The Next Generation of Video Editing Software: 10+ Alternatives

Windows Movie Maker has been a cornerstone tool for video editors for quite a while. There are a lot of amateurs who’ve made use of the free program and have done wonders with it. As it is discontinued, many Windows Movie Maker alternatives claim to offer ‘just the right video editing tool for you,’ few can live up to their promises—and most are very expensive.

We have ten other programs that can be used to create videos that include everything from Apple iMovie to other basic alternatives.

So whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn how to make a movie, a pro looking for an excellent alternative to Windows Movie Maker, or someone who wants to make a simple slide presentation or online video, you’re bound to find a video creation program here.

1. Wondershare Filmora
2. Avidemux Video Editor
3. VirtualDub
4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio
5. WeVideo
6. Lightworks
7. ShotCut
8. OpenShot
9. Movavi Video Editor Plus
10. VSDC Free Video Editor
11. VideoPad Video Editor
12. HitFilm
13. Magix Movie Studio

• How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative
• Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

Free Download

Free Download

Part 1: Top 3 Picks for Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

The world’s best video editing software is about to change. We look at three of the most popular and valuable alternatives to Windows Movie Maker.

You will need to consider these alternatives to ensure they meet your expectations and needs.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall

Filmora is the best Windows Movie Maker Alternative designed according to your convenience.

Download now on Windows Mac

Ratings: 4.4 Stars out 5

Starting from $49.99

2. Magix Movie Studio - Best for Collages

This alternative offers a variety of tools and plugins for anyone who wants to create professional-level videos in under a minute.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

30-day free trials, then starts from $69.99 all the way to $129

3. Avidemux Video Editor - Best Open-Source Editor

An open-source editor that supports a wide range of formats is free! Avidemux has an interface similar to Windows Movie Maker, which makes it a perfect alternative.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Free Trial

Part 2: Ultimate Overview on 13 Best Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker

We live in visual culture, and we constantly see, capture, upload, and share videos on our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. So, it is only natural that more people seek ways to edit their videos. Windows Movie Maker was one of the most popular video editing apps. So it’s time to dig into the best Windows Movie Maker alternatives, which are arguably better and feature-rich.

Software	OS	Media Resources	AI editing	Easy to Use	Free Trial
Wondershare Filmora	WindowsMacMobile	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Avidemux	WindowsOS XLinuxBSD	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Virtual Dub	Windows	No	No	Yes	Yes
Vegas Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
WeVideo	Online	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Lightworks	LinuxOS X Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
ShotCut	WindowsMacLinuxBSD	Yes	No	No	Yes
OpenShot	WindowsMacLinuxChrome OS	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Movavi Plus	WindowsMac	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VSDC	Windows	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VideoPad	WindowsMaciPad/iPhone	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
HitFilm	WindowsMac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Magix Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

Part 3: 13 Best Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Windows

As we all know, Windows Movie Maker is the most used and trusted tool for creating videos in Windows. With its unique features and user-friendly interface, people often use this software to develop short and entertaining videos.

However, the fact is that Windows Movie Maker is not the current best video editing software for creating complex video projects. For this reason, we compiled a list of the 12 best alternatives to offer you a better option for Windows Movie Maker.

1. Wondershare Filmora

Filmora 11 is a powerful, easy-to-use video editor specially designed to streamline your workflow and save you hours weekly. It supports everything from Windows, Mac, and IOS to Android. The latest update to the flagship app includes several key enhancements that result in a much more efficient video creation workflow and one that’s easier to use than its rivals.

Key features

• Preset Templates
• Instant Mode
• Motion Tracking
• AI Editing Effects
• Auto Synchronization
• Plug-ins

Price

• Annual Plan: $49.99
• Perpetual Plan: $79.99

Pros

• Seamless interface for beginners
• Great customer support
• Plenty of effects and preset templates
• 4K video output options

Cons

• Rendering requires too much time
• The mobile app requires separate subscription

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iOS , Android , iPad

G2 Ratings: 4.4 stars out of 5

Summary

Filmora’s intuitive interface allows experienced and brand-new users to create incredible videos with flawless special effects. Its high ratings and multiple supported formats make it quite popular among users.

2. Avidemux Video Editor

If you are a beginner and want to use a free, open-source software program for basic video editing, then Avidemux is a good choice. The interface is not as fancy as it could be, but there are some presets that’ll save you a lot of time. Avidemux is a cross-platform video editor that allows you to create custom videos, but it doesn’t feature the ability to share the edited footage to social media directly,

Key features

• Video and Audio Filters
• Support Popular Formats
• Convert Video For Archiving or Publishing

Price: Free

Pros

• It can convert Video To A Smaller Size
• Easy cut, trim, split video

Cons

• Out-dated UI
• Lacks sharing option

Supported OS: Windows , OS X , Linux , BSD

Uptodown Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

An open-source video editor that supports most formats. Due to its obsolete UI and lack of sharing features, Avidemux has average ratings.

3. VirtualDub

This open-source software is user-friendly and allows users with little experience to navigate the software without much trouble. It supports 3rd party apps and also offers batch-processing, which means working on multiple videos simultaneously makes it possible.

Key features

• Integrated volume and histogram meter
• Optimized disk
• Noise reduction
• Fractional frame rates

Price: Free

Pros

• Clean interface, easy to use
• Keyboard and mouse shortcuts for faster operation
• Free to use

Cons

• Not suitable for 4K editing
• Lack learning material
• Obsolete Interface

Supported OS: Windows

Compare Camp Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

Virtual Dub supports multitasking, and its features are pretty helpful. However, it lacks 4k editing and a friendly interface. Overall Virtual Dub is a good choice.

4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio

This video editing software makes it easy to create professional-looking videos in minimum time and effort. Vegas Movie Studio software is best for video editing professionals who have been doing it for some time and are looking for something a little more sophisticated than free alternatives. Not only does it has a high retail price, but its internal elements can be too complex for those just beginning.

Key features

• Color correction
• HDV and AVCHD-editing
• DV batch capture
• Wide variety of file formats and codecs

Price: Starting from $7.99 USD per month

Pros

• Customizable interface
• Multicam editing
• Lots of effects and transitions, with plug-in capability
• Good slow motion and warp flow transition tools

Cons

• Less intuitive interface than competitors
• Import from camcorder not ideal
• Some tools are complex

Supported OS: Windows

G2 Ratings: 4.4 out of 5

Summary

Vegas Movie Studio is the choice of professionals. It does all the work without taking up a lot of resources, and like most programs, there is a learning curve. It’s not always intuitive for beginners, but its professional and powerful features score decent in most reviews.

5. WeVideo

This cloud-based application is a simple-to-use video editing and sharing suite. WeVideo is a full-featured video editing application that uses JumpStart technology to create amazing videos. It’s an innovative app that offers a seamless editing experience as it supports multiple formats of video, images, audio, and graphics.

Key features

• WeVideo JumpStart
• Cloud storage
• Built-in graphics
• Customizable environment
• Advanced text editing
• Multi-track editing and storyboard

Price

• Free trial
• Power Plan: $9.99/month
• Unlimited Plan: $15.99/month
• Professional Plan: $39.99/month
• Business Plan: $73.99/month

Pros

• Constantly improving features
• Ease of use
• Storage is cloud-based

Cons

• Old fashion transition
• Leaves a watermark on free trial

Supported OS: Online

Trustpilot Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

WeVideo is a straightforward yet robust video editor. It offers a variety of features and supports multiple formats, plus its comprehensive pricing plan makes it useful for everyone.

6. Lightworks

Lightworks is the most powerful video editor in its class and an excellent tool for professionals who want to make amazing videos quickly. Lightworks is very fast and straightforward to use, and it has some great features you won’t find in any other video editor. It is available on all popular OS.

Key features

• Audio and Video Effect Plugin Support
• Cloud Connected
• Motion Graphics
• Advanced Metadata
• Proxy Workflows
• Apple ProRes decoding

Price

• Monthly Plan: $9.99/user
• Yearly Plan: $9.99/user
• Perpetual: $154.99

Pros

• High-resolution timeline rendering
• It has social media export templates
• Interfaces for multiple OS are consistent
• Instant autosave

Cons

• Commands are not always intuitive
• A bit pricey as compared to its competitors

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

Techradar Pro Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

Lightworks is not any other video editing tool available on the market of video editing tools. This video editing tool provides amateurs with the most sophisticated features in an optimized platform. Its scores are the highest on almost every review site.

7. ShotCut

Shotcut is a multiplatform video editor that lets you work with various formats for audio, video, image files, etc. This video editor makes it easy to mix and match the resolution and frame rates in a video file. All the changes you make in the editor can be undone and redone often. Shotcut is the best choice for video editing, without question.

Key features

• Webcam capture
• Audio scopes and filters
• Deinterlacing
• Eyedropper tool
• Video wipe transitions
• Keyframes for filter parameters

Price: Free

Pros

• Support for 4K resolutions
• Free

Cons

• Less intuitive than commercial apps
• Lacks built-in sharing to popular sites

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

GetApp Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary

Shotcut is an open-source video editor for creative professionals and is available on mac, Windows, and Linux. The free version of Shotcut has many excellent features, but it doesn’t have the slick interface or advanced techniques of the top paid editors.

8. OpenShot

An award-winning open-source video editor that creates stunning videos. OpenShot is a fast, easy-to-use, and surprisingly powerful video editor. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to work with many different types of tracks so that your edits will seem natural. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to add your custom animations or titles. The options are endless, so it all depends on your time and interest. It is available in more than 70 languages, making it ideal for all types of users.

Key features

• 3D animations
• Animation and keyframes
• Multiple languages and formats
• Cross-platform
• Video-effects

Price: Free

Pros

• It is a non-linear editor with infinite tracks
• 100% free without watermark
• Frequent updates

Cons

• Obsolete interface
• Unstable performance
• Lacks some editing features

Supported OS: Window , Mac , Linux , Chrome OS

Getapp Ratings: 4.2 stars out of 5

Summary

Another open-source video-editor in the list is named OpenShot. It’s a multi-lingual and multi-supported app with unique features. Despite its unstable performance, OpenShot is still an ideal choice for many users.

9. Movavi Video Editor Plus

Movavi Video Editor Plus is the perfect tool to bring your creative ideas to life. It has special effects, ready-made intros, and keyframe animation. Using chroma keying, you can change the background of your video clips to any color or pattern that suits your need. Movavi has now redesigned its user interface to make it easy to use.

Key features

• Effects and transitions
• Built-in media pack
• Fast processing of 4K videos
• Keyframe animation
• Automatic video creation
• Cutting, trimming, joining

Price

• Free version: 7 days
• Video Editor Plus 1 year /1 PC: $49.95
• Video Editor Plus Lifetime /1 PC: $69.95
• Video Suite Lifetime /1 PC: $89.95

Pros

• Easy-to-understand user interface
• Transitions with sound
• Motion tracking and picture-in-picture tools
• Chroma-key capability
• Quick movie-creation tool

Cons

• Lacks advanced trim modes
• Slow rendering

Supported OS: Window , Mac

PCMag Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

If you want to edit your videos with a minimal learning curve, try Movavi. You get PiP, chroma-keying, titling, basic keying, and motion tracking. The program is simple to use but doesn’t have all the features and stands four stars.

10. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC Free Video Editor is an online tool that lets you edit audio and video files to make your creations like movies, YouTube tutorial videos, and more. The audio and video files supported are extensive, and the software includes a codec manager. The Pro version isn’t necessary if you’re using the free edition of the software; it’s more than enough to get the job done.

Key features

• Dark theme
• Subpixel Accuracy
• Powerful Chroma Key tool
• Trendy video effects, filters, and transitions
• Color Blending And Filters
• Built-In DVD Burning Tool

Price: Free

Pros

• Non-linear
• Video effects library
• Video stabilization
• Masking

Cons

• Outdated interface
• Lack keyboard shortcuts
• Only available on Windows

Supported OS: Windows

Capterra Ratings: 4.5 stars out 5

Summary

VSDC is a non-linear editor with extensive format support. It includes all the essential features an editor requires but with an obsolete UI. It is also ideal for many who need a powerful yet free video editor.

11. VideoPad Video Editor

VideoPad is a free video editor that can create stunning videos and perform basic editing tasks. A good video editor can help you to create videos for different social media platforms. You can make your videos look professional and polished with a few clicks and some simple editing skills. There’s nothing particularly exciting or advanced about this app; it’s simple enough for anyone new to video editing or even for seasoned editors. But the simple and easy-to-use interface makes the entire process very exciting.

Key features

• Text snippets
• Range of transitional effects
• Plug-ins Library
• Burn finished videos to Blu-Ray, DVD, etc.
• Color correction and light balance.

Price: Free

Pros

• Simple and clean interface
• Supports multiple file formats
• Includes video effects
• Lightweight on system resources

Cons

• Lack of advanced features

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad/iPhone

Tom’s guide Ratings: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary

Video pad is a free video editor designed for beginners that is lightweight and simple. VideoPad is also great for creating quick videos for social media purposes like Youtube and Facebook. The software has a high rating, as shown above, and it’s available on Windows.

12. HitFilm

HitFilm is a helpful video editing software that makes editing easier for users. In addition to basic features, the program also provides advanced-level functions that make edited videos pop. Hitfilm Express Download has more than 400 features to help casual video editors save time. Features like: visual effects, cinematic elements, and compositing tools preset help unleash your creativity.

Key features

• Color Grading and correction
• Smart search
• Commentator recorder
• Lightning and lens flares
• 3D camera tracker

Price

• Free trial
• Creator: $7.50
• Pro: $12.50
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Pros

• Intuitive interface
• It offers free tutorials and masterclasses
• Works on both Windows and Mac

Cons

• It requires heavy system requirements

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Ratings: 4.5 stars out of 5

Summary

HitFilm Express 15 is a powerful free video editing program that enables you to create high-quality videos in minutes with an intuitive interface. It offers advanced editing features such as advanced video trimming, 3D editing, and more.

13. Magix Movie Studio

Magix is the world’s leading professional audiovisual media software, with Sequoia being its industry-standard audio editing software. This movie editor is an enthusiast-level video editing software that competes with software from Adobe and CyberLink, and it even boasts support for 4K content and 360 degrees. There are many reasons to upgrade. This year’s update includes stabilization, 8K editing, motion tracking, and an in-app plug-in store.

Key features

• NewBlue effects
• Fly-in animation
• New filter view
• Stabilization
• Motion tracking
• 8k support

Price

• Movie Studio 2024: $69.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Platinum: $99.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Suite: $129.00 (30-day free trial)

Pros

• Lots of video effects
• Responsive editing interface
• Multicam
• Trailer-like movie templates
• Solid audio editing

Cons

• Slower project rendering than others
• Lacks import and organization tools

Supported OS: Windows

PCMag Ratings: 3 stars out of 5

Summary

Magix movie studio is a powerful all-around video editing tool with many features that professional users have come to expect. It’s also relatively simple to use. But usability and performance are poor compared to other software programs like Filmora .

Part 4: How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative

Windows Movie Maker was great for editing a video, but it’s no match for some of the best video editing software. We’re talking about software capable of creating a cinematic experience in seconds, all on your computer.

When you need to edit a video with simple, quick edits, like adding a special effect or changing the background, try Filmora . Filmora is an easy-to-use application that allows you to create a movie using simple tools that don’t require additional training. You can’t beat this option if you want to create a professional-quality video for your blog or website.

Let’s dive into a quick tutorial on editing videos in Filmora:

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step1 Open Wondershare Filmora on your PC or Mac

You can start a new project by clicking on ‘New Project’. And you can also change the ‘Aspect Ratio’ according to your project demand.

