Video editing software helps you create amazing productions of your own. But there are so many apps to choose from! Sometimes, it can seem overwhelming as you try and choose a video editing tool for your projects. So, what is the best video editing software?
Here, we’re going to list ten of the best professional video editing software options for 2024. We’ll explore key criteria that you should look for. And we’ll outline key features to help you decide. You can refer to this collection as you explore the vast array of video editors available to you. This helps you ensure that you’re picking the very best app for your own needs.
What is the Best Video Editing App? (For 2024 and Beyond)
So, what is the best video editing software? The short answer is: it depends. Any of the ten apps we’ll highlight includes an array of powerful features to help you build videos.
The key is really to think about your own needs, and your skill level. If you’re an expert editor, you might prefer a tool with more advanced features. If you’re a new editor, simplicity and ease of use becomes very appealing.
As you pick the best video editing software for you, keep a few criteria in mind. If you look for apps with these general features, you’re well on the way to amazing edits of your own. Don’t think of this list as all-inclusive. It’s a series of guideposts I’ve used along the way to choose my own editing apps. Give them a look and think of them as you explore our list!
- Intuitive interfaces. No matter your skill level, no one wants a complex interface that’s hard to use. Look for professional video editing software with easy-to-use features and controls.
- File format flexibility. Avoid constraining yourself with unusual file formats. Choose editors that export to popular formats, like .mov and .mp4
- High performance. Video editing is hardware-intensive. Seek high-performing apps that expedite the process of editing and exporting.
- Competitive pricing. Most video editors are paid products. Whether it’s a single purchase or a recurring subscription, look for value. Are the features worth the cost to you?
- Collaboration tools. Complex edits often aren’t done alone. Apps that support collaborating with a team stand out.
These are just a few of the things to look for as you explore the best video editing software options for 2024. Now, read on as we explore ten top options!
1. Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most popular professional video editing software options. Its features span all skill levels. Premiere is used by novice editors and studios alike!
With Premiere, you can transform footage of all kinds. Notable features include advanced color control, which not all editors feature. Using the app’s Timeline panel, you can sequence and edit multimedia assets one by one.
The Premiere Pro interface also supports collaboration, so you can work with others. Inside are dozens of panels, which are menus that control unique features. You can toggle these on and off to enjoy features while having an uncluttered workspace.
Plus, Envato Elements has thousands of project templates for Premiere to help kickstart video work.
Advanced Premiere Pro for Everyone
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2. Apple Motion
In need of advanced motion graphics? These are digital animations that you’ll often see in video projects. They may feature imagery, video, text, and more. Apple’s Motion app is powerful video editing software specifically for motion graphics. It gives you the ability to build and edit both 3D and 2D high-resolution graphics.
Motion includes features like object tracking, which helps you keep focus where you want it in a given scene. Also included are advanced test and gradient color features. This lets you give all of your graphics a custom look and feel that matches your desired color palette. A layered model is used for precise control.
Motion works only on macOS computers, and a free trial option is available if you want to demo before buying. If you choose Motion, you’ll be able to enjoy Elements templates for your motion graphics as well.
15 Top Video Templates for Apple Motion
How to Make a Modern Minimal Slideshow Video in Final Cut Pro or Apple Motion
3. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is another candidate for the best video editing software in 2024. Currently on version 18, it includes all major features found in many editing apps. You can color correct and edit footage.
Plus, fully-featured audio editing and motion graphics tools are included. This stands out because you can complete edits without having to rely on multiple apps. Free and premium versions are available.
Resolve’s recent releases now include AI-based tools as well. For example, you can now transcribe speech to text in real time. And text-based editing tools expedite your workflow by performing smart edits for you. Resolve also supports collaboration with a global team in real time.
Browse DaVinci Resolve templates from Envato Elements here to see many useful design options.
DaVinci Resolve Beginner Tutorial | Free Video Editing
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4. Adobe After Effects
Adobe After Effects is another option if you need to work with motion graphics. It’s similar to Apple Motion, but you can also use it on Windows. Rather than being a full editor like the more advanced Premiere Pro, it focuses on these graphics. Indeed, After Effects is often used alongside Premiere. You can build effects in After Effects, and then use them in other editing apps.
After Effects works with keyframes to help you create motion effects. These allow for frame-by-frame editing. This way, you’re given precise control over the full sequence of your motion graphics.
After Effects is a leading choice if your video editing needs revolve around motion effects and graphics. It works on a monthly subscription, currently $20.99 USD. Once again, you can use Envato Elements templates to build effects with ease.
How to Create a Layout in After Effects
How to Use Basic Motion Tracking, Camera Tracking, and Text in After Effects
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5. Apple Final Cut Pro
Final Cut Pro is Apple’s fully-featured video editor. Similar to DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro, it includes tools essential to creating video projects from scratch.
Recently, Final Cut Pro adopted a new user interface. It's meant to be more intuitive than other editors. And new features are added often. For example, you can now edit 360-degree footage.
