Edited by Nataly Bogorad
June 25, 2020
Choose the Best Video-Editing Software for YouTube
Today, anyone can start his or her own YouTube channel, but making it popular takes more than merely uploading gigabytes of funny videos. To attract followers, the videos need to be both engaging and polished to be entertaining to watch. There are lots of great editing programs available out there. While some are intended for professional use, others are also suited for beginners, and there are some that combine great functionality with a clear interface. Here’s an example: Movavi Video Editor Plus.
So how to choose the best video-editing software for YouTube that fits your specific needs? In this article, we are going to look at the most popular alternatives, and hopefully, provide you with a starting point.
What Video-Editing Software Do YouTubers Use
While some software like Adobe Premiere Pro CC and Final Cut Pro is designed for heavy editing and oriented towards advanced users, developers of other apps like iMovie and Openshot keep it simple and provide an easy to use platform for anyone to edit their videos like a pro. When selecting a program, determine the critical points for you: tools and features, ease of use, or pricing, and make your choice of the best video editor for YouTube accordingly.
So, what video-editing software do YouTubers use most often? Here is our top 17 collection. Use the links below to navigate.
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Movavi Video Editor Plus
When you choose Movavi Video Editor Plus, you choose excellence in product and customer support. The company provides solutions and expansion packs to fit the needs of every customer, from businesses to personal users. This program is designed for amateurs and beginning professionals, but advanced users will also find its vast feature set wrapped in an appealing interface more than tempting to employ. This program is an upgraded version of Movavi Video Editor, which can help you edit your footage in just a few clicks.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: $59.95
Platform: Windows and macOS.
By following the link below, you can read a review by TechGuide:
Movavi Video Editor Plus
Your next step in video-making
- Edit video clips, images, and audio on a timeline
- Add transitions, filters, titles, and stickers
- Animate objects using keyframes, use more built-in media
- Export videos in any popular format
Pinnacle Studio
#CommissionsEarned
This YouTube video editor works well for anyone who wants to transform their raw footage into a masterpiece. With Pinnacle Studio, you can unleash your creativity: more than 2000 effects can totally change your videos. The interface allows you to move panels to place them in the desired order. Pinnacle Studio also has a keyframing tool for precise editing. YouTubers might like the option of creating a reusable intro.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: $49.95 for a basic version.
Platform: Windows.
Follow the link below to get the review of Pinnacle Studio:
AVS Video Editor
#CommissionsEarned
This software made by Online Media Technologies enables users to perform the full cycle of video editing. You can customize your video in many different ways: apply filters and effects, add your own narrative, fix the shaking video, and many more. Moreover, it is possible to edit videos for Blu-rays and DVD players adding menus and other features. It is better to use the AVS Video Editor on multi-core PCs because of multi-threading support that can speed up the editing process.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: $59.00.
Platform: Windows.
Follow the link below to learn more about AVS Video Editor:
CyberLink
#CommissionsEarned
CyberLink PowerDirector is a great combination of ease and functionality. It has all the features that might be useful for video editing like trimming a clip, adding effects, such as moving titles, changing audio track, and more. This app also works well with 360° video editing. The program isn’t difficult to work with, so you can be a complete beginner, and still, you’re able to make a great clip or movie.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: starts from $99.99.
Platform: Windows.
MAGIX Video Easy
#CommissionsEarned
This software contains ‘easy’ in its name, and the app is actually straightforward to use. There are wizards that help you almost on every step so you won’t take a wrong turning. Import a video, enhance it with various built-in effects, and save or share it, enjoying the simplicity. There’s no need to be a master in video editing: the program will guide you through the process.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: $49.99.
Platform: Windows.
Want to know more? Consider reading this review by PCMag:
Nero Video
#CommissionsEarned
Nero Video allows you to edit your clips and movies without effort. The program has a clear interface, and for beginners, it offers a feature called Live Guide, which contains tutorials and, therefore, helps users to create amazing videos. There are many other features included: all basic editing tools, tons of effects, various templates, and great file manager for you to categorize your footage.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: $39.95.
Platform: Windows.
To get more information, read a review by TopTenReviews:
Proceed to the TopTenReviews website
Lightworks
Lightworks is a good alternative for those who only set off on their journey into the world of video production. Featuring a clean interface, the program keeps all the necessary tools at your fingertips. You may also find an extensive collection of effects and royalty-free media to be an exciting bonus. Though Lightworks might not be the easiest, hours of tutorial videos and an active online community will help you on your way. The program is available on all platforms at no charge, with some restrictions on exporting formats. However, for those seeking a powerful editor, it is definitely worth checking out.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: $437.99.
Platform: Windows, Linux, macOS.