Step2 Import Videos

You can import your file by clicking the import tab on the upper-left side or clicking the import icon on the main window.

Step3 Drag and drop your footage to the timeline

After importing all the files, click and hold each individual video and drag and drop it to the timeline area according to your ideal sequence.

Step4 Add Audio

Go to the ‘Audio’ tab and select the audio file from the audio library. Once selected, drag and drop the audio file into the music timeline.

Step5 Add Titles

In your video intro, you can insert some title text. Go to the ‘Titles’ tab and select the one you like, and drag and drop it on top of the timeline. Double-click and edit the text and state your ideal statements. You can customize your text fonts and color too.

Step6 Add Transitions

You can add transition effects to ensure a smooth transition from one scene to another. The overall will get more professional look.

Step7 Add Effects

Next; you can get special effects to your video to make them more attractive and engaging to watch. Simple drag down the effect to your video and watch the effect take place in your selective scene.

Step8 Export your work

Once all the changes have been made, hit ‘export’ from the top tab. A window will appear where you can change the settings, resolution, frame rate, bit rate, etc. Next, click the ‘export’ button down on that window, and then you can save the file in your drive.

Part 5: Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

1. Why is Windows Movie Maker discontinued?

Microsoft’s video editing program, Windows Movie Maker, did not become a big hit with the public because it failed to do well on the market. Microsoft couldn’t get the support they were looking for from the program’s users. As a result, Microsoft had to cease its support of the program.

2. Is there a free version of Windows Movie Maker?

Microsoft Windows Movie maker was always accessible and pre-installed every windows product. Microsoft has discontinued support for Movie Maker and warns about free downloads of Movie Maker provided by third parties that might contain malware, viruses, or other issues.

3. What are the best free Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Mac?

After switching to a Mac, you’ll find that the Windows Movie Maker alternatives offer much more than just a simple video editor. They provide advanced features, easy transitions, and less technical know-how to create pro-quality results. You should try using these platforms on your Mac if you have a video to edit.

• Wondershare Filmora
• Movavi
• OpenShot

Final Words

Windows Movie Maker is an excellent Windows video editor application for Windows users. But in recent years, it has become outdated due to the continuous development of new technologies. There are many alternatives for Windows Movie Maker, and here we listed some of the best ones. Most of them are free and featured packs. Each program has its unique set of features and capabilities, and each one excels in different areas. Check them out and see what you think.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Free Download

Free Download

Part 1: Top 3 Picks for Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

The world’s best video editing software is about to change. We look at three of the most popular and valuable alternatives to Windows Movie Maker.

You will need to consider these alternatives to ensure they meet your expectations and needs.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall

Filmora is the best Windows Movie Maker Alternative designed according to your convenience.

Download now on Windows Mac

Ratings: 4.4 Stars out 5

Starting from $49.99

2. Magix Movie Studio - Best for Collages

This alternative offers a variety of tools and plugins for anyone who wants to create professional-level videos in under a minute.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

30-day free trials, then starts from $69.99 all the way to $129

3. Avidemux Video Editor - Best Open-Source Editor

An open-source editor that supports a wide range of formats is free! Avidemux has an interface similar to Windows Movie Maker, which makes it a perfect alternative.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Free Trial

Part 2: Ultimate Overview on 13 Best Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker

We live in visual culture, and we constantly see, capture, upload, and share videos on our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. So, it is only natural that more people seek ways to edit their videos. Windows Movie Maker was one of the most popular video editing apps. So it’s time to dig into the best Windows Movie Maker alternatives, which are arguably better and feature-rich.

Software	OS	Media Resources	AI editing	Easy to Use	Free Trial
Wondershare Filmora	WindowsMacMobile	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Avidemux	WindowsOS XLinuxBSD	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Virtual Dub	Windows	No	No	Yes	Yes
Vegas Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
WeVideo	Online	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Lightworks	LinuxOS X Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
ShotCut	WindowsMacLinuxBSD	Yes	No	No	Yes
OpenShot	WindowsMacLinuxChrome OS	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Movavi Plus	WindowsMac	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VSDC	Windows	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VideoPad	WindowsMaciPad/iPhone	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
HitFilm	WindowsMac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Magix Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

Part 3: 13 Best Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Windows

As we all know, Windows Movie Maker is the most used and trusted tool for creating videos in Windows. With its unique features and user-friendly interface, people often use this software to develop short and entertaining videos.

However, the fact is that Windows Movie Maker is not the current best video editing software for creating complex video projects. For this reason, we compiled a list of the 12 best alternatives to offer you a better option for Windows Movie Maker.

1. Wondershare Filmora

Filmora 11 is a powerful, easy-to-use video editor specially designed to streamline your workflow and save you hours weekly. It supports everything from Windows, Mac, and IOS to Android. The latest update to the flagship app includes several key enhancements that result in a much more efficient video creation workflow and one that’s easier to use than its rivals.

Key features

• Preset Templates
• Instant Mode
• Motion Tracking
• AI Editing Effects
• Auto Synchronization
• Plug-ins

Price

• Annual Plan: $49.99
• Perpetual Plan: $79.99

Pros

• Seamless interface for beginners
• Great customer support
• Plenty of effects and preset templates
• 4K video output options

Cons

• Rendering requires too much time
• The mobile app requires separate subscription

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iOS , Android , iPad

G2 Ratings: 4.4 stars out of 5

Summary

Filmora’s intuitive interface allows experienced and brand-new users to create incredible videos with flawless special effects. Its high ratings and multiple supported formats make it quite popular among users.

2. Avidemux Video Editor

If you are a beginner and want to use a free, open-source software program for basic video editing, then Avidemux is a good choice. The interface is not as fancy as it could be, but there are some presets that’ll save you a lot of time. Avidemux is a cross-platform video editor that allows you to create custom videos, but it doesn’t feature the ability to share the edited footage to social media directly,

Key features

• Video and Audio Filters
• Support Popular Formats
• Convert Video For Archiving or Publishing

Price: Free

Pros

• It can convert Video To A Smaller Size
• Easy cut, trim, split video

Cons

• Out-dated UI
• Lacks sharing option

Supported OS: Windows , OS X , Linux , BSD

Uptodown Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

An open-source video editor that supports most formats. Due to its obsolete UI and lack of sharing features, Avidemux has average ratings.

3. VirtualDub

This open-source software is user-friendly and allows users with little experience to navigate the software without much trouble. It supports 3rd party apps and also offers batch-processing, which means working on multiple videos simultaneously makes it possible.

Key features

• Integrated volume and histogram meter
• Optimized disk
• Noise reduction
• Fractional frame rates

Price: Free

Pros

• Clean interface, easy to use
• Keyboard and mouse shortcuts for faster operation
• Free to use

Cons

• Not suitable for 4K editing
• Lack learning material
• Obsolete Interface

Supported OS: Windows

Compare Camp Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

Virtual Dub supports multitasking, and its features are pretty helpful. However, it lacks 4k editing and a friendly interface. Overall Virtual Dub is a good choice.

4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio

This video editing software makes it easy to create professional-looking videos in minimum time and effort. Vegas Movie Studio software is best for video editing professionals who have been doing it for some time and are looking for something a little more sophisticated than free alternatives. Not only does it has a high retail price, but its internal elements can be too complex for those just beginning.

Key features

• Color correction
• HDV and AVCHD-editing
• DV batch capture
• Wide variety of file formats and codecs

Price: Starting from $7.99 USD per month

Pros

• Customizable interface
• Multicam editing
• Lots of effects and transitions, with plug-in capability
• Good slow motion and warp flow transition tools

Cons

• Less intuitive interface than competitors
• Import from camcorder not ideal
• Some tools are complex

Supported OS: Windows

G2 Ratings: 4.4 out of 5

Summary

Vegas Movie Studio is the choice of professionals. It does all the work without taking up a lot of resources, and like most programs, there is a learning curve. It’s not always intuitive for beginners, but its professional and powerful features score decent in most reviews.

5. WeVideo

This cloud-based application is a simple-to-use video editing and sharing suite. WeVideo is a full-featured video editing application that uses JumpStart technology to create amazing videos. It’s an innovative app that offers a seamless editing experience as it supports multiple formats of video, images, audio, and graphics.

Key features

• WeVideo JumpStart
• Cloud storage
• Built-in graphics
• Customizable environment
• Advanced text editing
• Multi-track editing and storyboard

Price

• Free trial
• Power Plan: $9.99/month
• Unlimited Plan: $15.99/month
• Professional Plan: $39.99/month
• Business Plan: $73.99/month

Pros

• Constantly improving features
• Ease of use
• Storage is cloud-based

Cons

• Old fashion transition
• Leaves a watermark on free trial

Supported OS: Online

Trustpilot Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

WeVideo is a straightforward yet robust video editor. It offers a variety of features and supports multiple formats, plus its comprehensive pricing plan makes it useful for everyone.

6. Lightworks

Lightworks is the most powerful video editor in its class and an excellent tool for professionals who want to make amazing videos quickly. Lightworks is very fast and straightforward to use, and it has some great features you won’t find in any other video editor. It is available on all popular OS.

Key features

• Audio and Video Effect Plugin Support
• Cloud Connected
• Motion Graphics
• Advanced Metadata
• Proxy Workflows
• Apple ProRes decoding

Price

• Monthly Plan: $9.99/user
• Yearly Plan: $9.99/user
• Perpetual: $154.99

Pros

• High-resolution timeline rendering
• It has social media export templates
• Interfaces for multiple OS are consistent
• Instant autosave

Cons

• Commands are not always intuitive
• A bit pricey as compared to its competitors

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

Techradar Pro Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

Lightworks is not any other video editing tool available on the market of video editing tools. This video editing tool provides amateurs with the most sophisticated features in an optimized platform. Its scores are the highest on almost every review site.

7. ShotCut

Shotcut is a multiplatform video editor that lets you work with various formats for audio, video, image files, etc. This video editor makes it easy to mix and match the resolution and frame rates in a video file. All the changes you make in the editor can be undone and redone often. Shotcut is the best choice for video editing, without question.

Key features

• Webcam capture
• Audio scopes and filters
• Deinterlacing
• Eyedropper tool
• Video wipe transitions
• Keyframes for filter parameters

Price: Free

Pros

• Support for 4K resolutions
• Free

Cons

• Less intuitive than commercial apps
• Lacks built-in sharing to popular sites

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

GetApp Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary

Shotcut is an open-source video editor for creative professionals and is available on mac, Windows, and Linux. The free version of Shotcut has many excellent features, but it doesn’t have the slick interface or advanced techniques of the top paid editors.

8. OpenShot

An award-winning open-source video editor that creates stunning videos. OpenShot is a fast, easy-to-use, and surprisingly powerful video editor. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to work with many different types of tracks so that your edits will seem natural. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to add your custom animations or titles. The options are endless, so it all depends on your time and interest. It is available in more than 70 languages, making it ideal for all types of users.

Key features

• 3D animations
• Animation and keyframes
• Multiple languages and formats
• Cross-platform
• Video-effects

Price: Free

Pros

• It is a non-linear editor with infinite tracks
• 100% free without watermark
• Frequent updates

Cons

• Obsolete interface
• Unstable performance
• Lacks some editing features

Supported OS: Window , Mac , Linux , Chrome OS

Getapp Ratings: 4.2 stars out of 5

Summary

Another open-source video-editor in the list is named OpenShot. It’s a multi-lingual and multi-supported app with unique features. Despite its unstable performance, OpenShot is still an ideal choice for many users.

9. Movavi Video Editor Plus

Movavi Video Editor Plus is the perfect tool to bring your creative ideas to life. It has special effects, ready-made intros, and keyframe animation. Using chroma keying, you can change the background of your video clips to any color or pattern that suits your need. Movavi has now redesigned its user interface to make it easy to use.

Key features

• Effects and transitions
• Built-in media pack
• Fast processing of 4K videos
• Keyframe animation
• Automatic video creation
• Cutting, trimming, joining

Price

• Free version: 7 days
• Video Editor Plus 1 year /1 PC: $49.95
• Video Editor Plus Lifetime /1 PC: $69.95
• Video Suite Lifetime /1 PC: $89.95

Pros

• Easy-to-understand user interface
• Transitions with sound
• Motion tracking and picture-in-picture tools
• Chroma-key capability
• Quick movie-creation tool

Cons

• Lacks advanced trim modes
• Slow rendering

Supported OS: Window , Mac

PCMag Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

If you want to edit your videos with a minimal learning curve, try Movavi. You get PiP, chroma-keying, titling, basic keying, and motion tracking. The program is simple to use but doesn’t have all the features and stands four stars.

10. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC Free Video Editor is an online tool that lets you edit audio and video files to make your creations like movies, YouTube tutorial videos, and more. The audio and video files supported are extensive, and the software includes a codec manager. The Pro version isn’t necessary if you’re using the free edition of the software; it’s more than enough to get the job done.

Key features

• Dark theme
• Subpixel Accuracy
• Powerful Chroma Key tool
• Trendy video effects, filters, and transitions
• Color Blending And Filters
• Built-In DVD Burning Tool

Price: Free

Pros

• Non-linear
• Video effects library
• Video stabilization
• Masking

Cons

• Outdated interface
• Lack keyboard shortcuts
• Only available on Windows

Supported OS: Windows

Capterra Ratings: 4.5 stars out 5

Summary

VSDC is a non-linear editor with extensive format support. It includes all the essential features an editor requires but with an obsolete UI. It is also ideal for many who need a powerful yet free video editor.

11. VideoPad Video Editor

VideoPad is a free video editor that can create stunning videos and perform basic editing tasks. A good video editor can help you to create videos for different social media platforms. You can make your videos look professional and polished with a few clicks and some simple editing skills. There’s nothing particularly exciting or advanced about this app; it’s simple enough for anyone new to video editing or even for seasoned editors. But the simple and easy-to-use interface makes the entire process very exciting.

Key features

• Text snippets
• Range of transitional effects
• Plug-ins Library
• Burn finished videos to Blu-Ray, DVD, etc.
• Color correction and light balance.

Price: Free

Pros

• Simple and clean interface
• Supports multiple file formats
• Includes video effects
• Lightweight on system resources

Cons

• Lack of advanced features

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad/iPhone

Tom’s guide Ratings: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary

Video pad is a free video editor designed for beginners that is lightweight and simple. VideoPad is also great for creating quick videos for social media purposes like Youtube and Facebook. The software has a high rating, as shown above, and it’s available on Windows.

12. HitFilm

HitFilm is a helpful video editing software that makes editing easier for users. In addition to basic features, the program also provides advanced-level functions that make edited videos pop. Hitfilm Express Download has more than 400 features to help casual video editors save time. Features like: visual effects, cinematic elements, and compositing tools preset help unleash your creativity.

Key features

• Color Grading and correction
• Smart search
• Commentator recorder
• Lightning and lens flares
• 3D camera tracker

Price

• Free trial
• Creator: $7.50
• Pro: $12.50
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Pros

• Intuitive interface
• It offers free tutorials and masterclasses
• Works on both Windows and Mac

Cons

• It requires heavy system requirements

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Ratings: 4.5 stars out of 5

Summary

HitFilm Express 15 is a powerful free video editing program that enables you to create high-quality videos in minutes with an intuitive interface. It offers advanced editing features such as advanced video trimming, 3D editing, and more.

13. Magix Movie Studio

Magix is the world’s leading professional audiovisual media software, with Sequoia being its industry-standard audio editing software. This movie editor is an enthusiast-level video editing software that competes with software from Adobe and CyberLink, and it even boasts support for 4K content and 360 degrees. There are many reasons to upgrade. This year’s update includes stabilization, 8K editing, motion tracking, and an in-app plug-in store.

