YouTube is a powerful video content platform with over 2 billion monthly users. In order to create engaging and professional-looking videos, you’ll need good video editing software. Luckily, there are plenty of free options available. This article is all about the best video editing software for YouTube.
YouTube is one of the biggest websites in the world, and it is important to find the right video editing software for your YouTube videos. There are a number of different options available, and it is important to find one that is easy to use and that has all the features you need.
If you are just starting out, you may want to try a free video editing program like iMovie or Windows Movie Maker. Once you get more experienced, you can upgrade to a more powerful program like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. In this article, I will review all the best video editing software for YouTube.
What makes a well-edited YouTube video?
There are a few things that make a well-edited YouTube video stand out. First, the video should be high quality and look professional. This means that it should be shot in HD and have good production values.
Second, the video should be well-paced and edited so that it is easy to follow. There should be a clear beginning, middle, and end, and the video should flow smoothly from one scene to the next.
Third, the video should be entertaining and engaging, with a strong hook that will keep viewers watching until the end.
- A catchy title that accurately describes the content of the video
- A thumbnail image that is visually appealing and represents the video content
- Tags that are relevant to the video content and help potential viewers find the video
- A description of the video that is both accurate and engaging
- Good quality video and audio
- An engaging and entertaining video
How to select a good video editing software for YouTube
Video editing for YouTube is different from video editing for movies in a few key ways.
First, YouTube videos are typically shorter than movies, so the editing process is generally quicker. Second, YouTube videos often need to be optimized for social media sharing, which means including things like catchy titles and thumbnail images.
Finally, YouTube videos are typically less formal than movies, so the editing software should have features that allow for creative freedom, such as special effects and animation.
Some of the most popular features used by YouTubers in video editing software include the ability to trim and cut video, add text and titles, and add special effects. Many YouTubers also use software that allows them to record their own voice-overs to add to their videos.
Here’s how Adobe Premiere (a popular video editing software) video timeline looks.
Notice how there are different layers of video (in blue), audio (in green) and effects (in pink).
This is a typical editing set up where the arrangement of these items, including videos, audio tracks and visual effects or transitions make up the whole video outpit.
This arrangement is rendered into one single output file at the end of video editing process.
What to look for in a good video editing software
- The video editing platform should be easy to use and understand
- It should have a wide range of features and tools that can be used to edit videos
- The video editing platform should be able to export videos in various formats
- It should be compatible with different video file formats
- The video editing platform should have good customer support in case you need help
Some technical features to look for in a good video editing platform for YouTube include the ability to trim and merge video clips, add text and annotations, and insert audio. The platform should also allow for a range of video and audio effects, and provide a variety of export options.
- Adding titles and captions
- Splicing and cutting video footage
- Adding transitions between video clips
- Adding background music or sound effects
- Using green screen effects
- Applying filters or special effects
Free v/s Paid Video Editing Software
There are a few key differences between paid and free video editing software. The most obvious difference is that free video editing software is, well, free. Paid video editing software, on the other hand, costs money. This means that free video editing software often has fewer features than paid software. Paid software also tends to be more user-friendly and easier to use.
So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your needs. If you just need to do some basic editing, then a free program might be all you need. However, if you need more advanced features or plan on doing a lot of editing, then you might want to invest in a paid program.
- Adobe Premiere Pro – $299 – Tough to learn. Best for Windows. Subscription.
- Final Cut Pro – $360 – Easy for Mac users. One-time payment only.
- Da Vinci Resolve Professional – $386 – Great for color grading & movies.
Professional grade v/s Beginner’s Video Editing Software
There are a few key differences between professional-grade video editing software and beginner’s software. Professional software is typically more expensive, has more features, and is more complex to use. Beginner’s software is usually less expensive, has fewer features, and is easier to use.
When choosing video editing software, you should consider your budget, skill level, and what features you need. If you are a beginner, you may want to start with a less expensive and simpler program. If you are more experienced, you may want to invest in a more expensive and feature-rich program.
