• Movavi Video Editor: Smooth, quick, and surprisingly powerful. I zipped through edits without banging my head against menus—real MVP stuff.
• Adobe^® Premiere^® Pro: The heavyweight. Perfect if you want to get fancy with multi-cam, color grading, or VFX. Don’t expect it to coddle you.
• Clipchamp & iMovie: Fast, easy, no drama. Great for social clips, family vids, or when you just need to throw something together yesterday.
• LumaFusion: Professional tools in your pocket. Multi-track, keyframes, and pro-level edits on a tablet or phone. Handy for travel or on-the-go content.

Pro tip: Organize your clips first. Trim junk. Then drop in transitions, text, and audio. And for the love of pixels, check your export settings—nothing ruins a video faster than a sloppy MP4.

Learning how to edit MP4 files on your PC is way less scary than it sounds. I’ve spent hours testing a bunch of popular editors, from heavyweights like Movavi Video Editor and Adobe^® Premiere^® Pro to mobile gems like LumaFusion, and rounded up the ones that actually make editing a smooth ride.

In this guide, you’ll see which programs let you cut, trim, crop, rotate, and tweak audio without tearing your hair out. Some are surprisingly fun to use, others are pure workhorses, but I’ve tried them all and put together a list of the top 8 apps that get the job done efficiently. Whether you’re trimming a vacation vlog or polishing a tutorial, these tools cover all the basics, and then some.

After testing all the major MP4 editors myself, I’ve narrowed down the list to the programs that stood out in different categories. Each of these picks brings something unique to the table, whether it’s ease of use, professional-level features, or mobile flexibility. Click on any link to jump straight to the full review below.

• Best overall – Movavi Video Editor
  The MP4 video editor Movavi quietly delivers the perfect mix of power and simplicity. It’s fast, intuitive, and packed with features that make both beginners and seasoned editors happy.
• Best free / budget software – Microsoft Clipchamp
  Clipchamp is ideal for quick edits without spending a dime. Its built-in templates and easy timeline make simple cuts, trims, and audio tweaks a piece of cake.
• Best for professionals – Adobe^® Premiere^® Pro
  Premiere Pro remains the go-to for serious editors who need advanced tools, multi-cam editing, and integration with other Adobe apps.
• Best for mobile users – LumaFusion
  LumaFusion brings professional-grade editing to your tablet or phone. With multi-track editing and keyframing, it’s perfect for editing MP4 video on the go.
• Best for advanced effects – CyberLink PowerDirector
  PowerDirector shines when you want AI-powered effects, motion tracking, and high-res editing with lots of creative freedom.
• Best for Windows power users – Pinnacle Studio Ultimate
  Pinnacle Studio Ultimate offers deep editing control, smart object tracking, and high-quality proxy workflow for smoother editing on heavier projects.

Why I picked it: because it’s the rare editor that feels professional without punishing you for not being a professional. It’s quick, doesn’t hog resources, and stays focused on actually finishing projects instead of fiddling with settings.

Movavi Video Editor is that rare kind of software that manages to stay approachable without being shallow. The interface is clean, the effects library is generous, and the workflow never feels like you’re drowning in toolbars. Editing on it is fast—you drag, cut, stitch, drop in transitions, toss in some titles and audio, and it just works. Movavi quietly pushes updates too; the most recent patch (24.4.1, June 4, 2024) added usability tweaks like improved clip switching and a slicker full-screen playback panel, which makes day-to-day editing smoother. You can check their release notes for the nitty-gritty.

In practice, I’ve used it to throw together a short promo reel in under an hour: imported raw footage, cut down the junk, dropped in upbeat music, layered text, color-corrected with a preset filter, and exported straight to YouTube. What struck me most wasn’t just speed, but how little friction I hit along the way. Unlike the heavyweight pro tools that slow to a crawl on a mid-range laptop, Movavi stays light on its feet. And while the update list doesn’t scream “major overhaul,” the smaller touches add up to a smoother, more intuitive workflow.