Key features

• NewBlue effects
• Fly-in animation
• New filter view
• Stabilization
• Motion tracking
• 8k support

Price

• Movie Studio 2024: $69.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Platinum: $99.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Suite: $129.00 (30-day free trial)

Pros

• Lots of video effects
• Responsive editing interface
• Multicam
• Trailer-like movie templates
• Solid audio editing

Cons

• Slower project rendering than others
• Lacks import and organization tools

Supported OS: Windows

PCMag Ratings: 3 stars out of 5

Summary

Magix movie studio is a powerful all-around video editing tool with many features that professional users have come to expect. It’s also relatively simple to use. But usability and performance are poor compared to other software programs like Filmora .

Part 4: How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative

Windows Movie Maker was great for editing a video, but it’s no match for some of the best video editing software. We’re talking about software capable of creating a cinematic experience in seconds, all on your computer.

When you need to edit a video with simple, quick edits, like adding a special effect or changing the background, try Filmora . Filmora is an easy-to-use application that allows you to create a movie using simple tools that don’t require additional training. You can’t beat this option if you want to create a professional-quality video for your blog or website.

Let’s dive into a quick tutorial on editing videos in Filmora:

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step1 Open Wondershare Filmora on your PC or Mac

You can start a new project by clicking on ‘New Project’. And you can also change the ‘Aspect Ratio’ according to your project demand.

Step2 Import Videos

You can import your file by clicking the import tab on the upper-left side or clicking the import icon on the main window.

Step3 Drag and drop your footage to the timeline

After importing all the files, click and hold each individual video and drag and drop it to the timeline area according to your ideal sequence.

Step4 Add Audio

Go to the ‘Audio’ tab and select the audio file from the audio library. Once selected, drag and drop the audio file into the music timeline.

Step5 Add Titles

In your video intro, you can insert some title text. Go to the ‘Titles’ tab and select the one you like, and drag and drop it on top of the timeline. Double-click and edit the text and state your ideal statements. You can customize your text fonts and color too.

Step6 Add Transitions

You can add transition effects to ensure a smooth transition from one scene to another. The overall will get more professional look.

Step7 Add Effects

Next; you can get special effects to your video to make them more attractive and engaging to watch. Simple drag down the effect to your video and watch the effect take place in your selective scene.

Step8 Export your work

Once all the changes have been made, hit ‘export’ from the top tab. A window will appear where you can change the settings, resolution, frame rate, bit rate, etc. Next, click the ‘export’ button down on that window, and then you can save the file in your drive.

Part 5: Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

1. Why is Windows Movie Maker discontinued?

Microsoft’s video editing program, Windows Movie Maker, did not become a big hit with the public because it failed to do well on the market. Microsoft couldn’t get the support they were looking for from the program’s users. As a result, Microsoft had to cease its support of the program.

2. Is there a free version of Windows Movie Maker?

Microsoft Windows Movie maker was always accessible and pre-installed every windows product. Microsoft has discontinued support for Movie Maker and warns about free downloads of Movie Maker provided by third parties that might contain malware, viruses, or other issues.

3. What are the best free Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Mac?

After switching to a Mac, you’ll find that the Windows Movie Maker alternatives offer much more than just a simple video editor. They provide advanced features, easy transitions, and less technical know-how to create pro-quality results. You should try using these platforms on your Mac if you have a video to edit.

• Wondershare Filmora
• Movavi
• OpenShot

Final Words

Windows Movie Maker is an excellent Windows video editor application for Windows users. But in recent years, it has become outdated due to the continuous development of new technologies. There are many alternatives for Windows Movie Maker, and here we listed some of the best ones. Most of them are free and featured packs. Each program has its unique set of features and capabilities, and each one excels in different areas. Check them out and see what you think.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Final Cut Pro Essentials: How to Achieve Realistic Motion Blur

Wondershare Filmora

Create stunning effects with simple clicks.

Try It Free Try It Free

Motion blur is the visual smearing or streaking caught on camera from the subject’s movement, camera, or both. The human eye notices motion blur in real life naturally. So, a subtle blur in movies and videos makes them look more reality based.

Final Cut Pro does not have a built-in Motion Blur Effect. But there are several software and websites that allow you to add a blur effect. You need to buy the plugins and templates that will help you create this effect. In this article, we have talked about how to add the Motion Blur Effect to Final Cut Pro with the help of different templates. Without further ado, let’s hop into it!

In this article

01 How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

02 How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

03 Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

04 Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Part1: How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

Usually most people would use several software and websites to add Motion Blur, but there’s also a way to add the blur effect in FCPX. Follow the steps below to add motion blur in FCPX.

Step1Add an Adjustment Layer

Select Title from the above menu, a drop-down with several options will appear. Find the one with the adjustment layer’s name and click on it. Drag the Adjustment Layer to timeline and expand it to the whole length or the specific part of the video. Adjust the settings from the menu at the left of the view.

Note: You must download the adjustment layer first. Generally, you will find the recently added adjustment layer in the Custom option.

Step2Apply Transformation Effect

Select Transformation from the bottom left of the view, a drop-down menu will appear. Now, select Transform from it. You will see a white with several blue dots surrounding the view. You can use these blue dots to Flip, Rotate, and Adjust the position of the view screen.

Step3Apply Keyframing and Motion Blur

While you are in the Transformation window, you will see a menu on the right of your view. From that menu, you can apply keyframing by adjusting Position, Rotate, and Scale under the Transform tab.

Note: Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Select the Title option from the above menu. Another menu will appear; select Motion Blur from it and apply the motion blur on video by dragging the effect to the timeline. To smooth it out, select Modify from the top and pick Random Selection from it.

Speed up your video first by selecting the third option from the left bottom of the view. A drop-down menu will appear; choose Reset Speed. A Green bar will appear on the top of the timeline; click on it and select Fast to speed up the video. Moreover, you will have to download the Motion Blur plugin.

Part2: How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

The motion needs a sufficient amount of blur. It happens with our natural perception as well. For example, if something moves too quickly, it appears blur to our eyes. So, it must be the right amount of blur.

To tackle this problem, we add motion blur to make it look more natural and reality based. It provides the natural smearing we see when something moves too quickly but not when shooting the video. To add this effect, you can use powerful editing software such as Wondershare Filmora. Follow the below steps to add a blur effect to your video on Filmora.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Step1Launch Filmora

Launch Filmora on your device and import it. Now, click on the video and drag it to Fimora’s Timeline and play it.

Step2Split the Video

Split the video by stopping it from where you want the motion blur to start. Play it again. Now, stop and split the video from where you want the effect to stop.

Step3Search Blur

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

**Note:**Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Step4Apply Transition

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

Part3: Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

Many people believe that Final Cut Pro X lacks a little when it comes to editing tools. However, if you know the perfect plugin for your requirement, Final Cut Pro X can prove to be an entirely different tool. So, we have compiled some of the best plugins for it.

Name	Fearture	Free/paid
Color Finale 2.0	Color Grading	Free
Motion Blur Plugin	Add Motion Blur	Free
Distortion Effects	Add distortions to the image	Free
Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix	Removes Distortion	Free
Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array	Contains Hundreds of Templates	Paid
Track X by Mocha	Tracks the motion of subjects	Paid
Loudness Meter bu Youlean	Make the loudest parts audible	Paid
Easy Tracker by CrumblePop	Add texts, graphics, and titles with the subject	Paid

Color Finale 2.0 [Free]

Color Finale 2.0 is a color grading software that is specially designed for FCPX. It has opened up a gateway for professionals and starters to color grade their videos quickly and efficiently.

Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix [Free]

One of the significant issues in wide-angle shots is distortion. It can occur as the edges of the frame are bending. So, this Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix helps to remove this distortion from wide-angle shots.

Motion Blur Plugin [Free]

This plugin helps you to add varying motion blur to moving subjects in a video. This makes it perfect for quick-moving graphics, time-lapses, etc. Once FCPX got the plugin, it is easy to use it.

Distortion Effects [Free]

Distortion Effects help you in adding distortions such as twirling, zigzagging, or bulging to your image. This plugin is specific and used for creating an experimental film or a scene in which distortion is necessary. It can also be creatively applied in transitions.

Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array [Paid]

Motion Array is a website that contains hundreds of plugins and templates for Final Cut Pro. The range of templates has everything that you need. So, download the motion blur template, and you are all set.

Track X by Mocha [Paid]

It is an excellent plugin with tracking functionality one might otherwise rely on Motion or After Effects to produce. It allows you to track the subject’s motion with graphics, texts, or even by the green screen in six ways.

Loudness Meter bu Youlean [Paid]

Youlean Meter recognizes the audio’s loudest parts and brings them within an acceptable limit for streaming and broadcasting. It prevents the loss of ineligibility and quality for platforms because of various regulations and legal standards.

Easy Tracker by CrumblePop [Paid]

It is a simple plugin that helps you track the subject’s motion with the help of titles, graphics, or texts. This plugin works the same as Track X, but it does not support a green screen in the same way. It is ideal if you want to add text tags.

Part4: Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Motion Blur is one of the essential effects to add when you are making a movie. It exaggerates the motion in a perfect way which is necessary for most action movies. This blur effect is usually the result of something moving quicker than the camera. The more significant the speed difference between the camera filming and the moving object, the more pronounced motion blur will be.

In the majority of the cases, it is best to apply motion blur on background objects than the subjects. For example, motion blur is perfect for the shots in which the camera moves at the same speed as the subject. Although, if the subject is moving faster than the camera, you would want a minimal blur.

Technically speaking, more excellent motion blur can be obtained through a lower shutter speed or vice versa. Ensure that your shutter speed is always twice your framerate because anything lower can result in unnatural-looking footage. The famous bike chase of Star Wars Episode VI is a perfect example of the productive application of motion blur. The scene was captured by walking in the forest and shooting a single frame per time.

Conclusion

Most of the videos need a significant amount of blur to make them look realistic. FCPX is excellent editing software, but it does not have blurring effects. However, there’s a way to add blur effect in FCPX, but many people are unaware of it.

To tackle this problem, we came up with different plugins for Motion Blur and its effects in filmmaking. So, now you have in-depth knowledge of how you can add blur effects in FCPX.

Wondershare Filmora

Do motion blur effect easily with Filmora!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

Try It Free Try It Free

Motion blur is the visual smearing or streaking caught on camera from the subject’s movement, camera, or both. The human eye notices motion blur in real life naturally. So, a subtle blur in movies and videos makes them look more reality based.

Final Cut Pro does not have a built-in Motion Blur Effect. But there are several software and websites that allow you to add a blur effect. You need to buy the plugins and templates that will help you create this effect. In this article, we have talked about how to add the Motion Blur Effect to Final Cut Pro with the help of different templates. Without further ado, let’s hop into it!

In this article

01 How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

02 How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

03 Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

04 Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Part1: How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

Usually most people would use several software and websites to add Motion Blur, but there’s also a way to add the blur effect in FCPX. Follow the steps below to add motion blur in FCPX.

Step1Add an Adjustment Layer

Select Title from the above menu, a drop-down with several options will appear. Find the one with the adjustment layer’s name and click on it. Drag the Adjustment Layer to timeline and expand it to the whole length or the specific part of the video. Adjust the settings from the menu at the left of the view.

Note: You must download the adjustment layer first. Generally, you will find the recently added adjustment layer in the Custom option.

Step2Apply Transformation Effect

Select Transformation from the bottom left of the view, a drop-down menu will appear. Now, select Transform from it. You will see a white with several blue dots surrounding the view. You can use these blue dots to Flip, Rotate, and Adjust the position of the view screen.

Step3Apply Keyframing and Motion Blur

While you are in the Transformation window, you will see a menu on the right of your view. From that menu, you can apply keyframing by adjusting Position, Rotate, and Scale under the Transform tab.

Note: Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Select the Title option from the above menu. Another menu will appear; select Motion Blur from it and apply the motion blur on video by dragging the effect to the timeline. To smooth it out, select Modify from the top and pick Random Selection from it.

Speed up your video first by selecting the third option from the left bottom of the view. A drop-down menu will appear; choose Reset Speed. A Green bar will appear on the top of the timeline; click on it and select Fast to speed up the video. Moreover, you will have to download the Motion Blur plugin.

Part2: How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

The motion needs a sufficient amount of blur. It happens with our natural perception as well. For example, if something moves too quickly, it appears blur to our eyes. So, it must be the right amount of blur.

To tackle this problem, we add motion blur to make it look more natural and reality based. It provides the natural smearing we see when something moves too quickly but not when shooting the video. To add this effect, you can use powerful editing software such as Wondershare Filmora. Follow the below steps to add a blur effect to your video on Filmora.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Step1Launch Filmora

Launch Filmora on your device and import it. Now, click on the video and drag it to Fimora’s Timeline and play it.

Step2Split the Video

Split the video by stopping it from where you want the motion blur to start. Play it again. Now, stop and split the video from where you want the effect to stop.

Step3Search Blur

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

**Note:**Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Step4Apply Transition

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

Part3: Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

Many people believe that Final Cut Pro X lacks a little when it comes to editing tools. However, if you know the perfect plugin for your requirement, Final Cut Pro X can prove to be an entirely different tool. So, we have compiled some of the best plugins for it.

Name	Fearture	Free/paid
Color Finale 2.0	Color Grading	Free
Motion Blur Plugin	Add Motion Blur	Free
Distortion Effects	Add distortions to the image	Free
Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix	Removes Distortion	Free
Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array	Contains Hundreds of Templates	Paid
Track X by Mocha	Tracks the motion of subjects	Paid
Loudness Meter bu Youlean	Make the loudest parts audible	Paid
Easy Tracker by CrumblePop	Add texts, graphics, and titles with the subject	Paid

Color Finale 2.0 [Free]

Color Finale 2.0 is a color grading software that is specially designed for FCPX. It has opened up a gateway for professionals and starters to color grade their videos quickly and efficiently.

Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix [Free]

One of the significant issues in wide-angle shots is distortion. It can occur as the edges of the frame are bending. So, this Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix helps to remove this distortion from wide-angle shots.

Motion Blur Plugin [Free]

This plugin helps you to add varying motion blur to moving subjects in a video. This makes it perfect for quick-moving graphics, time-lapses, etc. Once FCPX got the plugin, it is easy to use it.

Distortion Effects [Free]

Distortion Effects help you in adding distortions such as twirling, zigzagging, or bulging to your image. This plugin is specific and used for creating an experimental film or a scene in which distortion is necessary. It can also be creatively applied in transitions.

Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array [Paid]

Motion Array is a website that contains hundreds of plugins and templates for Final Cut Pro. The range of templates has everything that you need. So, download the motion blur template, and you are all set.

Track X by Mocha [Paid]

It is an excellent plugin with tracking functionality one might otherwise rely on Motion or After Effects to produce. It allows you to track the subject’s motion with graphics, texts, or even by the green screen in six ways.

Loudness Meter bu Youlean [Paid]

Youlean Meter recognizes the audio’s loudest parts and brings them within an acceptable limit for streaming and broadcasting. It prevents the loss of ineligibility and quality for platforms because of various regulations and legal standards.

Easy Tracker by CrumblePop [Paid]

It is a simple plugin that helps you track the subject’s motion with the help of titles, graphics, or texts. This plugin works the same as Track X, but it does not support a green screen in the same way. It is ideal if you want to add text tags.

Part4: Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Motion Blur is one of the essential effects to add when you are making a movie. It exaggerates the motion in a perfect way which is necessary for most action movies. This blur effect is usually the result of something moving quicker than the camera. The more significant the speed difference between the camera filming and the moving object, the more pronounced motion blur will be.

