Best Video Editing Software for Beginners

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June 26, 2024
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15 minutes
Lorenzo Nicolini image
by Lorenzo NIcolini

Video editing has become an essential skill, whether you're creating content for social media, working on a school project, or producing professional videos. With the plethora of video editing software available, choosing the right one can be daunting, especially for beginners. This article will guide you through the best video editing software for beginners in 2024, highlighting their features, ease of use, and pricing.

1. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe premiere elements

Overview: Adobe Premiere Elements is a simplified version of Adobe Premiere Pro, designed specifically for beginners. It offers a user-friendly interface and a range of features that make video editing accessible to novices.

Key Features:

  • Guided Edits: Step-by-step instructions for various editing tasks.
  • Smart Trim: Automatically finds and brings together the best scenes based on the style of your video.
  • Face Detection: Ensures that faces are always in focus.
  • Audio Tools: Includes soundtracks, sound effects, and audio adjustments.
  • Social Media Integration: Easy sharing options for platforms like YouTube and Facebook.

Pricing:

  • One-time purchase of around $100, with optional upgrades for new versions.

Pros:

  • Intuitive interface.
  • Comprehensive tutorials and guides.
  • No recurring subscription fees.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to Premiere Pro.

2. CyberLink PowerDirector

cyberlink power director

Overview: CyberLink PowerDirector is known for its balance between powerful features and ease of use. It’s a great choice for beginners who want to grow into more advanced editing.

Key Features:

  • AI Tools: Includes AI motion tracking, object detection, and background removal.
  • MultiCam Editing: Allows editing from multiple camera angles.
  • 360-Degree Video Editing: Supports immersive video editing.
  • Express Projects: Pre-designed templates for quick video creation.
  • Color Correction: Advanced color grading tools.

Pricing:

  • Subscription starts at $51.99 per year, with a free 30-day trial available.

Pros:

  • Rich feature set.
  • Regular updates and new features.
  • Good balance of simplicity and advanced tools.

Cons:

  • Subscription model may not be ideal for everyone.

3. DaVinci Resolve

davinci resolve

Overview: DaVinci Resolve is a professional-grade video editing software that offers a free version with a comprehensive set of features. It’s particularly renowned for its color grading capabilities.

Key Features:

  • Color Grading: Industry-leading color correction tools.
  • Fusion: Integrated visual effects and motion graphics.
  • Fairlight: Professional audio post-production tools.
  • Multi-User Collaboration: Allows multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.
  • Cut Page: Simplified interface for quick edits.

Pricing:

  • Free version available; DaVinci Resolve Studio costs $295 for a lifetime license.

Pros:

  • Professional-grade features.
  • Free version is very comprehensive.
  • Excellent for color grading and audio editing.

Cons:

  • Steep learning curve for beginners.

4. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate

corel video

Overview: Corel VideoStudio Ultimate is designed to be user-friendly while offering a robust set of features. It’s ideal for beginners who want to create professional-looking videos without a steep learning curve.

Key Features:

  • MultiCam Editing: Supports up to six cameras.
  • Motion Tracking: Easily track moving objects.
  • 360-Degree Video Editing: Create immersive video experiences.
  • Customizable Motion Titles: Add dynamic titles to your videos.
  • Face Effects: Enhance or alter facial features.

Pricing:

  • One-time purchase of around $99.99.

Pros:

  • Easy to learn and use.
  • Comprehensive feature set.
  • Good value for money.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features compared to higher-end software.

5. Apple iMovie

apple i movie

Overview: Apple iMovie is a free video editing software that comes pre-installed on Mac devices. It’s perfect for beginners who are part of the Apple ecosystem.

Key Features:

  • Templates and Themes: Pre-designed templates for quick video creation.
  • Green Screen: Allows for background replacement.
  • Trailers: Create Hollywood-style trailers.
  • Seamless Integration: Works well with other Apple products like iTunes and GarageBand.
  • 4K Video Support: Edit and export videos in 4K resolution.

Pricing:

  • Free with Mac devices.

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface.
  • Seamless integration with Apple ecosystem.
  • Free to use.

Cons:

  • Limited to Mac users.
  • Basic compared to professional software.

6. Wondershare Filmora

wondershare filmora

Overview: Wondershare Filmora is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it a popular choice among beginners. It offers a range of features that are easy to learn and use.

Key Features:

  • Drag-and-Drop Interface: Simplifies the editing process.
  • Effects and Transitions: Over 800 built-in effects and transitions.
  • Audio Tools: Includes music library, sound effects, and audio equalizer.
  • Screen Recording: Record your screen and webcam simultaneously.
  • Split Screen: Create videos with multiple screens.

Pricing:

  • Subscription starts at $39.99 per year, with a free trial available.

Pros:

  • Intuitive and easy to use.
  • Rich library of effects and transitions.
  • Affordable pricing.

Cons:

  • Watermark on videos in the free version.
  • Limited advanced features.

7. Shotcut

shotcut

Overview: Shotcut is a free, open-source video editing software that offers a range of features suitable for beginners. It’s a great option for those who want a powerful tool without any cost.

Key Features:

  • Wide Format Support: Supports a variety of video, audio, and image formats.
  • Timeline Editing: Non-linear editing with multiple tracks.
  • Filters and Effects: Includes a range of video and audio filters.
  • Cross-Platform: Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
  • Customizable Interface: Adjust the layout to suit your workflow.

Pricing:

  • Free.

Pros:

  • Free and open-source.
  • Cross-platform compatibility.
  • Comprehensive feature set.

Cons:

  • Interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
  • Limited support and documentation.

