Best Free Video Editing Softwares in 2024

Free video editing software gives you the tools to edit videos like a pro without spending any money. You don’t need to buy expensive software to make movies, learn editing skills, or create cool clips for social media. There are lots of free apps out there that have features used in big Hollywood movies and top YouTube channels.

These free editing tools are great for beginners or if you’re on a tight budget. We’ve tested them to see how easy they are to use and what special features they offer. We looked at things like how the software looks and feels when you use it, how easy it is to edit videos from start to finish, and if there are any extra cool effects you can add. We also checked if the software works well on different devices and if there are any extra features you can pay for.

DaVinci Resolve stands out as not only the top free video editor but also one of the finest video editing tools available. Developed by Blackmagic Design, it benefits from extensive support documentation and a wealth of user-generated tutorials, making it user-friendly and accessible for learning.

While the free version has limitations like lacking 10-bit video export, it offers a wide array of editing tools and features. It provides different interfaces for cutting clips and creating complex edits, along with dedicated sections for adding effects, mastering audio, and exporting videos. DaVinci Resolve excels in multi-camera support, enabling seamless synchronization of video and audio for smooth perspective switches.

Moreover, it facilitates direct uploading to YouTube, allowing creators to include video descriptions, titles, and chapters based on markers. Although the free version has restrictions compared to the Studio version, such as limited effects and 4K at 60 frames per second export, DaVinci Resolve remains a powerful and versatile editing solution.

Pros:

• Offers a comprehensive video editing suite for free.
• Abundant support materials available to facilitate learning.
• Allows direct uploading to YouTube with support for chapters, thumbnails, and titles.

Cons:

• Requires dedication to fully utilize its potential.
• May be excessive for simpler editing tasks.

Adobe Premiere Rush simplifies the video editing process by allowing users to select clips or images and seamlessly edit them together with just a few clicks. While it offers a streamlined experience with a single video track and three additional audio tracks for adding music or sound effects, it lacks more advanced editing features like chroma keying.

Despite its simplicity, Premiere Rush still enables users to upload videos directly to YouTube, supporting resolutions up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. However, access to features like 4K uploads or Adobe’s Auto Reframe tool requires a paid subscription.

While Adobe Premiere Rush may not cater to the needs of more experienced editors seeking advanced functionalities, its user-friendly interface and quick editing process make it an attractive option for beginners or those looking for a hassle-free editing experience.

Pros:

• Offers automatic editing of clips, saving time and effort.
• Allows direct uploading to YouTube upon completion of editing.

Cons:

• Features a restrictive, single-track video editing workflow.
• Lacks advanced tools such as chroma key or multi-camera workflows.

Clipchamp, owned by Microsoft, is a web-based video editor compatible with Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, and as a browser wrapper on Windows 11. While web-based editing has inherent limitations, Clipchamp stands out as one of the best examples in its category, supported by a generous free option.

As a multi-track editor, Clipchamp enables users to layer different clips on the timeline and make basic adjustments, change playback speed, and apply filters and effects using a user-friendly interface. It emphasizes simplicity, offering templates and an AI auto-editor to streamline the editing process. Additionally, users can export content in various formats, including vertical or square videos, up to 1080p resolution, directly to YouTube.

Clipchamp provides access to a surprisingly extensive collection of free assets, including video transitions, background images, motion graphics, audio, and an auto-captioning tool for adding subtitles.

Limitations of the free version include 1080p video export at 60 frames per second and limited access to included stock assets.

Pros:

• Allows multi-track video editing directly in a web browser.
• Offers surprisingly good performance for a web-based application.
• Provides a decent selection of free templates and assets for users.

Cons:

• Requires Chrome or Edge for the web-based version.
• The Windows app is essentially a wrapper for the web-based version.

iMovie is a go-to choice for Apple users, providing a user-friendly platform with essential features for creating simple videos. Its intuitive interface makes it accessible even for those new to video editing. Integration with the Apple ecosystem streamlines the process of importing iPhone videos, and editing can seamlessly transition between iOS or iPadOS and macOS versions of iMovie.

The multi-track editor allows easy drag-and-drop functionality for arranging clips, with trimming and slicing capabilities. Performance is commendable on modern Apple computers, comparable to professional editing software like Final Cut Pro. However, iMovie sacrifices some functionality to maintain accessibility.

Advanced features include chroma keying, video stabilization, noise reduction, and various filters for enhancing footage. While it lacks in-app integration for platforms like YouTube and Facebook, it provides a solid export profile for these platforms.

A limitation of iMovie is its confinement to the 16:9 widescreen format, with no support for vertical or square aspect ratios. iMovie’s free version is restricted to the 16:9 widescreen format.

Pros:

• Easy to use and learn, making it suitable for beginners.
• Integrates seamlessly with iCloud Photo Library, facilitating editing of iPhone footage.
• Offers advanced features like chroma keying and stabilization.

Cons:

• Experienced editors may find its feature set limiting.
• Limited to 16:9 widescreen aspect ratios.

Kdenlive stands out as a comprehensive video editing solution, particularly for open-source and Linux users. Its interface is straightforward yet feature-rich, encompassing essential editing tools like razor tool, markers, and audio level monitoring. The availability of tabbed panels facilitates quick access to media and effects, while different editing modes cater to various workflows, including multi-camera editing.

The Windows version of Kdenlive performs well overall, though exports may be slower without GPU support. Nevertheless, the app offers granular control over video exports, allowing users to create custom profiles for future use.

Learning advanced features like motion tracking and keying is facilitated by the handbook and supportive community. Compared to other open-source alternatives, Kdenlive stands out for its logical interface and depth of features.

For YouTubers seeking dedicated video editing software beyond basic YouTube tools, DaVinci Resolve is a top recommendation. Though initially daunting, it offers comprehensive editing capabilities and extensive tutorials.

Pros:

• Offers a powerful yet intuitive video editing experience akin to premium software.
• Includes advanced features, effects, and transitions for professional-grade editing.
• Provides a wide range of export options, including H.264, HEVC, and AV1.

Cons:

• The Mac version lacks a native Apple Silicon version, running via Rosetta.
• GPU rendering is still in the experimental phase.

Exploring free video editing software options reveals a diverse landscape catering to various needs. From DaVinci Resolve’s professional-level capabilities to Adobe Premiere Rush’s simplicity and Clipchamp’s web-based convenience, there’s something for every editor. iMovie provides a user-friendly experience for Mac users, while Kdenlive stands out as a comprehensive solution for Linux enthusiasts. Whether seeking advanced features or ease of use, these options offer accessible tools for all editing projects.

What are the best free video editing software options available?

The top free video editing software includes DaVinci Resolve, Adobe Premiere Rush, Clipchamp, iMovie, and Kdenlive.

What features should I look for in free video editing software?

Consider factors like ease of use, available features, performance, flexibility, output quality, support/documentation, compatibility, and any extra features or limitations.

Is free video editing software suitable for professional-level editing?

Yes, some free options like DaVinci Resolve offer professional-level features, but they may have limitations compared to paid versions.

Can I export videos in high quality with free video editing software?

Yes, most free software allows exporting videos in high resolutions, but some may have limitations on formats or frame rates.

Are there any limitations with free video editing software?

Yes, free software may have limitations such as restricted export options, watermarks on exported videos, or fewer advanced features compared to paid versions.