Best Video Editing Apps for Professional and Beginner

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, video content is more important than ever. Having the right tools is crucial to creating content for social media, YouTube, or just for fun. That’s where the Best Video Editing Apps come in. These apps offer everything from basic editing to advanced features, making it easier than ever to enhance your videos.

We’ve done the legwork, tested the tools, and curated a list of the Best Video Editing Apps, we have an app recommendation that will fit your needs perfectly. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence to choose the best video editing app for your projects and be on your way to creating stunning videos in no time.

Category	App Name	Platform	Key Features	Price
Best for Beginners	iMovie	iOS, macOS	Simple interface, basic editing tools	Free
Best Free App	DaVinci Resolve	Windows, macOS, Linux	Advanced color grading, multi-track editing	Free (Studio version available)
Best for Professionals	Adobe Premiere Pro	Windows, macOS	Multi-track editing, 4K support, integrations with Adobe CC	Subscription-based
Best for Mobile Devices	LumaFusion	iOS	Multi-track editing, 4K support	Paid
Best for Social Media Content	InShot	iOS, Android	Aspect ratio templates, quick export	Free with in-app purchases

Top Features to Look for in a Video Editing App

When choosing the best video editing app, it’s crucial to focus on features that will make your editing process smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Here’s a quick rundown of what to look for:

User Interface: Ease of Use for Beginners and Pros

A user-friendly interface is key, especially if you’re new to video editing. The best apps offer intuitive layouts that allow beginners to start editing quickly without feeling overwhelmed. At the same time, they provide advanced tools that professionals can easily access, making the app versatile for all skill levels.

Editing Tools: Trimming, Splitting, Merging, and Other Essential Functions

Basic editing tools are the backbone of any video editing app. Look for apps that offer simple yet powerful tools like trimming, splitting, and merging clips. These functions allow you to refine your videos, remove unwanted sections, and create seamless transitions. The Best Video Editing Apps make these tools easy to use, giving you more control over your content.

Special Effects: Filters, Transitions, and Advanced Effects

Special effects can elevate your videos from good to great. The right app should offer various options, whether applying filters, adding transitions, or incorporating advanced effects like slow motion or time-lapse. These features help you add creativity and polish to your videos, making them more engaging for your audience.

Export Options: Formats and Quality Settings for Different Platforms

Once your video is edited, you must export it in the right format and quality. The Best Video Editing Apps provide a range of export options, allowing you to tailor the output to specific platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook. This ensures that your videos look their best no matter where they’re shared.

Cross-Platform Availability: Desktop vs. Mobile Functionality

In today’s on-the-go world, it’s important to have an app that works seamlessly across different devices. The Best Video Editing Apps offer cross-platform availability, so you can start editing on your desktop and finish on your mobile device or vice versa. This flexibility allows you to edit whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.

Focusing on these features will equip you to choose the best video editing app that meets your needs and helps you create stunning videos easily.

Best Video Editing Apps for Professionals

Regarding video editing at a professional level, the stakes are high. Professional editors need powerful tools that offer advanced features, high performance, and the ability to handle complex projects. Here’s a look at the Best Video Editing Apps for professionals that cater to these demanding needs.

Advanced Features Required by Professional Editors

Professional video editing requires much more than just basic trimming and cutting. Advanced features like multi-track editing, color grading, and motion graphics are essential. Professionals also need robust support for high-resolution video, including 4K and beyond, and the ability to simultaneously work with multiple video and audio layers. The best apps for professionals offer these features in a way that maximizes efficiency and creativity.

Support for High-Resolution Video, Multi-Track Editing, and Advanced Effects

High-resolution video support is necessary for professional editors working on projects intended for film, television, or high-end online platforms. Multi-track editing allows for the layering of video, audio, and effects, which is crucial for creating complex sequences. Advanced effects, such as keyframe animation, motion tracking, and 3D compositing, give editors the tools they need to achieve a polished, cinematic look.

List and Briefly Describe a Few Pro-Level Apps with Pros and Cons

• Adobe Premiere Pro (Windows, macOS)
  • Pros: Adobe Premiere Pro is the industry standard, known for its comprehensive feature set. It supports high-resolution video and multi-track editing and integrates seamlessly with other Adobe products, like After Effects, for advanced motion graphics. The app also offers powerful color grading tools and a vast array of plugins.
  • The cons: The software can be resource-intensive, requiring a powerful computer. It also has a steep learning curve and a subscription-based pricing model.
• Final Cut Pro X (macOS)
  • Pros: Many professionals, particularly those in the Apple ecosystem, favor Final Cut Pro X. It offers a magnetic timeline for intuitive editing, 4K and 8K video support, and advanced color grading options. The software is optimized for macOS, ensuring smooth performance even with large files.
  • The cons are that it is only available for macOS, which limits its accessibility. The interface, while powerful, can take some time to master.
• DaVinci Resolve (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Pros: DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse for editing and color grading. It’s used in Hollywood for its advanced color correction tools and supports high-resolution video and multi-track editing. The software also includes a robust audio editing suite and visual effects tools.
  • Cons: The interface is complex, and the learning curve is steep. While a free version is available, the full suite of features requires the paid Studio version.
• Avid Media Composer (Windows, macOS)
  • Pros: Avid Media Composer is the go-to film and television editing software. It excels in handling large projects with complex timelines and offers advanced media management tools. The app supports multi-cam editing and high-resolution formats and has a solid reputation for reliability in professional environments.
  • The cons: The software is expensive and has a steep learning curve. It’s also less user-friendly for those new to professional editing.