8. Pinnacle Studio

pinnacle

Overview: Pinnacle Studio offers a range of features that cater to both beginners and intermediate users. It’s known for its intuitive interface and powerful editing tools.

Key Features:

  • MultiCam Editing: Edit videos from multiple cameras.
  • Motion Tracking: Track and highlight moving objects.
  • 360-Degree Video Editing: Create immersive video experiences.
  • Stop Motion Animation: Create stop motion animations.
  • Color Grading: Advanced color correction tools.

Pricing:

  • One-time purchase of around $59.95 for the standard version.

Pros:

  • User-friendly interface.
  • Good balance of basic and advanced features.
  • Affordable pricing.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features in the standard version.
  • Occasional performance issues.

9. VideoProc Vlogger

video proc

Overview: VideoProc Vlogger is a free video editing software designed for beginners. It offers a range of features that are easy to use and understand.

Key Features:

  • Speed Adjustments: Over 20 speed presets for speed ramping effects.
  • Motion Effects: Add dynamic motion effects to your videos.
  • Audio Tools: Includes audio equalizer and sound effects.
  • 4K Video Support: Edit and export videos in 4K resolution.
  • Screen Recording: Record your screen and webcam simultaneously.

Pricing:

  • Free.

Pros:

  • Free to use.
  • Intuitive interface.
  • Good range of features for beginners.

Cons:

  • Limited advanced features.
  • Occasional performance issues.

10. EDIUS Pro

edius

Overview: EDIUS Pro is a professional-grade video editing software that offers a range of features suitable for beginners and advanced users alike. It’s known for its stability and performance.

Key Features:

  • Real-Time Editing: Edit videos in real-time without rendering.
  • MultiCam Editing: Supports up to 16 cameras.
  • HDR Support: Edit and export HDR videos.
  • Advanced Color Grading: Comprehensive color correction tools.
  • Audio Tools: Includes audio mixer and sound effects.

Pricing:

  • One-time purchase of around $499.

Pros:

  • Professional-grade features.
  • Real-time editing.
  • Stable and reliable performance.

Cons:

  • Expensive.
  • Steep learning curve for beginners.

Conclusion

Choosing the right video editing software depends on your needs, budget, and level of expertise. For beginners, it's essential to find software that offers a balance of ease of use and powerful features. Adobe Premiere Elements, CyberLink PowerDirector, and Wondershare Filmora are excellent choices for those just starting. For those looking for free options, DaVinci Resolve and Shotcut provide robust features without any cost. The best way to find the right software is to try a few and see which one fits your workflow and editing style.

If you prefer to leave the editing to professionals, consider using Moonb.io's services. Whether you need long-form or short-form video content, we got you you covered. Visit moonb.io to learn more and get started with a pro today!

Table of Content

Have Questions?

How successful is video marketing?

Video marketing is absolutely one of the best investments you can make for your brand! It captures attention like no other medium, keeping your audience engaged and eager to learn more. Plus, it often delivers a fantastic return on investment (ROI), making it a smart choice for any business. In a world where social media is dominated by video content, using it effectively can help you connect with your audience in a memorable and impactful way. Don't miss out on this powerful tool to elevate your marketing strategy!

How much do marketing videos typically cost?

Marketing videos can be very expensive, especially with traditional agencies, where costs can reach $20,000 to $40,000 per minute. With moonb, we offer a flat monthly cost that provides you access to a dedicated team focused on delivering high-quality videos quickly and efficiently, making the process more budget-friendly while still maintaining exceptional standards.

Is there a limit to revisions during the process?

There are no limits to revisions during the process. We want to make sure you’re completely satisfied with the final product, so we’ll work with you until it meets your expectations.

How long does the marketing video production process take?

The marketing video production process can vary widely depending on the brief. For short-form packages, it might take just a few days, while more complex advanced animations could require a few weeks to ensure quality and attention to detail.

How long should my marketing video be?

For most marketing videos, aim for a length of 30 to 90 seconds. This duration is typically enough to engage viewers while conveying your key message effectively. However, depending on the content and platform, some videos can be longer, so consider your audience's attention span and the context of your message.

Can you handle the entire process?

Of course! We smoothly manage your project from the initial idea to the final publication. We take care of writing, visuals, animation, voiceover, editing, sound, branding, and more. You can participate as much as you like or let us handle everything. We'll make sure your content is perfect for any platform that supports videos.

What does the onboarding process look like?

Once you subscribe, you will receive an email within a few minutes containing two essential links. The first link directs you to our production platform where you can access all your videos and request reviews. The second link takes you to your customer portal to manage your subscription. Your dedicated video team will contact you immediately to schedule a first call, during which we'll gather all the necessary information to get started. We'll then create a content strategy plan and begin working on your productions. We will develop a content calendar with precise deliverables and a review process. You can be as involved as you wish or leave it entirely in our hands.

Are there any refunds if I don't like the service?

If your dedicated team has started work on your designs or videos before you decide to cancel, you won't be eligible for a refund.

Will I have the working files? What about ownership of the work?

Absolutely, you'll receive the working files, and you'll own all the intellectual property created.

Who will be my point of contact?

As soon as you sign up, you'll be assigned a dedicated video team, supervised by a Creative Director who will be your main point of contact. You will be onboarded to our production platform, where you can oversee the entire process and manage each video production.

Do you sign non-disclosure agreements?

Absolutely, your privacy matters to us. We can offer you our standard Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), or you are welcome to provide your own.

How hard is it to cancel a subscription?

Not hard at all, we keep things simple: no documentation or extensive process is involved and you can cancel at any point in time. Just log in to your Moonb account and you can cancel with just a few clicks. Need a hand with this? No worries. You can request assistance via email or directly to your dedicated team.