Top 5 BEST FREE Video Editing Software
I’m excited to share my top five favorite free video editing software options. When I say free, I truly mean it—these programs are completely free with no hidden costs, no watermarks, and no time limitations. They are genuinely free to use and surprisingly powerful.In fact, these free video editors often rival, and sometimes even surpass, the performance of their paid counterparts.As we go through this list, if you find any of these video editors appealing, I’ve included the download links in the article.Let’s dive in and explore these fantastic free video editing tools for your PC!
Table of Contents
Toggle1. VSDC Video Editor
Well friends, this is a very popular video editing software. If you simply go to Google and search for VSDC, you will get the first link. You can download this software by simply clicking on it, and this is also available from the link given in the article. Friends, let me tell you that this software is only for Windows operating systems. If I talk about the features of this video editing software, with its help you can do 4K video editing, 3D video editing, plus you can also edit VR and 360 videos here. Friends, with its help you can do live color correction and motion tracking. Apart from these features, you can do professional video editing with this software, similar to what is available in professional video editing software for which we usually pay. But this is all you get for free here. If you want, you can change the background of the video, use features like motion tracking with the help of chroma key, and also do color correction. That means, technically speaking, you can do all the work here that is necessary for a video editor.
2. OpenShot Video Editor
Exploring OpenShot: A Versatile and Free Video Editing Solution
In the world of video editing, finding powerful yet easy-to-use software can be a challenge, especially if you’re on a budget. Enter OpenShot Video Editor, a free and open-source tool available for download at OpenShot.org. This is also from the link given in the article. This software is compatible with multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it accessible to virtually anyone.
Once you’ve downloaded and installed OpenShot, you’ll find yourself greeted by a user-friendly interface. Despite its simple appearance, OpenShot boasts a range of powerful features. To get started, you can easily drag and drop your video files into the “Project Files” area. From there, arranging your clips on the timeline below is straightforward. This timeline supports multiple tracks, allowing you to layer different media elements seamlessly.
OpenShot excels in providing a comprehensive suite of editing tools. For instance, inserting transitions between clips is effortless, with a variety of transitions to choose from. Additionally, the software allows for the application of various effects to enhance your video. As you build your project, you can preview your work in real-time on the right-hand side of the interface.
One of the standout features of OpenShot is its balance between simplicity and advanced functionality. For users looking to delve deeper into their editing, OpenShot offers advanced options such as setting keyframes and adjusting properties for individual clips. These features are easily accessible via a right-click on any media file, providing a deeper level of control over your project.
However, as with any software, there are a few drawbacks. While OpenShot includes a standard title editor that works well, adding animated titles requires the installation of an additional free application called Blender. Although Blender is also free, this extra step can introduce a bit of friction for users seeking a streamlined experience.
Overall, OpenShot is an excellent choice for those in need of a free yet robust video editing solution. Its combination of simplicity and power makes it suitable for both beginners and more experienced editors looking for a cost-effective tool. Whether you’re piecing together family videos, creating content for social media, or embarking on a more ambitious project, OpenShot provides the capabilities you need without breaking the bank.
3. Shotcut Video Editor
### Discover Shotcut: A Powerful and Free Video Editing Tool
If you’re searching for a free, robust video editing app, Shotcut might be the perfect fit for you. You can download it from Shotcut.org. This is also from the link given in the article. This open-source software is compatible with Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it accessible to almost everyone. Getting started with Shotcut is simple. After downloading and installing the software, you’ll be prompted to create a new project. Clicking “Start” will take you to the main interface. Here, you can easily drag and drop your media files into the playlist area, where all your files will be listed.
To start editing, drag a file from the playlist to the timeline below. Shotcut allows you to add as many tracks as you need. Right-clicking on the timeline lets you add additional video or audio tracks, giving you the flexibility to layer multiple elements.
As your project takes shape, you can preview your video in real time. Shotcut offers a wide array of transitions. Simply drag one clip over another to insert a transition, and then click into the properties to choose from many different transition effects.
Beyond transitions, Shotcut provides an extensive collection of filters. Select a clip, click on “Filters,” and explore the vast options available to enhance your video.
One standout feature of Shotcut is its customizable workspace. Depending on what you’re working on, you can switch between different views optimized for specific tasks. For example, the “Editing” view shows the timeline and preview, while the “FX” view focuses on effects. There are also dedicated views for color grading, audio editing, and playback.
While Shotcut is incredibly powerful, it does have a steeper learning curve compared to some simpler video editors. This means it might take a bit more time to get comfortable with all its features. However, for those serious about creating advanced videos, the extra effort is well worth it.