In the majority of the cases, it is best to apply motion blur on background objects than the subjects. For example, motion blur is perfect for the shots in which the camera moves at the same speed as the subject. Although, if the subject is moving faster than the camera, you would want a minimal blur.

Technically speaking, more excellent motion blur can be obtained through a lower shutter speed or vice versa. Ensure that your shutter speed is always twice your framerate because anything lower can result in unnatural-looking footage. The famous bike chase of Star Wars Episode VI is a perfect example of the productive application of motion blur. The scene was captured by walking in the forest and shooting a single frame per time.

Conclusion

Most of the videos need a significant amount of blur to make them look realistic. FCPX is excellent editing software, but it does not have blurring effects. However, there’s a way to add blur effect in FCPX, but many people are unaware of it.

To tackle this problem, we came up with different plugins for Motion Blur and its effects in filmmaking. So, now you have in-depth knowledge of how you can add blur effects in FCPX.

Wondershare Filmora

Do motion blur effect easily with Filmora!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

Try It Free Try It Free

Motion blur is the visual smearing or streaking caught on camera from the subject’s movement, camera, or both. The human eye notices motion blur in real life naturally. So, a subtle blur in movies and videos makes them look more reality based.

Final Cut Pro does not have a built-in Motion Blur Effect. But there are several software and websites that allow you to add a blur effect. You need to buy the plugins and templates that will help you create this effect. In this article, we have talked about how to add the Motion Blur Effect to Final Cut Pro with the help of different templates. Without further ado, let’s hop into it!

In this article

01 How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

02 How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

03 Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

04 Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Part1: How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

Usually most people would use several software and websites to add Motion Blur, but there’s also a way to add the blur effect in FCPX. Follow the steps below to add motion blur in FCPX.

Step1Add an Adjustment Layer

Select Title from the above menu, a drop-down with several options will appear. Find the one with the adjustment layer’s name and click on it. Drag the Adjustment Layer to timeline and expand it to the whole length or the specific part of the video. Adjust the settings from the menu at the left of the view.

Note: You must download the adjustment layer first. Generally, you will find the recently added adjustment layer in the Custom option.

Step2Apply Transformation Effect

Select Transformation from the bottom left of the view, a drop-down menu will appear. Now, select Transform from it. You will see a white with several blue dots surrounding the view. You can use these blue dots to Flip, Rotate, and Adjust the position of the view screen.

Step3Apply Keyframing and Motion Blur

While you are in the Transformation window, you will see a menu on the right of your view. From that menu, you can apply keyframing by adjusting Position, Rotate, and Scale under the Transform tab.

Note: Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Select the Title option from the above menu. Another menu will appear; select Motion Blur from it and apply the motion blur on video by dragging the effect to the timeline. To smooth it out, select Modify from the top and pick Random Selection from it.

Speed up your video first by selecting the third option from the left bottom of the view. A drop-down menu will appear; choose Reset Speed. A Green bar will appear on the top of the timeline; click on it and select Fast to speed up the video. Moreover, you will have to download the Motion Blur plugin.

Part2: How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

The motion needs a sufficient amount of blur. It happens with our natural perception as well. For example, if something moves too quickly, it appears blur to our eyes. So, it must be the right amount of blur.

To tackle this problem, we add motion blur to make it look more natural and reality based. It provides the natural smearing we see when something moves too quickly but not when shooting the video. To add this effect, you can use powerful editing software such as Wondershare Filmora. Follow the below steps to add a blur effect to your video on Filmora.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Step1Launch Filmora

Launch Filmora on your device and import it. Now, click on the video and drag it to Fimora’s Timeline and play it.

Step2Split the Video

Split the video by stopping it from where you want the motion blur to start. Play it again. Now, stop and split the video from where you want the effect to stop.

Step3Search Blur

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

**Note:**Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Step4Apply Transition

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

Part3: Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

Many people believe that Final Cut Pro X lacks a little when it comes to editing tools. However, if you know the perfect plugin for your requirement, Final Cut Pro X can prove to be an entirely different tool. So, we have compiled some of the best plugins for it.

Name	Fearture	Free/paid
Color Finale 2.0	Color Grading	Free
Motion Blur Plugin	Add Motion Blur	Free
Distortion Effects	Add distortions to the image	Free
Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix	Removes Distortion	Free
Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array	Contains Hundreds of Templates	Paid
Track X by Mocha	Tracks the motion of subjects	Paid
Loudness Meter bu Youlean	Make the loudest parts audible	Paid
Easy Tracker by CrumblePop	Add texts, graphics, and titles with the subject	Paid

Color Finale 2.0 [Free]

Color Finale 2.0 is a color grading software that is specially designed for FCPX. It has opened up a gateway for professionals and starters to color grade their videos quickly and efficiently.

Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix [Free]

One of the significant issues in wide-angle shots is distortion. It can occur as the edges of the frame are bending. So, this Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix helps to remove this distortion from wide-angle shots.

Motion Blur Plugin [Free]

This plugin helps you to add varying motion blur to moving subjects in a video. This makes it perfect for quick-moving graphics, time-lapses, etc. Once FCPX got the plugin, it is easy to use it.

Distortion Effects [Free]

Distortion Effects help you in adding distortions such as twirling, zigzagging, or bulging to your image. This plugin is specific and used for creating an experimental film or a scene in which distortion is necessary. It can also be creatively applied in transitions.

Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array [Paid]

Motion Array is a website that contains hundreds of plugins and templates for Final Cut Pro. The range of templates has everything that you need. So, download the motion blur template, and you are all set.

Track X by Mocha [Paid]

It is an excellent plugin with tracking functionality one might otherwise rely on Motion or After Effects to produce. It allows you to track the subject’s motion with graphics, texts, or even by the green screen in six ways.

Loudness Meter bu Youlean [Paid]

Youlean Meter recognizes the audio’s loudest parts and brings them within an acceptable limit for streaming and broadcasting. It prevents the loss of ineligibility and quality for platforms because of various regulations and legal standards.

Easy Tracker by CrumblePop [Paid]

It is a simple plugin that helps you track the subject’s motion with the help of titles, graphics, or texts. This plugin works the same as Track X, but it does not support a green screen in the same way. It is ideal if you want to add text tags.

Part4: Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Motion Blur is one of the essential effects to add when you are making a movie. It exaggerates the motion in a perfect way which is necessary for most action movies. This blur effect is usually the result of something moving quicker than the camera. The more significant the speed difference between the camera filming and the moving object, the more pronounced motion blur will be.

In the majority of the cases, it is best to apply motion blur on background objects than the subjects. For example, motion blur is perfect for the shots in which the camera moves at the same speed as the subject. Although, if the subject is moving faster than the camera, you would want a minimal blur.

Technically speaking, more excellent motion blur can be obtained through a lower shutter speed or vice versa. Ensure that your shutter speed is always twice your framerate because anything lower can result in unnatural-looking footage. The famous bike chase of Star Wars Episode VI is a perfect example of the productive application of motion blur. The scene was captured by walking in the forest and shooting a single frame per time.

Conclusion

Most of the videos need a significant amount of blur to make them look realistic. FCPX is excellent editing software, but it does not have blurring effects. However, there’s a way to add blur effect in FCPX, but many people are unaware of it.

To tackle this problem, we came up with different plugins for Motion Blur and its effects in filmmaking. So, now you have in-depth knowledge of how you can add blur effects in FCPX.

Wondershare Filmora

Do motion blur effect easily with Filmora!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

Try It Free Try It Free

Motion blur is the visual smearing or streaking caught on camera from the subject’s movement, camera, or both. The human eye notices motion blur in real life naturally. So, a subtle blur in movies and videos makes them look more reality based.

Final Cut Pro does not have a built-in Motion Blur Effect. But there are several software and websites that allow you to add a blur effect. You need to buy the plugins and templates that will help you create this effect. In this article, we have talked about how to add the Motion Blur Effect to Final Cut Pro with the help of different templates. Without further ado, let’s hop into it!

In this article

01 How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

02 How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

03 Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

04 Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Part1: How to Add Motion Blur in FCPX?

Usually most people would use several software and websites to add Motion Blur, but there’s also a way to add the blur effect in FCPX. Follow the steps below to add motion blur in FCPX.

Step1Add an Adjustment Layer

Select Title from the above menu, a drop-down with several options will appear. Find the one with the adjustment layer’s name and click on it. Drag the Adjustment Layer to timeline and expand it to the whole length or the specific part of the video. Adjust the settings from the menu at the left of the view.

Note: You must download the adjustment layer first. Generally, you will find the recently added adjustment layer in the Custom option.

Step2Apply Transformation Effect

Select Transformation from the bottom left of the view, a drop-down menu will appear. Now, select Transform from it. You will see a white with several blue dots surrounding the view. You can use these blue dots to Flip, Rotate, and Adjust the position of the view screen.

Step3Apply Keyframing and Motion Blur

While you are in the Transformation window, you will see a menu on the right of your view. From that menu, you can apply keyframing by adjusting Position, Rotate, and Scale under the Transform tab.

Note: Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Select the Title option from the above menu. Another menu will appear; select Motion Blur from it and apply the motion blur on video by dragging the effect to the timeline. To smooth it out, select Modify from the top and pick Random Selection from it.

Speed up your video first by selecting the third option from the left bottom of the view. A drop-down menu will appear; choose Reset Speed. A Green bar will appear on the top of the timeline; click on it and select Fast to speed up the video. Moreover, you will have to download the Motion Blur plugin.

Part2: How to Do Motion Blur in Easy Way?

The motion needs a sufficient amount of blur. It happens with our natural perception as well. For example, if something moves too quickly, it appears blur to our eyes. So, it must be the right amount of blur.

To tackle this problem, we add motion blur to make it look more natural and reality based. It provides the natural smearing we see when something moves too quickly but not when shooting the video. To add this effect, you can use powerful editing software such as Wondershare Filmora. Follow the below steps to add a blur effect to your video on Filmora.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Step1Launch Filmora

Launch Filmora on your device and import it. Now, click on the video and drag it to Fimora’s Timeline and play it.

Step2Split the Video

Split the video by stopping it from where you want the motion blur to start. Play it again. Now, stop and split the video from where you want the effect to stop.

Step3Search Blur

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

**Note:**Select the part of the video you want to apply keyframing on first.

Step4Apply Transition

Now, select the video portion you have split and click on the Effects option from the above menu—search Blur on it. You will see multiple blur effects, select one from there and Drag it to the middle part of the video. Play the video to see the motion blur.

Part3: Motion Blur Plugins or Templates for FCPX [Free＆Paid]

Many people believe that Final Cut Pro X lacks a little when it comes to editing tools. However, if you know the perfect plugin for your requirement, Final Cut Pro X can prove to be an entirely different tool. So, we have compiled some of the best plugins for it.

Name	Fearture	Free/paid
Color Finale 2.0	Color Grading	Free
Motion Blur Plugin	Add Motion Blur	Free
Distortion Effects	Add distortions to the image	Free
Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix	Removes Distortion	Free
Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array	Contains Hundreds of Templates	Paid
Track X by Mocha	Tracks the motion of subjects	Paid
Loudness Meter bu Youlean	Make the loudest parts audible	Paid
Easy Tracker by CrumblePop	Add texts, graphics, and titles with the subject	Paid

Color Finale 2.0 [Free]

Color Finale 2.0 is a color grading software that is specially designed for FCPX. It has opened up a gateway for professionals and starters to color grade their videos quickly and efficiently.

Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix [Free]

One of the significant issues in wide-angle shots is distortion. It can occur as the edges of the frame are bending. So, this Alex 4D Wide Angle Fix helps to remove this distortion from wide-angle shots.

Motion Blur Plugin [Free]

This plugin helps you to add varying motion blur to moving subjects in a video. This makes it perfect for quick-moving graphics, time-lapses, etc. Once FCPX got the plugin, it is easy to use it.

Distortion Effects [Free]

Distortion Effects help you in adding distortions such as twirling, zigzagging, or bulging to your image. This plugin is specific and used for creating an experimental film or a scene in which distortion is necessary. It can also be creatively applied in transitions.

Final Cut Pro Plugins & Templates by Motion Array [Paid]

Motion Array is a website that contains hundreds of plugins and templates for Final Cut Pro. The range of templates has everything that you need. So, download the motion blur template, and you are all set.

Track X by Mocha [Paid]

It is an excellent plugin with tracking functionality one might otherwise rely on Motion or After Effects to produce. It allows you to track the subject’s motion with graphics, texts, or even by the green screen in six ways.

Loudness Meter bu Youlean [Paid]

Youlean Meter recognizes the audio’s loudest parts and brings them within an acceptable limit for streaming and broadcasting. It prevents the loss of ineligibility and quality for platforms because of various regulations and legal standards.

Easy Tracker by CrumblePop [Paid]

It is a simple plugin that helps you track the subject’s motion with the help of titles, graphics, or texts. This plugin works the same as Track X, but it does not support a green screen in the same way. It is ideal if you want to add text tags.

Part4: Motion Blur Effect in Filmmaking

Motion Blur is one of the essential effects to add when you are making a movie. It exaggerates the motion in a perfect way which is necessary for most action movies. This blur effect is usually the result of something moving quicker than the camera. The more significant the speed difference between the camera filming and the moving object, the more pronounced motion blur will be.

In the majority of the cases, it is best to apply motion blur on background objects than the subjects. For example, motion blur is perfect for the shots in which the camera moves at the same speed as the subject. Although, if the subject is moving faster than the camera, you would want a minimal blur.

Technically speaking, more excellent motion blur can be obtained through a lower shutter speed or vice versa. Ensure that your shutter speed is always twice your framerate because anything lower can result in unnatural-looking footage. The famous bike chase of Star Wars Episode VI is a perfect example of the productive application of motion blur. The scene was captured by walking in the forest and shooting a single frame per time.

Conclusion

Most of the videos need a significant amount of blur to make them look realistic. FCPX is excellent editing software, but it does not have blurring effects. However, there’s a way to add blur effect in FCPX, but many people are unaware of it.

To tackle this problem, we came up with different plugins for Motion Blur and its effects in filmmaking. So, now you have in-depth knowledge of how you can add blur effects in FCPX.

Wondershare Filmora

Do motion blur effect easily with Filmora!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

Vegas Pro Too Expensive? Check Out These 10 Affordable Mac Video Editing Software

For creating high-grade dynamic videos, simply shooting or recording a clip is not enough. Finding the best Sony Ve gas alternatives for Mac is essential since the software mainly targets Windows users.

Thanks to developers, there are many free and paid options to start your video editing journey on a Mac. Let’s first have a look at alternative software you could consider.

1. Lightworks
2. Wondershare Filmora
3. Adobe Premiere Pro
4. HitFilm Express
5. Kdenlive
6. OpenShot
7. Blender
8. Jahshaka
9. Final Cut Pro
10. Cyberlink PowerDirector 365

• What are the limitations when using Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) on Mac?
• Hot FAQs about Vegas Pro Alternatives

Part 1: Sony Vegas Pro Alternatives & Competitors Overview

Here is a list of the top 10 tools we found after research. For an easier understanding, the following are the essential points of difference between alternative video editing software types for Sony Vegas Pro in a tabular form.

