15 Easy-to-Use Video Editing Software for Desktop
Your guide to desktop video editing software. Find the perfect tool for your needs.
Hey there, fellow video editors! Do you just hate wasting hours trying to figure out how to use complicated video editing software? Fear not, as I’ve compiled a list of simple video editors that will make editing a breeze!
Before you ask, “What is the easiest video editing software?” Please know that this article is not ranked by order, so give each item an equal chance! A selection of the simplest and most convenient video editors is all that is included. Therefore, whether you’re a novice or an experienced pro, you’ll definitely find something that appeals to your taste and needs.
With the help of these easy-to-use video editors, you’ll be editing like a pro in no time. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and let’s explore the fascinating world of video editing!
1. Clipify
Clipify is one of the easiest video editing software and is the way to go if you’re searching for user-friendly tool that doesn’t spare on functionality. This straightforward video editor has a ton of sophisticated capabilities but is still basic enough for beginners to learn. You can produce professional-looking videos quickly with its intuitive interface and robust toolbox.
Clipify offers a wide range of video editing features, including audio tools, digital effects, frame accuracy, image/text overlay, media library, speed adjustment, split/merge, video capture, video stabilization, and video titling. Whether you want to crop, stitch, or enhance your videos, Clipify makes it a breeze. You can even perform complex color correction, speed up or zoom in on your footage, and add voice comments.
One of the standout features of Clipify is its vast library of over 650 music tracks, stickers, and clipart. Additionally, you can convert your videos to over 30 formats, including those for TV, mobile devices, social media, YouTube, and DVD, and produce movies automatically using the user-friendly wizard.
Clipify is undoubtedly one of the best free and easy-to-use video editing software. But the best thing, though? Clipify also offers budget-friendly plans that offer even more features. So, give Clipify a try if you’re looking for a simple program that can attend to your actual needs.
Input: MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, WMV, MPEG, M4V, 3GP, ASF, and WEBM.
Output: MP3, MP4, WAV, AAC, FLAC, M4A, and OGG
Clipify’s Price:
- Base Version: Free
- Standard Plan: $29.40
- Deluxe Plan: $39.90
- Pro Plan: $59.50
Download Clipify for:
2. OpenShot
Looking for an easy way to edit videos on Windows? Look no further than OpenShot! OpenShot is probably one of the easiest video editing apps I’ve ever used. It has an extremely user-friendly interface with a clear design that even newcomers may readily grasp.
With OpenShot, you can trim and slice your videos quickly, add unlimited layers, and use the powerful animation framework to add cool effects like fades, slides, and bounces. You can even render beautiful 3D animated titles and effects, including snow, lens flares, and flying text.
One of my favorite features of OpenShot is the audio waveform visualization. It’s amazing to see the sound waves of your audio files and even output them as part of your video.
OpenShot is available in over 70 different languages and can be translated online with LaunchPad. Additionally, it is open-source software that is available for free, with email-based technical support. Give OpenShot a try if you’re seeking the most user-friendly video editing app.
Input: 3GPP, AVI, DNxHD, DV, FLV, H.264 AVC, HEVC, Matroska, MOV, MP3 (audio only), MP4, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, Ogg Vorbis, QuickTime, TrueType, WAV (audio only), WebM, WMV, and XDCAM
Output: 3GP, AVI, DNxHD, FFMpeg, FLV, H.264, HEVC, M4A, MOV, MP4, MPEG, OGG, MKV, WAV, WebM, WMA, WM
OpenShot’s Price:
OpenShot is free.
Download OpenShot for:
3. MAGIX Video Easy
Anyone who wants to make great videos quickly and effortlessly should use MAGIX Video Easy. Its handy setup and introduction wizard mean you don’t need any previous knowledge to use it. The interface is optimized for legibility and ease of use, and it supports various video formats, including smartphones, action cam, and digicam videos.
