Best free video editing apps for pc: Have you just started your content creation journey? And you’ve already understood that video editing software works wonders alongside a high-end camera. Welcome, you have come to the right spot! In this blog, you will discover the top video editing apps for PC. These are some of the best options among all the free video editors.
They range from professional-level tools to accessible free ones considered the best in the field, some of which introduce new technology like generative AI. Whether you are a professional or an amateur, the free video editing apps are best suited for everyone’s editing needs. The software listed below is for Windows PC and Linux, Mac plus web applications to run in a desktop browser. Check out the introduction of each app below, along with the prices, advantages, and disadvantages that will help you choose the best video editing software for your PC.
Top 20 Best Video Editing Software for PC 2025
1. Lightworks | Best Video editing app for pc
Lightworks is the best PC video editing software for making edits on an amateur or professional level. It is a great option for aspiring content creators, YouTubers, and filmmakers. This video editor app for Mac, Windows, and Linux offers essential tools for professional jobs, such as instant autosave, background processing, and automatic QC. Lightworks allows users to customize the program’s appearance and workflow – thanks to its Custom Layout Creation. What’s more interesting is that it has 27 automatic video filters and HDR workflow for advanced color management.
Price: Free (Lightworks Create is for $9.99/month and Lightworks Pro is available for $24.99/month)
G2 Rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| User-friendly drag and drop.
Excellent outcomes with a straightforward interface. |
Exports only in MPEG format.
Re-activation every 90 days is needed. |
2. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is a great editing tool that blends an advanced color corrector with expert multi-track editing ability. It has a simple, intuitive platform, and provides an extensive range of upgraded features. This editor software for Windows PCs, Macs, and Linux includes every area of post-production. It allows users to correct, edit, color, finish, fusion, and Fairlight. The software also includes boosted compatibility, plenty of creative tools, amazing picture quality, and the highest speed you will ever require. If you’re a professional editor looking for post-production software, you should give it a try.
Price: Free (Premium version: $295)
TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Has advanced color correction ability
Provides a premium editing interface. Supports all video formats. |
Unable to support multi-camera editing.
Expert-level understanding and experience are needed. |
3. PowerDirector Essential
PowerDirector is the renowned free video editing software for PC- whether it’s Windows or Mac. It provides users with simple, one-click AI tools and manual, precise adjustments. Newbies can easily create and edit videos using its user-friendly tools, transitions, effects, and titles, while more professional editors will enjoy high-level creative control with dozens of customizations. This video editor is packed with modern AI-powered tools like speech-to-text, speech enhancement, body effects, and object detection.
Price: Free (Premium version offer for free for 30 days, and then starts from $4.58/month)
PcMag Rating: 5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Great video editing tool for beginners.
Has a complete set of basic and advanced level of features. Introduces the latest features every month. |
A paid subscription is needed to open stock libraries. |
4. Shortcut
Those looking to try something new in video editing should take a look at Shotcut software. This is because it has more advanced filters and effects to help the user create high-quality content. It is the sought-after video editor platform for PC, MacBook, and Linux with the ability to support hundreds of video and audio formats. Not only that, it incorporates a multi-format timeline where you can mix and match resolutions and formats within the same editing task.
Price: Free
TechRadar Rating: 4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Has an intuitive interface.
Plenty of helpful UI features. Supports a range of video formats. |
Specs are powerful a computer set-up.
Their tools have a learning bend. |
5. OpenShot
Another free & flexible editing software for pc is OpenShot. It enables users to edit videos with utmost ease. This tool enables you to make professional like movies from videos, photographs, and music files. Beginners can also easily access special effects, add subtitles, and use transitions. You can export edited videos to Vimeo, Xbox 360, DVD, YouTube, and various other formats. OpenShot introduces a simple and easy-to-use interface, which makes editing and creating videos quick and simple.
Price: Free
G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Completely free, open-source editing tool.
Ensures regular updates. Plenty of upgraded features. |
The tool is buggy, as per some users.
It does take time to finish large video files. |
6. VideoPad
VideoPad lets users easily download, install, and use it to edit videos. The best part is that it does not require years of advanced knowledge and technical experience to operate it. What is the reason behind this? It is designed to be highly accessible and easy for beginners to use right from the start. VideoPad supports over 60 video formats and is also compatible with 3D and 360 videos. Besides being versatile, this editing software offers over 50 different transitions and effects to uplift your videos.