Which is better for YouTubers?
There is no definitive answer to this question as it depends on the individual YouTuber’s needs and preferences. Some YouTubers may prefer professional video editing software for its advanced features and greater control over the editing process, while others may prefer beginner’s video editing software for its simplicity and ease of use.
Ultimately, the best video editing software for YouTubers is the one that meets their specific needs and allows them to produce the type of content they want to create.
Online Video Editing Software v/s Downloadable Video Editing Software
It depends on the individual YouTuber’s needs and preferences. Some YouTubers may prefer online video editing software because it is more convenient and easier to use. Others may prefer downloadable video editing software because it offers more features and options.
Online video editing software or downloadable video editing software. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Downloadable video editing software is typically more powerful and has more features than online video editing software. However, it can be more expensive, and it requires that you have a computer with enough processing power to run the software. It can also be more difficult to use since you have to install it on your computer and learn how to use all the features.
Online video editing software is usually less powerful than downloadable software, but it is often much easier to use. It is also usually less expensive, and you don’t need a powerful computer to run it. However, you may need a good internet connection to use it, and it may not have all the features that you want.
Tips to make good videos for YouTube
Vlogging, or video blogging, is a new phenomenon but has recently become very popular. You can do this with your smartphone and a few decent editing skills or you can even use video editing computer software. But if you want to make the best videos of your travels for YouTube, Vimeo, or any other video-sharing platform, then these tips will help you achieve that.
- Keep it short and sweet: viewers have short attention spans, so make sure your videos are under 10 minutes.
- Use high-quality video and audio: poor-quality videos will reflect poorly on your brand.
- Engage your viewers: use engaging visuals and commentary to keep viewers interested.
- Be consistent: upload videos on a regular basis to keep viewers coming back for more.
- Optimize your videos: use keywords and tags to ensure your videos are easily found by viewers.
- Promote your videos: share your videos on social media and other platforms to get the word out.
- Interact with your viewers: respond to comments and questions to create a community around your channel.
How to improve video quality for YouTube videos?
There are a number of ways to improve the quality of your YouTube videos:
- Use a higher-quality camera. This will result in better overall video quality.
- Use editing software to improve the look of your videos. This can help with things like color correction and adding special effects.
- Make sure your videos are well-lit. Poor lighting can make videos look grainy and low quality.
- Use a tripod to keep your camera steady. This will prevent your videos from looking shaky and blurry.
Best Free Video Editing Apps for YouTube
Here are some of the best video editing apps for YouTube, that are completely free.
1. iMovie
iMovie is a user-friendly video editing software that is available on all Apple devices. It is simple to use and has a variety of features that make it better than other video editing software. With iMovie, users can easily create and edit videos, add transitions and effects, and share their videos with others.
One of the main cons of iMovie is that it is not as comprehensive as some of the other video editing software options that are available. This can make it more difficult to create complex videos. Additionally, iMovie can be more difficult to use than some of the other options, which can make the learning curve steeper.
2. Adobe Premiere Rush
Adobe Premiere Rush is a video editing software that allows users to create and edit videos on the go. It is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners. Premiere Rush is also faster and more efficient than other video editing software, making it perfect for busy professionals who need to get their work done quickly.
It is a stripped-down version of Adobe Premiere Pro and lacks many features that professional video editors need.
3. Splice
Splice is a video editing software that allows users to create and edit videos with professional-grade tools. The software provides a wide range of features and tools that make it easy to create high-quality videos. Splice is also easy to use, making it a great choice for beginners and professionals alike.
The cons of Splice video editing software include its lack of features compared to other video editing software, its high price, and its difficult learning curve.
4. Quik
Quik is a video editing software that is better than other video editing software because it is easier to use and has more features.
There are a few cons to using Quik video editing software. One is that it can be challenging to use if you’re not familiar with video editing software in general. Another is that it doesn’t have as many features as some of the more comprehensive video editing software packages. Finally, it can be buggy and crash occasionally.