MAGIX Video Easy has a ton of video editing features that make creating and editing home videos a breeze. With just one click, you may edit and delete unnecessary scenes, improve the image and audio quality of your films, and even stabilize unstable footage. Additionally, you can import and export 4K videos quickly and effortlessly thanks to its cutting-edge hardware support.
Overall, MAGIX Video Easy could be the best easy-to-use video editing software for those who want to make amazing videos without having to spend a lot of time learning how to use difficult software. You can make incredible films with it that you’ll be glad to show off to others because it is quick, simple to use, and packed with capabilities!
- Import formats: AVI, DV-AVI, M2TS, MOV, MXV, WMV, VOB, MKV, MJPEG
- Export formats: MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV
MAGIX Video Easy’s Price:
- Free Trial: Available
- Monthly Premium: $3.49
Download MAGIX Video Easy for:
4. Lightworks Video Editor
Another popular and easy video editor is Lightworks. It is ideal for beginners who wish to make professional videos because it is free and accessible on Mac, Windows, and Linux. But despite its filmmaking roots, the free edition is user-friendly and contains a ton of sophisticated capabilities for more seasoned users.
It features a straightforward user interface, and the four tabs at the top of the main window give access to the Log, Edit, VFX, and Audio primary workspaces. You can make professional-caliber videos using the tools and options that each workspace offers. Even for more complicated projects, Lightworks makes it easy to drag and drop elements into the application using a variety of methods.
In conclusion, Lightworks is a complete video editing app that is popular and recommended, especially for inexperienced users looking to create high-quality videos at a reasonable cost. Although there are certain restrictions in the free version, it is regularly updated, and upgrading to the Pro version gives you access to more sophisticated editing capabilities.
Input: MPEG, AVI, MOV, WMV, MXF, WAV, MP4, H.264, and many others.
Output: MPEG-4/H.264, MPEG-2, QuickTime, AVI, MXF, DPX, and AAF
Lightworks Video Editor’s Price:
- Base Version: Free
- Lightworks Create: $9.99
- Lightworks Pro: $23.99
Download Lightworks Video Editor for:
Login required to download.
5. InVideo
InVideo is another easy video editing software for Windows. It simplifies the video creation process with its 5000+ professionally-made templates that you can customize with just a few clicks. Even if you have no prior experience in video editing, InVideo makes it easy for you to create publish-worthy videos on day one. Plus, its AI-based text-to-video editor helps you convert your script, article, or blog into a video in minutes.
With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features, InVideo is a must-have tool for anyone looking to up their video-editing game. The software offers single-click shortcuts to remove backgrounds, add stock media and music, and apply your brand’s colors and fonts. Additionally, its collaboration and team management features allow you to work on your video with your team without any hassle.
Overall, I’d highly recommend giving InVideo a try. InVideo also offers a free sign-up that requires no credit card details. This means you can take advantage of this opportunity to showcase your creativity to the world by creating amazing videos!
Input: MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, 3GP, WMV, MPEG-2, WEBM, MKV
Output: MP4, MOV
InVideo’s Price:
- Base Version: Free
- Business Plan: $15
- Unlimited Plan: $30
Download InVideo for:
6. Shotcut
Shotcut is free and easy video editing software that works on Windows, Linux, and Mac. It contains every necessary feature for producing top-notch videos. Users can easily drag and drop media files onto the timeline using the user-friendly Shotcut interface to import them. To improve the quality of the clips, additional layers of video and audio as well as filters and effects can be added.
Text tools and 360 video support are also available in Shotcut. The software comes with various presets for exporting the finished video, making it effortless to share your work. However, a small drawback is that adding layers requires manual input. Nonetheless, Shotcut remains a fantastic software for creating beautiful videos with ease and is one of the best easy video editing software options available.
Input: AVI, DNxHD, FFV1, H.264, HEVC, MOV, MP4, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MXF, ProRes, QuickTime, WAV, and more.
Output: AVI, M4A, MOV, MP3, MP4, OGG, WAV
Shotcut’s Price:
- Base Version: Free
Download Shotcut for:
7. Magisto
Magisto is an online video editing suite designed to simplify the process of creating and editing videos. Magisto uses artificial intelligence to transform your videos into special short films that look professionally made.
Magisto’s variety of themes and styles set it apart from other video editing apps. To make a short movie, you can upload your own photos and videos and select the ideal design for it. A commercial license also enables you to alter specific scenes and include branding, captions, and background music. Additionally, Magisto has an iOS and Android mobile app so you may use it from a computer or mobile device.
For small and medium-sized businesses who want to produce quality videos without going over budget, Magisto is a great video editing application. Magisto makes it simple to produce spectacular videos wherever you are thanks to its user-friendly UI, AI capabilities, and mobile app. Try it out and leave your feedback in the comments!
Magisto’s Price:
- Base Version: Not Available
- Premium Plan: $9.99
- Professional Plan: $19.99
- Business Plan: $69.99
8. Adobe Premiere Elements
Let’s talk about Adobe Premiere Elements, a very user-friendly video editing software out there. Although it’s quick to start up and perform standard editing procedures, it falls short when it comes to rendering your projects. Even with supported video hardware, it took over three minutes to render a video.
While Premiere Elements is a decent option with features that guide you toward creating compelling projects, it’s not the most powerful or fastest video editor available. If you’re looking for something with more advanced features and faster rendering times, you might want to check out Clipify, Corel VideoStudio, or Final Cut Pro instead.
In summary, Adobe Premiere Elements is rather easy-to-use video editing sfotware that might be right for you. There are, however, better options if you’re looking for something less demanding to hardware.
Input: AVCHD (import only), DV-AVI (import/export on Windows, import only on Mac OS), DVD (Windows only), H.264, HDV, MPEG-1 (import only), MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MP3, QuickTime, Windows Media (Windows only)
Output: AVCHD, Blu-ray, DVD, H.264, HDV, , MPEG-2, MPEG-4, MP3, QuickTime, Windows Media (Windows only)
Adobe Premiere Elements’s Price:
- One-time Fee: $99.99
Download Adobe Premiere Elements for:
9. VideoPad Video Editor
Without overloading you with capabilities you don’t need, VideoPad Video Editor is a consumer-level video editor that includes all the essentials you need to make fantastic home movies. There is something for everyone because there are numerous models offered at different price points.
It’s simple to get started because of the intuitive interface, and the editor provides a fair range of transitions, visual effects, and filters to help you give your movies a distinctive appearance. To get the perfect look, you may also alter the playback speed, add subtitles, and fine-tune the color.
One downside is that some features are known to time out even in the free version, so it’s recommended to try the free version before buying. But overall, VideoPad is a great choice for beginners and anyone who doesn’t need an elaborate professional app to create home movies or tutorial presentations for social media.
Input: 3GP, AVI, ASF, AVI, DIVX, DV, DVR-MS, F4V, FLV, H.264, M2TS, M3U8, MKV, MOD, MOV, MP4, MPEG, MPG, MTS, MXF, OGG, QT, RM, RMVB, SWF, TOD, TP, TS, VOB, WEBM, WMA, WMV, and more.
Output: AVI, WMV, DIVX, MPG, 3GP, MP4, MOV, ASF, VOB, MKV, GIF, and others.
VideoPad Video Editor’s Price:
- Free Version: Available
- Home Edition: $40
- Master’s Edition: $70
Download VideoPad Video Editor for:
10. Movavi Video Editor
Consider Movavi Video Editor if you’re looking for user-friendly video editing software. No of your level of expertise, it offers all the tools required to generate professional-looking videos. Thanks to its user-friendly interface and sophisticated features, you can easily produce captivating content, such as slideshows and videos.
Movavi Video Editor is versatile and can be utilized for various purposes, such as producing YouTube videos and demos. Its feature set comprises effects, filters, and animated transitions, among others, that can help enhance your videos.
Overall, I strongly suggest Movavi Video Editor to anyone seeking straightforward yet robust video editing software. With its cost-effectiveness and ease of use, it’s an excellent choice for individuals seeking to produce professional-looking videos without having to spend significant amounts of time or money learning complicated software.
Input: AVI, MP4, MPEG, WMV, MOV
Output: AVI, MP4, MOV, WMV, MKV, FLV, MPG, MPEG, VOB, M2TS, WEBM, ASF, and GIF.
Movavi Video Editor’s Price:
- Video Editor Plus: $44.95 (1-year license/1 PC)
- Video Editor Plus: $64.95 (Lifetime/1 PC)
- Video Suite: $84.95 (Lifetime/1 PC)
Download Movavi Video Editor for:
11. Capcut
CapCut is a popular video editing software with a wide range of features for both amateurs and professionals. Its user-friendly interface includes innovative speech-to-text and text-to-speech functions that make caption generation easy. Capcut’s advanced background removal, video resizing, and editing tools allow for quick and easy video editing to achieve a professional look. In addition, Capcut has a vast library of over 500,000 music tracks, 4,600 stickers, 1,300 text styles, 1,100 effects, and 200 filters to help enhance the quality of the content.
As someone who loves creating content for social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels, Capcut has become my go-to video editing software. It has everything I need to make my videos look polished and engaging, and I’d definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient video editing tool.
Input: MP4, MOV, AVI, FLV, MKV
Output: MOV, MP4
Capcut’s Price:
Capcut is free.
Download Capcut for:
12. AVS Video Editor
If you’re looking for a powerful and user-friendly video editing software, then AVS Video Editor is worth checking out. With its intuitive interface and advanced editing features, it enables users to create professional-quality content with ease. The software supports popular formats like MP4, MOV, and AVI, as well as various resolutions from HD to 4K Ultra HD. It also boasts built-in codecs like H.264/AVC and MPEG-4, making it an efficient choice for both amateurs and professionals.
AVS Video Editor offers a range of tools for capturing and editing footage from various sources, including DV/HDV cameras, webcams, and even VHS tapes. Its advanced editing features, such as scene cutting, color tuning, and background replacement, help to make your videos look polished and professional. You can also create slideshows and add annotations or mouse click effects during recording. Once your video is complete, you can save it in various formats and easily share it on popular platforms like YouTube and TikTok.
Overall, AVS Video Editor provides a comprehensive solution for anyone looking to create high-quality videos with ease and efficiency. Its compatibility with popular formats, advanced editing features, and user-friendly interface make it a solid choice for both beginners and professionals alike. However, it’s important to note that AVS Video Editor is only available for Windows.
Input: AVI, MP4, MKV, MOV, VOB, MPEG, H.264, WMV, 3GP, FLV, WEBM, M2TS, TS, TP, TRP, MOD, TOD, AVCHD, H.265 (HEVC), MXF, DVR-MS, DAT, MTS, M2T, M2V, ASF, SWF, F4V, MPE, MPV, MPG, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4.
Output: AVI, MP4, WMV, 3GP, QuickTime MOV, SWF, MPEG, M4V, RM, DVR-MS, MKV, FLV, Blu-ray Disc, DVD, VOB, AVCHD Disc.
AVS Video Editor’s Price:
- 1 Year: $49.00
- Unlimited: $79.00
Download AVS Video Editor for:
13. HitFilm Express
HitFilm is an impressive video editing software that offers users the ability to create professional-quality content with ease. The software’s ultra-fast technology ensures a smooth and efficient editing experience without any annoying lag or delays. With HitFilm, you get all the essential tools needed for editing, animation, and audio, making it the ideal choice for anyone looking for a comprehensive and efficient editing software.
HitFilm’s range of professional tools lets users create dynamic edits using essential functions like cutting, slicing, trimming, splitting, cropping, and flipping. The software also offers drag-and-drop transitions, pre-built presets, and creative assets like a library of stock footage, music, sound effects, and templates. Additionally, HitFilm simplifies audio synchronization and provides advanced text tools for adding subtitles and creating eye-catching 2D and 3D titles.
One of HitFilm’s standout features is its comprehensive suite of visual effects that go beyond basic editing. With lighting and lens flare effects, a wide range of color grading and correction presets, and motion tracking capabilities, users can effortlessly add a cinematic look to their videos. The software’s robust keying capabilities make it easy to change backgrounds and refine edges for a professional-looking final product. HitFilm also supports 32-bit floating point color, 8K resolution, 2x faster exporting, and 8x faster playback, ensuring a high-quality editing experience.
Input: AVI, MP4, MPEG, MOV, WMV, VOB
Output: MP4, AVI, MOV, MKV, MPEG-2, WMV
HitFilm Express’s Price:
A free version is available.
- Creator: $7.99/month (if yearly. If monthly, $12.99/month)
- Pro: $12.99/month (if yearly. If monthly, $19.99/month)
Download HitFilm Express for:
Registration is required.
14. Lumen5
Lumen5 is an innovative platform that takes the hassle out of creating engaging videos that resonate with your audience. It’s perfect for businesses looking to drive demand and grow their brand using video marketing. With Lumen5’s user-friendly point-and-click, drag-and-drop interface, anyone can create visually stunning videos as easily as they would build a slide deck. The platform’s AI and machine learning capabilities make it even simpler, enabling users to repurpose their written content or Zoom recordings into captivating videos within minutes.
Lumen5 offers an extensive library of customizable templates and millions of premium licensed videos and photos from sources like Unsplash and Shutterstock. With these resources at your fingertips, you can create visually compelling and consistent content in no time. The platform’s powerful voice features, callouts, cutaways, and auto-generated captions enhance viewer engagement, while its innovative transcript-based editing saves you time and ensures a professional end product. In short, Lumen5 is the ultimate solution for anyone seeking a quick and easy way to create professional-quality videos that get results.
Input: MP4
Output: MP4
Lumen5’s Price:
- Basic: $19/month
- Starter: $59/month
- Professional: $149/month
- Enterprise: Contact Lumen5 for more information
15. CyberLink Video Editor
Last but not least, we have CyberLink Video Editor. This is a user-friendly software that offers powerful tools to create professional-quality videos for Windows and MacOS devices. It provides versatile design tools such as Mask Designer, Title Designer, and PIP Designer to remove unwanted objects, enhance footage with unique visual effects, and engage viewers with animated stickers, shapes, and callouts.
The software saves time with thousands of customizable video intros and outros, speech-to-text function, advanced audio mixing and mastering, and one-click color correction. It also offers green screen effects, chroma keying, and access to over 8 million stock media assets, including animated titles, transitions, and stickers. With CyberLink Video Editor, users can create captivating and professional videos effortlessly.
Input: AVI, MPEG-1, MPEG-2, MPEG-4, WMV, MOV
Output: MP4, WMV, AVI
CyberLink Video Editor’s Price:
- Lifetime License – PowerDirector 21 Ultra: $99.99
- LIfetime License – PowerDirector 21 Ultimate: $139.99
- Subscription – PowerDirector 365: $19.99/month
- Subscription – Director Suite 365: $29.99/month
- Subscription – PowerDirector 365 Business: $34.99/month
Download CyberLink Video Editor for:
Wrapping Up
Well, fellow video editors, you now have the power to transform your amateur footage into cinematic masterpieces! You can bid sophisticated software farewell and welcome to simple editing with the help of these user-friendly video editing apps.
You will have the resources necessary to produce visually spectacular videos that will impress your audience, regardless of the video editing software you select. So, let’s get editing and unleash our inner Spielberg!