10 best video editing software/ apps for PC in 2021

With smartphone cameras capable of shooting 4K videos, everyone has the luxury of making quality videos without being a professional. This has led to massive growth in demand for video editing tools. The boom of YouTube is a big indication of how videos have become the go-to source of entertainment for millions. And the best thing is, you can get the best video editing software for PC at a reasonable price. We have compiled a list of free video editing software/ app that will get you started at every level. But before that, here’s what you need to know while choosing the best video editing software that meets your requirement.

How to choose the best video editing software?

The most important things to note while going for video editing software are mostly based on the level of work you need it for. For beginners, they can rely on a slew of free-to-use video editing apps that can get them started on the basic computing device.

But for everyone else, features are a crucial aspect, especially for professional use. They rely on powerful machines and work rigorously on software at a breakneck speed. For them, it is all about going for the best in the market and relying on them because of wide compatibility as well as delivering the goods without any mishaps.

List of the best video editing software for PC

1. Adobe Premiere Pro

A few years back, we would have hesitated to mention Adobe Premiere Pro in the list. But nowadays, it is hard to not recommend it to most people out there. Most professionals around the world use this software and for all the right reasons. It offers the perfect mix of user-friendly interface, coupled with a wide range of features that give you the best performance results. Having said that, you need at least 8GB RAM on your system to get the best results, especially if you don’t want the machine to crash or slow down with every video rendering.

Key features:

  • Unlimited set of tools to use
  • Can be used for basic as well as professional editing
  • Work on multiple projects with content saved on the cloud
Download: Windows

2. Movavi Video Editor Plus

If you are new to the video editing space then Movavi is the apt gateway to get you started. The best video editing software for YouTube offers a video timeline that can be used to tweak and edit details. You can special effects, frame animations and different kind of themes to suit your requirement. Additionally, you can also make corrections to audio in the video footage to match the levels of the content. The best thing about Movavi is that anyone can get their hands on the software and work with ease. You also get support for a wide range of file formats to import and export content in the desired quality.

Key features:

  • Supports a large range of file formats
  • Uploads video to YouTube from the app
  • Sound and sticker library on offer
Download: Windows

3. HitFilm Express 15

Next up, we have the HitFilm Express 15. Most of you might not have heard about it, but it is a capable, top-tier free video editing software in the market. The best thing about this tool is that you get most of the features without paying any money. Yes, the interface is a bit complicated for beginners but for everyone else, you can easily acclimatise to the software and its features and shortcuts. You get over 180+ visual effects to polish videos to your liking.

Key features:

  • Free to use
  • Hi-codec video rendering available
  • 2D and 3D effects supported
Download: Windows

4. Pinnacle Studio

If you want something more advanced, powerful, and versatile, look no further than Pinncable. This software is strictly meant for professional use. It supports high-end features like motion tracking, multi-cam video editing, 360-degree videos, and more. Even after getting all these features, most of you might find Pinnacle on the affordable side, compared to other premium software in the market. The addition of audio tools makes it an allrounder for all users.

Key features:

  • 360-degree videos editing
  • Audio tools available
  • Multi-cam videos editable
Download: Windows

5. VideoPad

Now if you need a basic video editing software that is easy to use and quick to learn, then VideoPad is worth looking at. It works on both Windows and Mac systems but the former gets a wider range of features. The free version of the video editing app for PC gives you a broad set of features and extension support but you will have to contend with the annoying notifications that pop up every now and then. If you can look beyond that, VideoPad delivers with its user-friendly interface and compatibility to work on basic machines.

Key features:

  • Windows users get more tools than Mac
  • Free version available
  • User-friendly interface
Download: Windows

6. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate

VideoStudio Ultimate is another excellent choice for video editing enthusiasts. For beginners, they will enjoy the simplicity of controls on offer, along with a wide range of effects, and support for multi-cam as well as 360-degree video editing. You can use this software to edit basic videos to be shared on social media in quick time. And all this can be done without needing a graphics-hungry machine.

Key features:

  • Over 2000 effects pre-loaded
  • multi-cam, 360-degree video editing available
  • Works on basic PC hardware
Download: Windows

7. Wondershare Filmora9

Filmora9 is a good choice for amateur video editors as well as those who are just starting out in the space. You get a simple interface, flooded with tools and effects to be used. In fact, the filters work on existing footage as well, allowing you to mix music with effects using the free sound library on offer. The full version does not cost a bomb, but to unlock all the features you need to buy it. However, don’t expect heavy editing for multi-cam and 360-degree videos on this software.

Key features

  • Free music library pre-loaded
  • Edit existing footage
Download: Windows

8. Shotcut

If you are in the market for open-source video editing software, Shotcut should be on your list. Most of you might find its interface similar to Adobe Premiere Pro. You can drag-and-drop effects, frames for easy handling of content. It supports multiple codecs, 4K resolution video, webcam footage, and more. Being an open-source platform means Shotcut is a free video editing software and you will not have to pay for it, ever.

Key features:

  • Free for lifetime
  • Premiere Pro-like interface
  • Supports multiple video codecs
Download: Windows

9. VSDC Video Editor

Best video editing software for PC

Another open-source choice for users is the VSDC editor. It also supports all formats and video codecs. You have options like colour correction, add audio effects, blending modes, and more. VSDC comes in free and paid versions and your feature compatibility will be limited with the former.

Key features:

  • Open-source software
  • Colour correction, blending modes available
  • Free and paid versions on offer
Download: Windows

10. OpenShot

Video editing apps

The last on our list is also a free video editing software. You have an easy interface on the platform, it is easy to use as well. It is ideal for beginners to easily edit videos and caters to simple video edits. The feature set is not as broad as the other software in this list but will get the job done.

Key features:

  • Free of cost
  • Easy to use interface
  • Ideal for beginners

Download: Windows