Move On From WMM: 13 Impressive Video Editing 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

Discover the Best Public Domain Video Libraries Online

Best Websites to Download Public Domain Videos

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

In historic terms, cinema is still a relatively new art, and yet the amount of footage that has been filmed since the Lumière brothers released their first film is staggering. Capturing unique materials that were never seen by the world before has become the question of prestige among the filmmakers. Nonetheless, certain genres of film are almost entirely dependent on the public domain footage. Documentaries about historic events, space or any other topic that is impossible to stage rely on the videos that entered the public domain for one reason or the other. That’s why in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best websites that let you download public domain videos.

What is Public Domain Video?

Any video that is not subject to copyright can be considered a public domain video. This means that anyone can use this footage for free without having to ask for permission to do so. Videos can enter the public domain under the following circumstances:

• If the footage was produced by a government because governments are obligated by the law to offer the footage to the public domain.
• In case the author of the footage has forfeited his or her copyrights and dedicated the footage to the public domain
• A film or any other work of art becomes public domain 70 years after the death of the copyright holder. The expiration date of the copyrights is not the same in all the countries around the world, which is why you must make sure that the video you want to use is, in fact, a public domain video.

In addition, you should avoid using the footage that contains art or music that can be described as third-party intellectual property because you may unintentionally infringe copyrights.

Best Online Websites Where You Can Download Public Domain Videos

Finding free public domain footage or public movies on the Internet has never been too difficult, as you can watch thousands of public domain movies on YouTube, but you cannot download them. Over the course of the last couple of decades, the websites where you can download public domain footage have grown in number, which makes it somewhat easier to find the video clips you can use in your projects for free. Here are some of the best online destinations where you can download public domain videos.

1. Prelinger Archive

With more than 17,000 items in the collection, the Prelinger Archive is probably one of the largest public domain video libraries on the Internet. The archive was founded in 1983 by Rick Prelinger, but by 2002 it became a part of the Library of Congress Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Divison’s collection. You can download public domain video clips created by educational institutions, advertising companies, trade associations or corporations from this impressive collection. There are different download options available for each file, so you can choose the size of a file and the method you’re going to use to download a file to your computer.

2. The Public Domain Review

This is an excellent resource for researchers looking for essays, books, audio recordings, images or old films. The movies are divided into different categories such as Animals&Beasts, Politics, War or Sports which makes locating and downloading public domain videos faster and easier. The Public Domain Review offers footage that is available within different public domain licenses, so you must make sure that the film you want to download can be used for the purpose you have in mind. The vast majority of the films in this archive are from the last decade of the 19th and the first half of the 20th century. That’s why The Public Domain Review’s selection of films can only be useful if you are researching a topic from that era.

3. The National Screening Room

The National Screening Room is a project created by the Library of Congress National Audio-Visual Conservation Center with the aim of making the videos from their collection available to the viewers around the world. The vast majority of the videos in the collection were filmed during the 20th century, but there are only a few videos available that are produced outside of the United States. The National Screening Room can be a valuable asset if you are looking for videos you can use for educational or research videos that cover topics that range from the development of the arms industry to the daily life of great American inventors.

4. Pond5’s Public Domain Project

Industry professionals don’t need an introduction to the Pond5 platform, because it is probably the largest online marketplace for royalty-free media at the moment. Their Public Domain Project contains a thousand public videos that can be downloaded for free, but the duration of these videos is limited to just two minutes To make things worse, most of these public domain videos don’t have audio, so you can only use them if you already have a soundtrack for the video you’re making. The platform offers powerful search tools that enable you to look for videos based on different parameters. You can download public domain videos in HD resolution, but you must create an account on Pond5 before you can save them to your computer.

5. Pexels

Free public domain stock footage can be used on different types of projects, and it is usually a great choice if you’re looking for some extra shots that will make a scene in your video more cinematic. Pexels offers an impressive collection of free public domain stock videos, so you just have to insert a search term and pick a video clip that best fits your needs. The duration of the free videos you can find on Pexels rarely exceeds thirty seconds, which makes it difficult to make an entire video exclusively from free public domain stock footage. Hence it is better to use Pexels as a complementary source of shots in case you can’t go back to the filming location.

6. Vidsplay

All video clips you can find on this platform are free, so you just have to select one of the categories and start browsing through the available public domain stock footage. The only condition to use the stock footage on private or commercial projects for free is to credit the Vidsplay platform in the end credits, on the website or in the description of the videos you upload to your social media channels. All stock videos on Vidsplay are available in HD or 4K resolution, and you simply have to click on the Download button below a particular video to save it.

7. The Moving Image Archive

This is yet another archive of public domain videos you can find on the Arhive.org that features countless collections of texts, images, and videos. Within the Moving Image Archive, you can find different collections that contain full feature movies, art videos, animations, cartoons or television footage. The public domain videos hosted on The Moving Image Archive cover a broad range of topics, but some of them can be in poor resolution. The Moving Image Archive can be an excellent source of footage for anyone who wants to download public domain video clips and use them in their commercial or non-commercial projects.

8. PublicDomainFootage

BBC, National Geographics or NBC are just a few among many famous television networks that use the services of PublicDomainFootage. All content on the platform is divided into Archival Footage and Historic Newsreels sections that contain categories like Atomic Age, Civil Rights or Pop Culture. You can also use PublicDomainFootage to research a particular topic and request content that is not uploaded to the website. You can download a public domain video after you pay a one time fee that enables you to use that video as many times as you want. The platform’s YouTube channel provides an easy way of searching for public domain videos you are going to use in your next documentary film.

9. NASA’s Video Gallery

Space exploration is undoubtedly one of the hottest topics of our era, so if you are looking for some space public domain videos NASA’s website is the best place to start. Like all other government institutions, NASA is obligated by the law to offer all images and videos to the public domain. This means that all content you download from their website is free to use. Simply insert the search term and browse the results until you find the video clip you want to save to your computer. However, most public domain videos you can download from NASA’s website last only a couple of minutes.

10. Motion Elements

The collection of free public domain stock footage, this website offers contains more than 4,000 clips. Categories like Cityscape, Animals or Water contain hundreds of stock videos, so you just have to open one of the available categories and locate the video clip you want to download. However, you must first create an account on Motion Elements before you can save video files to your computer. In addition, the platform doesn’t allow you to make more than five downloads per week and you must invite your friends to join the platform if you want to increase the weekly number of downloads. Even so, Motion Elements is a great source of stock footage you can use without any restrictions.

Is It Okay to Use Public Domain Videos for Commercial Purposes?

All public domain videos can be used for both commercial and non-commercial projects, but you must approach using public domain videos for commercial purposes with caution. Crediting the author or providing the source from which you acquired the footage will reduce the likelihood of legal complications. The public domain videos that feature famous actors or third party intellectual property can also be a subject of legal disputes, which is why it is better to avoid using them on commercial projects.

What Should You Do If You Can’t Find Public Domain Footage for Your Project?

Opting for videos that are protected by the Creative Commons licenses is probably the safest option if you’re struggling to find the public domain footage you’d like to use in your project. Respecting the terms of the license under which a video is protected is of utmost importance, since failing to properly credit the author of the video, for instance, can have legal consequences. There are several different types of Creative Commons licenses and you must find out which one covers the video you’d like to use, before publishing your video. You can find more information about Creative Commons licenses at the FAQ .

Conclusion

Public domain videos cover very different topics, which means that the nature of your project determines the source from which you’ll acquire the footage. If you are researching the early days of cinema, then you’ll have no trouble downloading the public domain videos, but if the topic you’re exploring is more contemporary, finding the content you can use without any restrictions can prove to be troublesome. Which website do you like to use the most to download public domain videos? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Liza Brown

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

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

In historic terms, cinema is still a relatively new art, and yet the amount of footage that has been filmed since the Lumière brothers released their first film is staggering. Capturing unique materials that were never seen by the world before has become the question of prestige among the filmmakers. Nonetheless, certain genres of film are almost entirely dependent on the public domain footage. Documentaries about historic events, space or any other topic that is impossible to stage rely on the videos that entered the public domain for one reason or the other. That’s why in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best websites that let you download public domain videos.

What is Public Domain Video?

Any video that is not subject to copyright can be considered a public domain video. This means that anyone can use this footage for free without having to ask for permission to do so. Videos can enter the public domain under the following circumstances:

• If the footage was produced by a government because governments are obligated by the law to offer the footage to the public domain.
• In case the author of the footage has forfeited his or her copyrights and dedicated the footage to the public domain
• A film or any other work of art becomes public domain 70 years after the death of the copyright holder. The expiration date of the copyrights is not the same in all the countries around the world, which is why you must make sure that the video you want to use is, in fact, a public domain video.

In addition, you should avoid using the footage that contains art or music that can be described as third-party intellectual property because you may unintentionally infringe copyrights.

Best Online Websites Where You Can Download Public Domain Videos

Finding free public domain footage or public movies on the Internet has never been too difficult, as you can watch thousands of public domain movies on YouTube, but you cannot download them. Over the course of the last couple of decades, the websites where you can download public domain footage have grown in number, which makes it somewhat easier to find the video clips you can use in your projects for free. Here are some of the best online destinations where you can download public domain videos.

1. Prelinger Archive

With more than 17,000 items in the collection, the Prelinger Archive is probably one of the largest public domain video libraries on the Internet. The archive was founded in 1983 by Rick Prelinger, but by 2002 it became a part of the Library of Congress Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Divison’s collection. You can download public domain video clips created by educational institutions, advertising companies, trade associations or corporations from this impressive collection. There are different download options available for each file, so you can choose the size of a file and the method you’re going to use to download a file to your computer.

2. The Public Domain Review

This is an excellent resource for researchers looking for essays, books, audio recordings, images or old films. The movies are divided into different categories such as Animals&Beasts, Politics, War or Sports which makes locating and downloading public domain videos faster and easier. The Public Domain Review offers footage that is available within different public domain licenses, so you must make sure that the film you want to download can be used for the purpose you have in mind. The vast majority of the films in this archive are from the last decade of the 19th and the first half of the 20th century. That’s why The Public Domain Review’s selection of films can only be useful if you are researching a topic from that era.

3. The National Screening Room

The National Screening Room is a project created by the Library of Congress National Audio-Visual Conservation Center with the aim of making the videos from their collection available to the viewers around the world. The vast majority of the videos in the collection were filmed during the 20th century, but there are only a few videos available that are produced outside of the United States. The National Screening Room can be a valuable asset if you are looking for videos you can use for educational or research videos that cover topics that range from the development of the arms industry to the daily life of great American inventors.

4. Pond5’s Public Domain Project

Industry professionals don’t need an introduction to the Pond5 platform, because it is probably the largest online marketplace for royalty-free media at the moment. Their Public Domain Project contains a thousand public videos that can be downloaded for free, but the duration of these videos is limited to just two minutes To make things worse, most of these public domain videos don’t have audio, so you can only use them if you already have a soundtrack for the video you’re making. The platform offers powerful search tools that enable you to look for videos based on different parameters. You can download public domain videos in HD resolution, but you must create an account on Pond5 before you can save them to your computer.

5. Pexels

Free public domain stock footage can be used on different types of projects, and it is usually a great choice if you’re looking for some extra shots that will make a scene in your video more cinematic. Pexels offers an impressive collection of free public domain stock videos, so you just have to insert a search term and pick a video clip that best fits your needs. The duration of the free videos you can find on Pexels rarely exceeds thirty seconds, which makes it difficult to make an entire video exclusively from free public domain stock footage. Hence it is better to use Pexels as a complementary source of shots in case you can’t go back to the filming location.