Here’s what TechRadar says about Lightworks:
Follow to the TechRadar’s website
Windows Movie Maker
If you need capable video editing software, but you are not interested in spending hours figuring out the ins and outs of a program, Windows Movie Maker could be your choice. It features essential tools for working with video and audio along with some popular visual effects.
Available only for Windows, it is absolutely free, and many loyal users still consider it the top basic editing software despite not being officially supported anymore.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: free.
Platform: Windows.
Read more about Windows Movie Maker on G2:
Vegas Pro
As can be guessed from the name, Vegas Pro is software for pros who need advanced video processing tools like superior image stabilization, motion tracking, and even HDR color support for Hollywood movie quality. Beginners will most probably find the program overwhelming, while experienced users will appreciate a continuously developing set of features added. It is possible to try Vegas Pro for free, but after a trial period, you will need to decide if the price asked coincides with your needs.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: $599.
Platform: Windows.
Here’s a review on Vegas Pro on SoftwareHow:
iMovie
iMovie is a prominent movie editor designed exclusively for Mac and well-loved by many YouTubers. The program includes basic video and audio editing tools and also offers some other handy features, which will be of interest to more demanding users. Like all Apple products, iMovie is powerful software put into an easy to use shell, so if you have never produced a video, but you are determined to become a top-notch YouTuber, iMovie could be your choice. You might just need to purchase a MacBook to benefit from this free program.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free.
Platform: macOS.
For additional information, read a review by PCMag:
Final Cut Pro
This is another program on our list, oriented towards professionals. Like the previous option, Final Cut Pro is an Apple product available for Mac only. If you have already invested into a MacBook and now you are looking for relatively cheap yet remarkably feature-packed software, Final Cut Pro is a decent alternative. The latest update brings an improved processing speed and the ability to work with HDR colors, while other features like 360° editing and a Multicam mode have received an upgrade.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: $299.99.
Platform: macOS.
Read more about Final Cut Pro on PCMag:
Adobe Premiere Pro CC
Premiere Pro is a part of the Adobe Creative Cloud ecosystem. Standalone, Premiere Pro is a superb video editor favored by industry leaders, but it lacks the capability of adding advanced creative or music effects since Adobe offers separate programs that excel in that. Nevertheless, when various software pieces of the company ecosystem are used together, a production team gets an all-inclusive package with ultimate collaborative possibilities.
Pros
| Cons
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Price: starts from $20.99 per month.
Platform: Windows, macOS.
For more information, check TechRadar’s review:
Proceed to the TechRadar’s website
Blender
Blender is a free 3D creation suite, which comes with a simple video editor that covers all basic demands. As a film production software, Blender offers video and music editing, a collection of effects and masks along with the capabilities to adjust speed, transitions, and other essential features. Perhaps, the best part about Blender is the ability to customize the UI so that it becomes the most convenient program for every single user with his specific requirements.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free.
Platform: Windows, Linux, macOS.
To get some additional information about Blender, read this review from Finances Online:
Go to the Finances Online website
VSDC Free Video Editor
VSDC offers two versions of its program: free and subscription-based. The first version includes all essential tools for working with videos, which suffice if you need to do casual editing from time to time. Yet, if you are planning to do some hardcore film production to impress your viewers, VSDC Editor Pro offers you an expanded feature pack at a low cost. The developers aim the program at an average user; thus, the interface is clean and intuitive, so newcomers will not find it challenging to start.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free.
Platform: Windows.
Here’s what PCMag says about VSDC Free Video Editor:
DaVinci Resolve
This rapidly developing software is aimed at professionals working in fast-paced environments. DaVinci Resolve is a survival tool for users wanting to release high-quality videos every other day and keep their followers’ interest hot. Covering all basic and advanced features at a relatively low price, the program takes some time to master, but once it’s done, movies created with DaVinci Resolve are beyond any competition.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free.
Platform: Windows, Linux, macOS.
Below, there’s a link to a detailed review on DaVinci Resolve:
Openshot
With Openshot, it is possible to create dazzling videos to awe your friends and followers without having to learn any complicated software. This free, open-source film editor offers all essential tools for video manipulation, while support from its online community provides an extra source of creative ideas.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free.
Platform: Windows, Linux, macOS.
To get more information, follow the link below and read a review by G2:
VideoPad
VideoPad is a simple to operate software developed for advanced users who require just a bit more than basic cutting and framing tools, yet not interested in any of the industry-level video editing capabilities. The company offers several pricing and subscription options, including a free version for home. Such a pricing model adds flexibility to your buying opportunities.
Pros
| Cons
|
Price: free (for home use).
Platform: Windows, macOS.
