The best video editing software, like the best free video editing software, helps you add post-production polish and create professional-looking. My team and I have reviewed the top apps and tools, and I've rounded them up right here.
When I worked in a film editing house, Adobe Premiere Pro was generally considered the best video editing software overall thanks to an intuitive interface and toolset. Little has changed since, with Pro remaining the industry-standard, enhanced by new effects, tools, AI, and seamless integration with Adobe's After Effects and more. Final Cut Pro was also becoming popular (and back then, there was still a lot of love for Avid) - and in my experience, Apple's video editor is an excellent professional-grade pick for Mac and iPad users. For a free alternative, check out DaVinci Resolve - it's staggeringly powerful software.
You'll find more options below, for a range of uses and skill-levels. As part of our extensive review process, we've compared the editing process, features, video quality, and performance first cut to final export.
For more content creation tools, we've reviewed the best video editing apps and the best video editing software for beginners, too.
Best video editing software: Our top 3 picks
The best video editing software for most people
Sets the gold standard for professional video editing
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The best free video editor
A professional-grade video editor that's completely free to use.
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The best video editor for beginners
Simple and effective software suitable for newcomers and experienced video editors.
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Best video editing software overall
What we like
Adobe Premiere Pro is our pick for best video editing software and in our tests, we found it has everything professional video editors need to cut content. Packed full of features and tools, from titles and transitions to advanced color correction, the software can easily tackle everything from feature length films to short social media clips. In our experience, it also integrates seamlessly with video production apps like After Effects.
What we don't like
Premiere Pro is not the easiest software to learn, with a complex interface that risks overwhelming newcomers. But there are plenty of guides out there to help, and once you know your way around the video editor, you'll also know how to operate other Adobe Creative Cloud apps, which all have a similar interface.
Pricing
Like most Adobe products, Premiere Pro is available as a standalone subscription or as part of the Creative Cloud All Apps bundle. If you use three or more Adobe apps, we generally find the latter provides better value.
Who it's for
Anyone serious about learning and mastering video editing software will benefit from using Premiere Pro. There's a reason why it's so popular across the creative industries and after comprehensively reviewing the software, we can see how it sets the gold standard in Hollywood.
Read our full Adobe Premiere Pro review
Best video editing software for free
What we like
DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic design is, in a way, the holy grail of video editing software. It's completely free to download and use, offering professional post-production processes at no cost. No time limits, no hidden charges. We loved our time with Resolve, finding it a comprehensive and powerful video editor, and even includes a free VFX tool, Fusion. We also love that it comes on iPad, which worked exactly like the desktop versions in our tests.
What we don't like
If you thought Premiere Pro was tricky to learn, look away now. DaVinci Resolve is undoubtedly complex, deploying node-based editing. This is one piece of software that will require tutorials to really understand - but in our experience, it's worth investing the time. The end results are superb.
Pricing
Absolute free to use with no limits. Professionals can also purchase DaVinci Resolve Studio, which adds even more advanced tools. However, the free version should be fine for most users.
Who it's for
DaVinci Resolve is perfect for professional video editors, filmmakers, and anyone working to a budget who doesn't mind learning the intricacies of this powerful tool.
Read our full DaVinci Resolve review
Best beginner-friendly video editing software
What we like
Even the best video editing software isn't immune to complexities and unintuitive UI/UX. So, CyberLink PowerDirector is pleasingly simple to use. We found the interface very sleek, easy to navigate, with plenty of in-app support, and a great place to learn non-linear editing. Saying that, PowerDirector also has plenty of features and AI enhancements for prosumers and semi-professionals. We really enjoyed using these, letting you create genuinely professional video content.
What we don't like
There's not much to dislike about PowerDirector, which seems to go from strength to strength with each update we see. However while it's feature-rich, it's not quite Premiere Pro-level, which some editors may miss. And, for some reason, the Mac version is subscription-only.
Pricing
PowerDirector is available on subscription - known as PowerDirector 365 - and as a one-off purchase for the perpetual license. We love this sort of flexibility, and the option to own instead of the software.
Who it's for
Absolutely anyone who wants to make professional-looking videos, whether you're new to the art or you work as an editor.