6. Vidsplay

All video clips you can find on this platform are free, so you just have to select one of the categories and start browsing through the available public domain stock footage. The only condition to use the stock footage on private or commercial projects for free is to credit the Vidsplay platform in the end credits, on the website or in the description of the videos you upload to your social media channels. All stock videos on Vidsplay are available in HD or 4K resolution, and you simply have to click on the Download button below a particular video to save it.

7. The Moving Image Archive

This is yet another archive of public domain videos you can find on the Arhive.org that features countless collections of texts, images, and videos. Within the Moving Image Archive, you can find different collections that contain full feature movies, art videos, animations, cartoons or television footage. The public domain videos hosted on The Moving Image Archive cover a broad range of topics, but some of them can be in poor resolution. The Moving Image Archive can be an excellent source of footage for anyone who wants to download public domain video clips and use them in their commercial or non-commercial projects.

8. PublicDomainFootage

BBC, National Geographics or NBC are just a few among many famous television networks that use the services of PublicDomainFootage. All content on the platform is divided into Archival Footage and Historic Newsreels sections that contain categories like Atomic Age, Civil Rights or Pop Culture. You can also use PublicDomainFootage to research a particular topic and request content that is not uploaded to the website. You can download a public domain video after you pay a one time fee that enables you to use that video as many times as you want. The platform’s YouTube channel provides an easy way of searching for public domain videos you are going to use in your next documentary film.

9. NASA’s Video Gallery

Space exploration is undoubtedly one of the hottest topics of our era, so if you are looking for some space public domain videos NASA’s website is the best place to start. Like all other government institutions, NASA is obligated by the law to offer all images and videos to the public domain. This means that all content you download from their website is free to use. Simply insert the search term and browse the results until you find the video clip you want to save to your computer. However, most public domain videos you can download from NASA’s website last only a couple of minutes.

10. Motion Elements

The collection of free public domain stock footage, this website offers contains more than 4,000 clips. Categories like Cityscape, Animals or Water contain hundreds of stock videos, so you just have to open one of the available categories and locate the video clip you want to download. However, you must first create an account on Motion Elements before you can save video files to your computer. In addition, the platform doesn’t allow you to make more than five downloads per week and you must invite your friends to join the platform if you want to increase the weekly number of downloads. Even so, Motion Elements is a great source of stock footage you can use without any restrictions.

Is It Okay to Use Public Domain Videos for Commercial Purposes?

All public domain videos can be used for both commercial and non-commercial projects, but you must approach using public domain videos for commercial purposes with caution. Crediting the author or providing the source from which you acquired the footage will reduce the likelihood of legal complications. The public domain videos that feature famous actors or third party intellectual property can also be a subject of legal disputes, which is why it is better to avoid using them on commercial projects.

What Should You Do If You Can’t Find Public Domain Footage for Your Project?

Opting for videos that are protected by the Creative Commons licenses is probably the safest option if you’re struggling to find the public domain footage you’d like to use in your project. Respecting the terms of the license under which a video is protected is of utmost importance, since failing to properly credit the author of the video, for instance, can have legal consequences. There are several different types of Creative Commons licenses and you must find out which one covers the video you’d like to use, before publishing your video. You can find more information about Creative Commons licenses at the FAQ .

Conclusion

Public domain videos cover very different topics, which means that the nature of your project determines the source from which you’ll acquire the footage. If you are researching the early days of cinema, then you’ll have no trouble downloading the public domain videos, but if the topic you’re exploring is more contemporary, finding the content you can use without any restrictions can prove to be troublesome. Which website do you like to use the most to download public domain videos? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Liza Brown

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

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

In historic terms, cinema is still a relatively new art, and yet the amount of footage that has been filmed since the Lumière brothers released their first film is staggering. Capturing unique materials that were never seen by the world before has become the question of prestige among the filmmakers. Nonetheless, certain genres of film are almost entirely dependent on the public domain footage. Documentaries about historic events, space or any other topic that is impossible to stage rely on the videos that entered the public domain for one reason or the other. That’s why in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best websites that let you download public domain videos.

What is Public Domain Video?

Any video that is not subject to copyright can be considered a public domain video. This means that anyone can use this footage for free without having to ask for permission to do so. Videos can enter the public domain under the following circumstances:

• If the footage was produced by a government because governments are obligated by the law to offer the footage to the public domain.
• In case the author of the footage has forfeited his or her copyrights and dedicated the footage to the public domain
• A film or any other work of art becomes public domain 70 years after the death of the copyright holder. The expiration date of the copyrights is not the same in all the countries around the world, which is why you must make sure that the video you want to use is, in fact, a public domain video.

In addition, you should avoid using the footage that contains art or music that can be described as third-party intellectual property because you may unintentionally infringe copyrights.

Best Online Websites Where You Can Download Public Domain Videos

Finding free public domain footage or public movies on the Internet has never been too difficult, as you can watch thousands of public domain movies on YouTube, but you cannot download them. Over the course of the last couple of decades, the websites where you can download public domain footage have grown in number, which makes it somewhat easier to find the video clips you can use in your projects for free. Here are some of the best online destinations where you can download public domain videos.

1. Prelinger Archive

With more than 17,000 items in the collection, the Prelinger Archive is probably one of the largest public domain video libraries on the Internet. The archive was founded in 1983 by Rick Prelinger, but by 2002 it became a part of the Library of Congress Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Divison’s collection. You can download public domain video clips created by educational institutions, advertising companies, trade associations or corporations from this impressive collection. There are different download options available for each file, so you can choose the size of a file and the method you’re going to use to download a file to your computer.

2. The Public Domain Review

This is an excellent resource for researchers looking for essays, books, audio recordings, images or old films. The movies are divided into different categories such as Animals&Beasts, Politics, War or Sports which makes locating and downloading public domain videos faster and easier. The Public Domain Review offers footage that is available within different public domain licenses, so you must make sure that the film you want to download can be used for the purpose you have in mind. The vast majority of the films in this archive are from the last decade of the 19th and the first half of the 20th century. That’s why The Public Domain Review’s selection of films can only be useful if you are researching a topic from that era.

3. The National Screening Room

The National Screening Room is a project created by the Library of Congress National Audio-Visual Conservation Center with the aim of making the videos from their collection available to the viewers around the world. The vast majority of the videos in the collection were filmed during the 20th century, but there are only a few videos available that are produced outside of the United States. The National Screening Room can be a valuable asset if you are looking for videos you can use for educational or research videos that cover topics that range from the development of the arms industry to the daily life of great American inventors.

4. Pond5’s Public Domain Project

Industry professionals don’t need an introduction to the Pond5 platform, because it is probably the largest online marketplace for royalty-free media at the moment. Their Public Domain Project contains a thousand public videos that can be downloaded for free, but the duration of these videos is limited to just two minutes To make things worse, most of these public domain videos don’t have audio, so you can only use them if you already have a soundtrack for the video you’re making. The platform offers powerful search tools that enable you to look for videos based on different parameters. You can download public domain videos in HD resolution, but you must create an account on Pond5 before you can save them to your computer.

5. Pexels

Free public domain stock footage can be used on different types of projects, and it is usually a great choice if you’re looking for some extra shots that will make a scene in your video more cinematic. Pexels offers an impressive collection of free public domain stock videos, so you just have to insert a search term and pick a video clip that best fits your needs. The duration of the free videos you can find on Pexels rarely exceeds thirty seconds, which makes it difficult to make an entire video exclusively from free public domain stock footage. Hence it is better to use Pexels as a complementary source of shots in case you can’t go back to the filming location.

6. Vidsplay

All video clips you can find on this platform are free, so you just have to select one of the categories and start browsing through the available public domain stock footage. The only condition to use the stock footage on private or commercial projects for free is to credit the Vidsplay platform in the end credits, on the website or in the description of the videos you upload to your social media channels. All stock videos on Vidsplay are available in HD or 4K resolution, and you simply have to click on the Download button below a particular video to save it.

7. The Moving Image Archive

This is yet another archive of public domain videos you can find on the Arhive.org that features countless collections of texts, images, and videos. Within the Moving Image Archive, you can find different collections that contain full feature movies, art videos, animations, cartoons or television footage. The public domain videos hosted on The Moving Image Archive cover a broad range of topics, but some of them can be in poor resolution. The Moving Image Archive can be an excellent source of footage for anyone who wants to download public domain video clips and use them in their commercial or non-commercial projects.

8. PublicDomainFootage

BBC, National Geographics or NBC are just a few among many famous television networks that use the services of PublicDomainFootage. All content on the platform is divided into Archival Footage and Historic Newsreels sections that contain categories like Atomic Age, Civil Rights or Pop Culture. You can also use PublicDomainFootage to research a particular topic and request content that is not uploaded to the website. You can download a public domain video after you pay a one time fee that enables you to use that video as many times as you want. The platform’s YouTube channel provides an easy way of searching for public domain videos you are going to use in your next documentary film.

9. NASA’s Video Gallery

Space exploration is undoubtedly one of the hottest topics of our era, so if you are looking for some space public domain videos NASA’s website is the best place to start. Like all other government institutions, NASA is obligated by the law to offer all images and videos to the public domain. This means that all content you download from their website is free to use. Simply insert the search term and browse the results until you find the video clip you want to save to your computer. However, most public domain videos you can download from NASA’s website last only a couple of minutes.

10. Motion Elements

The collection of free public domain stock footage, this website offers contains more than 4,000 clips. Categories like Cityscape, Animals or Water contain hundreds of stock videos, so you just have to open one of the available categories and locate the video clip you want to download. However, you must first create an account on Motion Elements before you can save video files to your computer. In addition, the platform doesn’t allow you to make more than five downloads per week and you must invite your friends to join the platform if you want to increase the weekly number of downloads. Even so, Motion Elements is a great source of stock footage you can use without any restrictions.

Is It Okay to Use Public Domain Videos for Commercial Purposes?

All public domain videos can be used for both commercial and non-commercial projects, but you must approach using public domain videos for commercial purposes with caution. Crediting the author or providing the source from which you acquired the footage will reduce the likelihood of legal complications. The public domain videos that feature famous actors or third party intellectual property can also be a subject of legal disputes, which is why it is better to avoid using them on commercial projects.

What Should You Do If You Can’t Find Public Domain Footage for Your Project?

Opting for videos that are protected by the Creative Commons licenses is probably the safest option if you’re struggling to find the public domain footage you’d like to use in your project. Respecting the terms of the license under which a video is protected is of utmost importance, since failing to properly credit the author of the video, for instance, can have legal consequences. There are several different types of Creative Commons licenses and you must find out which one covers the video you’d like to use, before publishing your video. You can find more information about Creative Commons licenses at the FAQ .

Conclusion

Public domain videos cover very different topics, which means that the nature of your project determines the source from which you’ll acquire the footage. If you are researching the early days of cinema, then you’ll have no trouble downloading the public domain videos, but if the topic you’re exploring is more contemporary, finding the content you can use without any restrictions can prove to be troublesome. Which website do you like to use the most to download public domain videos? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Liza Brown

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

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

In historic terms, cinema is still a relatively new art, and yet the amount of footage that has been filmed since the Lumière brothers released their first film is staggering. Capturing unique materials that were never seen by the world before has become the question of prestige among the filmmakers. Nonetheless, certain genres of film are almost entirely dependent on the public domain footage. Documentaries about historic events, space or any other topic that is impossible to stage rely on the videos that entered the public domain for one reason or the other. That’s why in this article, we are going to take you through some of the best websites that let you download public domain videos.

