1) iMovie
What’s the goog video editing program? If you ask 10 different people that question, you’ll probably get 10 different answers – everyone has their own preferences, after all! However, there are certain applications that stand out as being better than others at some specific things, or have features that make them more appealing to the masses. We asked our industry experts to share their opinions on which video editing programs will be the most popular in 2022, and why they picked those options. Here are their answers...
1) iMovie
Apple’s consumer-level video editing program is easily one of our favorite free video editors. It’s not as powerful as premium solutions like Adobe Premiere Pro or as sleek as Lightworks, but iMovie is incredibly simple to use, and comes packed with high-quality features like green-screening, effects, themes and titles. iMovie even comes with its own trailer maker, complete with transitions and end credits.
2) Windows Movie Maker
Windows Movie Maker is one of Microsoft’s free video editing tools that has been around since Windows XP. It’s simple to use, but if you have a lot of experience with video editors, then it might be a bit too basic for your needs.
3) DaVinci Resolve
The best video editing software on PC was already an Editors’ Choice Award winner, and now it gets even better. Blackmagic Design has added new features to DaVinci Resolve 15 that will please both editors who like control and those who want something simple to use. You get what you need here: tools that are easy enough for beginners but powerful for professionals.
4) Final Cut Pro X
Apple Final Cut Pro X’s most radical change is to switch to a subscription model, which makes its pricing structure similar to Adobe Premiere Pro. However, unlike Adobe Premiere Pro (but like Premier and Avid Media Composer), you need to pay to use FCPX even if you don’t plan on ever publishing your video. The lowest tier gets you access to basic audio tools that include sound effects, guitar amp models, and a simple score editor—nothing special from an editing standpoint.
5) FCPX Shorts
FCPX may be Apple’s professional editing software, but it isn’t particularly well-suited to serious video editing. An amateur editor could use FCPX, sure—it’s enough for most people who are uploading footage from their smartphones or vacation videos to Facebook and YouTube. But when you want a program with more powerful tools and better graphics quality, it may be time to look elsewhere.
6) CyberLink PowerDirector 16.0 Ultra
In two years, CyberLink’s video editing software has matured into a powerful tool. With its intuitive interface and smooth performance, PowerDirector 16 is one of our top picks for video editing software. The newest version now comes with support for 360-degree VR footage and 4K video output, making it even more competitive with Final Cut Pro X and Premiere Pro CC—though that last app also offers some of Adobe’s tools through Creative Cloud membership.
7) Adobe Premiere CC 2018
Adobe’s popular video editing program has evolved over time, now offering some of its best features ever. You can customize your projects using Adobe Premiere’s intuitive interface. The new Quick Projects feature lets you choose between a variety of templates and then edit them right inside Premiere Pro. With new native support for 360-degree VR video editing, advanced color grading tools, high dynamic range support and more, you can take advantage of all Premiere Pro has to offer to advance your storytelling skills.
8) Filmora Video Editor 5.1.6
If you’re looking for an all-in-one editing solution, Filmora is probably your best bet. It’s a free download and comes with a decent set of basic features including split screen editing, Green Screen effects, chroma key (to isolate or remove a certain color), and other editing tools. You can even easily share your projects to YouTube or Facebook.
9) Avid Media Composer 7.3
Video editing software, also known as NLE software, is one of most common types of video software used by digital filmmakers and journalists. The Avid Media Composer offers a wealth of features and support for projects big and small. It’s capable of handling 4K resolutions at up to 60 fps, so you can easily expand or reframe your footage if needed. With its many tools, filters, and customizable settings, Avid Media Composer is a great choice if you are just getting started with editing videos.
10) Lightworks 15
Lightworks 15 is a video editing program that offers a number of great features at a price point that won’t leave your bank account gasping. While it has been around since 2001, Lightworks 15 is worth considering if you’re looking to edit your videos. You can use Lightworks 15 to make all kinds of edits, and also combine different clips together while editing. In short, it’s powerful but easy to use.