Why I picked it: Because when I need serious control—nested timelines, multi-cam, motion effects, VFX linking—Premiere^® gives me the toolbox without locking me out. It’s my backup when projects demand depth, even if Movavi is my default.

Adobe^® Premiere^® Pro is the heavyweight editor used in film, TV, and serious YouTube productions. It supports multi-camera workflows, nested sequences, deep layer control, color grading, VFX integration, keyframe precision, and native support for many pro formats. In its August 2025 (version 25.5) release, Adobe pushed over 90 modern real-time transitions and more GPU acceleration for playback.

I used Premiere^® Pro on a multi-camera interview project: I synced angles, applied color matches, layered lower thirds, and tweaked audio crossfades across dozens of clips. The flexibility to switch from fine motion paths to frame-accurate cuts is powerful. But the learning curve and resource demands are real—my laptop groaned on 4K timelines.

How to edit MP4 videos with Premiere^® Pro

Step 1. Create project & import media

• Launch Premiere^® Pro via Creative Cloud^®.
• Start a New Project, set project settings (scratch disks, GPU rendering).
• Import video, audio, images via Media Browser or drag/drop.

Step 2. Build a sequence & assemble clips

• Create a sequence matching your footage’s resolution/framerate.
• Drag clips into the timeline tracks.
• Use razor (C) to slice, ripple delete to close gaps.

Step 3. Refine edits & transitions

• Add transitions (Cross Dissolve, Dip to Black) between clips.
• Use Trim Mode for fine adjustments (roll, ripple, slip).
• Nest sequences when you want to group complex segments.

Step 4. Apply effects, color, and motion

• Use Lumetri Color to grade, balance, apply LUTs.
• Add effects (blur, sharpen, distort) and animate via keyframes.
• Use mask & tracking (in newer betas) to isolate areas.

Step 5. Audio work

• Use the Audio Track Mixer for volume automation.
• Add transitions to audio (constant gain, crossfade).
• Clean with noise reduction and EQ.

Step 6. Use advanced features

• Search your media using the AI-powered Search panel (text descriptions) in recent builds.
• Try Generative Extend (in supported versions) to extend clips subtly.
• Leverage Dynamic Link with After Effects^® so you don’t export just to return to A.

Step 7. Preview, export & deliver

• Use real-time playback with GPU mode on.
• Tweak any transitions, audio, effects.
• Go to File → Export → Media, pick codec/preset (e.g. H.264, ProRes), set quality, start export.
• Optionally queue to Media Encoder to continue working while exporting.

Why I picked it: Because I already have it on my Mac, it’s free, and it handles simple edits with zero learning curve. For quick jobs (like family videos, cutdowns, social clips), iMovie gets me across the finish line without battling menus or compatibility issues.

iMovie is Apple’s built-in movie editor, included free with every Mac. It gives you a simple timeline, drag-and-drop clips, built-in transitions, titles, green/blue screen support, audio tools, and basic color correction. According to Apple’s version history, the latest stable version is 10.4.3 (released November 13, 2024), which brings “stability and performance improvements.”

In my own use, I grabbed some vacation clips, imported them, layered my aerial drone shots and talking head segments, dropped in music, added title cards and simple effects, and exported.

iMovie kept me moving without fuss. What you lose in flexibility, you gain in frictionless simplicity. When I switched between iMovie on my Mac and Movavi on Windows 10, I noticed iMovie’s slower performance on heavier edits and its limited layering — which is where Movavi still outshines it.

How to edit MP4 videos with iMovie

Step 1. Open a new project

• Launch iMovie on your Mac.
• Click Create New → Movie.

Step 2. Import media

• Use Import Media to bring in your clips, photos, and audio files.
• Alternatively, drag them from Finder into your media browser.

Step 3. Assemble your footage

• Drag clips onto the timeline.
• Use the Split tool (Command + B) to cut unwanted segments.
• Reorder, shorten, or delete any clip as you like.

Step 4. Add transitions, titles, and effects

• Click the Transitions tab and drag a transition between two clips.
• Go to Titles, pick a style, and drag it above a clip to overlay text.
• Use Video Overlay Settings to set a clip as Picture-in-Picture, Cutaway, or Green/Blue Screen.
• If your clip was shot with green or blue backing, turn on the chroma key and adjust.