Software	Supported OS	Price	Editor’s Verdict
Lightworks	Windows, Mac, Linux	Create-$9.99/month, Pro-$23.99/month	Medium-Difficult
Wondershare Filmora	Windows, Mac	Annual-$49.99, Perpetual-$79.99	Easy
Adobe Premiere Pro	Windows, Mac	$20.99/month	Easy-Medium
HitFilm Express	Windows, Mac	Free	Easy
Kdenlive	Windows, Mac, Linux	Free	Medium-Difficult
OpenShot	Windows, Mac, Linux, OsX	Free	Medium-Difficult
Blender	Windows, Mac, Linux	Free	Easy
Jahshaka	Windows, Linux, OsX	Free	Easy-Medium
Final Cut Pro	Mac	Lifetime-$299.99	Easy-Medium
Cyberlink PowerDirector 365	Windows, Mac	Lifetime-$52.50	Easy-Medium

Part 2: Top 10 Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) Alternatives & Competitors

Now that you know the primary differences between the Sony Vegas Pro alternatives. Are you find anything you like? Let’s move on to more details for your further consideration.

1. Lightworks

With Lightworks, using the independent timeline codec, format, and resolution alteration in videos is extremely simple. In addition, you can use the multi-cam editing feature for real-time, high-quality editing work. Moreover, drag and drop elements into videos for optimized video editing work, including pre-existing Storyboard points.

Main Features:

• Industry-grade features like QC, transcoding, and automated transfer are available.
• Edit files at different FPS limits and use three-point editing for recording/source files.
• Insert files and overwrite on a new project, replace, backfill, and fit to fill your video clips.
• Attach Storyboard tiles and match-frame clips/sub-clips easily.

Pros

• Flexible functionality and speedy transfers
• Edit files with professional movie-like quality
• Auto Sync feature for automatic timeline re-syncing is available

Cons

• Direct X is only available on the Windows version
• TotalFX plugin is not available for free- you have to upgrade to use them

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

Best For: Editing experts creating visually animated and professional-looking short videos can work with Lightworks.

What users say:

For professional-level video editing work, Lightworks brings a lot of resources and elements to users. According to reviews , people who have tried it have experienced better video editing functionality with these resources.

2. Wondershare Filmora

The top Vegas Pro alternative that both Windows and Mac users can opt for is Filmora. The software has advanced AI-incorporated editing functions for automated editing work, including preset effects from FX plugins. Besides that, you can easily add pre-set transitions, audio clips, text, images, and more.

Beginners find it simple to navigate through its interface and can opt for the Instant Mode function for automatic video edits .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

For a better idea of how this works, you should check out this tutorial video: https://filmora.wondershare.com/get-creative/make-a-video-quickly.html

Main Features:

• Instant Mode is available for automatic video/audio project editing out of 6 shorter clips.
• Support Advanced editing tools like Chroma Key and AI Portrait.
• Record voiceover, apply speech-to-text/text-to-speech functions, and more audio editing features.
• OpenFX plugins like BorisFX and NewBlue FX for a better list of pre-set effects.

Pros

• Simple to use and navigate on the editor timeline, especially with drag-and-drop support
• Output your editing files in different video/audio formats
• Quickly share the file on Vimeo or YouTube, besides downloading it on the local hard drive

Cons

• Free trial users cannot bring their Instant Mode-created videos into the editor timeline
• 4K support only with selected MKV, MOV, M4V (for Mac), and MP4 codecs

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: All types of users like educators, students, homeowners, businesses, and video editors for comprehensive video editing tools and uses.

What users say:

Filmora is extremely simple to use, with advanced features available for top-level video editing work. Users mention in reviews how they have benefitted from the simple functionality and dynamic AI-based features available here for video editing.

3. Adobe Premiere Pro

If you are looking for high-quality programs like Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere Pro is a reliable choice. This editing software allows you to easily create, delete, and move big video projects. Moreover, you can work on multiple files simultaneously and use shortcuts for faster editing work.

Preset filters and editing features are also available here, especially if they choose the Adobe Creative Cloud option.

Main Features:

• Multiple pre-set transitions and effects are available for quick thematic changes.
• Add graphics, titles, and captions.
• Color grading and correction tools are available.
• It is possible to add keyframing and animation elements.

Pros

• Opting for group plans for video editing practice and learning using Adobe Premiere Pro is possible
• Aligns audio with videos instantly during editing
• Utilize Quick Export functionality for video files in some taps

Cons

• Windows High Contrast Mode is supported but to a limited extent, like with menus and title bars
• HDR workflows can only be handled on the Windows version with DisplayHDR 400 support

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional editors and trainers can use the various plans under Adobe Premiere Pro for video/audio editing.

What users say:

Advertisers and videographers enjoy high-grade video editing features and like the simple effects and interface quality. The motion graphics support in Adobe Premiere Pro is high-grade as well.

4. HitFilm Express

A capable Sony Vegas free alternative that you should check out is HitFilm Express. With this, you can expect many prepared designs for quick video edits. Additionally, you can manually customize the video files you are working on with high-grade personalization features available in the timeline.

Main Features:

• Pre-set customizable designs are available.
• Built-in sound effects and soundtracks are usable for free.
• Cache renders in timelines are optimized.
• The New Grade Clips feature allows users to apply varying effects to many video clips.

Pros

• Stable process of switching between timelines with an active orbit tool
• Easy to switch between 2D/3D timelines while using the text tool
• Simple to use for an unlimited period

Cons

• Does not work on older versions than Windows 10 and macOS 10.14
• Users cannot integrate this with Vegas Pro like before

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: This software is a high-quality video editor for custom video editing work, fit for beginners and professionals alike.

What users say:

HitFilm Express is easy to use and efficient in the market for professional-level editing. The tutorial is available here for quick learning about the steps, and expandable features are well-admired by users.

5. Kdenlive

A high-quality Sony Vegas open-source variety that you should seriously consider is Kdenlive. The video editor comes with MLT framework support and holds many tools for optimizing video editing.

To simplify, you can arrange and adjust various video/audio tracks and mute or lock specific ones as needed. Add everything from filters, texts, and transitions using this editor for high-grade video projects.

Main Features:

• Get an automatic backup of your video project while you are editing it.
• Use proxy editing to create low-resolution source clip copies and render them later on computers.
• Multiple video/audio scopes are available for monitoring projects like vectorscope, waveform, and RDB Parade.
• Many transition and effect choices to use.

Pros

• Flexibility with themes to add with multiple options
• Pre-render specific timeline parts for preview
• Effects are simple to use with keyframing quality

Cons

• Complex for completely non-technical users to adapt to
• Only supports 64-bit versions in regards to Windows-based compatibility

Trustpilot Rating: 3.7 out of 5

Best For: High-level editing experts who need strong video editing and monitoring features in an open-source platform.

What users say:

Kdenlive, as an open-source video editing software, assures quick and straightforward usability with projects. Per reviews , users like the ability to make simple video edits without bugs in this editor and quickly export finished projects.

6. OpenShot

OpenShot is a high-quality cross-platform video editor that you can use on different devices for quick but dynamic video project edits. Use keyframing ability here to adjust the animated elements you add to the file.

Moreover, cut the videos with simple steps and add many audio tracks/background videos/watermarks in layers. Also, get several video effects to optimize the video look easily.

Main Features:

• Adjust video speed in reverse motion, fast forward, and slow motion.
• Render effects and 3D animated elements into the video project.
• Get title templates and edit them as needed.
• Visualize the background audio beats with waveform support.

Pros

• Very user-friendly interface with a simple navigation guarantee
• Supports more than 70 languages that you can translate as well using LaunchPad
• Drag-and-drop functionality is supported for adding images, audio, and videos into the OpenShot editor timeline

Cons

• Some bug issues can occur
• Slightly complex learning curve

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional-level video editing experts can opt for this cross-platform free software for high-quality video creations.

What users say:

The OpenShot software is suitable for high-quality video editing across different devices and operating systems. Users like the lack of automated watermarks on all videos, its simple dashboard, and its multi-track editing ability, all available for free.

7. Blender

Blender is free video editing software like Sony Vegas that users can use for video editing, but it is also effective for game development with animations. Indeed, you can create and render dynamic-looking scenes with features like Cycles.

Furthermore, the software has a rich modelling toolset with solutions like curves and sculpting tools.

Main Features:

• Completely customization-friendly UI, shortcuts, and window layout here.
• Customization and scripting are possible to do with this software due to the Python API support.
• Supports access and integration of many pipeline tools for projects.
• Comes with advanced simulation-based features available in MantaFlow and Bullet libraries.

Pros

• Basic and advanced tools for quick video edits
• Strong composition and masking ability with object-based motion tracking benefits
• Easily create short animations with Blender

Cons

• Data under the standalone games created here fall under GPL conditions
• Strict licensing rules are applicable here

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Game developers and videographers for companies can use this open-source platform for creation and editing.

What users say:

Blender is a capable software for animation-based editing, with high-quality game-based features and interactive elements that make editing simple. As per reviews , users like the simple animation-based tools and fast rendering it offers.

8. Jahshaka

Users of Jahshaka can experience an inclusive, collaborative environment for metaverse-level editing work. This free editing software, like Sony Vegas, focuses mainly on VR-based editing functions and comes with powerful tools for project management and content creation.

Take the help of other team members to collaborate on dynamic virtual world building, editing, and publishing.

Main Features:

• Compatible player for different desktop and mobile devices.
• Create diversified worlds and scenes with one comprehensive platform.
• Immersive software 3D video development.
• Access to pre-built content and libraries of scenes and assets

Pros

• Easily share and distribute your virtual projects
• Deliver final projects offline and online
• An interactive multi-user engine is available

Cons

• Usable for a niche audience and does not include standard video editing tools
• Jahshaka V2 legacy support is no longer active

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

SourceForge Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors who want a collaborative experience in VR-based development and publishing.

What users say:

Jahshaka is a suitable program for optimized VR-based editing with many preset features and themes to choose from. Most users enjoy the new features and worlds and can work with them efficiently.

9. Final Cut Pro

One of the top Sony Vegas alternatives Mac users can safely turn to is Final Cut Pro, which has powerful modern video editing features. With this software, you will access Cinematic Mode, which you can use to create stylish and thematic video scenes.

Similarly, the Object Tracker features utilize ML technology to automatically detect objects and faces in moving videos. It can align effects and titles accurately with the graphical elements in videos.

Main Features:

• Object Tracker feature for using color correction and adding texts into moving videos.
• Accelerated functional for motion tracking with Apple Neural Engine.
• Add high-quality effects and titles into videos with Cinematic Mode support.
• Preset audio tracks and royalty-free sound effects are available for editing.

Pros

• Handle color grading for optimized scene quality
• Adjust the field depth and focus depth in clips
• Share projects across iOS and macOS platforms

Cons

• Not valid for Windows users
• Relatively high cost to avail the paid version with all advanced features

OS Compatibility: Mac

TrustRadius Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors, students, and filmmakers who want to create cinematic-quality video projects.

What users say:

Final Cut Pro is an efficient Mac-based video editing tool with easy sharing and editing capabilities, rich effects/transitions options, and fast rendering ability. Customers enjoy the intuitive non-linear editor, easy accessibility to social media platforms for file exporting, and live scrubbing, as noted in one review .

10. Cyberlink PowerDirector 365

Another Sony Vegas mac alternative for Windows you should give a try is PowerDirector 365 from Cyberlink. This software removes or compiles video clips and uses masking features like image/custom masks.

Preset special effects, blending modes, and sound effects are available here for quick editing. Additionally, the AI-powered Motion Tracking traces objects in clips and adds graphics, animations, and text quickly in line with it.

Main Features:

• You can create and remove videos with masking features.
• Drag and drop the pre-set effects and texts into videos.
• Adjust video clips with tools for border, gradation, and shadowing.
• Multiple animations, callouts, graphics, and stickers to add to videos.

Pros

• Use green screen functionality for quick background removal or editing
• Automatic audio mastering and mixing functionality are available
• Keyframing benefits for customized animations like scaling and positioning

Cons

• Dolby Digital-centric audio codec is not available for users
• Users can try features like Room Echo Removal and NVIDIA A/V Denoise only on Windows 11

OS Compatibility: Windows

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional videographers and regular users who want a Windows-based video editing software for standard video clip editing.

What users say:

Cyberlink PowerDirector is a powerful video editor with standard editing functions many users have tried and benefited from. According to customers , the program has high-quality video and audio editing benefits for presentations, with additional effects/splitting/cropping features.

Part 3: What are the limitations when using Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) on Mac?

Yes, with the given Sony Vegas alternatives, Mac and Windows users can benefit heavily. But why is it important to try for a replacement when Sony Vegas Pro is relatively efficient software?

To know the answer, you should take the time to understand its limitations, which do exist.

It only works for Windows users

The Sony Vegas Pro software is not available for Mac or other operating systems besides Windows. In addition, it’ll be really complex and time-consuming, even if you opt for virtual machine software or handle dual booting techniques to configure the software on your Mac or Linux.

You need to invest in other hardware

Sony Vegas Pro does do not work within one comprehensive platform like other capable video editing software types, like Wondershare Filmora . You have to acquire a powerful PC and tools to operate it separately. The software works very slowly on older devices.

Not incredibly unique

The functions of Sony Vegas Pro match somewhat with other options in the market. So, users would not expect much value in purchasing this software’s plans that they want to upgrade from their previous system, but on the other hand, the available features are mostly standard-level in functionality as well.

Hot FAQs about Vegas Pro Alternatives

After knowing these details, many users still have specific common queries about opting for a Sony Vegas Pro alternatively. So these are some common FAQs about this- answered.

1. Can Sony Vegas be used on a Mac?

No, it is impossible to directly use Sony Vegas on macOS devices since it does not support it. Instead, you have to separately use a dual boot strategy or virtual machine software to activate the video editor on Mac devices, but the process for that is complex.

2. Is Wondershare Filmora or Vegas Pro better?

Wondershare Filmora and Vegas Pro are top-level options in video and audio editing projects with professional-level editing accuracy. However, Filmora has a cohesive ecosystem with rich AI and standard functions and comes with Mac/Windows support. So, in that sense, Filmora is comparatively a better choice.

Final Words

In place of Sony Vegas Pro, any of these options would also give you a great user experience. Out of them, Filmora is one that we will recommend due to its multi-faceted benefits and features for Mac and Windows users. Ultimately, make your decision based on your particular needs.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Part 1: Sony Vegas Pro Alternatives & Competitors Overview

Here is a list of the top 10 tools we found after research. For an easier understanding, the following are the essential points of difference between alternative video editing software types for Sony Vegas Pro in a tabular form.

Software	Supported OS	Price	Editor’s Verdict
Lightworks	Windows, Mac, Linux	Create-$9.99/month, Pro-$23.99/month	Medium-Difficult
Wondershare Filmora	Windows, Mac	Annual-$49.99, Perpetual-$79.99	Easy
Adobe Premiere Pro	Windows, Mac	$20.99/month	Easy-Medium
HitFilm Express	Windows, Mac	Free	Easy
Kdenlive	Windows, Mac, Linux	Free	Medium-Difficult
OpenShot	Windows, Mac, Linux, OsX	Free	Medium-Difficult
Blender	Windows, Mac, Linux	Free	Easy
Jahshaka	Windows, Linux, OsX	Free	Easy-Medium
Final Cut Pro	Mac	Lifetime-$299.99	Easy-Medium
Cyberlink PowerDirector 365	Windows, Mac	Lifetime-$52.50	Easy-Medium

Part 2: Top 10 Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) Alternatives & Competitors

Now that you know the primary differences between the Sony Vegas Pro alternatives. Are you find anything you like? Let’s move on to more details for your further consideration.

1. Lightworks

With Lightworks, using the independent timeline codec, format, and resolution alteration in videos is extremely simple. In addition, you can use the multi-cam editing feature for real-time, high-quality editing work. Moreover, drag and drop elements into videos for optimized video editing work, including pre-existing Storyboard points.