These Best Video Editing Apps for professionals provide the advanced features and reliability needed for high-end video production. Whether you’re editing a feature film, a commercial, or a complex corporate video, these tools will help you achieve the level of quality and precision that your projects demand.

Best Free Video Editing Apps

Finding a free video editing app that still offers powerful features can be a game-changer for those on a budget. While free apps often have limitations, they can still provide a robust editing experience for beginners and even some advanced users. Here’s a look at the best free video editing apps that deliver impressive functionality without the price tag.

List and Briefly Describe the Best Free Apps with Pros and Cons

• Shotcut (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Pros: Shotcut is an open-source video editor that offers a wide range of features, including support for 4K video, various audio and video filters, and timeline editing. It’s perfect for users who want a free app with plenty of customization options.
  • Cons: The interface can be clunky, and beginners’ learning curve is steep.
• HitFilm Express (Windows, macOS)
  • Pros: HitFilm Express combines video editing with visual effects tools, making it a great choice for creating dynamic videos. It supports high-resolution formats and offers a range of features usually found in paid software.
  • Cons: The free version has some limitations, such as fewer VFX options and the software can be resource-intensive.
• DaVinci Resolve (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Pros: DaVinci Resolve’s free version is surprisingly powerful, offering professional-grade color correction and audio editing tools. It’s a top choice for those serious about editing without spending money.
  • Cons: The free version needs some advanced features compared to the Studio version, and the software has a steep learning curve.
• OpenShot (Windows, macOS, Linux)
  • Pros: OpenShot is user-friendly, with a simple interface that is perfect for beginners. It offers basic editing tools, unlimited tracks, and advanced features like keyframe animation.
  • Cons: The software can be slow when handling larger projects and occasionally experiences stability issues.

Best Video Editing Apps for Mobile Devices

With the rise of mobile content creation, having a powerful video editing app on your smartphone or tablet is essential. The Best Video Editing Apps for mobile devices are optimized for iOS and Android, offering a balance between power and portability. Here’s what you need to know about the top options.

Focus on Apps Optimized for iOS and Android Devices

Mobile video editing apps are designed to maximize your device’s capabilities. They offer streamlined interfaces and touch-based controls that make editing on the go easy and intuitive. The best apps are optimized for iOS and Android, ensuring smooth performance and high-quality output on any device.

List and Briefly Describe Mobile Apps with Pros and Cons

• LumaFusion (iOS)
  • Pros: LumaFusion is one of the most powerful video editing apps available for mobile. It offers multi-track editing, advanced color correction, and various effects, making it a top choice for professionals and enthusiasts.
  • Cons: The app is only available for iOS, and the price might be steep for casual users.
• KineMaster (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: KineMaster provides a rich set of editing tools, including multi-layer editing, transitions, and audio effects. It’s highly versatile and suitable for both beginners and more advanced users.
  • Cons: The free version includes watermarks on videos, and some features are locked behind a subscription.
• Adobe Premiere Rush (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: Adobe Premiere Rush offers a simplified version of Premiere Pro, with drag-and-drop editing and easy export options. It syncs with Adobe Creative Cloud, allowing you to work across devices.
  • Cons: The free version has limited export options, and some users may find the feature set too basic compared to other mobile apps.
• InShot (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: InShot is great for quick edits, especially for social media content. It includes features like trimming, splitting, and adding music, as well as a variety of filters and effects.
  • Cons: The free version includes watermarks, and advanced features require in-app purchases.

Best Video Editing Apps for Social Media Content

Creating eye-catching content for social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube requires a specialized approach. The Best Video Editing Apps for social media content are designed to simplify the process, offering tools that help you craft videos that stand out in a crowded feed.

For Platforms Like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube

Social media platforms have unique demands, from specific aspect ratios to quick editing needs. The best apps for social media content are optimized to meet these demands, making it easy to create videos that fit perfectly within each platform’s guidelines. Whether you’re making a TikTok dance video, an Instagram story, or a YouTube vlog, these apps offer the tools to make your content shine.

Features Like Aspect Ratio Templates, Quick Export Options, and Easy Sharing

One of the key features to look for in a social media-focused video editing app is aspect ratio templates. These templates ensure your videos are the correct size and shape for the platform you’re targeting, whether it’s a vertical video for TikTok or a widescreen format for YouTube. Quick export options are also essential, allowing you to save your videos in the best quality without lengthy rendering times. Additionally, easy sharing options let you post directly to social media from within the app, streamlining your workflow and saving you time.