Step 5. Audio & music

• Drag a music file or voiceover into the audio track.
• Adjust volume, fade in/out, detach audio from video and move it.
• Use the Noise Reduction tool to clean background hiss.

Step 6. Color, speed, stabilization

• Select a clip, open Color Correction to tweak exposure, contrast, etc.
• Use Stabilize to reduce shaky footage.
• Speed control: slow down or speed up a clip via Speed slider.

Step 7. Preview & tweak

• Play through in real time and fix any awkward cuts, transitions, or audio mismatches.
• Adjust title durations or positions as needed.

Step 8. Export / share

• Click File → Share → File to export.
• Choose resolution, quality, and settings (e.g. 1080p, High).
• Or share directly from iMovie to YouTube, Facebook, or via email.

Why I picked it: Because when I want to push visuals and color, Resolve offers those tools. If my project needs precise grading, special effects, or serious audio work, I go to Resolve. It’s the tool for when “good enough” isn’t.

DaVinci Resolve is a full-blown post-production suite: editing, color grading, visual effects, audio mixing—all in one. The powerhouse is especially its color page and Fusion effects; you can do HDR workflows, AI-powered masking, fancy compositing with multiple nodes. The latest major release is DaVinci Resolve 20 (announced in 2025), which adds over 100 new features, including a dedicated keyframes palette, better voiceover/teleprompter tools, smarter AI tools like AI Music Editor and Animated Subtitles, improved text wrapping, layered PSD editing, and beat detection to help align cuts to audio.

In my hands, I’ve used it to tackle a short documentary: I imported raw RED footage, graded in the color page, used Fusion for titles and some special effects, mixed sound in Fairlight. It handles that with remarkable precision. But the drawback is the setup cost. The learning curve and system demands are steep; sometimes I lost time just wrestling with settings or waiting for renders.

How to edit MP4 videos with DaVinci Resolve

Step 1. Install & set up project

• Download DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design’s site; install the free or Studio version.
• Open Resolve → New Project. Set project settings: resolution, framerate, color space (e.g., HDR if needed).

Step 2. Import and organize media

• In the Media page, bring in your video, audio, photos.
• Create bins/folders to keep things tidy.
• Optionally generate optimized media or proxies for smooth playback.

Step 3. Rough cut in Edit or Cut page

• Drag clips into the timeline.
• Use the Cut page if you want speed and simplicity; switch to the Edit page for fine-grained control.
• Trim, split, rearrange clips. Use live overwrite or sync bin if working with multiple camera angles.

Step 4. Effects, titles, compositing

• Use the Fusion page for more advanced effects (titles, compositing, masking).
• For text overlays, open Inspector to tweak fonts, sizing, wrapping.
• Use AI tools like Magic Mask or the new depth map/background Defocus if needed.

Step 5. Color grading

• Go to the Color page. Use nodes for corrections: first balance exposure, then add creative LUTs or looks.
• Use new tools like ColorSlice (vector grading palette) for refined control.
• Use grading scopes to check color balance, HDR waveforms, etc.

Step 6. Audio mixing & finishing

• In Fairlight, adjust levels, apply EQ, noise reduction.
• Use voice isolation if background noise is present.
• Sync to loudness standards, use music-beat detection or audio-matching tools to smooth transitions.

Step 7. Preview & export

• Scrub through timeline; check rendered previews.
• Adjust keyframes, transitions, effects if something feels awkward.
• Use the Deliver page. Select format, codec, resolution, quality. Export.
• If using the Studio version, you may access advanced export options (higher frame rates, more formats).

Why I picked it: I chose Clipchamp for its ease of use and it’s also seamlessly integrated on Windows11. It's perfect for quick edits and straightforward projects without the need for complex software.

Microsoft Clipchamp is a beginner-friendly video editor designed to simplify the video creation process. Integrated into Windows 11 and available through Microsoft 365, it gives you a set of features tailored for quick content creation. Recent updates have introduced a unified start page, improved asset grouping, and customizable dark and light modes.