Read our full CyberLink PowerDirector review
Best video editing software for Mac and iPad
What we like
Final Cut Pro delivers a smart, fluid editing process. Paired with almost any Mac or MacBook, it breezes through content production. The software serves up a decent selection of pro-level tools like Cinematic Mode, the easy-to-use Object Tracker, and AI effects that we had fun toying with during review. Better still, it's available across macOS and iPadOS devices.
What we don't like
Odd for a company whose devices are tailored to content creation, Apple has often left Final Cut Pro unloved and un-updated. For example, while the object tracking is very simple to use, we also found it underpowered and lacking some functionalities. Apple has promised to pay more attention to its top editing software, so keep watch for new updates.
Pricing
Final Cut Pro is available for a one-off purchase - if you can afford the initial cost, it's a great alternative to endless subscriptions.
Who it's for
This is effectively Apple's alternative to Premiere Pro, targeting the same users: professional video editors or those who want to learn professional video editing.
Read our full Final Cut Pro review
Best video editing software with no subscriptions
What we like
Pinnacle Studio Ultimate has long been one of the best video editing software choices for anyone who wants a simple-to-learn tool with powerful, pro-grade features. We loved the in-app tutorials helping users navigate around it. For experienced editors, there are also tons to play with, including an effective audio editor, smart motion tracking, and keyframing tools. But one of our favorite things about Pinnacle Studio is the great value perpetual license.
What we don't like
Unfortunately, this software is only available on Windows 10 and Windows 11 (but on the plus side, minimum system requirements are relatively forgiving). We also found issues with the import process, which was glitchier and slower than we'd like.
Pricing
You can get Pinnacle Studio Ultimate for a one-off purchase - and we found it very reasonably priced for what you get. There are no subscription plans at all.
Who it's for
Pinnacle Studio Ultimate has also been very accessible. Like PowerDirector, it's suitable for newcomers, semi-professionals, and freelancers. For a more beginner-friendly video editor, Corel VideoStudio, from the same developer, offers a welcoming entry-point.
Read our full Pinnacle Studio Ultimate review
Best video editing software for content creators
What we like
Lightworks is a really versatile video editor - and a free version certainly sweetens the deal. We found it especially useful for social media and YouTube content creators, but it's absolutely capable of creating long- and short-form videos. We also really liked the enhanced VFX and color correction tools including support for LUTs.
What we don't like
While Lightworks is free to use, this version does have several limitations. Exports, for example, are capped at 720p with no HD option. So, you'll need to pay to get the most from this software.
Pricing
We really like the flexibility of plans from Lightworks. There's a free version, perpetual license, and subscription plans suited to different uses.
Who it's for
Because of Lightworks' pricing and plans are flexible, it's pretty much suitable for anyone - from creating social media content to editing full-length films.
Read our full Lightworks review
Best video editing software with VFX
What we like
HitFilm is supremely accessible video editing software that we had no issues using. There's a fair amount of features here, such as stroke and vector effects. What we really love, though, is the built-in visual effects tool. If you're new to the scene but want to make eye-catching and explosive content, that's all here alongside the video editor.
What we don't like
As usual, the free version is hobbled compared to the Creator and Pro versions. That means missing out on key features and VFX tools, but worse, you'll be constantly nudged to upgrade. This can really disrupt the editing flow.
Pricing
HitFilm is a free download, but to get access to the full suit of post-production tools, you'll need to subscribe to the Creator or Pro plans.
Who it's for
We've always rated HitFilm as a great place to start for beginners, or those who want to focus on cutting content and creating VFX.
Read our full HitFilm review
Best video editing software for mobile devices
What we like
Adobe Premiere Rush is an outstanding app for mobile content creators. Working across desktops, phones, and tablets, this software provided a flawless video editing experience that was really easy to master. We also found enough useful tools for on-the-go editing, including color manipulation and the Flip option. Ideal for cutting and publishing content quickly.
What we don't like
It hasn't got as many features as many professional - and mobile - content creators would need. It's a pretty lightweight tool, although the results are high-quality. If the program feels too basic, Adobe Premiere Elements offers a suitable middle-ground between Premiere Rush and the high-end Premiere Pro.
Pricing
Adobe Premiere Rush is free to download, but this Starter plan is limited compared to subscription plans that boast premium features.
Who it's for
Mobile videographers and anyone who wants to edit simple videos on desktop and phones.