What is Public Domain Video?

Any video that is not subject to copyright can be considered a public domain video. This means that anyone can use this footage for free without having to ask for permission to do so. Videos can enter the public domain under the following circumstances:

• If the footage was produced by a government because governments are obligated by the law to offer the footage to the public domain.
• In case the author of the footage has forfeited his or her copyrights and dedicated the footage to the public domain
• A film or any other work of art becomes public domain 70 years after the death of the copyright holder. The expiration date of the copyrights is not the same in all the countries around the world, which is why you must make sure that the video you want to use is, in fact, a public domain video.

In addition, you should avoid using the footage that contains art or music that can be described as third-party intellectual property because you may unintentionally infringe copyrights.

Best Online Websites Where You Can Download Public Domain Videos

Finding free public domain footage or public movies on the Internet has never been too difficult, as you can watch thousands of public domain movies on YouTube, but you cannot download them. Over the course of the last couple of decades, the websites where you can download public domain footage have grown in number, which makes it somewhat easier to find the video clips you can use in your projects for free. Here are some of the best online destinations where you can download public domain videos.

1. Prelinger Archive

With more than 17,000 items in the collection, the Prelinger Archive is probably one of the largest public domain video libraries on the Internet. The archive was founded in 1983 by Rick Prelinger, but by 2002 it became a part of the Library of Congress Motion Picture Broadcasting and Recorded Sound Divison’s collection. You can download public domain video clips created by educational institutions, advertising companies, trade associations or corporations from this impressive collection. There are different download options available for each file, so you can choose the size of a file and the method you’re going to use to download a file to your computer.

2. The Public Domain Review

This is an excellent resource for researchers looking for essays, books, audio recordings, images or old films. The movies are divided into different categories such as Animals&Beasts, Politics, War or Sports which makes locating and downloading public domain videos faster and easier. The Public Domain Review offers footage that is available within different public domain licenses, so you must make sure that the film you want to download can be used for the purpose you have in mind. The vast majority of the films in this archive are from the last decade of the 19th and the first half of the 20th century. That’s why The Public Domain Review’s selection of films can only be useful if you are researching a topic from that era.

3. The National Screening Room

The National Screening Room is a project created by the Library of Congress National Audio-Visual Conservation Center with the aim of making the videos from their collection available to the viewers around the world. The vast majority of the videos in the collection were filmed during the 20th century, but there are only a few videos available that are produced outside of the United States. The National Screening Room can be a valuable asset if you are looking for videos you can use for educational or research videos that cover topics that range from the development of the arms industry to the daily life of great American inventors.

4. Pond5’s Public Domain Project

Industry professionals don’t need an introduction to the Pond5 platform, because it is probably the largest online marketplace for royalty-free media at the moment. Their Public Domain Project contains a thousand public videos that can be downloaded for free, but the duration of these videos is limited to just two minutes To make things worse, most of these public domain videos don’t have audio, so you can only use them if you already have a soundtrack for the video you’re making. The platform offers powerful search tools that enable you to look for videos based on different parameters. You can download public domain videos in HD resolution, but you must create an account on Pond5 before you can save them to your computer.

5. Pexels

Free public domain stock footage can be used on different types of projects, and it is usually a great choice if you’re looking for some extra shots that will make a scene in your video more cinematic. Pexels offers an impressive collection of free public domain stock videos, so you just have to insert a search term and pick a video clip that best fits your needs. The duration of the free videos you can find on Pexels rarely exceeds thirty seconds, which makes it difficult to make an entire video exclusively from free public domain stock footage. Hence it is better to use Pexels as a complementary source of shots in case you can’t go back to the filming location.

6. Vidsplay

All video clips you can find on this platform are free, so you just have to select one of the categories and start browsing through the available public domain stock footage. The only condition to use the stock footage on private or commercial projects for free is to credit the Vidsplay platform in the end credits, on the website or in the description of the videos you upload to your social media channels. All stock videos on Vidsplay are available in HD or 4K resolution, and you simply have to click on the Download button below a particular video to save it.

7. The Moving Image Archive

This is yet another archive of public domain videos you can find on the Arhive.org that features countless collections of texts, images, and videos. Within the Moving Image Archive, you can find different collections that contain full feature movies, art videos, animations, cartoons or television footage. The public domain videos hosted on The Moving Image Archive cover a broad range of topics, but some of them can be in poor resolution. The Moving Image Archive can be an excellent source of footage for anyone who wants to download public domain video clips and use them in their commercial or non-commercial projects.

8. PublicDomainFootage

BBC, National Geographics or NBC are just a few among many famous television networks that use the services of PublicDomainFootage. All content on the platform is divided into Archival Footage and Historic Newsreels sections that contain categories like Atomic Age, Civil Rights or Pop Culture. You can also use PublicDomainFootage to research a particular topic and request content that is not uploaded to the website. You can download a public domain video after you pay a one time fee that enables you to use that video as many times as you want. The platform’s YouTube channel provides an easy way of searching for public domain videos you are going to use in your next documentary film.

9. NASA’s Video Gallery

Space exploration is undoubtedly one of the hottest topics of our era, so if you are looking for some space public domain videos NASA’s website is the best place to start. Like all other government institutions, NASA is obligated by the law to offer all images and videos to the public domain. This means that all content you download from their website is free to use. Simply insert the search term and browse the results until you find the video clip you want to save to your computer. However, most public domain videos you can download from NASA’s website last only a couple of minutes.

10. Motion Elements

The collection of free public domain stock footage, this website offers contains more than 4,000 clips. Categories like Cityscape, Animals or Water contain hundreds of stock videos, so you just have to open one of the available categories and locate the video clip you want to download. However, you must first create an account on Motion Elements before you can save video files to your computer. In addition, the platform doesn’t allow you to make more than five downloads per week and you must invite your friends to join the platform if you want to increase the weekly number of downloads. Even so, Motion Elements is a great source of stock footage you can use without any restrictions.

Is It Okay to Use Public Domain Videos for Commercial Purposes?

All public domain videos can be used for both commercial and non-commercial projects, but you must approach using public domain videos for commercial purposes with caution. Crediting the author or providing the source from which you acquired the footage will reduce the likelihood of legal complications. The public domain videos that feature famous actors or third party intellectual property can also be a subject of legal disputes, which is why it is better to avoid using them on commercial projects.

What Should You Do If You Can’t Find Public Domain Footage for Your Project?

Opting for videos that are protected by the Creative Commons licenses is probably the safest option if you’re struggling to find the public domain footage you’d like to use in your project. Respecting the terms of the license under which a video is protected is of utmost importance, since failing to properly credit the author of the video, for instance, can have legal consequences. There are several different types of Creative Commons licenses and you must find out which one covers the video you’d like to use, before publishing your video. You can find more information about Creative Commons licenses at the FAQ .

Conclusion

Public domain videos cover very different topics, which means that the nature of your project determines the source from which you’ll acquire the footage. If you are researching the early days of cinema, then you’ll have no trouble downloading the public domain videos, but if the topic you’re exploring is more contemporary, finding the content you can use without any restrictions can prove to be troublesome. Which website do you like to use the most to download public domain videos? Leave a comment and share your opinions with us.

Liza Brown

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

Follow @Liza Brown

The Stop Motion Starter Kit: Essential Software, Tips, and Tricks

Stop motion animation has been a huge trend. People use this technique to tell stories through their pictures. There are many videos editing software available in the market to create easy stop motion animations. It depends on the project you want to shoot and using what equipment.

You can create animation online or using an app. There is an extremely powerful desktop software to create simple stop motion movies-Wondershare Filmora Video Editor . You will also find many user-friendly applications available for both Android and iOS. One of the best apps out there is Stop Motion Pro, which lets you create movies on Stop Motion Studio in a better way.

Try It Free

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Part 1. What is Stop Motion Studio?

Stop Motion Studio is the world’s easiest app for stop motion moviemaking. It has an easy-to-use interface to create beautiful animated movies easily.

You can install Stop Motion Studio Pc or go for its iPhone, iPad, or Android version. However, you must make in-app purchases if you wish to export your projects in 4K resolution or import images from your device to create the animation. Let’s look at its features in detail-

Basic functions:

• Overlay mode that shows the differences between frames
• Position the objects accordingly
• Copy, paste, cut, and insert frames wherever required
• Interactive interface to easily access it.

Unique features

• Add titles, credits, and text cards or create your very own with the built-in editor
• Enhance your movie with different video filters
• Add different foregrounds, backgrounds, aspect ratios, and fade effects
• Add built-in music, sound effects, songs from your music library.

Camera control

• Full camera control to capture with an adjustable time interval feature
• Adjust white balance, focus, and exposure, ISO, and shutter speed manually.

An image editor:

• Add titles and other text on the animation
• Enhance images, sketch, and paint
• Use the eraser tool to wipe away unwanted objects
• Merge frames to simulate fast movement

Part 2. How to Use Stop Motion Studio?

With the help of Stop Motion Studio, you can make animation by combining multiple pictures. You need to download Stop Motion Studio Pro for your iOS or Android device to use the app. You can also download it for PC.

Step 1: Once you have downloaded the app, install it to work on your animation project right away. To create a new movie, click on the plus icon to create a new movie.

Step 2: Set the object you wish to capture in the frame. Let us consider one example where we will turn over an object. Click the camera icon to capture the shot. Move the thing a little and again tap on the shutter icon. Repeat the process until you have moved it all the way around. Once done, click on the play button. It will appear as if the object is in motion and moving on its own.

Tip: To ensure that your object is in the right place, you can use different controls like grid and onion skin. The grid will give you an idea of where you placed the subject in the frame. The onion skin puts the last frame you captured on top of your camera’s live view. In this way, you can see how far you moved your subject between frames.

Step 3: You can click as many pictures as you need to convey your story. After clicking all the pictures, you can edit them as per your requirements. To increase or decrease the speed at which your video plays, change the frame rate by choosing the number of pictures to be shown per second when you play the video. Play the video to see how your work turned out. If you like the end result, exit the editor.

Step 4: Now select the animation that you just saved. Click on the export icon which you will find at the top left of the screen—select animated GIF from the pulldown menu. Export the file to Google drive, mail yourself or upload it on your social media profile. AirDrop the file to other iPhone users if you are an iPhone user.

Step 5: You are done!! Yes, it was that simple and easy to create a great stop motion video yourself.

If you want to make a basic video and add audio, the Stop Motion Studio free version is ideal for you. But if you’re going to explore more app features, you need to buy Stop Motion Studio Pro Windows, a paid version of the app.

Part 3. 4 Stop Motion Studio Alternative Software

1. Life Lapse Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS, Android

User Ratings: 4.8 on App Store, 3.6 on Google Play

This app is undoubtedly a lifesaving stop motion apps ever created. Why do we say this? It offers unlimited tools to shoot on an unlimited number of projects. As well as use audio tracks and effects from the built-in library.