Main Features:

• Industry-grade features like QC, transcoding, and automated transfer are available.
• Edit files at different FPS limits and use three-point editing for recording/source files.
• Insert files and overwrite on a new project, replace, backfill, and fit to fill your video clips.
• Attach Storyboard tiles and match-frame clips/sub-clips easily.

Pros

• Flexible functionality and speedy transfers
• Edit files with professional movie-like quality
• Auto Sync feature for automatic timeline re-syncing is available

Cons

• Direct X is only available on the Windows version
• TotalFX plugin is not available for free- you have to upgrade to use them

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

Best For: Editing experts creating visually animated and professional-looking short videos can work with Lightworks.

What users say:

For professional-level video editing work, Lightworks brings a lot of resources and elements to users. According to reviews , people who have tried it have experienced better video editing functionality with these resources.

2. Wondershare Filmora

The top Vegas Pro alternative that both Windows and Mac users can opt for is Filmora. The software has advanced AI-incorporated editing functions for automated editing work, including preset effects from FX plugins. Besides that, you can easily add pre-set transitions, audio clips, text, images, and more.

Beginners find it simple to navigate through its interface and can opt for the Instant Mode function for automatic video edits .

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

For a better idea of how this works, you should check out this tutorial video: https://filmora.wondershare.com/get-creative/make-a-video-quickly.html

Main Features:

• Instant Mode is available for automatic video/audio project editing out of 6 shorter clips.
• Support Advanced editing tools like Chroma Key and AI Portrait.
• Record voiceover, apply speech-to-text/text-to-speech functions, and more audio editing features.
• OpenFX plugins like BorisFX and NewBlue FX for a better list of pre-set effects.

Pros

• Simple to use and navigate on the editor timeline, especially with drag-and-drop support
• Output your editing files in different video/audio formats
• Quickly share the file on Vimeo or YouTube, besides downloading it on the local hard drive

Cons

• Free trial users cannot bring their Instant Mode-created videos into the editor timeline
• 4K support only with selected MKV, MOV, M4V (for Mac), and MP4 codecs

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: All types of users like educators, students, homeowners, businesses, and video editors for comprehensive video editing tools and uses.

What users say:

Filmora is extremely simple to use, with advanced features available for top-level video editing work. Users mention in reviews how they have benefitted from the simple functionality and dynamic AI-based features available here for video editing.

3. Adobe Premiere Pro

If you are looking for high-quality programs like Sony Vegas, Adobe Premiere Pro is a reliable choice. This editing software allows you to easily create, delete, and move big video projects. Moreover, you can work on multiple files simultaneously and use shortcuts for faster editing work.

Preset filters and editing features are also available here, especially if they choose the Adobe Creative Cloud option.

Main Features:

• Multiple pre-set transitions and effects are available for quick thematic changes.
• Add graphics, titles, and captions.
• Color grading and correction tools are available.
• It is possible to add keyframing and animation elements.

Pros

• Opting for group plans for video editing practice and learning using Adobe Premiere Pro is possible
• Aligns audio with videos instantly during editing
• Utilize Quick Export functionality for video files in some taps

Cons

• Windows High Contrast Mode is supported but to a limited extent, like with menus and title bars
• HDR workflows can only be handled on the Windows version with DisplayHDR 400 support

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional editors and trainers can use the various plans under Adobe Premiere Pro for video/audio editing.

What users say:

Advertisers and videographers enjoy high-grade video editing features and like the simple effects and interface quality. The motion graphics support in Adobe Premiere Pro is high-grade as well.

4. HitFilm Express

A capable Sony Vegas free alternative that you should check out is HitFilm Express. With this, you can expect many prepared designs for quick video edits. Additionally, you can manually customize the video files you are working on with high-grade personalization features available in the timeline.

Main Features:

• Pre-set customizable designs are available.
• Built-in sound effects and soundtracks are usable for free.
• Cache renders in timelines are optimized.
• The New Grade Clips feature allows users to apply varying effects to many video clips.

Pros

• Stable process of switching between timelines with an active orbit tool
• Easy to switch between 2D/3D timelines while using the text tool
• Simple to use for an unlimited period

Cons

• Does not work on older versions than Windows 10 and macOS 10.14
• Users cannot integrate this with Vegas Pro like before

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: This software is a high-quality video editor for custom video editing work, fit for beginners and professionals alike.

What users say:

HitFilm Express is easy to use and efficient in the market for professional-level editing. The tutorial is available here for quick learning about the steps, and expandable features are well-admired by users.

5. Kdenlive

A high-quality Sony Vegas open-source variety that you should seriously consider is Kdenlive. The video editor comes with MLT framework support and holds many tools for optimizing video editing.

To simplify, you can arrange and adjust various video/audio tracks and mute or lock specific ones as needed. Add everything from filters, texts, and transitions using this editor for high-grade video projects.

Main Features:

• Get an automatic backup of your video project while you are editing it.
• Use proxy editing to create low-resolution source clip copies and render them later on computers.
• Multiple video/audio scopes are available for monitoring projects like vectorscope, waveform, and RDB Parade.
• Many transition and effect choices to use.

Pros

• Flexibility with themes to add with multiple options
• Pre-render specific timeline parts for preview
• Effects are simple to use with keyframing quality

Cons

• Complex for completely non-technical users to adapt to
• Only supports 64-bit versions in regards to Windows-based compatibility

Trustpilot Rating: 3.7 out of 5

Best For: High-level editing experts who need strong video editing and monitoring features in an open-source platform.

What users say:

Kdenlive, as an open-source video editing software, assures quick and straightforward usability with projects. Per reviews , users like the ability to make simple video edits without bugs in this editor and quickly export finished projects.

6. OpenShot

OpenShot is a high-quality cross-platform video editor that you can use on different devices for quick but dynamic video project edits. Use keyframing ability here to adjust the animated elements you add to the file.

Moreover, cut the videos with simple steps and add many audio tracks/background videos/watermarks in layers. Also, get several video effects to optimize the video look easily.

Main Features:

• Adjust video speed in reverse motion, fast forward, and slow motion.
• Render effects and 3D animated elements into the video project.
• Get title templates and edit them as needed.
• Visualize the background audio beats with waveform support.

Pros

• Very user-friendly interface with a simple navigation guarantee
• Supports more than 70 languages that you can translate as well using LaunchPad
• Drag-and-drop functionality is supported for adding images, audio, and videos into the OpenShot editor timeline

Cons

• Some bug issues can occur
• Slightly complex learning curve

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

G2 Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional-level video editing experts can opt for this cross-platform free software for high-quality video creations.

What users say:

The OpenShot software is suitable for high-quality video editing across different devices and operating systems. Users like the lack of automated watermarks on all videos, its simple dashboard, and its multi-track editing ability, all available for free.

7. Blender

Blender is free video editing software like Sony Vegas that users can use for video editing, but it is also effective for game development with animations. Indeed, you can create and render dynamic-looking scenes with features like Cycles.

Furthermore, the software has a rich modelling toolset with solutions like curves and sculpting tools.

Main Features:

• Completely customization-friendly UI, shortcuts, and window layout here.
• Customization and scripting are possible to do with this software due to the Python API support.
• Supports access and integration of many pipeline tools for projects.
• Comes with advanced simulation-based features available in MantaFlow and Bullet libraries.

Pros

• Basic and advanced tools for quick video edits
• Strong composition and masking ability with object-based motion tracking benefits
• Easily create short animations with Blender

Cons

• Data under the standalone games created here fall under GPL conditions
• Strict licensing rules are applicable here

OS Compatibility: Windows , Mac , Linux

G2 Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Game developers and videographers for companies can use this open-source platform for creation and editing.

What users say:

Blender is a capable software for animation-based editing, with high-quality game-based features and interactive elements that make editing simple. As per reviews , users like the simple animation-based tools and fast rendering it offers.

8. Jahshaka

Users of Jahshaka can experience an inclusive, collaborative environment for metaverse-level editing work. This free editing software, like Sony Vegas, focuses mainly on VR-based editing functions and comes with powerful tools for project management and content creation.

Take the help of other team members to collaborate on dynamic virtual world building, editing, and publishing.

Main Features:

• Compatible player for different desktop and mobile devices.
• Create diversified worlds and scenes with one comprehensive platform.
• Immersive software 3D video development.
• Access to pre-built content and libraries of scenes and assets

Pros

• Easily share and distribute your virtual projects
• Deliver final projects offline and online
• An interactive multi-user engine is available

Cons

• Usable for a niche audience and does not include standard video editing tools
• Jahshaka V2 legacy support is no longer active

OS Compatibility: Windows , Linux , OsX

SourceForge Rating: 4.4 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors who want a collaborative experience in VR-based development and publishing.

What users say:

Jahshaka is a suitable program for optimized VR-based editing with many preset features and themes to choose from. Most users enjoy the new features and worlds and can work with them efficiently.

9. Final Cut Pro

One of the top Sony Vegas alternatives Mac users can safely turn to is Final Cut Pro, which has powerful modern video editing features. With this software, you will access Cinematic Mode, which you can use to create stylish and thematic video scenes.

Similarly, the Object Tracker features utilize ML technology to automatically detect objects and faces in moving videos. It can align effects and titles accurately with the graphical elements in videos.

Main Features:

• Object Tracker feature for using color correction and adding texts into moving videos.
• Accelerated functional for motion tracking with Apple Neural Engine.
• Add high-quality effects and titles into videos with Cinematic Mode support.
• Preset audio tracks and royalty-free sound effects are available for editing.

Pros

• Handle color grading for optimized scene quality
• Adjust the field depth and focus depth in clips
• Share projects across iOS and macOS platforms

Cons

• Not valid for Windows users
• Relatively high cost to avail the paid version with all advanced features

OS Compatibility: Mac

TrustRadius Rating: 4.8 out of 5

Best For: Professional video editors, students, and filmmakers who want to create cinematic-quality video projects.

What users say:

Final Cut Pro is an efficient Mac-based video editing tool with easy sharing and editing capabilities, rich effects/transitions options, and fast rendering ability. Customers enjoy the intuitive non-linear editor, easy accessibility to social media platforms for file exporting, and live scrubbing, as noted in one review .

10. Cyberlink PowerDirector 365

Another Sony Vegas mac alternative for Windows you should give a try is PowerDirector 365 from Cyberlink. This software removes or compiles video clips and uses masking features like image/custom masks.

Preset special effects, blending modes, and sound effects are available here for quick editing. Additionally, the AI-powered Motion Tracking traces objects in clips and adds graphics, animations, and text quickly in line with it.

Main Features:

• You can create and remove videos with masking features.
• Drag and drop the pre-set effects and texts into videos.
• Adjust video clips with tools for border, gradation, and shadowing.
• Multiple animations, callouts, graphics, and stickers to add to videos.

Pros

• Use green screen functionality for quick background removal or editing
• Automatic audio mastering and mixing functionality are available
• Keyframing benefits for customized animations like scaling and positioning

Cons

• Dolby Digital-centric audio codec is not available for users
• Users can try features like Room Echo Removal and NVIDIA A/V Denoise only on Windows 11

OS Compatibility: Windows

TechRadar Rating: 4.5 out of 5

Best For: Professional videographers and regular users who want a Windows-based video editing software for standard video clip editing.

What users say:

Cyberlink PowerDirector is a powerful video editor with standard editing functions many users have tried and benefited from. According to customers , the program has high-quality video and audio editing benefits for presentations, with additional effects/splitting/cropping features.

Part 3: What are the limitations when using Sony Vegas (Vegas Pro) on Mac?

Yes, with the given Sony Vegas alternatives, Mac and Windows users can benefit heavily. But why is it important to try for a replacement when Sony Vegas Pro is relatively efficient software?

To know the answer, you should take the time to understand its limitations, which do exist.

It only works for Windows users

The Sony Vegas Pro software is not available for Mac or other operating systems besides Windows. In addition, it’ll be really complex and time-consuming, even if you opt for virtual machine software or handle dual booting techniques to configure the software on your Mac or Linux.

You need to invest in other hardware

Sony Vegas Pro does do not work within one comprehensive platform like other capable video editing software types, like Wondershare Filmora . You have to acquire a powerful PC and tools to operate it separately. The software works very slowly on older devices.

Not incredibly unique

The functions of Sony Vegas Pro match somewhat with other options in the market. So, users would not expect much value in purchasing this software’s plans that they want to upgrade from their previous system, but on the other hand, the available features are mostly standard-level in functionality as well.

Hot FAQs about Vegas Pro Alternatives

After knowing these details, many users still have specific common queries about opting for a Sony Vegas Pro alternatively. So these are some common FAQs about this- answered.

1. Can Sony Vegas be used on a Mac?

No, it is impossible to directly use Sony Vegas on macOS devices since it does not support it. Instead, you have to separately use a dual boot strategy or virtual machine software to activate the video editor on Mac devices, but the process for that is complex.

2. Is Wondershare Filmora or Vegas Pro better?

Wondershare Filmora and Vegas Pro are top-level options in video and audio editing projects with professional-level editing accuracy. However, Filmora has a cohesive ecosystem with rich AI and standard functions and comes with Mac/Windows support. So, in that sense, Filmora is comparatively a better choice.

Final Words

In place of Sony Vegas Pro, any of these options would also give you a great user experience. Out of them, Filmora is one that we will recommend due to its multi-faceted benefits and features for Mac and Windows users. Ultimately, make your decision based on your particular needs.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Top 10 Free Image Resources

10 Best Public Domain Image Websites

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Finding an image you like on the Internet doesn’t take long, since almost every website you can stumble upon, contains at least one picture. This doesn’t mean that you can just download any photo and use it in your blog, online marketing campaign or for any other purpose. Moreover, stock image websites like Getty Images or iStock let you purchase the right to use a photo commercially. As a reaction to an expanding stock image industry, many photographers, museums and cultural institutions are choosing to forfeit their rights and to publish public domain images. So, in this article, we are going to take you through the ten best public domain image websites where you can download pictures for free.

What Are Public Domain Images?

By definition, public domain images are photos, vectors or clip art that are available to anyone because their copyright has either expired or they never had a copyright owner. Consequently, anyone can use these images for both commercial or private projects without having to purchase the rights to do so. An image can enter a public domain under the following circumstances:

• Scientists, educators or artists can use the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license to dedicate their images to the public domain
• A picture’s copyright is no longer in effect
• A photo was never the subject to copyright

It is of utmost importance to check if an image is within the public domain before you use it publicly in order to avoid potential legal complications.

How and Where to Find Public Domain Images?

A simple google search will reveal hundreds of websites that let you download public domain and royalty-free images. Which source you’re going to use depends on the type of image you’re looking for, since some websites are dedicated only to photography, while others feature impressive collections of public domain images of artworks. In addition, you’ll only want to download public domain images from the websites that offer information about the author because using a public domain image without crediting its author is strictly prohibited.

Best Websites for Downloading Public Domain Images

We’ve searched the Internet and we utilized our results to compile a collection of the most reliable websites that grant its users access to vast numbers of public domain images. Let’s take a look at some of the best websites that let you download public domain images.

1. Pexels

Graphic designers and all other creatives in constant need of a fresh supply of public domain images don’t need a special introduction to Pexels. The stock image platform is dedicated to photography and video, so you can’t use it to search for vectors or clip art. Even so, you can use Pexles to search for public domain images based on a particular keyword or browse through its collection of free images and discover photos spontaneously. Clicking on the Popular Searches tab will enable you to see the images from Light, Nature or Animals and it will shorten the amount of time you have to spend looking for a photo you want to download.