Below, you can read a review on VideoPad by Tom's Guide:
A Comparison
| Program | Price | OS | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Movavi Video Editor Plus | $59.95 | Windows, Mac | Clear interface Almost all video codecs supported Allows to capture a video from your webcam Quick rendering | Contains in-app purchases |
| Pinnacle Studio | $49.95 | Windows | Workspace is customizable Can save an edited video as a template Can join video streams from up to 6 cameras | The basic version doesn’t support editing of 360° or 4K videos Sometimes just stops working |
| AVS Video Editor | $59.00 | Windows | Works fast because of multi-threading support and video caching Can get video from various devices including VHS cameras Able to burn a video on a disc | Can’t save videos in .mkv, .ogg, and some other formats Only a single video-editing track available |
| CyberLink | $99.99 | Windows | Good at compressing videos Many sound effects Owners make funny contests for users | Users complain about tech support Doesn’t support 32-bit systems |
| MAGIX Video Easy | $49.99 | Windows | Easy to use Supports Ultra HD Many templates | The importing process is not intuitive Just basic editing options |
| Nero Video | $39.95 | Windows | Several modes of editing Supports popular video formats Offers a file manager able to write down information about people/actors, locations, etc. | Doesn’t have a sharing option The workflow is not clear |
| Lightworks | $437.99 | Windows, Linux, macOS | Works on all popular platforms Many timelines to edit video parameters separately Offers lots of free content to add | The full version is expensive comparing to other apps The trial version’s functionality is limited |
| Windows Movie Maker | free | Windows | Free of charge Great functionality for a freeware app Good codec support | No longer available on the official website Sometimes crashes |
| Vegas Pro | $599 | Windows | Doesn’t require many resources Has built-in tutorials Suits for professional video editing | Doesn’t work with .svg Not many options for transitions and titles |
| iMovie | free | macOS | Has an autosave option Offers a built-in file manager Very quick | The interface takes time to get used to Some users complain about imprecise video trimming |
| Final Cut Pro | $299.99 | macOS | Can work with 360° video Supports resolution up to 8K Can synchronize a video from up to 64 cameras | Limited support for high-resolution images The interface might seem complicated |
| Adobe Premiere Pro CC | starts from $20.99 per month | Windows, macOS | Loads of various options for video enhancing Has tools for teamwork Very widespread so you can find manuals for any feature | Not beginner-friendly Users complain about bugs |
| Blender | free | Windows, Linux, macOS | You can change the code according to your needs if you’re a skilled programmer The interface is easily customizable Has many addons | The interface is not intuitive Updates might make the program seem unfamiliar |
| VSDC Free Video Editor | free | Windows | Not demanding on resources A wide range of formats supported Has a built-in screen recorder | Preview playback sometimes is not smooth Works slowly |
| DaVinci Resolve | free | Windows, Linux, macOS | Supports teamwork Good at color correction Low requirements | Beginners might consider it difficult to master The free version lacks some useful effects |
| Openshot | free | Windows, Linux, macOS | Easy to work with multiple tracks Supports 4K Ultra HD Can work with unlimited number of layers | Sometimes laggy Limited functionality |
| VideoPad | free (for home use) | Windows, macOS | Very simple Good at working with complex projects Precise at cropping and trimming | Slow in video processing There might be issues with sound |
This list provides only a general guideline on multiple editing options offered throughout the web. Most developers offer trial versions so that users could decide whether the products meet their needs. So, experiment and let the creativity flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
There are lots of programs capable of editing videos for YouTube. Here’s a list of examples:
- Movavi Video Editor Plus
- Pinnacle Studio
- AVS Video Editor
- CyberLink
- MAGIX Video Easy
- Nero Video
- Lightworks
- Windows Movie Maker
- Vegas Pro
- iMovie
- Final Cut Pro
- Adobe Premiere Pro CC
- Blender
- VSDC Free Video Editor
- DaVinci Resolve
- Openshot
- VideoPad
Everything depends on what you want the software to do with your videos. It is worth checking several apps to see what suits you best. Follow the link below to read our article about the best free video-editing software and how to choose a video editor for your purposes.
Having no experience in video editing doesn’t mean you can’t make great videos from your footage. There are many programs with a clear interface that even a beginner can use without efforts. Click the link below to read about the top 10 apps that are easy to use.
Professional video editors value functionality, and video-editing software has to meet their needs. Consider checking the list below: we hope it will help you to find a useful app.
Movavi Video Editor Plus
Your next step in video-making
- Edit video clips, images, and audio on a timeline
- Add transitions, filters, titles, and stickers
- Animate objects using keyframes, use more built-in media
- Export videos in any popular format
* The free version of Movavi Video Editor Plus has the following restrictions: 7-day trial period, watermark on the output videos, and, if you’re saving a project as an audio file, an ability to save only half the audio length. Learn more