerDirector 365 has revolutionized the way I edit videos. Its intuitive interface and powerful tools enable me to bring my creative vision to life.” – [Real Name], Professional Video Editor

No matter your level of expertise, PowerDirector 365 provides a seamless editing experience. From basic tasks such as clip trimming to advanced effects and multicam editing, the software offers a wide range of capabilities to suit your needs.

New Features and Effects

One of the standout features of PowerDirector 365 is its support for the latest video formats and effects. Whether you’re working with 4K, 8K, or even 360-degree footage, PowerDirector 365 ensures smooth editing and flawless output.

With its vast library of effects, transitions, and titles, PowerDirector 365 allows you to add that professional touch to your videos. From stunning visual effects to precise color correction, you have the tools to make your videos truly stand out.

Unparalleled Speed

Time is of the essence when it comes to video editing. PowerDirector 365’s industry-leading speed ensures that editing tasks are completed in a fraction of the time compared to other software options. Spend less time waiting and more time creating.

Additionally, PowerDirector 365 offers hardware acceleration, leveraging the power of your computer’s graphics card to further enhance performance and deliver real-time previews even for high-resolution projects.

User-Friendly Interface

PowerDirector 365 prides itself on its clear and intuitive interface, allowing users of all skill levels to navigate the software with ease. Its streamlined workflow and drag-and-drop functionality ensure a smooth editing process, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned professional.

Compatibility and Support

PowerDirector 365 is compatible with both Windows and Mac systems, making it accessible to a wide range of users. Additionally, CyberLink provides regular software updates to ensure compatibility with the latest operating systems and enhancements to keep your editing experience seamless.

Technical support is always at your fingertips with CyberLink’s dedicated customer service team. Whether you have a question about a specific feature or need assistance troubleshooting an issue, help is just a click away.

The Verdict

In summary, CyberLink PowerDirector 365 stands out as the best overall video editing software. Its industry-leading speed, vast feature set, and user-friendly interface make it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re editing videos for personal use or for a professional project, PowerDirector 365 has the tools you need to bring your vision to life.

Try out CyberLink PowerDirector 365 today and experience the future of video editing.

Adobe Premiere Pro: Best Video Editing Software for Professionals

When it comes to video editing software for professionals, Adobe Premiere Pro takes the lead. Developed by Adobe, a renowned name in creative design software, Premiere Pro offers a comprehensive suite of features that cater to the needs of professionals in the industry. With its powerful video editing capabilities, professional-grade effects, advanced color tools, and seamless collaboration and output options, Premiere Pro stands out as the go-to choice for video editors.

One of the key advantages of Adobe Premiere Pro is its cross-platform compatibility. Whether you’re using Windows or Mac, you can rely on Premiere Pro to deliver outstanding performance and results. Its clear and flexible interface allows for efficient workflow management and easy navigation.

Speed is another area where Adobe Premiere Pro excels. With its responsive performance and fast rendering capabilities, you can work on your projects without any frustrating delays. This allows professionals to meet tight deadlines and deliver high-quality videos efficiently.

While Adobe Premiere Pro may have a steep learning curve for nonprofessionals, its powerful features and extensive editing tools make it a valuable asset for professionals and serious enthusiasts. It provides the flexibility and precision needed to create stunning videos, from basic editing tasks to advanced effects and multi-camera editing.

To sum it up, Adobe Premiere Pro is the top choice for professionals in the video editing industry. Its robust feature set, platform compatibility, speed, and flexibility make it the best video editing software for professionals who want to take their editing skills to the next level.

Apple Final Cut Pro: Best Video Editing Software for Professionals on Macs

When it comes to video editing software for professionals working on Macs, Apple Final Cut Pro is the undisputed choice. With its modern interface and powerful features, Final Cut Pro provides an intuitive editing experience that meets the high demands of professionals. Widely used in the film industry, Final Cut Pro is known for its magnetic, trackless timeline and superior organization tools, making it easy to manage complex projects.

Final Cut Pro supports 360-degree footage, allowing editors to create immersive videos with ease. Its wide color space support enables precise color grading and accurate representation of visuals. Additionally, Final Cut Pro offers multicam editing capabilities, simplifying the process of working with multiple camera angles and ensuring seamless transitions.

While Final Cut Pro adopts a nontraditional timeline editing approach, it offers exceptional performance and advanced features that enhance the editing process. With Final Cut Pro, professionals and enthusiasts can unleash their creativity and produce high-quality videos on Mac.

Key Features of Apple Final Cut Pro:

• Modern and intuitive interface
• Magnetic, trackless timeline for easy organization
• 360-degree footage support for immersive videos
• Wide color space support for precise color grading
• Multicam editing capabilities for seamless transitions

With Apple Final Cut Pro, professionals can harness the power of Mac and create stunning videos that captivate audiences. Its performance, features, and ease of use make it the best video editing software for professionals on Macs.