Pros:

• Neatly organized website
• Free and easy sign-up
• Offers a huge selection of free public domain images and videos according to the CC0 license
• Hand-picked High quality Images

Cons:

• Some categories should contain more images
• Optimizing the search terms can be difficult

2. Pixabay

Besides offering an impressive collection of royalty-free photos, Pixabay also lets you search for public domain vectors, illustrations, and videos. The website hosts more than a million high-resolution photos and videos you can download for free. To make things even better, becoming a member of the Pixabay’s community and creating an account on this platform won’t take more than a few minutes of your time. Pixabay also offers advanced search tools that enable you to combine searches, search for the author of an image or group search terms. In addition, you can also browse through the photographers that contribute their images to the platform on a regular basis.

Pros:

• Powerful search tools and various filters
• Huge collection of public domain images

Cons

• Customer support could be better

3. Wikimedia Commons

This is probably the largest website on the Internet where you can download public domain images. There are more than 49 million images, illustrations, vector graphics and videos available that can be downloaded for free. Some media files on Wikimedia Commons have certain restrictions, but these restrictions are mostly related to image citations, which means that you can use them only if you credit the author. Such a huge selection of media files can be overwhelming for the newcomers to the Wikimedia Commons platform, but once you grow accustomed to the website’s interface discovering images becomes a straightforward process.

Pros:

• All images are available in high resolution
• Nearly all images can be used without any restrictions

Cons:

• Getting used to the website’s interface takes time
• The number of search results can be overwhelming

4. Flickr Commons

For more than a decade Flickr has been a popular online destination for photographers in need of a platform that enables them to present their work. The Flickr Commons is a project that unites more than a hundred institutions in an effort to create a library of public domain images. The project makes available a stunning amount of historical photographs and it grants you access to highly esteemed collections of photographs. Flick Commons is perfectly suited for researchers and scholars in need of public domain photos, they can use in their essays or research papers.

Pros:

• Unlimited access to historical photos
• Extends the knowledge available to the general public

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer videos or illustrations
• Search results are poorly organized

5. Unsplash

With a library that contains over 800,000 photos, Unsplash is easily one of the largest websites that offer public domain images. All pictures on this platform are organized into different categories, which makes finding a photo you want to use in a commercial or non-commercial project a relatively simple process. Alternatively, you can insert a keyword into a search bar and Unsplash will show you the results within seconds. However, the images you can find on this platform are similar to those you can purchase on stock photography websites, although some of them have an artistic touch that is hard to find on the majority of stock photos.

Pros:

• Excellent source of high-resolution photos
• Quick and easy search

Cons:

• Unsplash is dedicated solely to photography
• Limited amount of available public domain images

6. From Old Books

In case you are searching for images from old books you should look no further. This is a private collection of 2,600 images that are hard to find anywhere else on the Internet. You can browse through woodcuts, old texts or old holiday images, which makes this platform an excellent choice for anyone interested in rare images that were featured in old books. All pictures you can find on the From Old Books website are free to use on non-commercial projects, but you must pay a small fee if you want to download a high-resolution image you can use on a commercial project.

• Images are organized into categories
• Access to rare images

Cons

• Some images are not free
• Rudimentary website design

7. Morguefile

Morguefile is a website that offers stock footage to its users, but some of the images can’t be downloaded for free. That’s why you must click on the Free Photos tab before you start searching for public domain images on this website. The website hosts nearly 400.000 photos, videos, and vector graphics, but you must make sure that a file you want to download is within the public domain before you download it. The only downside is that the images aren’t organized into categories which can make finding the images you’re searching for more difficult than it needs to be.

Pros:

• Creating an account on Morguefile is free
• All free photos can be used on commercial projects

Cons:

• Images can be organized better
• Fewer free images than on other public domain image websites

8. Public Domain Archive

As the website’s name indicates, this is an archive of public domain images you can download for free and use in commercial contexts. All photos are organized into categories like abstract, free stock photos, people or wood which makes the search simpler. However, these categories don’t contain more than a few hundred photos and some of them offer as few as five pictures you can download. All photos are in high resolution and ready for professional use. The download process can be completed effortlessly in just a few quick steps. New images are added on a weekly basis.

Pros:

• Professional quality of images
• All images are free

Cons:

• A limited selection of photos
• Doesn’t offer vector graphics

9. NYPL Digital Gallery

NYPL Digital Gallery is an excellent resource for anyone who is not interested in stock photography. The New Your Public Library has made hundreds of thousands of historical images available to the public and you can use it to browse through items, collections or divisions. Before you enter a keyword you should click on the search only public domain materials tick box to ensure that the search results are going to display only images that can be used without restrictions. Additionally, the NYPL Digital Gallery lets you browse through its collection of digital books while its collections of photographs include the work of some of the highly esteemed American photographers.

Pros

• Public domain images are available in different resolutions
• Offers valuable research materials

Cons

• Some images are subject to copyright
• Only aimed at scholars and researchers

10. Viintage

Viintage is a gold mine for graphic designers as it grants them access to hundreds of vintage posters, book covers, and images. However, the amount of public domain images this website offers is limited and if you want to download the images from the collections of works created by famous artists from the late 19th and early 20th centuries you must purchase the premium version of Viintage. The website lacks some basic search options as it only allows you to type in the search term into the search bar. The images are not organized into categories which further complicates the process of finding a public domain image you’re looking for.

Pros:

• Offers a collection of rare vintage public domain images
• A great resource for graphic designers

Cons:

• Most images on Viintage can’t be downloaded for free
• Search tools are far from perfect

You may also like: Best Image Hosting Sites >>

How to Cite Public Domain Images Properly?

If you’re planning on using a public domain image in a blog or on your website, you must cite the source from which you acquired a particular image. The image citations should include the following information:

• The title of the image
• Author’s name
• Information about the institution at which an image is kept
• The source from which you acquired an image

In case you don’t have access to all of these information or if the information is simply not available you should include all details about a public domain image you have the access to. Furthermore, there are several styles of image citations that depend on the source from which an image was acquired.

Conclusion

Spending large sums of money on images you can use in commercial or private projects is not always necessary. The public domain images are widely available and they can be used in a broad range of contexts. Which website that lets you download public domain images do you like to use the most? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Dont worry when you forget the syntax of an HTML element, like and iframe, a link, a table, an image or anything else. Visit HTML CheatSheet and generate the code you need.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Finding an image you like on the Internet doesn’t take long, since almost every website you can stumble upon, contains at least one picture. This doesn’t mean that you can just download any photo and use it in your blog, online marketing campaign or for any other purpose. Moreover, stock image websites like Getty Images or iStock let you purchase the right to use a photo commercially. As a reaction to an expanding stock image industry, many photographers, museums and cultural institutions are choosing to forfeit their rights and to publish public domain images. So, in this article, we are going to take you through the ten best public domain image websites where you can download pictures for free.

What Are Public Domain Images?

By definition, public domain images are photos, vectors or clip art that are available to anyone because their copyright has either expired or they never had a copyright owner. Consequently, anyone can use these images for both commercial or private projects without having to purchase the rights to do so. An image can enter a public domain under the following circumstances:

• Scientists, educators or artists can use the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license to dedicate their images to the public domain
• A picture’s copyright is no longer in effect
• A photo was never the subject to copyright

It is of utmost importance to check if an image is within the public domain before you use it publicly in order to avoid potential legal complications.

How and Where to Find Public Domain Images?

A simple google search will reveal hundreds of websites that let you download public domain and royalty-free images. Which source you’re going to use depends on the type of image you’re looking for, since some websites are dedicated only to photography, while others feature impressive collections of public domain images of artworks. In addition, you’ll only want to download public domain images from the websites that offer information about the author because using a public domain image without crediting its author is strictly prohibited.

Best Websites for Downloading Public Domain Images

We’ve searched the Internet and we utilized our results to compile a collection of the most reliable websites that grant its users access to vast numbers of public domain images. Let’s take a look at some of the best websites that let you download public domain images.

1. Pexels

Graphic designers and all other creatives in constant need of a fresh supply of public domain images don’t need a special introduction to Pexels. The stock image platform is dedicated to photography and video, so you can’t use it to search for vectors or clip art. Even so, you can use Pexles to search for public domain images based on a particular keyword or browse through its collection of free images and discover photos spontaneously. Clicking on the Popular Searches tab will enable you to see the images from Light, Nature or Animals and it will shorten the amount of time you have to spend looking for a photo you want to download.

Pros:

• Neatly organized website
• Free and easy sign-up
• Offers a huge selection of free public domain images and videos according to the CC0 license
• Hand-picked High quality Images

Cons:

• Some categories should contain more images
• Optimizing the search terms can be difficult

2. Pixabay

Besides offering an impressive collection of royalty-free photos, Pixabay also lets you search for public domain vectors, illustrations, and videos. The website hosts more than a million high-resolution photos and videos you can download for free. To make things even better, becoming a member of the Pixabay’s community and creating an account on this platform won’t take more than a few minutes of your time. Pixabay also offers advanced search tools that enable you to combine searches, search for the author of an image or group search terms. In addition, you can also browse through the photographers that contribute their images to the platform on a regular basis.

Pros:

• Powerful search tools and various filters
• Huge collection of public domain images

Cons

• Customer support could be better

3. Wikimedia Commons

This is probably the largest website on the Internet where you can download public domain images. There are more than 49 million images, illustrations, vector graphics and videos available that can be downloaded for free. Some media files on Wikimedia Commons have certain restrictions, but these restrictions are mostly related to image citations, which means that you can use them only if you credit the author. Such a huge selection of media files can be overwhelming for the newcomers to the Wikimedia Commons platform, but once you grow accustomed to the website’s interface discovering images becomes a straightforward process.

Pros:

• All images are available in high resolution
• Nearly all images can be used without any restrictions

Cons:

• Getting used to the website’s interface takes time
• The number of search results can be overwhelming

4. Flickr Commons

For more than a decade Flickr has been a popular online destination for photographers in need of a platform that enables them to present their work. The Flickr Commons is a project that unites more than a hundred institutions in an effort to create a library of public domain images. The project makes available a stunning amount of historical photographs and it grants you access to highly esteemed collections of photographs. Flick Commons is perfectly suited for researchers and scholars in need of public domain photos, they can use in their essays or research papers.

Pros:

• Unlimited access to historical photos
• Extends the knowledge available to the general public

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer videos or illustrations
• Search results are poorly organized

5. Unsplash

With a library that contains over 800,000 photos, Unsplash is easily one of the largest websites that offer public domain images. All pictures on this platform are organized into different categories, which makes finding a photo you want to use in a commercial or non-commercial project a relatively simple process. Alternatively, you can insert a keyword into a search bar and Unsplash will show you the results within seconds. However, the images you can find on this platform are similar to those you can purchase on stock photography websites, although some of them have an artistic touch that is hard to find on the majority of stock photos.

Pros:

• Excellent source of high-resolution photos
• Quick and easy search

Cons:

• Unsplash is dedicated solely to photography
• Limited amount of available public domain images

6. From Old Books

In case you are searching for images from old books you should look no further. This is a private collection of 2,600 images that are hard to find anywhere else on the Internet. You can browse through woodcuts, old texts or old holiday images, which makes this platform an excellent choice for anyone interested in rare images that were featured in old books. All pictures you can find on the From Old Books website are free to use on non-commercial projects, but you must pay a small fee if you want to download a high-resolution image you can use on a commercial project.

• Images are organized into categories
• Access to rare images

Cons

• Some images are not free
• Rudimentary website design

7. Morguefile

Morguefile is a website that offers stock footage to its users, but some of the images can’t be downloaded for free. That’s why you must click on the Free Photos tab before you start searching for public domain images on this website. The website hosts nearly 400.000 photos, videos, and vector graphics, but you must make sure that a file you want to download is within the public domain before you download it. The only downside is that the images aren’t organized into categories which can make finding the images you’re searching for more difficult than it needs to be.

Pros:

• Creating an account on Morguefile is free
• All free photos can be used on commercial projects

Cons:

• Images can be organized better
• Fewer free images than on other public domain image websites

8. Public Domain Archive

As the website’s name indicates, this is an archive of public domain images you can download for free and use in commercial contexts. All photos are organized into categories like abstract, free stock photos, people or wood which makes the search simpler. However, these categories don’t contain more than a few hundred photos and some of them offer as few as five pictures you can download. All photos are in high resolution and ready for professional use. The download process can be completed effortlessly in just a few quick steps. New images are added on a weekly basis.

Pros:

• Professional quality of images
• All images are free

Cons:

• A limited selection of photos
• Doesn’t offer vector graphics

9. NYPL Digital Gallery

NYPL Digital Gallery is an excellent resource for anyone who is not interested in stock photography. The New Your Public Library has made hundreds of thousands of historical images available to the public and you can use it to browse through items, collections or divisions. Before you enter a keyword you should click on the search only public domain materials tick box to ensure that the search results are going to display only images that can be used without restrictions. Additionally, the NYPL Digital Gallery lets you browse through its collection of digital books while its collections of photographs include the work of some of the highly esteemed American photographers.

Pros

• Public domain images are available in different resolutions
• Offers valuable research materials

Cons

• Some images are subject to copyright
• Only aimed at scholars and researchers

10. Viintage

Viintage is a gold mine for graphic designers as it grants them access to hundreds of vintage posters, book covers, and images. However, the amount of public domain images this website offers is limited and if you want to download the images from the collections of works created by famous artists from the late 19th and early 20th centuries you must purchase the premium version of Viintage. The website lacks some basic search options as it only allows you to type in the search term into the search bar. The images are not organized into categories which further complicates the process of finding a public domain image you’re looking for.

Pros:

• Offers a collection of rare vintage public domain images
• A great resource for graphic designers

Cons:

• Most images on Viintage can’t be downloaded for free
• Search tools are far from perfect

You may also like: Best Image Hosting Sites >>

How to Cite Public Domain Images Properly?

If you’re planning on using a public domain image in a blog or on your website, you must cite the source from which you acquired a particular image. The image citations should include the following information:

• The title of the image
• Author’s name
• Information about the institution at which an image is kept
• The source from which you acquired an image

In case you don’t have access to all of these information or if the information is simply not available you should include all details about a public domain image you have the access to. Furthermore, there are several styles of image citations that depend on the source from which an image was acquired.

Conclusion

Spending large sums of money on images you can use in commercial or private projects is not always necessary. The public domain images are widely available and they can be used in a broad range of contexts. Which website that lets you download public domain images do you like to use the most? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Dont worry when you forget the syntax of an HTML element, like and iframe, a link, a table, an image or anything else. Visit HTML CheatSheet and generate the code you need.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Finding an image you like on the Internet doesn’t take long, since almost every website you can stumble upon, contains at least one picture. This doesn’t mean that you can just download any photo and use it in your blog, online marketing campaign or for any other purpose. Moreover, stock image websites like Getty Images or iStock let you purchase the right to use a photo commercially. As a reaction to an expanding stock image industry, many photographers, museums and cultural institutions are choosing to forfeit their rights and to publish public domain images. So, in this article, we are going to take you through the ten best public domain image websites where you can download pictures for free.

What Are Public Domain Images?

By definition, public domain images are photos, vectors or clip art that are available to anyone because their copyright has either expired or they never had a copyright owner. Consequently, anyone can use these images for both commercial or private projects without having to purchase the rights to do so. An image can enter a public domain under the following circumstances:

• Scientists, educators or artists can use the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license to dedicate their images to the public domain
• A picture’s copyright is no longer in effect
• A photo was never the subject to copyright

It is of utmost importance to check if an image is within the public domain before you use it publicly in order to avoid potential legal complications.

How and Where to Find Public Domain Images?