List and Briefly Describe Apps Tailored for Social Media with Pros and Cons

• InShot (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: InShot is popular for social media content creators due to its simplicity and effectiveness. It offers a variety of aspect ratio templates for different platforms, along with features like trimming, music overlays, and filters. The app also supports quick exports, making sharing your videos on Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube easy.
  • Cons: The free version places watermarks on your videos, and some advanced features require in-app purchases.
• VSCO (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: While primarily known as a photo editing app, VSCO also offers powerful video editing tools, particularly for Instagram content. The app provides beautiful filters, aspect ratio adjustments, and basic editing functions perfect for creating visually stunning videos. It’s ideal for users who prioritize aesthetics and want to maintain a consistent look across their social media feeds.
  • Cons: The video editing features are limited compared to other apps, and most of the best filters are locked behind a subscription.
• Adobe Premiere Rush (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: Adobe Premiere Rush is a streamlined Premiere Pro version tailored for social media creators. It offers multi-track editing, custom aspect ratios, and seamless integration with Adobe Creative Cloud. The app also includes easy sharing options, allowing you to post directly to YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook without leaving the app.
  • Cons: The free version has limited features, and the app can be resource-intensive on older devices.
• KineMaster (iOS, Android)
  • Pros: KineMaster is a versatile app that is perfect for creating dynamic social media content. It offers advanced features like multi-layer editing, chroma key, and audio effects, making it suitable for more complex projects. The app’s intuitive interface and quick export options make it a favorite among TikTok and YouTube creators.
  • Cons: The free version includes watermarks; unlocking all features requires a subscription.
• Clips (iOS)
  • Pros: Clips is Apple’s video editing app for social media. It offers a range of fun features like animated text, filters, and live titles that automatically sync with your voice. The app is user-friendly and perfect for creating quick, engaging content for Instagram and TikTok.
  • Cons: Limited to iOS devices and needs some of the advanced editing features found in other apps.

These Best Video Editing Apps for social media content provide the tools you need to create videos that look great and are optimized for the platform you’re targeting. Whether posting a quick story or a detailed vlog, these apps make it easy to produce content that engages your audience and helps you grow your social media presence.

How to Choose the Right Video Editing App for You

Selecting the best video editing app, especially with many available options, can feel overwhelming. The right app for you depends on key factors: your skill level, what you need the app to do, and how much you’re willing to spend. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision.

Tips on Selecting an App Based on Your Skill Level, Needs, and Budget

• Skill Level:Beginner: If you’re new to video editing, start with a user-friendly app that doesn’t overwhelm you with advanced features. Look for apps with simple interfaces and basic editing tools, such as trimming, cutting, and adding filters. Apps like iMovie or InShot are great for starting without a steep learning curve.
• Intermediate: If you have some experience and are ready to explore more advanced features, choose an app that balances simplicity and complexity. Apps like FilmoraGo or Adobe Premiere Rush provide more powerful tools while remaining accessible to non-professionals.
• Professional: For those with advanced skills, opt for apps that offer a wide range of features, such as multi-track editing, color grading, and motion graphics. Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, or DaVinci Resolve are industry standards catering to professional editors’ needs.
• Needs: Social Media: If you’re focused on creating content for social media platforms, select an app with specific tools, like aspect ratio templates and quick export options. InShot and Adobe Premiere Rush are designed with social media creators in mind.
• High-Quality Production: If you want to produce high-quality videos, perhaps for YouTube or professional projects, choose an app that supports 4K video and advanced editing features. Apps like Final Cut Pro X and DaVinci Resolve excel in high-end production.
• On-the-Go Editing: If you need to edit videos while traveling or away from your desktop, look for mobile apps optimized for iOS or Android, offering a balance of power and portability. KineMaster and LumaFusion are great options for mobile editing.
• Budget:Free: If you’re on a tight budget, several free apps still offer robust editing features. DaVinci Resolve, Shotcut, and HitFilm Express are powerful options that cost nothing.
• Affordable: If you can afford to spend a little, look for apps that offer great value for money. FilmoraGo and Adobe Premiere Rush have affordable pricing plans that give you access to more features without breaking the bank.
• Professional Investment: If you’re serious about video editing and see it as an investment, consider premium apps like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. While these come with higher costs, they offer unmatched tools and support for professional editing.

Conclusion

Finding the Best Video Editing Apps for your needs is crucial to unlocking your creative potential. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into video editing or a seasoned professional needing advanced tools, the right app can make all the difference. With so many options available, it’s important to consider your skill level, the specific features you need, and your budget. By doing so, you’ll be better equipped to choose an app that meets your current requirements and grows with you as your editing skills improve.

Don’t wait—try out the recommended apps today and see which fits your style and needs. Most of these apps offer free trials or versions so that you can get a feel for their features without any upfront commitment. Whether you’re editing on a mobile device or a desktop, there’s an app out there that’s perfect for your next project. Dive in, experiment, and start bringing your video ideas to life!

FAQs on Best Video Editing Apps