Read our full Adobe Premiere Rush review
Best budget video editing software
What we like
FIlmora from Wondershare is a delightful simple video editor that caters to most basic needs. The interface feels clean, while pop-up hints aid navigation. We found the welcome screen makes it easy to start a new project or launch the built-in screen recorder. Tools such as Instant Cutter, Auto Reframe, and AI Styliser made our video production hassle-free.
What we don't like
While the software features chroma keying, video stabilization, motion tracking, and the very fun Time Remapping, we still feel it's a bit under-powered for high-end video production. We also noted that with transitions, in particular, we weren’t able to fully control and manipulate the effect.
Pricing
Wondershare offers subscriptions for individuals, teams, and businesses, alongside a one-off purchase.
Who it's for
This is better suited to newcomers or experienced editors who just need to cut content fast without breaking the bank.
Read our full Wondershare Filmora review
Best video editing software: FAQs
What is video editing software?
Video editing software is a way to present different types of media, such as video, audio, images in a linear, visual format. It’s how YouTube videos, films, and television are assembled from raw footage, although you don’t have to have an interest in these areas to find a video editor useful. You'll typically find two kinds of video editor available - the more traditional non-linear style, and node-based video editing software.
The very best video editing software will offer an intuitive interface, and in-built presets that will export to common video formats, such as .MKV and .MP4, These will play on most modern devices, such as phones, televisions, and computers. Most video editors will also allow you to drill down into these presets to finetune the output file.
Can video editing software be used for VFX?
Some of the best video editing software includes built-in VFX - notably HitFilm Pro, Lightworks, and DaVinci Resolve’s Fusion.
Generally, though, while many now let you apply preset special effects over footage, you shouldn’t expect to be applying blockbuster levels of finish to their projects. For that, you’ll need the best VFX software such as Adobe After Effects or one of the best alternatives to Adobe After Effects.
You don’t need to add these effects, but be aware that VFX software is far less intuitive than the timeline-view video editors that we feature in our buying guides, as is only recommended to intermediate, if not advanced users.
Who should use video editing software?
Video is now one of the most widespread mediums - and video editing software is no longer just for professional filmmakers.
Whether you’re in a sales & marketing team looking to boost your company’s reach or a social media content creator or YouTuber, video editors are a great way to give your footage extra professional polish.
They're also very suitable for personal projects such as video scrapbooking or adding hardcoded subtitles to a video file. Essentially, if a project you’re planning involves multimedia, the best video editing software could be the easiest way to make it happen.
How to choose the best video editing software
When choosing which video editing software is best for you, it’s a good idea to evaluate the skill-level of all users. Adobe Premiere Pro may produce Hollywood-grade results, but you'll find plenty of best Adobe Premiere Pro alternatives out there - whether you're an experienced editor, freelancer, or new to the art. If you or your team have never cut footage before, start small with a beginner's video editing software or online video makers.
Have a clear idea of cost. There are some great free video editors available if you’re working with a tight budget. For more advanced tools, do you want a Creative Cloud-style subscription or buy your software outright.
Check what extra features you need, and whether your chosen video editor is best-suited to your use-case. For example, you may need built-in VFX tools, or a dedicated software like After Effects. Alternatively, you may want to increase accessibility for your videos with the sort of speech-to-text tools found in Premiere Pro.
Also consider the platform you're on. Final Cut Pro is excellent, but Mac only; Pinnacle Studio is PC only. Only a handful of video editors run on Linux. and downloads like CapCut and Adobe Rush work great on mobile devices.
Finally, you want to select the video editing software that best fits your own creative flow.
How we test the best video editing software
When we test the best video editing software, we’re looking at what the user needs, how well the tool meets those expectations, and how they compare against each other.
As an example, we’ve compared Adobe Premiere Pro vs Apple Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro vs Lightworks, to help you find the best video editor for you.
During the testing phase, we expect an intelligent user interface and smooth experience. Even in more advanced programs like DaVinci Resolve, a steep learning curve should be no barrier to mastering the software.
Performance is critical - whether users run a video editor for low-end PCs or use the best video editing laptop or best video editing computer paired with the best monitor for video editing. Editing in a hardware-intensive process, and we want to see stable performance, speedy rendering, and optimal results.
We assess how well the program meets the needs of the intended audience. Not all video editors are created equal - and those tools that are ideal for a small business or marketing department might not hit right for content creators on YouTube and similar platforms.
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