If you want to be a successful content creator on Youtube or any other video streaming site, you need to learn how to edit your footage and transform it into video content that will engage your viewers. This is why your choice of video editing software can affect the success of your project.
The good news is that there are now tons of options in terms of free video editing apps. This is great for people who are just starting out and may not have the budget to purchase full-featured post-production equipment and software.
How to Choose the Best Free Video Editing App
Making informed decisions is important when you’re spoilt for choice. Here are a few guidelines to think about when selecting an appropriate free video editing software.
1. User interface
When you’re just starting out with video editing, you need a tool that doesn’t look so intimidating to use. While most consumers might navigate towards feature-rich apps, it is wiser for beginners to prioritize user interface over fancy features that they may not use when they are just starting out. Go for a platform that is intuitive and simple while allowing you to access advanced settings and controls easily.
2. Input format
When looking for free video editing software for PC, you also need to consider input formats supported. With a wide range of video formats and source devices available these days, you want to use a video editing app that can support your source files.
3. Editing features
The truth is that no one will put out a software product that could not edit well enough. Most of the free video editing apps available these days are capable of basic editing functions such as cutting, splicing and trimming. Software that provides advanced editing features such as HD resolution support and camera stablization is good to have even for beginners. Some users even opt for open source free video editing software so they can access the full suite of editing features without the need to sign up for a paid subscription.
4. Editing tracks
When you’re editing raw footage, you’re going to need to accommodate a minimum number of tracks that are open at a given time. Some software offer unlimited tracks and that’s good, but at most, you’ll probably need about 9-10 tracks without your workspace turning into a hot mess. It’s a low priority feature unless you’re working on a full-length movie or you have an infinite number of footage that you need to put together.
5. Software upgrades and stability
A good free video editing software should not just look good and provide the perfect set of features for your needs. It should also be able to run on your computer or device smoothly. Video editing apps demand lots of resources out of any device so before you commit to a single software product, make sure to test it on your computer first. If you are considering open source software, it’s important to check if the app comes with substantial support through video tutorials, knowledge bases and even a community forum where you can ask for help if you have any questions.
Best Free Video Editing Software for Beginners
Now that you know what to look for in a good free video editor, here are some of the best options you can check out:
- iMovie - if you have a Mac computer, you probably have this video editing software installed by default. Like most native Mac apps, this is intuitive and very user friendly making it a good choice for beginners. It provides all the basic features you need to start editing videos as well as 4K HD resolution support.
- Magisto - for those looking to create video content for Instagram, Magisto is a good video editing app to check out. The app allows you to edit videos through your smartphone, and uses AI to help you organize your footage to let you delivery your message clearly. Magisto is available on both iOS and Android.
Adobe Premiere Clip - if you want the Adobe Premiere video editor but you don’t want to spend on the paid subscription. This app which is available for both iOS and Android brings the famous video editing software into the mobile device for free. It does most basic editing tasks and allows you to share your product directly to social media platforms such as Twitter, Instagram and Youtube.