5. Kapwing
Kapwing is a free online video editing software that is better than other video editing software because it is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. Kapwing also has a wide range of features that make it a versatile tool for creating videos.
There are a few cons to using Kapwing as your video editing software. One is that it can be challenging to use if you’re not familiar with video editing software. Another is that it doesn’t have all of the features that some other video editing software has, so you may need to use another program for more advanced editing. Finally, Kapwing is a subscription-based service, so you’ll need to pay a monthly fee to use it.
6.KineMaster
KineMaster is a video editor for Android that offers a lot of features and is very easy to use. It is better than other video editors because it is more user-friendly and has more features.
7. Filmora Go
Filmora Go is a video editor that is good for people who want to make videos for YouTube or other social media platforms. It is easy to use and has a lot of features that other video editors do not have. The cons of Filmora Go are that it is not as powerful as some of the other video editors out there and it does not have as many features as some of the other video editors.
There are a few things that make Filmora Go popular among YouTubers. First, it is a very user-friendly video editing app that is available for free. Second, it has a wide range of video editing features that allow users to create professional-looking videos with ease. Lastly, the app also allows users to share their edited videos directly on social media platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.
8. WeVideo
WeVideo is a cloud-based video editor that allows users to create and edit videos online. It has a simple, intuitive interface that makes it easy to create videos. It also has a wide range of features, including the ability to add text, images, and transitions. It also has a built-in video player so you can watch your videos online.
WeVideo is a great video editor for beginners and experts alike. It’s easy to use and has a wide range of features. However, it doesn’t have as many features as some of the other video editors on the market.
WeVideo is a cloud-based video editing platform that offers users a range of features including:
– A user-friendly interface
– A wide range of video editing tools
– The ability to collaborate with other users in real-time
– A library of stock footage and audio
– A range of export options
9. Clesh
Clesh is a video editor that is good for creating short films and videos. It is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. It also has a wide range of features, including a storyboard, timeline, and effects. However, Clesh is not as widely used as other video editors, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, and it lacks some advanced features.
Some of the unique features of Clesh include the ability to add text, images, and effects to videos, as well as the ability to trim and merge video clips.
10. Magisto
Magisto is a video editor that is good because it is easy to use and has a lot of features. It is better than other video editors because it is more user-friendly and has more features. However, it is not perfect and has some cons.
The USP of Magisto is that it is a video editing app that is designed to be easy to use and produce high-quality results.
There are a number of unique features that make Magisto stand out from other video editing apps. Firstly, Magisto has a very user-friendly interface that makes it easy to use, even for those with no prior video editing experience. Secondly, Magisto offers a wide range of video editing tools and features, including the ability to add music, transitions, and effects to your videos. Finally, Magisto also provides users with the ability to share their edited videos with others via social media and email.
10 Best Professional Video Editing Software for YouTube
There are a number of professional video editing software programs available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Here are ten of the best professional video editing software programs for YouTube, based on features, ease of use, and price.
1. Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is a powerful video editing software application from Adobe. It offers a wide range of features, including sophisticated audio and video effects, multi-camera editing, and titling tools. Premiere Pro also supports a wide range of input and output formats, making it a versatile tool for professional video editors.
YouTubers use Adobe Premiere Pro for video editing because it is a professional-grade video editing software. It has all of the features that they need to create high-quality videos. They can add effects, transitions, and titles to their videos. They can also use Premiere Pro to create a video montage or to edit a video that they have already recorded.
Some of the most popular YouTubers who use Adobe Premiere Pro include Casey Neistat, Rosanna Pansino, and Tyler Oakley.
Pros:
- Premiere Pro is a widely used video editing software with a lot of features and options.
- It is relatively easy to use and has a user-friendly interface.
- Premiere Pro supports a wide range of video formats and codecs.
- It has a wide range of built-in effects and tools for video editing.
- Premiere Pro integrates well with other Adobe products.