The platform also provides AI-powered tools like noise suppression and automatic silence removal. Users with minimal editing experience will find Clipchamp an absolute gem, letting them whip up engaging videos without the usual headache of learning complex software.

When you really dig into it, Clipchamp shines for whipping up quick, no-fuss videos – think social media snippets, how-to guides, or those internal team updates. The whole drag-and-drop interface is a breeze to navigate, and the inclusion of stock media and templates handsomely speeds up the creation process. That said, if you're tackling something super complex that needs all the bells and whistles, Clipchamp may feel a bit limited.

How to edit MP4 videos with Clipchamp

Step 1. Access Clipchamp

• On Windows 11, open the Start menu and search for Clipchamp.
• Alternatively, visit clipchamp.com and sign in or create a free account.

Step 2. Create a new project

• Click on Create a new video to start a fresh project.

Step 3. Import your MP4 file

• Drag and drop your MP4 video into the media library or use the Import Media button to upload your file.

Step 4. Add video to timeline

• Drag your MP4 video from the media library to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 5. Edit your video

• Trim: Select the video in the timeline, hover over the edges, and drag to trim.
• Split: Position the playhead where you want to split, right-click, and choose Split.
• Adjust speed: Click on the video in the timeline, select Speed, and adjust the slider.
• Apply filters or transitions: Use the options in the left sidebar to enhance your video.

Step 6. Add audio or text

• Import audio files or use the built-in music library.
• Add text by selecting the Text option and choosing a style.

Step 7. Export your video

• Once satisfied with your edits, click on the Export button.
• Choose the desired resolution and format, then click Start Export.

Why I picked it: I chose PowerDirector for its comprehensive set of features and user-friendly interface. It provides a balance between advanced editing tools and ease of use, making it suitable for a wide range of editing projects.

CyberLink PowerDirector is a versatile video editing software that balances advanced features with a user-friendly design. It is packed with multiple tools that are suitable for both beginners and seasoned editors. Recent updates have introduced AI-driven features such as Anime Video, Background Remover, Face Blur, Text-to-Speech, and Voice Changer. This definitely makes editing easier.

The software supports 4K and HEVC/H.265 formats, providing high-quality output options. Also, a shiny side is that PowerDirector offers access to a vast library of stock videos, images, and music - this will help to unleash your creativity when editing videos.

When drilling down, PowerDirector truly delivers a comprehensive toolkit for all sorts of editing needs. Its interface is genuinely intuitive, making it easy to zip around and get your edits done. Those AI features are pretty impressive, though sometimes they may need a little tweaking to get them just perfect.

How to edit MP4 videos with CyberLink PowerDirector

Step 1. Install and launch PowerDirector

• Download and install PowerDirector from the official website.
• Launch the application and select Create a New Project.

Step 2. Import your MP4 video

• Click on the Import Media button.
• Navigate to your MP4 file, select it, and click Open to import it into the media library.

Step 3. Add video to timeline

• Drag your MP4 video from the media library to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 4. Edit your video

• Trim: Select the video in the timeline, hover over the edges, and drag to trim.
• Split: Position the playhead where you want to split, right-click, and choose Split.
• Apply effects: Use the Effects room to add transitions, filters, and other effects.

Step 5. Add audio and text

• Import audio files or use the built-in music library.
• Add text by selecting the Text option and choosing a style.

Step 6. Export your video

• Once satisfied with your edits, click on the Produce button.
• Choose the desired format and resolution, then click Start to export your video.

Why I picked it: I chose Pinnacle Studio Ultimate for its advanced features and comprehensive editing tools. The software offers a balance between professional-grade capabilities and user-friendly design, making it suitable for a wide range of editing projects.

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is a video editing software, offering marvelous tools for both amateur and professional users. Pinnacle Studio 26, the latest version, significantly improves performance and stability, resolving over 200 user-reported issues. Notable features include enhanced keyframe editing, a refined user interface, and Apple ProRes smart proxy support for improved preview and playback responsiveness.