Price: 100% free (for commercial use)
TechRadar Rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Quick processing times.
Dozens of useful tools and effects. User-friendly interface. |
Lack of more advanced features. |
7. WeVideo
WeVideo is one of the prominent editing video apps for pc for training videos, webinars, and how-tos videos – credit goes to the built-in screen recorder. The recorded videos can be exported directly to Google Drive, YouTube, and a lot more. Best of all, you’re also allowed to save files and utilize the online tool to add polish. This editing software allows users to add voiceovers & music, trim recordings, prepare motion titles, and browse up to 1M stock media assets.
Price: Free (Premium subscriptions price: $4.99/month for Power, Price for unlimited: $7.99/month, Price for professional: $19.99/month, and Price for business: $36.99/month)
G2 Rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Customer support is responsive and friendly.
Supports an extensive range of video formats. |
The free Version is too limiting.
Takes time to import high-resolution content and larger files. |
8. VSDC Free Video Editor
VSDC free editing tool is one of the Best video editing software for Windows laptops. One can edit videos lag-free and export them easily and quickly. It has great capability to support all leading formats for video and audio and codecs. VSDC includes tools like text animation, multicam editing, advanced color correction, and green screen effects.
Price: Free trial version (Price for the full version: $19.99)
PcMag Rating: 3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| No performance issues, even with less powerful computers.
Loaded with several powerful features. |
The full-screen video preview is lacking.
Interface polishing is lacking. |
9. Animoto
Don’t you have prior experience in video editing but still want to use editing tools? Animoto can be a great choice. You can edit videos easily with dozens of time-saver templates. This video editor for PC-free has 50 royalty-free background music tracks and a team plan that is suitable for businesses.
Price: Free ( Price for premium subscription: $8/month for basic, $15/monthly for professional, and $39/monthly for professional+).
Capterra Rating: 4.3 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Has a vast collection of templates, stock content, and presets.
Royalty-free stock music without a subscription is available. |
Difficulty in canceling subscription. |
10. Kapwing
A browser-based video editor for free, Kapwing introduces text-to-speech, auto-translation, and a subtitle generator. Using this tool, one can attach captions to their posts by just tapping on a button. Some other notable features are transitions, screen recording, video templates, and green screen effects. This video editing software for Windows PC provides real-time comments and collaborative workspace for teams and Automatic Resize for creators.
Price: Free (Price for premium subscription: $16/month for pro and $50/monthly for commercial use)
Product Hunt Rating: 3.6 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Includes text-to-speech and Auto-generated subtitles.
Offers themed templates. |
Exporting limits in the free version.
Stability problems. |
11. iMovie
This free video editing software is especially for iOS and Mac users. With this video editor, one can effortlessly create Hollywood-like trailers and incredible movies in high 4k resolutions. With its simple and sleek interface, you can edit your videos quickly. The compatibility of Apple iMovie for iOS makes it great software to start editing on your handset and easily switch to your MacBook.
Best Video editing app choice for Mac users. Create a video filled with the best moments now without a professional video editing degree. This Video editing app is a savior for Mac users who really are in need of the best video editor and especially if they are influencers, we know you.
So here are the,
Advantages of Using iMovie Video Editor App
- You can get access to multiple gestures with unique design patterns
- High-quality editing video options with fewer clicks
- It also does an auto-memory video that you can edit
- Organized Clips and easy guide for experiment
Price: Free
PcMag Rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Supports 4K quality and MOV format.
Several themes, filters, and credits are available. Works effortlessly across numerous iOS devices. |
Using the color correction function for video clips is difficult. |
12. Canva Video
Canva is considered the most famous graphic design app used by creators today. It also has intuitive user-friendly video editing features. One can access several templates and use them to suit their editing needs. No matter, whether you’re a newbie to video editing or a professional, you can make fantastic videos for any social media account, such as TikTok, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, etc.
Price: Free (Price for Canva Pro: $14.99/monthly, Price for Canva Enterprise: $30/monthly)
PcMag Rating: 4.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| User-friendly interface.