While shooting a video on the app, you can add and remove various objects from frames, adjust the focus, and apply many other effects. It has built-in editing tools to change frame rates, apply visual effects, or make soundtracks from royalty-free songs. Video creators can import photos from the mobile phone to add to the animation you create.

Life Lapse permits you to use other color correction tools to set saturation, brightness, contrast, or white balance values manually. You can import audio files to your projects or export videos without a watermark on this app. The pro version lets you record footage in 4K resolution. Isn’t that amazing?

2. Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.0

You can easily take a sequence of images and make your own stop-motion video on this app. Once you launch the app and tap on the Create button, the device’s camera will open. Press the camera button and make a new frame.

Tap on the Done button once you are done arranging the photos.

You have the option to preview the result once you are done. Then, you can quickly proceed to export the video. The app doesn’t allow you to record voiceovers or create soundtracks, and you must use another video editing app for iOS devices if you want to further edit a stop motion video.

Make sure you give Stop Motion Maker access to your phone’s camera and photo library for it to function correctly.

3. Pic-Pac Stop Motion & Time Lapse

Price: Free, offers in-app purchase

Compatibility: Android

User Ratings: 4.0

If you are still learning to create stop motion animations, you should consider installing PicPac Stop Motion & Time Lapse. One can take photos or import images from the gallery or Instagram on this app. On the free version, you can even reorder pictures. It also enables you to change the order of frames and perform simple edits like removing small objects.

Users can search online music or add local music and record their audio on Pic Pac. You can edit existing projects and share your animations with the YouTube community if you are a signed-in user. To keep track of your projects, add a logo at the end of the videos. The Timelapse-manual mode enables you to bring your stop motion ideas to life. The pro version lets you export videos in resolutions larger than 360p.

4. iMotion

Price: Free, but offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.4

This app lets iPhone, and iPad users create both time-lapse and stop motion videos. It has a quick and smooth interface to create good quality animations easily. You can also add an audio soundtrack to your movie with iPod import, microphone, and AudioPaste (In-App Full Version required).

On iMotion, the user can manually control focus, exposure, or white balance. It has unlimited movie length, and you can also preview your projects at different frame rates. There is an option to autosave and directly preview your creation. If you want to do reverse playback, you can do that too.

Export all the video projects iMotion in 4K, 1080p, or 720p resolutions. However, only newer versions of iPhones and iPads can support 4k resolution. The free version of iMotion offers only limited options; get the full version to use the advanced features.

Closing Word

Stop motion animation is a simple and exciting way to create movement on a screen. Taking hundreds of photos to create a stop motion animation is not a huge task anymore. Anyone can easily do it on their smartphone camera, or it’s even better if you use a DSLR.

Stop Motion Studio is rightly called a studio as it has all the tools needed to create a stop motion animation. It gives you complete control over all camera settings and editing features.

So, bring your photos to life today with stop motion studio free or stop motion pro.

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Part 1. What is Stop Motion Studio?

Stop Motion Studio is the world’s easiest app for stop motion moviemaking. It has an easy-to-use interface to create beautiful animated movies easily.

You can install Stop Motion Studio Pc or go for its iPhone, iPad, or Android version. However, you must make in-app purchases if you wish to export your projects in 4K resolution or import images from your device to create the animation. Let’s look at its features in detail-

Basic functions:

• Overlay mode that shows the differences between frames
• Position the objects accordingly
• Copy, paste, cut, and insert frames wherever required
• Interactive interface to easily access it.

Unique features

• Add titles, credits, and text cards or create your very own with the built-in editor
• Enhance your movie with different video filters
• Add different foregrounds, backgrounds, aspect ratios, and fade effects
• Add built-in music, sound effects, songs from your music library.

Camera control

• Full camera control to capture with an adjustable time interval feature
• Adjust white balance, focus, and exposure, ISO, and shutter speed manually.

An image editor:

• Add titles and other text on the animation
• Enhance images, sketch, and paint
• Use the eraser tool to wipe away unwanted objects
• Merge frames to simulate fast movement

Part 2. How to Use Stop Motion Studio?

With the help of Stop Motion Studio, you can make animation by combining multiple pictures. You need to download Stop Motion Studio Pro for your iOS or Android device to use the app. You can also download it for PC.

Step 1: Once you have downloaded the app, install it to work on your animation project right away. To create a new movie, click on the plus icon to create a new movie.

Step 2: Set the object you wish to capture in the frame. Let us consider one example where we will turn over an object. Click the camera icon to capture the shot. Move the thing a little and again tap on the shutter icon. Repeat the process until you have moved it all the way around. Once done, click on the play button. It will appear as if the object is in motion and moving on its own.

Tip: To ensure that your object is in the right place, you can use different controls like grid and onion skin. The grid will give you an idea of where you placed the subject in the frame. The onion skin puts the last frame you captured on top of your camera’s live view. In this way, you can see how far you moved your subject between frames.

Step 3: You can click as many pictures as you need to convey your story. After clicking all the pictures, you can edit them as per your requirements. To increase or decrease the speed at which your video plays, change the frame rate by choosing the number of pictures to be shown per second when you play the video. Play the video to see how your work turned out. If you like the end result, exit the editor.

Step 4: Now select the animation that you just saved. Click on the export icon which you will find at the top left of the screen—select animated GIF from the pulldown menu. Export the file to Google drive, mail yourself or upload it on your social media profile. AirDrop the file to other iPhone users if you are an iPhone user.

Step 5: You are done!! Yes, it was that simple and easy to create a great stop motion video yourself.

If you want to make a basic video and add audio, the Stop Motion Studio free version is ideal for you. But if you’re going to explore more app features, you need to buy Stop Motion Studio Pro Windows, a paid version of the app.

Part 3. 4 Stop Motion Studio Alternative Software

1. Life Lapse Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS, Android

User Ratings: 4.8 on App Store, 3.6 on Google Play

This app is undoubtedly a lifesaving stop motion apps ever created. Why do we say this? It offers unlimited tools to shoot on an unlimited number of projects. As well as use audio tracks and effects from the built-in library.

While shooting a video on the app, you can add and remove various objects from frames, adjust the focus, and apply many other effects. It has built-in editing tools to change frame rates, apply visual effects, or make soundtracks from royalty-free songs. Video creators can import photos from the mobile phone to add to the animation you create.

Life Lapse permits you to use other color correction tools to set saturation, brightness, contrast, or white balance values manually. You can import audio files to your projects or export videos without a watermark on this app. The pro version lets you record footage in 4K resolution. Isn’t that amazing?

2. Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.0

You can easily take a sequence of images and make your own stop-motion video on this app. Once you launch the app and tap on the Create button, the device’s camera will open. Press the camera button and make a new frame.

Tap on the Done button once you are done arranging the photos.

You have the option to preview the result once you are done. Then, you can quickly proceed to export the video. The app doesn’t allow you to record voiceovers or create soundtracks, and you must use another video editing app for iOS devices if you want to further edit a stop motion video.

Make sure you give Stop Motion Maker access to your phone’s camera and photo library for it to function correctly.

3. Pic-Pac Stop Motion & Time Lapse

Price: Free, offers in-app purchase

Compatibility: Android

User Ratings: 4.0

If you are still learning to create stop motion animations, you should consider installing PicPac Stop Motion & Time Lapse. One can take photos or import images from the gallery or Instagram on this app. On the free version, you can even reorder pictures. It also enables you to change the order of frames and perform simple edits like removing small objects.

Users can search online music or add local music and record their audio on Pic Pac. You can edit existing projects and share your animations with the YouTube community if you are a signed-in user. To keep track of your projects, add a logo at the end of the videos. The Timelapse-manual mode enables you to bring your stop motion ideas to life. The pro version lets you export videos in resolutions larger than 360p.

4. iMotion

Price: Free, but offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.4

This app lets iPhone, and iPad users create both time-lapse and stop motion videos. It has a quick and smooth interface to create good quality animations easily. You can also add an audio soundtrack to your movie with iPod import, microphone, and AudioPaste (In-App Full Version required).

On iMotion, the user can manually control focus, exposure, or white balance. It has unlimited movie length, and you can also preview your projects at different frame rates. There is an option to autosave and directly preview your creation. If you want to do reverse playback, you can do that too.

Export all the video projects iMotion in 4K, 1080p, or 720p resolutions. However, only newer versions of iPhones and iPads can support 4k resolution. The free version of iMotion offers only limited options; get the full version to use the advanced features.

Closing Word

Stop motion animation is a simple and exciting way to create movement on a screen. Taking hundreds of photos to create a stop motion animation is not a huge task anymore. Anyone can easily do it on their smartphone camera, or it’s even better if you use a DSLR.

Stop Motion Studio is rightly called a studio as it has all the tools needed to create a stop motion animation. It gives you complete control over all camera settings and editing features.

So, bring your photos to life today with stop motion studio free or stop motion pro.

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Part 1. What is Stop Motion Studio?

Stop Motion Studio is the world’s easiest app for stop motion moviemaking. It has an easy-to-use interface to create beautiful animated movies easily.

You can install Stop Motion Studio Pc or go for its iPhone, iPad, or Android version. However, you must make in-app purchases if you wish to export your projects in 4K resolution or import images from your device to create the animation. Let’s look at its features in detail-

Basic functions:

• Overlay mode that shows the differences between frames
• Position the objects accordingly
• Copy, paste, cut, and insert frames wherever required
• Interactive interface to easily access it.

Unique features

• Add titles, credits, and text cards or create your very own with the built-in editor
• Enhance your movie with different video filters
• Add different foregrounds, backgrounds, aspect ratios, and fade effects
• Add built-in music, sound effects, songs from your music library.

Camera control

• Full camera control to capture with an adjustable time interval feature
• Adjust white balance, focus, and exposure, ISO, and shutter speed manually.

An image editor:

• Add titles and other text on the animation
• Enhance images, sketch, and paint
• Use the eraser tool to wipe away unwanted objects
• Merge frames to simulate fast movement

Part 2. How to Use Stop Motion Studio?

With the help of Stop Motion Studio, you can make animation by combining multiple pictures. You need to download Stop Motion Studio Pro for your iOS or Android device to use the app. You can also download it for PC.

Step 1: Once you have downloaded the app, install it to work on your animation project right away. To create a new movie, click on the plus icon to create a new movie.

Step 2: Set the object you wish to capture in the frame. Let us consider one example where we will turn over an object. Click the camera icon to capture the shot. Move the thing a little and again tap on the shutter icon. Repeat the process until you have moved it all the way around. Once done, click on the play button. It will appear as if the object is in motion and moving on its own.

Tip: To ensure that your object is in the right place, you can use different controls like grid and onion skin. The grid will give you an idea of where you placed the subject in the frame. The onion skin puts the last frame you captured on top of your camera’s live view. In this way, you can see how far you moved your subject between frames.

Step 3: You can click as many pictures as you need to convey your story. After clicking all the pictures, you can edit them as per your requirements. To increase or decrease the speed at which your video plays, change the frame rate by choosing the number of pictures to be shown per second when you play the video. Play the video to see how your work turned out. If you like the end result, exit the editor.

Step 4: Now select the animation that you just saved. Click on the export icon which you will find at the top left of the screen—select animated GIF from the pulldown menu. Export the file to Google drive, mail yourself or upload it on your social media profile. AirDrop the file to other iPhone users if you are an iPhone user.

Step 5: You are done!! Yes, it was that simple and easy to create a great stop motion video yourself.