Cons:
- Premiere Pro can be a bit overwhelming for beginners due to its vast array of features.
- It is a bit pricey compared to other video editing software.
- Premiere Pro can be unstable at times and may crash unexpectedly.
- Some features can be difficult to use and may require a learning curve.
- There is no free trial available for Premiere Pro.
2. Apple Final Cut Pro X
Apple Final Cut Pro X is a professional video editing application that allows users to create and edit high-quality videos. The application has a simple, yet powerful, interface that is easy to use and navigate. Final Cut Pro X also includes a wide range of features and tools that allow users to create professional-looking videos.
Some of the most popular YouTubers who use Apple Final Cut Pro X include Peter McKinnon, Sam Kolder, Jordan Peterson, DanTDM.
These popular YouTubers all use Apple Final Cut Pro X to edit their videos. They find that it is a great video editing software that is easy to use and helps them create high-quality videos.
Pros:
- Powerful and intuitive editing tools
- Support for 4K and 5K resolution video
- Comprehensive color correction tools
- 360-degree VR video support
- Comprehensive audio editing and mixing tools
Cons:
- Limited export options
- Lack of certain advanced features
- Requires a powerful computer to run smoothly
- Steep learning curve
- Subscription-based pricing
The video editing world is in fact divided into two.
One favors Adobe Premiere Pro and the other favors Final Cut Pro.
Here is a comparison between Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro.
Infographic source – Educba. Further Reading – Which is better – Premiere Pro or Final Cut Proo?
3. Avid Media Composer
Avid Media Composer is a video editing software application developed by Avid Technology. It is used by film and video editors to edit and create video content. It supports a wide range of formats, including HD, 4K, and 8K. Media Composer also has a wide range of tools for color correction, audio mixing, and effects.
Avid Media Composer is a popular video editing software among professionals in the film and television industry. It is known for its comprehensive set of features, which allow users to create complex video projects with ease. Additionally, Avid Media Composer is also popular for its reliability and stability, which are essential qualities for any video editing software.
YouTubers usually use Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro because they are the most popular and serve the purpose of editing short videos.
Avid Media Composer is not very popular among YouTubers compared to the levels of Premiere and Final Cut and is limited to a small segment.
Pros:
- Avid Media Composer is a very powerful and versatile video editing software.
- It has a wide range of features that can be used to create professional-looking videos.
- It is easy to use and has a user-friendly interface.
- It is compatible with a wide range of video formats.
- It offers excellent customer support.
Cons:
- It is a bit expensive.
- It requires a powerful computer to run smoothly.
- It can be challenging to learn for beginners.
- It can be unstable at times.
- It lacks some features that are available in other video editing software.
- Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve
4. Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve
Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve is a powerful video editing and color correction software that is used by professionals in the film and television industry. It has a wide range of features and tools that allow users to create high-quality videos. DaVinci Resolve is available for both Windows and macOS.
Pros:
- DaVinci Resolve is a powerful video editing software that can handle 4K and 8K footage with ease.
- It has a comprehensive set of features, including color correction, grading, and audio post-production tools.
- The software is constantly updated with new features and improvements.
- DaVinci Resolve is available for both Windows and macOS.
- It has a very user-friendly interface.
Cons:
- The learning curve for DaVinci Resolve can be quite steep for beginners.
- The software can be quite resource-intensive, so it may not be suitable for older computers.
- The price for the studio version of DaVinci Resolve can be quite expensive.
- Some of the features in DaVinci Resolve require a monthly subscription.
- There have been reports of bugs and crashes with the software.
Which is better? Adobe Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve?
There is no clear winner when comparing Adobe Premiere Pro and Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve. Both are powerful video editing software programs with a variety of features. However, Adobe Premiere Pro has a few advantages over Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve.
First, Adobe Premiere Pro has a more intuitive interface that is easier to learn and use. Second, Adobe Premiere Pro has better integration with other Adobe products, such as After Effects and Photoshop. Finally, Adobe Premiere Pro offers more video effects and tools than Blackmagic DaVinci Resolve.