In my tests, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate provides you with a robust editing environment where you can enjoy a pretty good range of creative tools. Smart object tracking and blend modes add depth, creating more dynamic and visually appealing projects. However, its complexity may present a learning curve for rookie video editors.

How to edit MP4 videos with Pinnacle Studio Ultimate

Step 1. Install and launch Pinnacle Studio Ultimate

• Download and install the software from the official website.
• Open the application and select Create a New Project.

Step 2. Import your MP4 video

• Click on the Import Media button.
• Navigate to your MP4 file, select it, and click Open to import it into the media library.

Step 3. Add video to timeline

• Drag your MP4 video from the media library to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 4. Edit your video

• Trim: Select the video in the timeline, hover over the edges, and drag to trim.
• Split: Position the playhead where you want to split, right-click, and choose Split.
• Apply effects: Use the Effects room to add transitions, filters, and other effects.

Step 5. Add audio and text

• Import audio files or use the built-in music library.
• Add text by selecting the Text option and choosing a style.

Step 6. Export your video

• Once satisfied with your edits, click on the Produce button.
• Choose the desired format and resolution, then click Start to export your video.

Why I picked it: I chose LumaFusion for its comprehensive set of features and cute, beginner-focused interface. It provides a balance between professional-grade capabilities and ease of use, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced editors.

LumaFusion is a powerful mobile video editing app available for iOS, iPadOS, Android, and ChromeOS. It can boast of a professional-grade feature set, including multi-track editing, keyframing, and a range of audio and video effects. The app supports up to 12 video/audio or graphic tracks and 12 additional audio tracks. These capabilities enable complex compositions on mobile devices.

LumaFusion also provides advanced color correction tools, LUT support, and customizable titling options.

My verdict on this tool is: graced with a fun-to-use interface and enhanced with robust features, LumaFusion is hard to beat when it comes to mobile video editing.

How to edit MP4 videos with LumaFusion

Step 1. Install and launch LumaFusion

• Download online and install LumaFusion from the App Store or Google Play Store.
• Open the app and tap the + icon to create a new project.
• Name your project and set the desired frame rate and aspect ratio.

Step 2. Import your MP4 video

• Tap the Import Media button to access your device's media library.
• Navigate to your MP4 file, select it, and tap Import to add it to your media library.

Step 3. Add video to timeline

• Drag your MP4 video from the media library to the timeline at the bottom of the screen.

Step 4. Edit your video

• Trim: Tap and hold the edges of the clip in the timeline to trim.
• Split: Position the playhead where you want to split, tap the Split button.
• Apply Effects: Tap the Effects button to add transitions, filters, and other effects.

Step 5. Add audio and text

• Import audio files or use the built-in music library.
• Tap the Text button to add titles and customize them with various fonts and styles.

Step 6. Export your video

• Once satisfied with your edits, tap the Export button.
• Choose the desired format, resolution, and destination, then tap Start to export your video.

So, you wonder, how to edit an MP4? I may have the right answer because I tested every editor on this list, dug into odd bugs, and finished projects on each one. Movavi is the quiet champion here, no matter how you want to modify your clip. It gets you from raw clip to finished video faster than most, with just enough power to look professional and none of the needless complexity.

Want to bang out social clips, family videos, or a slick YouTube upload without losing a weekend? Pick Movavi. Fast exports, friendly UI, and no nonsense.

Need serious control: multi-cam, deep color grading, team workflows? Go with Adobe^® Premiere^® Pro. It will make you feel like you’re editing a film. It also expects commitment. Learn it, or be humbled by it.

Editing on a tablet or while traveling? LumaFusion hands you pro tools in a mobile package. Multitrack timelines, keyframes, good performance. Perfect for stories made on the move.

Want playful effects, fast AI tricks, and lots of creative toys to experiment with? CyberLink PowerDirector is the one. It’s clever, a little flashy, and fun to mess around in.

On a budget or need quick, free edits? Clipchamp is solid for simple jobs and social posts. It won’t replace pro software, but it will save you time and headache.