If you want to make a basic video and add audio, the Stop Motion Studio free version is ideal for you. But if you’re going to explore more app features, you need to buy Stop Motion Studio Pro Windows, a paid version of the app.

Part 3. 4 Stop Motion Studio Alternative Software

1. Life Lapse Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS, Android

User Ratings: 4.8 on App Store, 3.6 on Google Play

This app is undoubtedly a lifesaving stop motion apps ever created. Why do we say this? It offers unlimited tools to shoot on an unlimited number of projects. As well as use audio tracks and effects from the built-in library.

While shooting a video on the app, you can add and remove various objects from frames, adjust the focus, and apply many other effects. It has built-in editing tools to change frame rates, apply visual effects, or make soundtracks from royalty-free songs. Video creators can import photos from the mobile phone to add to the animation you create.

Life Lapse permits you to use other color correction tools to set saturation, brightness, contrast, or white balance values manually. You can import audio files to your projects or export videos without a watermark on this app. The pro version lets you record footage in 4K resolution. Isn’t that amazing?

2. Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.0

You can easily take a sequence of images and make your own stop-motion video on this app. Once you launch the app and tap on the Create button, the device’s camera will open. Press the camera button and make a new frame.

Tap on the Done button once you are done arranging the photos.

You have the option to preview the result once you are done. Then, you can quickly proceed to export the video. The app doesn’t allow you to record voiceovers or create soundtracks, and you must use another video editing app for iOS devices if you want to further edit a stop motion video.

Make sure you give Stop Motion Maker access to your phone’s camera and photo library for it to function correctly.

3. Pic-Pac Stop Motion & Time Lapse

Price: Free, offers in-app purchase

Compatibility: Android

User Ratings: 4.0

If you are still learning to create stop motion animations, you should consider installing PicPac Stop Motion & Time Lapse. One can take photos or import images from the gallery or Instagram on this app. On the free version, you can even reorder pictures. It also enables you to change the order of frames and perform simple edits like removing small objects.

Users can search online music or add local music and record their audio on Pic Pac. You can edit existing projects and share your animations with the YouTube community if you are a signed-in user. To keep track of your projects, add a logo at the end of the videos. The Timelapse-manual mode enables you to bring your stop motion ideas to life. The pro version lets you export videos in resolutions larger than 360p.

4. iMotion

Price: Free, but offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.4

This app lets iPhone, and iPad users create both time-lapse and stop motion videos. It has a quick and smooth interface to create good quality animations easily. You can also add an audio soundtrack to your movie with iPod import, microphone, and AudioPaste (In-App Full Version required).

On iMotion, the user can manually control focus, exposure, or white balance. It has unlimited movie length, and you can also preview your projects at different frame rates. There is an option to autosave and directly preview your creation. If you want to do reverse playback, you can do that too.

Export all the video projects iMotion in 4K, 1080p, or 720p resolutions. However, only newer versions of iPhones and iPads can support 4k resolution. The free version of iMotion offers only limited options; get the full version to use the advanced features.

Closing Word

Stop motion animation is a simple and exciting way to create movement on a screen. Taking hundreds of photos to create a stop motion animation is not a huge task anymore. Anyone can easily do it on their smartphone camera, or it’s even better if you use a DSLR.

Stop Motion Studio is rightly called a studio as it has all the tools needed to create a stop motion animation. It gives you complete control over all camera settings and editing features.

So, bring your photos to life today with stop motion studio free or stop motion pro.

Try It Free

For macOS 10.12 or later

Part 1. What is Stop Motion Studio?

Stop Motion Studio is the world’s easiest app for stop motion moviemaking. It has an easy-to-use interface to create beautiful animated movies easily.

You can install Stop Motion Studio Pc or go for its iPhone, iPad, or Android version. However, you must make in-app purchases if you wish to export your projects in 4K resolution or import images from your device to create the animation. Let’s look at its features in detail-

Basic functions:

• Overlay mode that shows the differences between frames
• Position the objects accordingly
• Copy, paste, cut, and insert frames wherever required
• Interactive interface to easily access it.

Unique features

• Add titles, credits, and text cards or create your very own with the built-in editor
• Enhance your movie with different video filters
• Add different foregrounds, backgrounds, aspect ratios, and fade effects
• Add built-in music, sound effects, songs from your music library.

Camera control

• Full camera control to capture with an adjustable time interval feature
• Adjust white balance, focus, and exposure, ISO, and shutter speed manually.

An image editor:

• Add titles and other text on the animation
• Enhance images, sketch, and paint
• Use the eraser tool to wipe away unwanted objects
• Merge frames to simulate fast movement

Part 2. How to Use Stop Motion Studio?

With the help of Stop Motion Studio, you can make animation by combining multiple pictures. You need to download Stop Motion Studio Pro for your iOS or Android device to use the app. You can also download it for PC.

Step 1: Once you have downloaded the app, install it to work on your animation project right away. To create a new movie, click on the plus icon to create a new movie.

Step 2: Set the object you wish to capture in the frame. Let us consider one example where we will turn over an object. Click the camera icon to capture the shot. Move the thing a little and again tap on the shutter icon. Repeat the process until you have moved it all the way around. Once done, click on the play button. It will appear as if the object is in motion and moving on its own.

Tip: To ensure that your object is in the right place, you can use different controls like grid and onion skin. The grid will give you an idea of where you placed the subject in the frame. The onion skin puts the last frame you captured on top of your camera’s live view. In this way, you can see how far you moved your subject between frames.

Step 3: You can click as many pictures as you need to convey your story. After clicking all the pictures, you can edit them as per your requirements. To increase or decrease the speed at which your video plays, change the frame rate by choosing the number of pictures to be shown per second when you play the video. Play the video to see how your work turned out. If you like the end result, exit the editor.

Step 4: Now select the animation that you just saved. Click on the export icon which you will find at the top left of the screen—select animated GIF from the pulldown menu. Export the file to Google drive, mail yourself or upload it on your social media profile. AirDrop the file to other iPhone users if you are an iPhone user.

Step 5: You are done!! Yes, it was that simple and easy to create a great stop motion video yourself.

If you want to make a basic video and add audio, the Stop Motion Studio free version is ideal for you. But if you’re going to explore more app features, you need to buy Stop Motion Studio Pro Windows, a paid version of the app.

Part 3. 4 Stop Motion Studio Alternative Software

1. Life Lapse Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS, Android

User Ratings: 4.8 on App Store, 3.6 on Google Play

This app is undoubtedly a lifesaving stop motion apps ever created. Why do we say this? It offers unlimited tools to shoot on an unlimited number of projects. As well as use audio tracks and effects from the built-in library.

While shooting a video on the app, you can add and remove various objects from frames, adjust the focus, and apply many other effects. It has built-in editing tools to change frame rates, apply visual effects, or make soundtracks from royalty-free songs. Video creators can import photos from the mobile phone to add to the animation you create.

Life Lapse permits you to use other color correction tools to set saturation, brightness, contrast, or white balance values manually. You can import audio files to your projects or export videos without a watermark on this app. The pro version lets you record footage in 4K resolution. Isn’t that amazing?

2. Stop Motion Maker

Price: Free, offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.0

You can easily take a sequence of images and make your own stop-motion video on this app. Once you launch the app and tap on the Create button, the device’s camera will open. Press the camera button and make a new frame.

Tap on the Done button once you are done arranging the photos.

You have the option to preview the result once you are done. Then, you can quickly proceed to export the video. The app doesn’t allow you to record voiceovers or create soundtracks, and you must use another video editing app for iOS devices if you want to further edit a stop motion video.

Make sure you give Stop Motion Maker access to your phone’s camera and photo library for it to function correctly.

3. Pic-Pac Stop Motion & Time Lapse

Price: Free, offers in-app purchase

Compatibility: Android

User Ratings: 4.0

If you are still learning to create stop motion animations, you should consider installing PicPac Stop Motion & Time Lapse. One can take photos or import images from the gallery or Instagram on this app. On the free version, you can even reorder pictures. It also enables you to change the order of frames and perform simple edits like removing small objects.

Users can search online music or add local music and record their audio on Pic Pac. You can edit existing projects and share your animations with the YouTube community if you are a signed-in user. To keep track of your projects, add a logo at the end of the videos. The Timelapse-manual mode enables you to bring your stop motion ideas to life. The pro version lets you export videos in resolutions larger than 360p.

4. iMotion

Price: Free, but offers in-app purchases

Compatibility: iOS

User Ratings: 4.4

This app lets iPhone, and iPad users create both time-lapse and stop motion videos. It has a quick and smooth interface to create good quality animations easily. You can also add an audio soundtrack to your movie with iPod import, microphone, and AudioPaste (In-App Full Version required).

On iMotion, the user can manually control focus, exposure, or white balance. It has unlimited movie length, and you can also preview your projects at different frame rates. There is an option to autosave and directly preview your creation. If you want to do reverse playback, you can do that too.

Export all the video projects iMotion in 4K, 1080p, or 720p resolutions. However, only newer versions of iPhones and iPads can support 4k resolution. The free version of iMotion offers only limited options; get the full version to use the advanced features.

Closing Word

Stop motion animation is a simple and exciting way to create movement on a screen. Taking hundreds of photos to create a stop motion animation is not a huge task anymore. Anyone can easily do it on their smartphone camera, or it’s even better if you use a DSLR.

Stop Motion Studio is rightly called a studio as it has all the tools needed to create a stop motion animation. It gives you complete control over all camera settings and editing features.

So, bring your photos to life today with stop motion studio free or stop motion pro.

Free and Easy Video Editing Tools for Beginners [Desktop/Online/Mobile]

Best Video Editor for Beginners on Windows and Mac

Wondershare Filmora is one of the most popular video editing software among YouTubers , download and have a try.

Try It Free Try It Free

Video content creation is becoming the trend because it retains human attention longer than images or writings do. As a beginner who is not so familiar with video editors, getting free video editing software for beginners might prove difficult.

In this article, you will learn the best free video editing software for beginners, its features, and its pros and cons. Also, you’ll learn some extra tips that will make your video editing seamless.

In this article

01 Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

02 Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

03 Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

04 What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

Part 1: Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

1. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie is a free video editing software for beginners; it comes pre-installed on Mac devices. It is known for having a simple interface that makes it user-friendly.

Supported on: Mac

Apple iMovie Main Features are:

• Chromakeying: With iMovie, you can change the background of a video from blue/ green to an image of your favorite place.
• Sound Integration: iMovie lets you record voiceovers, add music from iTunes and add special sound effects.
• Video tools: Add filters, titles, animations, and photos to the video.
• Speed control: fast track and add slow-mo effects to the video.

Pros

• It supports 4K videos.
• Professional standards.
• Chromakeying feature.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Exported files take up a lot of space.
• Available for Mac and iOS users only.

2. Microsoft Photo App

Microsoft Photos app is a free photo and video editor for beginners. It was created to replace the Windows movie maker. Many might not know about the existence of the app and its ability to edit videos and photos.

Go to the search bar and type photos, and then select the Photos app to bring a menu where you can create albums, edit photos and videos. To edit videos, click on video projects to create a video from scratch or create video automatically.