A simple google search will reveal hundreds of websites that let you download public domain and royalty-free images. Which source you’re going to use depends on the type of image you’re looking for, since some websites are dedicated only to photography, while others feature impressive collections of public domain images of artworks. In addition, you’ll only want to download public domain images from the websites that offer information about the author because using a public domain image without crediting its author is strictly prohibited.

Best Websites for Downloading Public Domain Images

We’ve searched the Internet and we utilized our results to compile a collection of the most reliable websites that grant its users access to vast numbers of public domain images. Let’s take a look at some of the best websites that let you download public domain images.

1. Pexels

Graphic designers and all other creatives in constant need of a fresh supply of public domain images don’t need a special introduction to Pexels. The stock image platform is dedicated to photography and video, so you can’t use it to search for vectors or clip art. Even so, you can use Pexles to search for public domain images based on a particular keyword or browse through its collection of free images and discover photos spontaneously. Clicking on the Popular Searches tab will enable you to see the images from Light, Nature or Animals and it will shorten the amount of time you have to spend looking for a photo you want to download.

Pros:

• Neatly organized website
• Free and easy sign-up
• Offers a huge selection of free public domain images and videos according to the CC0 license
• Hand-picked High quality Images

Cons:

• Some categories should contain more images
• Optimizing the search terms can be difficult

2. Pixabay

Besides offering an impressive collection of royalty-free photos, Pixabay also lets you search for public domain vectors, illustrations, and videos. The website hosts more than a million high-resolution photos and videos you can download for free. To make things even better, becoming a member of the Pixabay’s community and creating an account on this platform won’t take more than a few minutes of your time. Pixabay also offers advanced search tools that enable you to combine searches, search for the author of an image or group search terms. In addition, you can also browse through the photographers that contribute their images to the platform on a regular basis.

Pros:

• Powerful search tools and various filters
• Huge collection of public domain images

Cons

• Customer support could be better

3. Wikimedia Commons

This is probably the largest website on the Internet where you can download public domain images. There are more than 49 million images, illustrations, vector graphics and videos available that can be downloaded for free. Some media files on Wikimedia Commons have certain restrictions, but these restrictions are mostly related to image citations, which means that you can use them only if you credit the author. Such a huge selection of media files can be overwhelming for the newcomers to the Wikimedia Commons platform, but once you grow accustomed to the website’s interface discovering images becomes a straightforward process.

Pros:

• All images are available in high resolution
• Nearly all images can be used without any restrictions

Cons:

• Getting used to the website’s interface takes time
• The number of search results can be overwhelming

4. Flickr Commons

For more than a decade Flickr has been a popular online destination for photographers in need of a platform that enables them to present their work. The Flickr Commons is a project that unites more than a hundred institutions in an effort to create a library of public domain images. The project makes available a stunning amount of historical photographs and it grants you access to highly esteemed collections of photographs. Flick Commons is perfectly suited for researchers and scholars in need of public domain photos, they can use in their essays or research papers.

Pros:

• Unlimited access to historical photos
• Extends the knowledge available to the general public

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer videos or illustrations
• Search results are poorly organized

5. Unsplash

With a library that contains over 800,000 photos, Unsplash is easily one of the largest websites that offer public domain images. All pictures on this platform are organized into different categories, which makes finding a photo you want to use in a commercial or non-commercial project a relatively simple process. Alternatively, you can insert a keyword into a search bar and Unsplash will show you the results within seconds. However, the images you can find on this platform are similar to those you can purchase on stock photography websites, although some of them have an artistic touch that is hard to find on the majority of stock photos.

Pros:

• Excellent source of high-resolution photos
• Quick and easy search

Cons:

• Unsplash is dedicated solely to photography
• Limited amount of available public domain images

6. From Old Books

In case you are searching for images from old books you should look no further. This is a private collection of 2,600 images that are hard to find anywhere else on the Internet. You can browse through woodcuts, old texts or old holiday images, which makes this platform an excellent choice for anyone interested in rare images that were featured in old books. All pictures you can find on the From Old Books website are free to use on non-commercial projects, but you must pay a small fee if you want to download a high-resolution image you can use on a commercial project.

• Images are organized into categories
• Access to rare images

Cons

• Some images are not free
• Rudimentary website design

7. Morguefile

Morguefile is a website that offers stock footage to its users, but some of the images can’t be downloaded for free. That’s why you must click on the Free Photos tab before you start searching for public domain images on this website. The website hosts nearly 400.000 photos, videos, and vector graphics, but you must make sure that a file you want to download is within the public domain before you download it. The only downside is that the images aren’t organized into categories which can make finding the images you’re searching for more difficult than it needs to be.

Pros:

• Creating an account on Morguefile is free
• All free photos can be used on commercial projects

Cons:

• Images can be organized better
• Fewer free images than on other public domain image websites

8. Public Domain Archive

As the website’s name indicates, this is an archive of public domain images you can download for free and use in commercial contexts. All photos are organized into categories like abstract, free stock photos, people or wood which makes the search simpler. However, these categories don’t contain more than a few hundred photos and some of them offer as few as five pictures you can download. All photos are in high resolution and ready for professional use. The download process can be completed effortlessly in just a few quick steps. New images are added on a weekly basis.

Pros:

• Professional quality of images
• All images are free

Cons:

• A limited selection of photos
• Doesn’t offer vector graphics

9. NYPL Digital Gallery

NYPL Digital Gallery is an excellent resource for anyone who is not interested in stock photography. The New Your Public Library has made hundreds of thousands of historical images available to the public and you can use it to browse through items, collections or divisions. Before you enter a keyword you should click on the search only public domain materials tick box to ensure that the search results are going to display only images that can be used without restrictions. Additionally, the NYPL Digital Gallery lets you browse through its collection of digital books while its collections of photographs include the work of some of the highly esteemed American photographers.

Pros

• Public domain images are available in different resolutions
• Offers valuable research materials

Cons

• Some images are subject to copyright
• Only aimed at scholars and researchers

10. Viintage

Viintage is a gold mine for graphic designers as it grants them access to hundreds of vintage posters, book covers, and images. However, the amount of public domain images this website offers is limited and if you want to download the images from the collections of works created by famous artists from the late 19th and early 20th centuries you must purchase the premium version of Viintage. The website lacks some basic search options as it only allows you to type in the search term into the search bar. The images are not organized into categories which further complicates the process of finding a public domain image you’re looking for.

Pros:

• Offers a collection of rare vintage public domain images
• A great resource for graphic designers

Cons:

• Most images on Viintage can’t be downloaded for free
• Search tools are far from perfect

You may also like: Best Image Hosting Sites >>

How to Cite Public Domain Images Properly?

If you’re planning on using a public domain image in a blog or on your website, you must cite the source from which you acquired a particular image. The image citations should include the following information:

• The title of the image
• Author’s name
• Information about the institution at which an image is kept
• The source from which you acquired an image

In case you don’t have access to all of these information or if the information is simply not available you should include all details about a public domain image you have the access to. Furthermore, there are several styles of image citations that depend on the source from which an image was acquired.

Conclusion

Spending large sums of money on images you can use in commercial or private projects is not always necessary. The public domain images are widely available and they can be used in a broad range of contexts. Which website that lets you download public domain images do you like to use the most? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Dont worry when you forget the syntax of an HTML element, like and iframe, a link, a table, an image or anything else. Visit HTML CheatSheet and generate the code you need.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Finding an image you like on the Internet doesn’t take long, since almost every website you can stumble upon, contains at least one picture. This doesn’t mean that you can just download any photo and use it in your blog, online marketing campaign or for any other purpose. Moreover, stock image websites like Getty Images or iStock let you purchase the right to use a photo commercially. As a reaction to an expanding stock image industry, many photographers, museums and cultural institutions are choosing to forfeit their rights and to publish public domain images. So, in this article, we are going to take you through the ten best public domain image websites where you can download pictures for free.

What Are Public Domain Images?

By definition, public domain images are photos, vectors or clip art that are available to anyone because their copyright has either expired or they never had a copyright owner. Consequently, anyone can use these images for both commercial or private projects without having to purchase the rights to do so. An image can enter a public domain under the following circumstances:

• Scientists, educators or artists can use the Creative Commons Zero (CC0) license to dedicate their images to the public domain
• A picture’s copyright is no longer in effect
• A photo was never the subject to copyright

It is of utmost importance to check if an image is within the public domain before you use it publicly in order to avoid potential legal complications.

How and Where to Find Public Domain Images?

A simple google search will reveal hundreds of websites that let you download public domain and royalty-free images. Which source you’re going to use depends on the type of image you’re looking for, since some websites are dedicated only to photography, while others feature impressive collections of public domain images of artworks. In addition, you’ll only want to download public domain images from the websites that offer information about the author because using a public domain image without crediting its author is strictly prohibited.

Best Websites for Downloading Public Domain Images

We’ve searched the Internet and we utilized our results to compile a collection of the most reliable websites that grant its users access to vast numbers of public domain images. Let’s take a look at some of the best websites that let you download public domain images.

1. Pexels

Graphic designers and all other creatives in constant need of a fresh supply of public domain images don’t need a special introduction to Pexels. The stock image platform is dedicated to photography and video, so you can’t use it to search for vectors or clip art. Even so, you can use Pexles to search for public domain images based on a particular keyword or browse through its collection of free images and discover photos spontaneously. Clicking on the Popular Searches tab will enable you to see the images from Light, Nature or Animals and it will shorten the amount of time you have to spend looking for a photo you want to download.

Pros:

• Neatly organized website
• Free and easy sign-up
• Offers a huge selection of free public domain images and videos according to the CC0 license
• Hand-picked High quality Images

Cons:

• Some categories should contain more images
• Optimizing the search terms can be difficult

2. Pixabay

Besides offering an impressive collection of royalty-free photos, Pixabay also lets you search for public domain vectors, illustrations, and videos. The website hosts more than a million high-resolution photos and videos you can download for free. To make things even better, becoming a member of the Pixabay’s community and creating an account on this platform won’t take more than a few minutes of your time. Pixabay also offers advanced search tools that enable you to combine searches, search for the author of an image or group search terms. In addition, you can also browse through the photographers that contribute their images to the platform on a regular basis.

Pros:

• Powerful search tools and various filters
• Huge collection of public domain images

Cons

• Customer support could be better

3. Wikimedia Commons

This is probably the largest website on the Internet where you can download public domain images. There are more than 49 million images, illustrations, vector graphics and videos available that can be downloaded for free. Some media files on Wikimedia Commons have certain restrictions, but these restrictions are mostly related to image citations, which means that you can use them only if you credit the author. Such a huge selection of media files can be overwhelming for the newcomers to the Wikimedia Commons platform, but once you grow accustomed to the website’s interface discovering images becomes a straightforward process.

Pros:

• All images are available in high resolution
• Nearly all images can be used without any restrictions

Cons:

• Getting used to the website’s interface takes time
• The number of search results can be overwhelming

4. Flickr Commons

For more than a decade Flickr has been a popular online destination for photographers in need of a platform that enables them to present their work. The Flickr Commons is a project that unites more than a hundred institutions in an effort to create a library of public domain images. The project makes available a stunning amount of historical photographs and it grants you access to highly esteemed collections of photographs. Flick Commons is perfectly suited for researchers and scholars in need of public domain photos, they can use in their essays or research papers.

Pros:

• Unlimited access to historical photos
• Extends the knowledge available to the general public

Cons:

• Doesn’t offer videos or illustrations
• Search results are poorly organized

5. Unsplash

With a library that contains over 800,000 photos, Unsplash is easily one of the largest websites that offer public domain images. All pictures on this platform are organized into different categories, which makes finding a photo you want to use in a commercial or non-commercial project a relatively simple process. Alternatively, you can insert a keyword into a search bar and Unsplash will show you the results within seconds. However, the images you can find on this platform are similar to those you can purchase on stock photography websites, although some of them have an artistic touch that is hard to find on the majority of stock photos.

Pros:

• Excellent source of high-resolution photos
• Quick and easy search

Cons:

• Unsplash is dedicated solely to photography
• Limited amount of available public domain images

6. From Old Books

In case you are searching for images from old books you should look no further. This is a private collection of 2,600 images that are hard to find anywhere else on the Internet. You can browse through woodcuts, old texts or old holiday images, which makes this platform an excellent choice for anyone interested in rare images that were featured in old books. All pictures you can find on the From Old Books website are free to use on non-commercial projects, but you must pay a small fee if you want to download a high-resolution image you can use on a commercial project.

• Images are organized into categories
• Access to rare images

Cons

• Some images are not free
• Rudimentary website design

7. Morguefile

Morguefile is a website that offers stock footage to its users, but some of the images can’t be downloaded for free. That’s why you must click on the Free Photos tab before you start searching for public domain images on this website. The website hosts nearly 400.000 photos, videos, and vector graphics, but you must make sure that a file you want to download is within the public domain before you download it. The only downside is that the images aren’t organized into categories which can make finding the images you’re searching for more difficult than it needs to be.

Pros:

• Creating an account on Morguefile is free
• All free photos can be used on commercial projects

Cons:

• Images can be organized better
• Fewer free images than on other public domain image websites

8. Public Domain Archive

As the website’s name indicates, this is an archive of public domain images you can download for free and use in commercial contexts. All photos are organized into categories like abstract, free stock photos, people or wood which makes the search simpler. However, these categories don’t contain more than a few hundred photos and some of them offer as few as five pictures you can download. All photos are in high resolution and ready for professional use. The download process can be completed effortlessly in just a few quick steps. New images are added on a weekly basis.

Pros:

• Professional quality of images
• All images are free

Cons:

• A limited selection of photos
• Doesn’t offer vector graphics

9. NYPL Digital Gallery

NYPL Digital Gallery is an excellent resource for anyone who is not interested in stock photography. The New Your Public Library has made hundreds of thousands of historical images available to the public and you can use it to browse through items, collections or divisions. Before you enter a keyword you should click on the search only public domain materials tick box to ensure that the search results are going to display only images that can be used without restrictions. Additionally, the NYPL Digital Gallery lets you browse through its collection of digital books while its collections of photographs include the work of some of the highly esteemed American photographers.

Pros

• Public domain images are available in different resolutions
• Offers valuable research materials

Cons

• Some images are subject to copyright
• Only aimed at scholars and researchers

10. Viintage

Viintage is a gold mine for graphic designers as it grants them access to hundreds of vintage posters, book covers, and images. However, the amount of public domain images this website offers is limited and if you want to download the images from the collections of works created by famous artists from the late 19th and early 20th centuries you must purchase the premium version of Viintage. The website lacks some basic search options as it only allows you to type in the search term into the search bar. The images are not organized into categories which further complicates the process of finding a public domain image you’re looking for.

Pros:

• Offers a collection of rare vintage public domain images
• A great resource for graphic designers

Cons:

• Most images on Viintage can’t be downloaded for free
• Search tools are far from perfect

You may also like: Best Image Hosting Sites >>

How to Cite Public Domain Images Properly?

If you’re planning on using a public domain image in a blog or on your website, you must cite the source from which you acquired a particular image. The image citations should include the following information:

• The title of the image
• Author’s name
• Information about the institution at which an image is kept
• The source from which you acquired an image

In case you don’t have access to all of these information or if the information is simply not available you should include all details about a public domain image you have the access to. Furthermore, there are several styles of image citations that depend on the source from which an image was acquired.

Conclusion

Spending large sums of money on images you can use in commercial or private projects is not always necessary. The public domain images are widely available and they can be used in a broad range of contexts. Which website that lets you download public domain images do you like to use the most? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Dont worry when you forget the syntax of an HTML element, like and iframe, a link, a table, an image or anything else. Visit HTML CheatSheet and generate the code you need.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

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