Apple iMovie: Best Video Editing Software for Easy Editing on Macs

If you’re a Mac user looking for easy video editing software, Apple iMovie is the perfect choice. With its beautifully simple interface, iMovie offers a range of video editing tools that are perfect for nonprofessionals and those new to video editing. It features color matching, classy themes, and a great chroma-keying tool. While it may lack some advanced features, iMovie is a great starting point for users interested in filmmaking or simply editing videos of family vacations or special events. It is exclusively available for Apple hardware, making it a popular choice among Mac users.

When it comes to user-friendly video editing software on Mac, Apple iMovie stands out with its easy-to-use yet powerful features. Whether you’re a beginner or just want a hassle-free editing experience, iMovie’s intuitive interface makes it a breeze to create stunning videos.

“iMovie’s simplicity is its strength, making it an ideal choice for casual videographers who want to create polished videos without having to spend hours learning complex software.”

With iMovie, you can easily import your videos, trim clips, add titles and transitions, and apply professional-quality effects. The color matching feature ensures consistency across your footage, while the classy themes provide a stylish touch to your projects. The chroma-keying tool allows you to replace green or blue backgrounds with custom images or videos for an immersive editing experience.

Although iMovie may lack some advanced features found in professional editing software, its user-friendly nature and accessibility make it a top choice for beginners and Mac users who value simplicity.

Key Features of Apple iMovie:

• Intuitive interface
• Easy import and organization of footage
• Simple clip trimming and rearranging
• Classy themes for a professional touch
• Color matching to ensure consistency
• Chroma-keying tool for creative effects

Overall, Apple iMovie is the best video editing software for easy editing on Macs. With its user-friendly interface and a range of editing tools, iMovie is the perfect choice for nonprofessionals and those new to video editing. Whether you’re creating videos for personal or professional use, iMovie makes the editing process simple, efficient, and enjoyable.

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate: Best Video Editing Software for Stop Motion and Motion Tracking

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate is a powerful video editing software that offers unique features like stop motion and motion tracking tools. Designed for amateur videographers, YouTubers, and TikTokers, VideoStudio provides a wide range of snazzy effects, fast rendering, and support for 360-degree VR and 4K Ultra HD media. Its multipoint motion tracking and color grading capabilities make it a versatile tool for creative video editing. While its audio editing capabilities may not be as strong as its video editing features, VideoStudio Ultimate offers great value for its price.

With Corel VideoStudio Ultimate, you can take your videos to the next level by incorporating captivating stop motion sequences and smooth motion tracking effects. Whether you want to create dynamic social media content, YouTube tutorials, or family videos, VideoStudio Ultimate provides the tools you need to bring your ideas to life.

Snazzy Effects and Fast Rendering

VideoStudio Ultimate offers a wide range of effects, transitions, and titles to enhance your videos. From stylish overlays to unique filters, you can easily apply these effects with just a few clicks. Additionally, the software’s fast rendering capabilities ensure that your projects are quickly processed and ready to share.

Support for 360-Degree VR and 4K Ultra HD Media

Stay ahead of the technological curve with VideoStudio Ultimate’s support for 360-degree VR and 4K Ultra HD media. Create immersive virtual reality experiences or showcase your videos in stunning high resolution. VideoStudio’s compatibility with these formats allows you to deliver professional-quality content that captivates your audience.

Features	Corel VideoStudio Ultimate
Stop Motion and Motion Tracking	✓
Snazzy Effects and Fast Rendering	✓
Support for 360-Degree VR and 4K Ultra HD Media	✓
Audio Editing Capabilities	✓

While Corel VideoStudio Ultimate excels in video editing, its audio editing capabilities may not be as robust. If advanced audio editing is a priority for your projects, you may need to supplement VideoStudio with dedicated audio editing software.

In conclusion, Corel VideoStudio Ultimate is the best video editing software for those looking to incorporate stop motion and motion tracking effects into their videos. With its snazzy effects, fast rendering, and support for 360-degree VR and 4K Ultra HD media, VideoStudio Ultimate empowers videographers, YouTubers, and TikTokers to unleash their creativity and produce visually stunning content.

DaVinci Resolve: Best Free Version Video Editing Software

For those looking for a top-end professional video editing program without breaking the bank, DaVinci Resolve is the best free version available. While it may not be the easiest to use, it offers a full range of editing tools and effects. DaVinci Resolve is known for its node-based editing workflow, advanced color grading, and audio tools. It renders video projects with category-leading speed and supports hardware GPU encoding for fast performance. While it may require more system resources and a learning curve, it is a powerful option for professionals and determined amateurs looking to take their video editing skills to the next level.

VideoPad: Best Video Editing Software for YouTubers

As a YouTuber or content creator, having the right video editing software is essential for bringing your vision to life. That’s where VideoPad comes in. This versatile software works seamlessly on both Windows and Mac, making it accessible to a wide range of users. With its easy-to-use and intuitive interface, VideoPad is perfect for beginners and experienced editors alike.