Supported on: Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11

Microsoft Photos app main features for video editing are;

• Motion graphics, 3D effects, and animations.
• It allows the addition of background music or audio from the computer.
• It allows the addition of title cards and text backgrounds.
• Change of photo or video durations and speed

Pros

• It is free and readily installed in Windows 8 and above
• Easy to use
• Face detection
• Album collection and arrangement

Cons

• No essential video editing tools like transitioning and layering
• You can’t use it professionally.
• Does not allow video preview before exporting

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is a free video editing software for beginners that can edit 4K UHD, 3D, and VR 360 videos. VSDC is one of the best video editors for beginners to edit complex videos. VSDC has a busy interface, making it less user-friendly than the other free video editing software for beginners.

Supported on: Windows

VSDC’s video editor has;

• Non-linear video editing tools
• Social media support features; VSDC has Instagram-like filters and lets you share edited videos directly to your social media.
• Audio Effects; The 360 editor has many audio effects like equalizer, audio delay, and volume correction.
• Video editing tools; VSDC has color-correction tools and tools to hide and replace unwanted elements. You can also transform videos with their subpixel resolution.
• Numerous 3D templates you can choose from.

Pros

• It supports many audio and video formats.
• 4K and HD exports

Cons

• Reduces video quality after editing
• Professional tools like stabilization, beat syncing, and motion graphics are only available in the pro version.

Part 2: Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

1. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is an online free video editor for beginners. Clipchamp can create social media videos, ads videos, presentations, and other short videos. It has a unique feature that allows teams to collaborate and edit videos projects.

Clipchamp has basic video editing features like:

• Text-to-speech feature; This feature allows you to add text that will become voiceovers in the video. You can choose the gender and nationality of the voice.
• Thousand of templates to choose from
• Video transitioning and layering.

Pros

• It allows auto-captioning capabilities on the mobile app.
• Video compression
• Allows Screen recording
• It can convert videos to WMV, which you can use in PowerPoint presentations.

Cons

• Not available on Android devices
• It uses selective browsers like Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
• It is not optimized for touchpad screens.
• The best quality video requires registration for the premium version.

2. Hippo Video

Hippo Video is one of the best video editors for beginners free online. You can use it on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhones, and iPads. Hippo is an all-in-one platform to create, record, edit, and share videos across different social media platforms.

Hippo video can;

• Create GIFs from videos.
• Trim, cut, and add emojis and tags to a video.
• Hide or blur unwanted objects in the video.

Pros

• It has other marketing features like email marketing, campaign management, and social media sharing.
• It can be added as a chrome extension to be used for screen capturing and recording.

Cons

• Watermarked in free version
• Limited video quality download in free version
• Long load time for video in between uploads.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online free video editing software for beginners. The video editor is made for creators to create, edit and subtitle video content. Kapwing can convert MP4 videos to any file format as well as save the edited file in the cloud.

Primary Features

• It supports text overlay and drag-and-drop function
• Cut, resize, merge, split and trim videos.
• Supports HD resolution
• Lots of editable social media templates
• Convert video to any form (GIF, JPG, MP4)

Pros

• It does not add its watermark; instead, you can add your logo to create the video. Kapwingis
• Auto-generated subtitles.
• Background removal function
• It backs up videos on the cloud.

Cons

• It cannot export a video longer than 60 minutes
• On-site technical glitches
• To export files above 250MB or 7 minutes, you have to upgrade to the premium version.
• Only available online

4. Online Video Cutter/ 123 apps video editor

Online Video Cutter is an online-based video editor used to edit videos. It is used primarily for trimming videos to desirable sizes. Online video cutter is one of 123 apps to edit and convert different file formats. The video editor can trim, crop, rotate and resize videos.

With Online Video Cutter, you can;

• Frame the video or change the frame proportions of the videos.
• Change the angle of a video up to 270 degrees; this comes in handy when you want to change a video’s view from landscape to portrait.
• Flip, resize, change volume and add texts and images to your video.
• Trim, equalize, and record sounds to be added to the video.

Pros

• Supports all video format
• Privacy is guaranteed as you are the only one with access to the video.
• It works well in most browsers.
• It does not require sign up before use
• Converts files to any format
• Can upload files larger than 4GB in size

Cons

• It takes up a lot of time to upload files
• Decreases the video quality
• Cannot upload a file of more than 700MB in the free version

5. FlexClip

Flexclip is an online video creator and editor with essential editing tools. Flexclip has numerous templates and presets that let you create videos in a short time. You can create your video from scratch, templates, and previously saved videos.

Main Feature

• Audio effects: you can record voices and add background music to the video.
• Video tools: trim, merge, compress and convert videos.
• Customization: you can add your logo or watermark to the video.
• Allows video transition and GIF production
• Allows you to increase video brightness and add filters to video.

Pros

• It has more than 4 million pictures and pictures to add to videos.
• Allows preview of videos before exporting.
• It supports different video resolutions.
• Templates for various events are available.

Cons

• Limited video resolution download in free version
• The free version can only create a 1-minute video and hold 12 projects.

Part 3: Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

1. CapCut

Cap C ut is a free video editing software for beginners suitable for TikTok content creators. It was formerly known as Viamaker. Cap cut is easy to use for beginners, and it can create spectacular videos automatically by cutting, reordering, and merging recorded videos.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Cap cut allows you to:

• Split, merge, and reverse videos.
• Control the video speed
• Add filter, special effects, stickers, and texts to videos.
• Overlay and add sounds to the videos

Pros

• You can export directly to Tiktok.
• It has a vast music library, including copyrighted songs.
• Exported videos are of high quality.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Effectiveness depends on the phone’s processor and features.
• Limited editing features.
• Video cannot exceed 15 minutes.
• You can only add a music track per video.

2. Quik

Quik is a free video editor for beginners produced by the makers of GoPro. Quik is an auto-video maker that puts together pictures, videos, and music with a few selections.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Main features

• Auto-video: Quik will create a video with transitions and soundtrack when you select several pictures and videos.
• Video editing tools: you can adjust the brightness, add texts and stickers, and add filters to a video.
• Adjust video speed: you can add slo-mo and freeze effects to the video.
• It allows direct sharing to social media pages.

Pros

• Allows HD video download
• Video styles template for new users.
• Unlimited cloud backup.
• Changes video ratio to suit different social media

Cons

• Limited editing features in the free version.
• Not suitable for videos longer than 60 seconds
• Limited font styles

Part 4: What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

When trying to choose a video editor as a beginner, you should look out for:

What video editor has the most commonly used editing tools and intuitive interface

Some essential video editing tools should be available in a video editor. These include Video tools (cropping, rotating, merging, cutting, and splitting of videos), effects and animations, audio effects, the addition of texts, and other features necessary to the purpose of the video you are editing.

Templates for different occasions to create videos quickly

As a beginner video editor, you might not be creative enough to edit professional videos. Video editors that have ready-made templates will come in handy when you want to create a video quickly.

Ready-made templates give a guide to a beginner video editor to create professional-looking videos.

Tutorials and Supports

The best video editors for beginners are user-friendly, and they provide free tutorials to guide new users on their video editing journey. Some video editing software targets digital marketers and video content creators, so they release tutorial videos every week to help them improve their skills.

Are you a creator, influencer, or marketer, and you need to join the trend of creating video content that converts. Check out the list to know which free video editing software best suits your niche.

These are beginner-friendly video editing software that you can use to create professional-looking video content. Watch tutorials and get to work. The more videos you edit, the better you get at it.

Try It Free Try It Free

Video content creation is becoming the trend because it retains human attention longer than images or writings do. As a beginner who is not so familiar with video editors, getting free video editing software for beginners might prove difficult.

In this article, you will learn the best free video editing software for beginners, its features, and its pros and cons. Also, you’ll learn some extra tips that will make your video editing seamless.

In this article

01 Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

02 Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

03 Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

04 What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

Part 1: Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

1. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie is a free video editing software for beginners; it comes pre-installed on Mac devices. It is known for having a simple interface that makes it user-friendly.

Supported on: Mac

Apple iMovie Main Features are:

• Chromakeying: With iMovie, you can change the background of a video from blue/ green to an image of your favorite place.
• Sound Integration: iMovie lets you record voiceovers, add music from iTunes and add special sound effects.
• Video tools: Add filters, titles, animations, and photos to the video.
• Speed control: fast track and add slow-mo effects to the video.

Pros

• It supports 4K videos.
• Professional standards.
• Chromakeying feature.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Exported files take up a lot of space.
• Available for Mac and iOS users only.

2. Microsoft Photo App

Microsoft Photos app is a free photo and video editor for beginners. It was created to replace the Windows movie maker. Many might not know about the existence of the app and its ability to edit videos and photos.

Go to the search bar and type photos, and then select the Photos app to bring a menu where you can create albums, edit photos and videos. To edit videos, click on video projects to create a video from scratch or create video automatically.

Supported on: Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11

Microsoft Photos app main features for video editing are;

• Motion graphics, 3D effects, and animations.
• It allows the addition of background music or audio from the computer.
• It allows the addition of title cards and text backgrounds.
• Change of photo or video durations and speed

Pros

• It is free and readily installed in Windows 8 and above
• Easy to use
• Face detection
• Album collection and arrangement

Cons

• No essential video editing tools like transitioning and layering
• You can’t use it professionally.
• Does not allow video preview before exporting

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is a free video editing software for beginners that can edit 4K UHD, 3D, and VR 360 videos. VSDC is one of the best video editors for beginners to edit complex videos. VSDC has a busy interface, making it less user-friendly than the other free video editing software for beginners.

Supported on: Windows

VSDC’s video editor has;

• Non-linear video editing tools
• Social media support features; VSDC has Instagram-like filters and lets you share edited videos directly to your social media.
• Audio Effects; The 360 editor has many audio effects like equalizer, audio delay, and volume correction.
• Video editing tools; VSDC has color-correction tools and tools to hide and replace unwanted elements. You can also transform videos with their subpixel resolution.
• Numerous 3D templates you can choose from.

Pros

• It supports many audio and video formats.
• 4K and HD exports

Cons

• Reduces video quality after editing
• Professional tools like stabilization, beat syncing, and motion graphics are only available in the pro version.

Part 2: Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

1. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is an online free video editor for beginners. Clipchamp can create social media videos, ads videos, presentations, and other short videos. It has a unique feature that allows teams to collaborate and edit videos projects.

Clipchamp has basic video editing features like:

• Text-to-speech feature; This feature allows you to add text that will become voiceovers in the video. You can choose the gender and nationality of the voice.
• Thousand of templates to choose from
• Video transitioning and layering.

Pros

• It allows auto-captioning capabilities on the mobile app.
• Video compression
• Allows Screen recording
• It can convert videos to WMV, which you can use in PowerPoint presentations.

Cons

• Not available on Android devices
• It uses selective browsers like Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
• It is not optimized for touchpad screens.
• The best quality video requires registration for the premium version.

2. Hippo Video

Hippo Video is one of the best video editors for beginners free online. You can use it on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhones, and iPads. Hippo is an all-in-one platform to create, record, edit, and share videos across different social media platforms.

Hippo video can;

• Create GIFs from videos.
• Trim, cut, and add emojis and tags to a video.
• Hide or blur unwanted objects in the video.

Pros

• It has other marketing features like email marketing, campaign management, and social media sharing.
• It can be added as a chrome extension to be used for screen capturing and recording.

Cons

• Watermarked in free version
• Limited video quality download in free version
• Long load time for video in between uploads.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online free video editing software for beginners. The video editor is made for creators to create, edit and subtitle video content. Kapwing can convert MP4 videos to any file format as well as save the edited file in the cloud.