Final Cut Pro templates kickstart complex edits by building layouts for you. You can also integrate with many third-party apps to add new effects or source multimedia. Final Cut Pro is a macOS app, so it won’t work on Windows. But you can run Final Cut Pro on an iPad, which is helpful if you need to make edits on the go.
20+ Best Free & Paid Final Cut Pro X Transition Packs FCPX 2023
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6. Apple iMovie
What is the best video editing app? The one that best fits your needs. Apple iMovie is worth considering if you don’t need the studio-grade editing features found in the apps we’ve looked at so far. iMovie is a more basic app, with simpler features. It’s often used by beginners.
And it works if you don’t need to add a lot of motion graphics. For splicing, sequencing, and basic edits, iMovie has the features needed.
iMovie works on Macs and Apple mobile devices, and is free. This mobile accessibility is helpful if you want to edit videos you’ve shot on your iPhone, for example. You can complete the process without having to connect to your computer. Inside are animations, transitions, and other effects.
7. CyberLink PowerDirector 365
Sometimes, it’s useful to have a vast array of options and features. That’s the niche that PowerDirector 365 fills. If you can image an effect or custom edit, odds are this app will support it. Like many other editors, AI technology is increasingly being used. These include automatic object detection, sky replacement, and more. Similarly, motion tracking of objects has been enhanced.
PowerDirector also supports standard edits that you’ll often need. You can perform color corrections, and deploy effects like split tones and HDR. Plus, a full audio editing suite comes with it. That way, you can avoid jumping to another app to edit your video’s sound effects.
8. Wondershare Filmora
Filmora is an option if you need a general set of editing tools, while staying on a budget. This one splits the difference between basic, free editors and advanced tools. Many popular effects are included. For example, you can do motion tracking, speed ramping, split screens, and more. Adjustment layers let you dial in edits and be precise as you work.
Wondershare Filmora also has many automation features inside. For example, the Instant Mode tool builds a video for you, based on media that you’ve added. And new features are added frequently. Like other editors, many are now AI-powered. Among these are a new tool that selects objects automatically and allows you to edit them in isolation.
9. VEED.io
The best video editing software works for you, where you need it. VEED.io is a video editing app with many of the common features you expect from an editor. You can edit clips, work with templates, add effects, and more. Where VEED.io stands out is its platform. Instead of being an app that you download, VEED.io is browser-based. That means, if you have access to the internet, you have access to your video editor.
Also of note is the included screen recording feature. This can be used if you need to capture footage of your desktop for sharing, or online posts. VEED.io has several subscription tiers. If you only require the basics, a free plan is available. Other tiers are available with business or enterprise licenses.
10. Clipchamp
Last but not least on our list is Clipchamp. This is a Windows-based video editor for 2024. It focuses largely on short-form, social media videos. With new AI features, you can have these quick videos created almost automatically. The featureset is relatively basic, but it’s an option if you need quick and basic edits.
With Clipchamp, you can add animations and effects. Also, you can add background styling like audio or music. Also notable is the ability to generate captions automatically. This is done with speech-to-text technology that comes with the app.
The Top Source for the Best Video Templates in 2024 (With Unlimited Downloads)
We’ve explored ten of the best professional video editing software options for 2024 and beyond. While these are diverse in features, each is meant to help you streamline your workflow. And the best way to do exactly that is with a premium video template from Envato Elements.
Elements has thousands of custom video project templates available to download. These include designs for Final Cut Pro, Premiere Pro, and many others.
The Elements offer is powerful: unlimited downloads. For a flat monthly rate, you can download and use as many premium video templates as you want! This makes finding the perfect one for you a breeze. Plus, Elements includes over 15 million more digital assets. Explore and find fonts, music, stock photos, and so much more. At Elements, you can find all the media you need to build amazing videos of your own.
Embrace premium Envato Elements templates and enjoy:
- Studio-grade cinematic styles. These templates help your work look as good as the movies! They’re handcrafted by video design experts, with your needs in mind.
- Easy-to-use features. Let’s face it: editing can be a challenge. Templates are meant for ease of use. All you have to do is drop in your own content.
- Design inspiration. Not sure how to show your content? Templates with themed designs make it easy. You’ll find new and creative ways to share every day.
As you can see, Envato Elements is the ultimate value for video editing in 2024 and beyond. Join today and get started!
Choose the Best Video Editing Software for You Today!
So, what is the best video editing app? We explored ten options! And many more exist. Once again, the choice is really up to you. For advanced edits, DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro stand out. For quick, simple projects, iMovie and Clipchamp are notable. And each of the other apps brings a unique featureset to the table. All can help you create stunning videos of your own.
Go ahead and get started! Explore our list in detail. Study the pros and cons of each app in detail, and choose one that matches your project needs. When you do, you’ll be well on the way to producing stunning works of video art.
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