Team access is available. Selective templates. |
Output format options are limited. |
13. Avid Media Composer First
Avid Media Composer First is yet another best free video editing software for PC, generally used for professionals to edit videos. However, for beginners, the free version of the software is still difficult to understand, which is why it is recommended for promising professionals willing to spend the time. It has an impressive array of features, such as trim tools, color correction, and audio editing.
Price: Free (Price for premium version: $23.99/m for Avid Media Composer, and for avid Media Composer Ultimate, the price is $49.99/m)
Tom’s Guide Rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Supports an array of video and audio formats.
Suitable for professionals. |
Not for beginners or casual users. |
14. HitFilm Express
If you’re a content creator or a casual user looking for the best free video editing app to help you edit videos, HitFilm Express is a great choice to opt for. This video editor provides advanced tools and effects for editing and making amazing videos compared to most premium paid tools. It can boast some notable features, including support for 4K exports, a free VFX toolkit, and a user-friendly interface. Best of all, it also includes 100+ hours of classes and tutorials to polish editing skills.
Price: Free
G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Easy to understand.
Plenty of transitions and effects. User-friendly UI. |
Many attractive features are limited to add-ons. |
15. Adobe® Premiere® Rush
Among all the best video editing apps free on this list, Adobe® Premiere® Rush is the superior as it helps make the video editing task fast. The software has more than just editing capabilities. Several titles, audio edits, and transitions will be there to help users make a nice-looking video for social media. If you’re a content creator seeking professional-level editing apps, then give it a try.
Price: Free subscription with 2GB cloud storage limit (Price for the full version: $9.99/monthly)
PcMag Rating: 3.5 out of 5
| Pros | Cons |
| Has a clear and simple interface.
Fast performance and response. |
The freeze frame and chrome key are missing.
Limited audio-editing tools. |
16. OpenShot
An award-winning open-source video editing software. Yes, you can use this free video editor on any OS. It provides user-friendly editing options and more sets of video editing options that will help you to create a good video post for your YouTube channel.
Advantages of Using OpenShot Free YouTube Video Editor
- You can find this video editing app in 172 languages
- Stable and easy to learn and work with
- It is a completely free app to edit YouTube videos
- No watermarks or ads that will disturb you while editing
- Open Shot Video editor is used by most professional influencers
17. PowerDirector 365
A value-packed professional and free YouTube video editing app. The best app to be used by beginners to professional editors, designers, and social media influencers. Take any of your creative videos and blend them with the needed amount of touch using PowerDirector 365.
Advantages of Using PowerDirector 365 Video Editing Software
- Flexible to use and premium create options
- A creative professional platform for Image and Video editing
- Can be used as an easy movie-maker
- Free and best for influencers who spend time editing
- Blending, trimming, cropping, time-lapse you name it PowerDirector 365 has it.
18. Lightworks
Lightworks is the most preferred free video editing software from all the editors of film creators on YouTube. Free installation and best for beginners who are willing to start their career on video designing stream and want to work on film editing.
Advantages of Downloading Lightworks Editing Software
- Free and user-friendly software
- Advance Transition Options & Upgraded FX editing choices
- High-Resolution Download Options
- Easy Backup Options
19. KineMaster
KineMaster is the best free app to use for video editing. It becomes your savior if you want to make quick and easy changes to your videos. More options to explore and learn about.
Advantages of Downloading KineMaster
- Both Mobile & Desktop Friendly
- Easy Download options
- More number of choices with less complexity
- Professional templates act as the best tools for a fine touch
20. Magix Movie Studio 
A pro video editing software for both advanced-level users and normal YouTube Filmmakers. From giving that dramatic feel to giving high-quality edge video Magix movie studio does it best. More possibilities with fewer clicks to do and intense quality to admire.
Advantages of Using Magix Movie Studio Video Editor
- Helps to cover time by giving high-quality options
- Creates stunning footage with the right amount of light and texture
- An ultimate video editor for beginners: fewer complications – easy-to-use options
- Gives you impressive results, and you will enjoy the ease of editing
Final Words | Best Video Editing Apps Free
We hope that this helped you through in finding the right video editing app for YouTube. Try and then choose the one for you. Comfortable editing – Makes media life better!
Choosing the Right Editing App for Your Needs: Buying Guide!
To determine which free video editor for PC is best for your needs, you must take numerous key aspects into consideration.