Primary Features

• It supports text overlay and drag-and-drop function
• Cut, resize, merge, split and trim videos.
• Supports HD resolution
• Lots of editable social media templates
• Convert video to any form (GIF, JPG, MP4)

Pros

• It does not add its watermark; instead, you can add your logo to create the video. Kapwingis
• Auto-generated subtitles.
• Background removal function
• It backs up videos on the cloud.

Cons

• It cannot export a video longer than 60 minutes
• On-site technical glitches
• To export files above 250MB or 7 minutes, you have to upgrade to the premium version.
• Only available online

4. Online Video Cutter/ 123 apps video editor

Online Video Cutter is an online-based video editor used to edit videos. It is used primarily for trimming videos to desirable sizes. Online video cutter is one of 123 apps to edit and convert different file formats. The video editor can trim, crop, rotate and resize videos.

With Online Video Cutter, you can;

• Frame the video or change the frame proportions of the videos.
• Change the angle of a video up to 270 degrees; this comes in handy when you want to change a video’s view from landscape to portrait.
• Flip, resize, change volume and add texts and images to your video.
• Trim, equalize, and record sounds to be added to the video.

Pros

• Supports all video format
• Privacy is guaranteed as you are the only one with access to the video.
• It works well in most browsers.
• It does not require sign up before use
• Converts files to any format
• Can upload files larger than 4GB in size

Cons

• It takes up a lot of time to upload files
• Decreases the video quality
• Cannot upload a file of more than 700MB in the free version

5. FlexClip

Flexclip is an online video creator and editor with essential editing tools. Flexclip has numerous templates and presets that let you create videos in a short time. You can create your video from scratch, templates, and previously saved videos.

Main Feature

• Audio effects: you can record voices and add background music to the video.
• Video tools: trim, merge, compress and convert videos.
• Customization: you can add your logo or watermark to the video.
• Allows video transition and GIF production
• Allows you to increase video brightness and add filters to video.

Pros

• It has more than 4 million pictures and pictures to add to videos.
• Allows preview of videos before exporting.
• It supports different video resolutions.
• Templates for various events are available.

Cons

• Limited video resolution download in free version
• The free version can only create a 1-minute video and hold 12 projects.

Part 3: Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

1. CapCut

Cap C ut is a free video editing software for beginners suitable for TikTok content creators. It was formerly known as Viamaker. Cap cut is easy to use for beginners, and it can create spectacular videos automatically by cutting, reordering, and merging recorded videos.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Cap cut allows you to:

• Split, merge, and reverse videos.
• Control the video speed
• Add filter, special effects, stickers, and texts to videos.
• Overlay and add sounds to the videos

Pros

• You can export directly to Tiktok.
• It has a vast music library, including copyrighted songs.
• Exported videos are of high quality.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Effectiveness depends on the phone’s processor and features.
• Limited editing features.
• Video cannot exceed 15 minutes.
• You can only add a music track per video.

2. Quik

Quik is a free video editor for beginners produced by the makers of GoPro. Quik is an auto-video maker that puts together pictures, videos, and music with a few selections.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Main features

• Auto-video: Quik will create a video with transitions and soundtrack when you select several pictures and videos.
• Video editing tools: you can adjust the brightness, add texts and stickers, and add filters to a video.
• Adjust video speed: you can add slo-mo and freeze effects to the video.
• It allows direct sharing to social media pages.

Pros

• Allows HD video download
• Video styles template for new users.
• Unlimited cloud backup.
• Changes video ratio to suit different social media

Cons

• Limited editing features in the free version.
• Not suitable for videos longer than 60 seconds
• Limited font styles

Part 4: What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

When trying to choose a video editor as a beginner, you should look out for:

What video editor has the most commonly used editing tools and intuitive interface

Some essential video editing tools should be available in a video editor. These include Video tools (cropping, rotating, merging, cutting, and splitting of videos), effects and animations, audio effects, the addition of texts, and other features necessary to the purpose of the video you are editing.

Templates for different occasions to create videos quickly

As a beginner video editor, you might not be creative enough to edit professional videos. Video editors that have ready-made templates will come in handy when you want to create a video quickly.

Ready-made templates give a guide to a beginner video editor to create professional-looking videos.

Tutorials and Supports

The best video editors for beginners are user-friendly, and they provide free tutorials to guide new users on their video editing journey. Some video editing software targets digital marketers and video content creators, so they release tutorial videos every week to help them improve their skills.

Are you a creator, influencer, or marketer, and you need to join the trend of creating video content that converts. Check out the list to know which free video editing software best suits your niche.

These are beginner-friendly video editing software that you can use to create professional-looking video content. Watch tutorials and get to work. The more videos you edit, the better you get at it.

Try It Free Try It Free

Video content creation is becoming the trend because it retains human attention longer than images or writings do. As a beginner who is not so familiar with video editors, getting free video editing software for beginners might prove difficult.

In this article, you will learn the best free video editing software for beginners, its features, and its pros and cons. Also, you’ll learn some extra tips that will make your video editing seamless.

In this article

01 Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

02 Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

03 Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

04 What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

Part 1: Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

1. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie is a free video editing software for beginners; it comes pre-installed on Mac devices. It is known for having a simple interface that makes it user-friendly.

Supported on: Mac

Apple iMovie Main Features are:

• Chromakeying: With iMovie, you can change the background of a video from blue/ green to an image of your favorite place.
• Sound Integration: iMovie lets you record voiceovers, add music from iTunes and add special sound effects.
• Video tools: Add filters, titles, animations, and photos to the video.
• Speed control: fast track and add slow-mo effects to the video.

Pros

• It supports 4K videos.
• Professional standards.
• Chromakeying feature.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Exported files take up a lot of space.
• Available for Mac and iOS users only.

2. Microsoft Photo App

Microsoft Photos app is a free photo and video editor for beginners. It was created to replace the Windows movie maker. Many might not know about the existence of the app and its ability to edit videos and photos.

Go to the search bar and type photos, and then select the Photos app to bring a menu where you can create albums, edit photos and videos. To edit videos, click on video projects to create a video from scratch or create video automatically.

Supported on: Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11

Microsoft Photos app main features for video editing are;

• Motion graphics, 3D effects, and animations.
• It allows the addition of background music or audio from the computer.
• It allows the addition of title cards and text backgrounds.
• Change of photo or video durations and speed

Pros

• It is free and readily installed in Windows 8 and above
• Easy to use
• Face detection
• Album collection and arrangement

Cons

• No essential video editing tools like transitioning and layering
• You can’t use it professionally.
• Does not allow video preview before exporting

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is a free video editing software for beginners that can edit 4K UHD, 3D, and VR 360 videos. VSDC is one of the best video editors for beginners to edit complex videos. VSDC has a busy interface, making it less user-friendly than the other free video editing software for beginners.

Supported on: Windows

VSDC’s video editor has;

• Non-linear video editing tools
• Social media support features; VSDC has Instagram-like filters and lets you share edited videos directly to your social media.
• Audio Effects; The 360 editor has many audio effects like equalizer, audio delay, and volume correction.
• Video editing tools; VSDC has color-correction tools and tools to hide and replace unwanted elements. You can also transform videos with their subpixel resolution.
• Numerous 3D templates you can choose from.

Pros

• It supports many audio and video formats.
• 4K and HD exports

Cons

• Reduces video quality after editing
• Professional tools like stabilization, beat syncing, and motion graphics are only available in the pro version.

Part 2: Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

1. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is an online free video editor for beginners. Clipchamp can create social media videos, ads videos, presentations, and other short videos. It has a unique feature that allows teams to collaborate and edit videos projects.

Clipchamp has basic video editing features like:

• Text-to-speech feature; This feature allows you to add text that will become voiceovers in the video. You can choose the gender and nationality of the voice.
• Thousand of templates to choose from
• Video transitioning and layering.

Pros

• It allows auto-captioning capabilities on the mobile app.
• Video compression
• Allows Screen recording
• It can convert videos to WMV, which you can use in PowerPoint presentations.

Cons

• Not available on Android devices
• It uses selective browsers like Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
• It is not optimized for touchpad screens.
• The best quality video requires registration for the premium version.

2. Hippo Video

Hippo Video is one of the best video editors for beginners free online. You can use it on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhones, and iPads. Hippo is an all-in-one platform to create, record, edit, and share videos across different social media platforms.

Hippo video can;

• Create GIFs from videos.
• Trim, cut, and add emojis and tags to a video.
• Hide or blur unwanted objects in the video.

Pros

• It has other marketing features like email marketing, campaign management, and social media sharing.
• It can be added as a chrome extension to be used for screen capturing and recording.

Cons

• Watermarked in free version
• Limited video quality download in free version
• Long load time for video in between uploads.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online free video editing software for beginners. The video editor is made for creators to create, edit and subtitle video content. Kapwing can convert MP4 videos to any file format as well as save the edited file in the cloud.

Primary Features

• It supports text overlay and drag-and-drop function
• Cut, resize, merge, split and trim videos.
• Supports HD resolution
• Lots of editable social media templates
• Convert video to any form (GIF, JPG, MP4)

Pros

• It does not add its watermark; instead, you can add your logo to create the video. Kapwingis
• Auto-generated subtitles.
• Background removal function
• It backs up videos on the cloud.

Cons

• It cannot export a video longer than 60 minutes
• On-site technical glitches
• To export files above 250MB or 7 minutes, you have to upgrade to the premium version.
• Only available online

4. Online Video Cutter/ 123 apps video editor

Online Video Cutter is an online-based video editor used to edit videos. It is used primarily for trimming videos to desirable sizes. Online video cutter is one of 123 apps to edit and convert different file formats. The video editor can trim, crop, rotate and resize videos.

With Online Video Cutter, you can;

• Frame the video or change the frame proportions of the videos.
• Change the angle of a video up to 270 degrees; this comes in handy when you want to change a video’s view from landscape to portrait.
• Flip, resize, change volume and add texts and images to your video.
• Trim, equalize, and record sounds to be added to the video.

Pros

• Supports all video format
• Privacy is guaranteed as you are the only one with access to the video.
• It works well in most browsers.
• It does not require sign up before use
• Converts files to any format
• Can upload files larger than 4GB in size

Cons

• It takes up a lot of time to upload files
• Decreases the video quality
• Cannot upload a file of more than 700MB in the free version

5. FlexClip

Flexclip is an online video creator and editor with essential editing tools. Flexclip has numerous templates and presets that let you create videos in a short time. You can create your video from scratch, templates, and previously saved videos.

Main Feature

• Audio effects: you can record voices and add background music to the video.
• Video tools: trim, merge, compress and convert videos.
• Customization: you can add your logo or watermark to the video.
• Allows video transition and GIF production
• Allows you to increase video brightness and add filters to video.

Pros

• It has more than 4 million pictures and pictures to add to videos.
• Allows preview of videos before exporting.
• It supports different video resolutions.
• Templates for various events are available.

Cons

• Limited video resolution download in free version
• The free version can only create a 1-minute video and hold 12 projects.