5. Corel VideoStudio
Corel VideoStudio is a video editing software package for PC. It was one of the first video editing programs to offer a timeline-based interface, and it remains one of the most popular choices for video editing software. Corel VideoStudio offers a wide range of features and options for both novice and experienced video editors, making it a good choice for both home and professional users.
Pros:
- It is very user-friendly and easy to use, even for beginners.
- It has a wide range of features and tools that can be used for both simple and complex video editing projects.
- The software is very affordable compared to other similar video editing software.
- It supports a wide range of video formats, making it compatible with most video cameras and editing software.
- The software is regularly updated with new features and bug fixes.
Cons:
- It can be quite resource-intensive, so it may not be suitable for older computers.
- Some users have reported stability issues, particularly when working with large and complex video files.
- It does not have as many features as some of the more expensive video editing software.
- It can be difficult to learn how to use all of the features and tools.
- There is no free trial available, so you have to purchase the software to try it out.
Premiere Pro v/s Corel VideoStudio
There is no clear winner when comparing Corel VideoStudio and Adobe Premiere Pro. Both video editing software programs have their pros and cons. However, Adobe Premiere Pro does have a few more features than Corel VideoStudio, such as the ability to create titles and graphics and to work with more video and audio formats.
6. CyberLink PowerDirector
CyberLink PowerDirector is a powerful video editing software that enables users to create professional-looking videos with ease. It comes with a wide range of features and tools that allow users to edit their videos in a variety of ways. With PowerDirector, users can create videos that are both creative and professional-looking.
Pros:
- Offers a wide range of features and tools for video editing.
- Supports a variety of video formats.
- User-friendly interface.
- Relatively affordable.
- Excellent customer support.
Cons:
- Some features can be confusing for first-time users.
- Limited number of video formats supported.
- The user interface can be cluttered.
- Not as many features as some of the more expensive video editing software.
- No free trial available.
Corel VideoStudio v/s CyberLink PowerDirector
There are several key differences between Corel VideoStudio and CyberLink PowerDirector. Firstly, Corel VideoStudio is much easier to use and has a more user-friendly interface. Corel VideoStudio offers more video editing features and tools than CyberLink PowerDirector. Also, Corel VideoStudio is more affordable than CyberLink PowerDirector. Corel VideoStudio provides better customer support than CyberLink PowerDirector.
7. Filmora
Filmora is a powerful video editing software that enables users to create professional-looking videos with ease. It comes with a wide range of features, including a built-in screen recorder, green screen support, and a wide range of video and audio effects. Filmora also supports 4K video editing, making it a great choice for those who want to create high-quality videos.
Some of the key features of Filmora include:
- A user-friendly interface that is perfect for both beginners and more experienced editors
- A wide range of video editing tools and effects to choose from
- The ability to add text, images, and other graphics to your videos
- The ability to export your videos in a variety of formats
Pros:
- User-friendly interface that is easy to navigate
- A wide range of features and tools that allow users to be creative and produce high-quality videos
- Supports a variety of video formats
- Relatively affordable compared to other video editing software
- Regular updates with new features
Cons:
- Some features can be tricky to use
- Limited export options
- Lack of certain advanced features
- Watermark on free version
- Some bugs and glitches
8. HitFilm Express
HitFilm Express is a free video editing software that offers a wide range of features for both beginners and professionals. It has a simple interface that makes it easy to get started, and its powerful tools allow you to create sophisticated video projects. HitFilm Express includes a library of free effects and templates, and it can export your videos to popular formats such as YouTube and Facebook.
Pros:
- HitFilm Express is a free video editing software with many features.
- It is available for Windows and Mac.
- It has a user-friendly interface.
- It supports a wide range of video formats.
- It has a built-in media library.
Cons:
- The free version has limited features.
- It is a resource-intensive software.