1. Decide your usage
Think about these questions: What kind of video are you working on, and where will it be shown? The editing requirements for a casual video are quite different from those for cinema or streaming platforms. If you want video editor software for commercial projects, make sure you thoroughly read the licensing terms for any stock assets. Also, look for free video editing tools that don’t include watermarks.
2. Choose the right hardware
Video editing takes a lot from your hardware. However, there are some free video editors built for low-spec PCs. But, editing and rendering require a powerful set-up to get smooth performance. Key elements to focus on A strong CPU is vital for optimal performance, as it plays a more important role than the GPU in most video editing.
Additionally, an impressive graphics card and sufficient RAM are essential to handle high-resolution tasks without crashes or lag. If you’re struggling with your current PC to do the same, be sure to upgrade to specialized systems. Check options like the high-end Macboosk, the best video editing desktops, best video editing software pc that combines portability and power.
3. Check formats
Be sure to check what formats the software requires for export, what level of quality the software requires for output (such as 4K, HD, or 8K), and if necessary whether it can provide the type of VFX software you want to use. For combined projects, make sure to use an app that works well with the software your team members are taking into use.
4. Choose based on experience
Are you a pro at video editing tasks, or would you prefer intuitive software that simplifies the whole process? Do you want creative control fully, or would rather let the app handle the heavy task? How crucial is it for your software to adapt to future advancements? If you are a novice, be sure you use beginner-friendly video editing software free with a range of templates and guided edits. Unlike a beginner, the more advanced user must consider choosing an editing app with manual controls and professional tools for more precision.
5. Consider upgrades
Most often, free video editing apps have limitations, but not all premium tools are expensive. Determine if a free tool meets your editing needs or is worth investing in a tool with a ton of features. Opt for an editing app that can keep up with your creativity as your skills develop.
6. Check tools and features
Free video editing software for PC comes with a hugely diverse set of features for a variety of video tasks – from feature movies to social media posts. Note down the more essential features you need and make sure the software you choose has everything you are looking for.
Conclusion
We have come to an end and found that plenty of free video editing software for PC exists in the industry. They all have different sets of features and a variety of high-level results. Hopefully, I would have assisted you cut down your search for a video editing tool for your Windows or Macbook. We hope that this helped you through in finding the right video editing app for YouTube. Try and then choose the one for you. Comfortable editing – Makes media life better!
FAQs on Free Video Editing Apps
- What is the best video editing app for beginners?
PowerDirector is the best video editor software for beginners, whether you’re using Windows or iOS. The app has the most intuitive spot and offers plenty of tutorials to help beginners learn strings. It’s also loaded with AI-powered tools, so anyone can edit videos having complicated effects with just the click of a button.
- What free video editing tools are YouTubers using?
In general, YouTubers look for effective, affordable, and simple tools. They usually use Lightworks, which is the best free app available for Windows, Linux, and Mac devices. It has integrated YouTube export and dozens of impressive real-time effects. Plus, it looks a whole lot better than something like Microsoft Photos. There are also several other great options, including HitFilm (good for both experienced editors and beginners) and DaVinci (fantastic, specifically at color correction).
- What are the best Free Video Editing Tools for Windows PC?
Here are some of the best video editors for Windows in 2025:
- OpenShot (helps assist how to edit videos)
- Animoto (great for instant video creation).
- Shortcut (ideal for intermediate users).
- WeVideo (perfect for screen recording).
- VideoPad (great for simple edits).
- Avid Media Composer First (suitable for budding professionals).
- VSDC Free Video Editor.
- Which free video editing software is best for iOS or Macbook?
The best free video editors for Mac in 2024 are as follows:
- iMovie
- Animoto
- Kapwing
- HitFilm
- OpenShot
- Lightworks
- DaVinci Resolve
- Is it necessary to pay for a video editing app to get the best outcomes?
Of course, you can also make one-time in-app purchases to get your hands down on more advanced apps. But the free version should be solid enough for any new or professional creator looking for pro-movie-making or YouTube video editing software. While free editing tools work well, it is recommended to invest in a high-end video editor for PC if you will be doing professional video editing on a daily basis. We think PowerDirector is a great option.
editing video apps for PC: If you are an influencer, you know the struggle behind getting the perfect video. And all the editing skills it requires to make it a proper creative post for your followers. So, we have tried to make things easier for you with a small research of ours. Based on top free apps to edit YouTube videos for free.