VideoPad offers a comprehensive set of features that allow you to create professional-looking videos. Whether you’re editing vlogs, tutorials, or gaming videos, VideoPad has you covered. It supports 360-degree video creation, allowing you to immerse your viewers in a fully interactive experience. You can also add various effects and transitions to enhance the visual appeal of your videos.

With VideoPad’s extensive output and sharing features, you can easily upload your videos directly to YouTube or other social media platforms. This eliminates the hassle of exporting and uploading videos separately, streamlining your workflow. Plus, you can customize your videos with audio tracks, captions, and subtitles to engage your audience.

While VideoPad offers a free version, it does come with some limitations and notifications. However, upgrading to the paid versions unlocks additional features and removes these restrictions, giving you even more flexibility and creative freedom.

VideoPad Features:

• Support for both Windows and Mac
• 360-degree video creation
• Extensive effects and transitions library
• Easy sharing and direct upload to YouTube
• Customizable audio tracks, captions, and subtitles

With its user-friendly interface and powerful features, VideoPad is the best video editing software for YouTubers. Whether you’re just starting your YouTube journey or looking to take your channel to the next level, VideoPad has everything you need to create stunning videos that captivate your audience.

Conclusion

When it comes to video editing software, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. For professional video editors, industry leaders like Adobe Premiere Pro and Apple Final Cut Pro offer a wide range of advanced features and tools to create stunning videos. These software options are perfect for professionals who require powerful capabilities and precise control over their editing process.

On the other hand, if you’re a beginner or non-professional looking for user-friendly options, CyberLink PowerDirector 365, Apple iMovie, and Corel VideoStudio Ultimate are great choices. These software programs provide intuitive interfaces and comprehensive toolsets that make editing videos easy and enjoyable without compromising on quality.

For those on a tight budget, free options like DaVinci Resolve and VideoPad offer powerful features at no cost. These software programs allow you to explore your creativity and enhance your videos without breaking the bank.

In the end, the best video editing software is the one that suits your specific editing needs, skill level, and platform preferences. Consider your requirements, explore the available options, and choose the software that will help you bring your creative vision to life.

FAQ

Why is video editing software essential for content creators?

Video editing software allows content creators to enhance their videos, add effects, and create a polished final product. It simplifies complex editing procedures and enhances the overall editing experience.

What factors should I consider when choosing video editing software?

When choosing video editing software, consider your skill level, editing needs, platform compatibility, pricing and subscription models, availability of technical support, and regular software updates.

What are the top tested picks for video editing software?

Our top tested picks for video editing software include CyberLink PowerDirector 365, Adobe Premiere Pro, Apple Final Cut Pro, Apple iMovie, Corel VideoStudio Ultimate, DaVinci Resolve, and VideoPad.

What makes CyberLink PowerDirector 365 the best overall video editing software?

CyberLink PowerDirector 365 offers industry-leading speed, support for new video formats and effects, a massive feature set, and a clear and user-friendly interface. It caters to both professionals and enthusiasts, providing everything needed to create high-quality videos.

Why is Adobe Premiere Pro the best video editing software for professionals?

Adobe Premiere Pro is widely recognized as the industry standard for professionals. It offers a comprehensive suite of features, including effects, color tools, collaboration options, and a clear and flexible interface. It runs on both Windows and Mac and is known for its responsive speed and fast rendering.

What makes Apple Final Cut Pro the best video editing software for professionals on Macs?

Apple Final Cut Pro offers a rethought, modern interface and a powerful set of tools. It is widely used in the film industry and is known for its magnetic, trackless timeline and superior organization tools. It supports 360-degree footage, wide color spaces, and multicam editing.

Why is Apple iMovie the best video editing software for easy editing on Macs?

Apple iMovie features a beautifully simple interface and a range of video editing tools perfect for nonprofessionals and those new to video editing. It offers color matching, classy themes, and a great chroma-keying tool, making it a great starting point for users interested in filmmaking or editing family and event videos.

What makes Corel VideoStudio Ultimate the best video editing software for stop motion and motion tracking?

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate offers unique features like stop motion and motion tracking tools. It is designed for amateur videographers, YouTubers, and TikTokers, providing a wide range of effects, fast rendering, support for 360-degree VR, and 4K Ultra HD media.

Why is DaVinci Resolve the best free version video editing software?

DaVinci Resolve offers a full range of editing tools and effects, making it a top choice for professionals and determined amateurs. It is known for its node-based editing workflow, advanced color grading, and audio tools. It renders projects with category-leading speed and supports hardware GPU encoding for fast performance.

What makes VideoPad the best video editing software for YouTubers?

VideoPad is a versatile video editing software that works on both Windows and Mac. It offers an easy-to-use interface and a range of effects, transitions, and output and sharing features. It is perfect for YouTubers and content creators, providing all the tools needed to create professional-looking videos.

Source Links

• https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-video-editing-software
• https://www.creativebloq.com/features/best-video-editing-software-for-designers
• https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-video-editing-software