- It has a steep learning curve.
- It is not suitable for beginners.
- It lacks customer support.
HitFilm Express v/s Wondershare Filmora
There are several key differences between HitFilm Express and Wondershare Filmora. For one, HitFilm Express is a much more powerful video editing tool, with a robust set of features that allow for a high degree of customization and control. Wondershare Filmora, on the other hand, is a more basic video editor that is better suited for novice users.
Another key difference is in the pricing. HitFilm Express is a free video editor, while Wondershare Filmora costs $59.99. This makes HitFilm Express the better option for those on a budget.
Finally, HitFilm Express has a more user-friendly interface than Wondershare Filmora. This makes it the better choice for those who are new to video editing.
9. Lightworks
Lightworks is a free and open-source video editing software application for Windows, Linux and OS X. It is developed by EditShare.
Lightworks was originally created in 1989 by Richard Taylor and Martin Turner. The first version of the software was released in 1991. Lightworks has been used to edit many Academy Award-winning films, including The King’s Speech, L.A. Confidential, Pulp Fiction and The Wolf of Wall Street.
The software is available in both a free and paid version. The free version has some limitations, such as the inability to export to certain formats and a lack of support for some features. The paid version removes these limitations and adds additional features, such as 4K export, timeline rendering and more.
Pros:
- Powerful video editing software with a range of features.
- Suitable for both beginners and advanced users.
- Straightforward interface makes it easy to use.
- Comes with a 7-day free trial so you can try before you buy.
- Supports a wide range of file formats.
Cons:
- Some features are only available in the paid Pro version.
- Not as widely compatible with as many devices as some other video editing software.
- Can be quite resource-intensive, so may not be suitable for older computers.
- Some users have reported crashes and bugs.
- No phone or live chat support – only email.
10. Magix Movie Edit Pro
Magix Movie Edit Pro is a powerful video editing software that enables users to create professional-looking videos with a variety of features and tools. With its intuitive interface, Magix Movie Edit Pro makes it easy to edit video footage and add special effects, transitions, and titles. The software also includes a wide range of templates and themes to help users get started quickly and easily.
Pros:
- Comprehensive video editing software with a wide range of features.
- Relatively easy to use, with a helpful tutorial to get you started.
- Lots of effects and transitions to choose from.
- Ability to create DVDs and Blu-rays with menus.
- Can output videos in a variety of formats.
Cons:
- Some features can be confusing or difficult to use.
- Rendering times can be quite long.
- Interface could be more user-friendly.
- Cannot directly upload videos to social media sites.
- Some features are only available in the premium version.
Wondershare Filmora v/s Magix Movie Edit Pro
Wondershare Filmora is a newer program, so it has more modern features and a cleaner interface. It is also easier to use than Magix Movie Edit Pro. However, it is not as powerful as Magix Movie Edit Pro and does not have as many features. Magix Movie Edit Pro is a more powerful program with more features, but it is also more complicated to use.
Summary & Take Away
Choosing software is easy. Figuring out whether it is the right one for you or not takes time.
As a YouTuber, trying to buy video editing software, here are some tips for you.
1. Do your research:
There are many different video editing software programs on the market, so it’s important to do your research and find the one that best suits your needs.
2. Make sure the software is compatible with your computer:
Not all software is compatible with all computers, so make sure to check that the software you’re interested in is compatible with your system before buying it.
3. Be aware of the learning curve:
Some video editing software can be difficult to learn, so be prepared for a bit of a learning curve if you choose one of the more complex programs.
4. Avoid common mistakes:
One common mistake is buying a program that’s too complex for your needs, so start with something simple and work your way up if necessary. Another mistake is not taking advantage of free trials – many video editing software programs offer free trials, so take advantage of them to make sure the program you’re interested in is the right one for you.
Bonus Content
Since you’re an asipiring YouTuber who’s looking for a good video editing software, I want to introduce you to some of the best YouTube channels that’ll teach you good video editing. Check them out!