Part 3: Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

1. CapCut

Cap C ut is a free video editing software for beginners suitable for TikTok content creators. It was formerly known as Viamaker. Cap cut is easy to use for beginners, and it can create spectacular videos automatically by cutting, reordering, and merging recorded videos.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Cap cut allows you to:

• Split, merge, and reverse videos.
• Control the video speed
• Add filter, special effects, stickers, and texts to videos.
• Overlay and add sounds to the videos

Pros

• You can export directly to Tiktok.
• It has a vast music library, including copyrighted songs.
• Exported videos are of high quality.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Effectiveness depends on the phone’s processor and features.
• Limited editing features.
• Video cannot exceed 15 minutes.
• You can only add a music track per video.

2. Quik

Quik is a free video editor for beginners produced by the makers of GoPro. Quik is an auto-video maker that puts together pictures, videos, and music with a few selections.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Main features

• Auto-video: Quik will create a video with transitions and soundtrack when you select several pictures and videos.
• Video editing tools: you can adjust the brightness, add texts and stickers, and add filters to a video.
• Adjust video speed: you can add slo-mo and freeze effects to the video.
• It allows direct sharing to social media pages.

Pros

• Allows HD video download
• Video styles template for new users.
• Unlimited cloud backup.
• Changes video ratio to suit different social media

Cons

• Limited editing features in the free version.
• Not suitable for videos longer than 60 seconds
• Limited font styles

Part 4: What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

When trying to choose a video editor as a beginner, you should look out for:

What video editor has the most commonly used editing tools and intuitive interface

Some essential video editing tools should be available in a video editor. These include Video tools (cropping, rotating, merging, cutting, and splitting of videos), effects and animations, audio effects, the addition of texts, and other features necessary to the purpose of the video you are editing.

Templates for different occasions to create videos quickly

As a beginner video editor, you might not be creative enough to edit professional videos. Video editors that have ready-made templates will come in handy when you want to create a video quickly.

Ready-made templates give a guide to a beginner video editor to create professional-looking videos.

Tutorials and Supports

The best video editors for beginners are user-friendly, and they provide free tutorials to guide new users on their video editing journey. Some video editing software targets digital marketers and video content creators, so they release tutorial videos every week to help them improve their skills.

Are you a creator, influencer, or marketer, and you need to join the trend of creating video content that converts. Check out the list to know which free video editing software best suits your niche.

These are beginner-friendly video editing software that you can use to create professional-looking video content. Watch tutorials and get to work. The more videos you edit, the better you get at it.

Try It Free Try It Free

Video content creation is becoming the trend because it retains human attention longer than images or writings do. As a beginner who is not so familiar with video editors, getting free video editing software for beginners might prove difficult.

In this article, you will learn the best free video editing software for beginners, its features, and its pros and cons. Also, you’ll learn some extra tips that will make your video editing seamless.

In this article

01 Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

02 Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

03 Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

04 What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

Part 1: Best Free Desktop Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2024

1. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie is a free video editing software for beginners; it comes pre-installed on Mac devices. It is known for having a simple interface that makes it user-friendly.

Supported on: Mac

Apple iMovie Main Features are:

• Chromakeying: With iMovie, you can change the background of a video from blue/ green to an image of your favorite place.
• Sound Integration: iMovie lets you record voiceovers, add music from iTunes and add special sound effects.
• Video tools: Add filters, titles, animations, and photos to the video.
• Speed control: fast track and add slow-mo effects to the video.

Pros

• It supports 4K videos.
• Professional standards.
• Chromakeying feature.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Exported files take up a lot of space.
• Available for Mac and iOS users only.

2. Microsoft Photo App

Microsoft Photos app is a free photo and video editor for beginners. It was created to replace the Windows movie maker. Many might not know about the existence of the app and its ability to edit videos and photos.

Go to the search bar and type photos, and then select the Photos app to bring a menu where you can create albums, edit photos and videos. To edit videos, click on video projects to create a video from scratch or create video automatically.

Supported on: Windows 8, Windows 10, Windows 11

Microsoft Photos app main features for video editing are;

• Motion graphics, 3D effects, and animations.
• It allows the addition of background music or audio from the computer.
• It allows the addition of title cards and text backgrounds.
• Change of photo or video durations and speed

Pros

• It is free and readily installed in Windows 8 and above
• Easy to use
• Face detection
• Album collection and arrangement

Cons

• No essential video editing tools like transitioning and layering
• You can’t use it professionally.
• Does not allow video preview before exporting

3. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is a free video editing software for beginners that can edit 4K UHD, 3D, and VR 360 videos. VSDC is one of the best video editors for beginners to edit complex videos. VSDC has a busy interface, making it less user-friendly than the other free video editing software for beginners.

Supported on: Windows

VSDC’s video editor has;

• Non-linear video editing tools
• Social media support features; VSDC has Instagram-like filters and lets you share edited videos directly to your social media.
• Audio Effects; The 360 editor has many audio effects like equalizer, audio delay, and volume correction.
• Video editing tools; VSDC has color-correction tools and tools to hide and replace unwanted elements. You can also transform videos with their subpixel resolution.
• Numerous 3D templates you can choose from.

Pros

• It supports many audio and video formats.
• 4K and HD exports

Cons

• Reduces video quality after editing
• Professional tools like stabilization, beat syncing, and motion graphics are only available in the pro version.

Part 2: Best Free Online Video Editors for Beginners in 2024

1. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is an online free video editor for beginners. Clipchamp can create social media videos, ads videos, presentations, and other short videos. It has a unique feature that allows teams to collaborate and edit videos projects.

Clipchamp has basic video editing features like:

• Text-to-speech feature; This feature allows you to add text that will become voiceovers in the video. You can choose the gender and nationality of the voice.
• Thousand of templates to choose from
• Video transitioning and layering.

Pros

• It allows auto-captioning capabilities on the mobile app.
• Video compression
• Allows Screen recording
• It can convert videos to WMV, which you can use in PowerPoint presentations.

Cons

• Not available on Android devices
• It uses selective browsers like Chrome and Microsoft Edge.
• It is not optimized for touchpad screens.
• The best quality video requires registration for the premium version.

2. Hippo Video

Hippo Video is one of the best video editors for beginners free online. You can use it on Mac, Windows, Android, iPhones, and iPads. Hippo is an all-in-one platform to create, record, edit, and share videos across different social media platforms.

Hippo video can;

• Create GIFs from videos.
• Trim, cut, and add emojis and tags to a video.
• Hide or blur unwanted objects in the video.

Pros

• It has other marketing features like email marketing, campaign management, and social media sharing.
• It can be added as a chrome extension to be used for screen capturing and recording.

Cons

• Watermarked in free version
• Limited video quality download in free version
• Long load time for video in between uploads.

3. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online free video editing software for beginners. The video editor is made for creators to create, edit and subtitle video content. Kapwing can convert MP4 videos to any file format as well as save the edited file in the cloud.

Primary Features

• It supports text overlay and drag-and-drop function
• Cut, resize, merge, split and trim videos.
• Supports HD resolution
• Lots of editable social media templates
• Convert video to any form (GIF, JPG, MP4)

Pros

• It does not add its watermark; instead, you can add your logo to create the video. Kapwingis
• Auto-generated subtitles.
• Background removal function
• It backs up videos on the cloud.

Cons

• It cannot export a video longer than 60 minutes
• On-site technical glitches
• To export files above 250MB or 7 minutes, you have to upgrade to the premium version.
• Only available online

4. Online Video Cutter/ 123 apps video editor

Online Video Cutter is an online-based video editor used to edit videos. It is used primarily for trimming videos to desirable sizes. Online video cutter is one of 123 apps to edit and convert different file formats. The video editor can trim, crop, rotate and resize videos.

With Online Video Cutter, you can;

• Frame the video or change the frame proportions of the videos.
• Change the angle of a video up to 270 degrees; this comes in handy when you want to change a video’s view from landscape to portrait.
• Flip, resize, change volume and add texts and images to your video.
• Trim, equalize, and record sounds to be added to the video.

Pros

• Supports all video format
• Privacy is guaranteed as you are the only one with access to the video.
• It works well in most browsers.
• It does not require sign up before use
• Converts files to any format
• Can upload files larger than 4GB in size

Cons

• It takes up a lot of time to upload files
• Decreases the video quality
• Cannot upload a file of more than 700MB in the free version

5. FlexClip

Flexclip is an online video creator and editor with essential editing tools. Flexclip has numerous templates and presets that let you create videos in a short time. You can create your video from scratch, templates, and previously saved videos.

Main Feature

• Audio effects: you can record voices and add background music to the video.
• Video tools: trim, merge, compress and convert videos.
• Customization: you can add your logo or watermark to the video.
• Allows video transition and GIF production
• Allows you to increase video brightness and add filters to video.

Pros

• It has more than 4 million pictures and pictures to add to videos.
• Allows preview of videos before exporting.
• It supports different video resolutions.
• Templates for various events are available.

Cons

• Limited video resolution download in free version
• The free version can only create a 1-minute video and hold 12 projects.

Part 3: Best Free Video Editing Apps for Beginners on iPhone and Android

1. CapCut

Cap C ut is a free video editing software for beginners suitable for TikTok content creators. It was formerly known as Viamaker. Cap cut is easy to use for beginners, and it can create spectacular videos automatically by cutting, reordering, and merging recorded videos.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Cap cut allows you to:

• Split, merge, and reverse videos.
• Control the video speed
• Add filter, special effects, stickers, and texts to videos.
• Overlay and add sounds to the videos

Pros

• You can export directly to Tiktok.
• It has a vast music library, including copyrighted songs.
• Exported videos are of high quality.

Cons

• It does not support Multicam and 360 video editing.
• Effectiveness depends on the phone’s processor and features.
• Limited editing features.
• Video cannot exceed 15 minutes.
• You can only add a music track per video.

2. Quik

Quik is a free video editor for beginners produced by the makers of GoPro. Quik is an auto-video maker that puts together pictures, videos, and music with a few selections.

Supported on: Android and iOS

Main features

• Auto-video: Quik will create a video with transitions and soundtrack when you select several pictures and videos.
• Video editing tools: you can adjust the brightness, add texts and stickers, and add filters to a video.
• Adjust video speed: you can add slo-mo and freeze effects to the video.
• It allows direct sharing to social media pages.

Pros

• Allows HD video download
• Video styles template for new users.
• Unlimited cloud backup.
• Changes video ratio to suit different social media

Cons

• Limited editing features in the free version.
• Not suitable for videos longer than 60 seconds
• Limited font styles

Part 4: What to Look for in Choosing the Best Video editors As Beginners

When trying to choose a video editor as a beginner, you should look out for:

What video editor has the most commonly used editing tools and intuitive interface

Some essential video editing tools should be available in a video editor. These include Video tools (cropping, rotating, merging, cutting, and splitting of videos), effects and animations, audio effects, the addition of texts, and other features necessary to the purpose of the video you are editing.

Templates for different occasions to create videos quickly

As a beginner video editor, you might not be creative enough to edit professional videos. Video editors that have ready-made templates will come in handy when you want to create a video quickly.

Ready-made templates give a guide to a beginner video editor to create professional-looking videos.

Tutorials and Supports

The best video editors for beginners are user-friendly, and they provide free tutorials to guide new users on their video editing journey. Some video editing software targets digital marketers and video content creators, so they release tutorial videos every week to help them improve their skills.

Are you a creator, influencer, or marketer, and you need to join the trend of creating video content that converts. Check out the list to know which free video editing software best suits your niche.

These are beginner-friendly video editing software that you can use to create professional-looking video content. Watch tutorials and get to work. The more videos you edit, the better you get at it.

Also read: