Comparing Free Video Editing Software and Trial and Error
I’ve been exploring which video editing software to use for creating YouTube videos. In this post, I’ll share my experience trying out a few different programs and discuss the software I plan to tackle next.
First Tried: PowerDirector
The first one I chose was PowerDirector, which has a strong reputation for being user-friendly and great for beginners. I immediately installed the free version and edited a video.
The editing process itself was extremely straightforward, offering a wealth of effects and templates. Just as I thought, “This looks promising!", a prominent “PowerDirector" logo appeared right in the middle of the generated video. I realized that this watermark cannot be removed in the free version, meaning it’s virtually unusable without purchasing the paid version, so I had to abandon it.
Next Used: iMovie
Next up was iMovie, a free software included with Apple products. It comes with the essential features, and its appeal lies in its intuitive operation, even for beginners.
When I actually tried editing with it, the user experience was good, but it was inconvenient that the text placement was fixed and couldn’t be positioned freely. Feeling that “I need a tool that allows for a bit more fine-tuning," this didn’t quite fit my needs in the end either.
Next Candidates: Open-Source Software
Avoiding paid software and looking for something flexible, I landed on open-source Kdenlive and Shotcut. Not only are these completely free to use, but they are also feature-rich and highly customizable.
I struggled with deciding which one to use, but after comparing search volumes on Google Trends, Shotcut seemed to have a slightly larger user base. Figuring it would likely have more robust support information available, I decided to give Shotcut a try first.
Video Editing Software Comparison Table
Below is a summary of the features of the free-to-start video editing software I’ve researched so far.
| Software Name | Supported OS | Features | Pros | Cons | Recommended Users |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DaVinci Resolve | Windows, macOS, Linux | A powerful tool equipped with professional-grade color grading, audio editing, and VFX capabilities. | Feature-rich even in the free version, offering an experience close to industry-standard tools. | Requires high-spec PC specs, operation is somewhat complex. | People who want high-quality editing and color adjustments. |
| HitFilm | Windows, macOS | Software strong in VFX and motion graphics. | Free access to powerful VFX tools, intuitive UI. | Some features are paid, heavy when using heavy effects. | People interested in motion graphics. |
| Shotcut | Windows, macOS, Linux | A simple, open-source tool that is easy to get started with. | Lightweight and easy to use, supports various formats. | UI can sometimes feel too simple. | Beginners or those looking for lightweight editing. |
| OpenShot | Windows, macOS, Linux | Designed with a simple interface that is friendly for beginners. | Low learning curve, equipped with basic editing features. | Can sometimes lack stability. | Beginners or those wanting simple edits. |
| iMovie | macOS, iOS | An easy-to-use video editing software optimized for Apple devices. | Intuitive and easy to use for Apple users, robust basic features. | macOS/iOS exclusive, low customizability. | Beginners with Apple devices. |
| Kdenlive | Windows, macOS, Linux | An open-source, feature-packed editing tool. | Abundant effects and transitions, high customizability. | Slightly high learning curve for beginners. | Intermediate users and above, or Linux users. |
| PowerDirector | Windows, macOS | A flexible tool supporting everything from beginner-friendly to advanced editing. | Easy to use even in the free version, rich in effects and templates. | Some features are paid, ads may appear. | A wide range from beginners to intermediates. |
Conclusion
The optimal tool for video editing varies depending on your goals, skill level, and budget. Through trial and error, I hope to find the tool that suits me best. Next time, I plan to share my thoughts and operational impressions of using Shotcut!