In summary, Shotcut is a versatile and powerful video editing tool that can handle complex projects. While it may require more time to learn, its extensive features make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to produce high-quality videos. Whether you’re editing family videos, YouTube content, or more professional projects, Shotcut offers the tools you need without any cost.
4. Kdenlive Video Editor
### Kdenlive: A Comprehensive and Free Video Editing SolutionFor those seeking a powerful, free video editing tool, Kdenlive is an excellent choice. Available for download at kdenlive.org, this is also from the link given in the article. This open-source software works across Windows, Mac, and Linux platforms, ensuring accessibility for all users.
Getting started with Kdenlive is straightforward. After downloading and installing the software, you’ll be greeted by its main interface, which is similar to other popular video editors. On the left-hand side, you can easily drag and drop your media files into the editor. Once your files are in place, you can drag them onto the timeline below. The timeline supports multiple tracks, allowing you to organize your clips as needed—either on the same track or on separate tracks.
A standout feature of Kdenlive is its dual-view system. You can preview individual clips on one side and view your overall project on the other, making it easy to manage and edit your footage. This dual-view setup enhances your ability to fine-tune individual segments while keeping an eye on the entire project.
Kdenlive offers a variety of editing modes and tools. For example, you can use the normal mode for standard editing, the overwrite mode to replace existing clips, or insert new clips without affecting the rest of your timeline. The software also includes specialized views tailored to different tasks, such as audio editing, effects, and color grading. Switching between these views allows you to focus on specific aspects of your project, streamlining your workflow.
Transitions and effects are another strong point of Kdenlive. You can easily add transitions between clips by selecting from a wide range of options, such as wipe transitions. Additionally, the software provides numerous effects that can be applied to any clip, enhancing the overall quality of your video.
While Kdenlive is incredibly feature-rich, this also means it has a steeper learning curve compared to simpler video editors. However, the vast array of online resources, tutorials, and community support can help new users get up to speed quickly.
In summary, Kdenlive is a versatile and powerful video editor that can handle advanced projects. Despite its initial complexity, the software’s extensive features make it a valuable tool for anyone serious about video editing. Whether you’re creating personal videos, content for social media, or professional-grade projects, Kdenlive offers the tools you need—all for free.
5. DaVinci Resolve 19: A Free Yet Professional Video Editing Solution
If you’re looking for a top-notch, free video editing tool, DaVinci Resolve 19 should be on your radar. This is the go-to editor for many YouTubers, including myself, and even professional TV and film studios. It’s a powerful application with a lot to offer.
DaVinci Resolve operates on a freemium model. This means you get most of the core features for free. However, some advanced effects and tracking tools require a paid version. I’ve been using the free version and have found it more than sufficient for all my editing needs.
To get started with DaVinci Resolve 19, head to their website and click on the “Download Now” button. This is also from the link given in the article. You’ll see options for the latest version and older versions, but I recommend sticking with the newest one. You’ll also have to choose between the standard free version and the studio version, which is paid. Select DaVinci Resolve 19 and your operating system to proceed.
Once installed, you’ll find DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse of a video editor. You can easily import your media clips and organize them on the timeline. The interface includes
a clip viewer and a project viewer, making it easy to manage your project. You can adjust various settings related to video, audio, effects, and transitions.
One of the standout features of DaVinci Resolve is its suite of integrated applications. These include:
– **Media Page**: View and organize all your media files.
– **Cut Page**: Streamlined for quick and easy video cuts.
– **Edit Page**: Standard editing view for detailed work.
– **Fusion Page**: Add and manage visual effects using a node-based interface.
– **Color Page**: Industry-leading color correction tools.
– **Fairlight Audio**: Advanced audio editing capabilities.
These tools are seamlessly integrated, allowing you to switch between different views and tasks quickly. This makes DaVinci Resolve a versatile tool that combines what could be standalone applications into one powerful interface.
Conclusion
The Top five free video editing software options discussed—VSDC, OpenShot, Shotcut, Kdenlive, and DaVinci Resolve 19—offer powerful tools for both beginners and experienced editors without any financial investment. VSDC is ideal for Windows users needing features like 4K editing and motion tracking. OpenShot, with its user-friendly interface and advanced functionalities, is versatile across multiple platforms. Shotcut provides extensive features and customizable workspaces but may require a steeper learning curve. Kdenlive excels with its dual-view system and variety of editing modes, suitable for more complex projects. Lastly, DaVinci Resolve 19 stands out with its professional-grade features, despite its initial complexity. Each of these editors caters to different needs, ensuring that users can find a tool that fits their specific video editing requirements, all while being completely free.