The 10 Best Free Video Editing Software So Far

Ready to explore the 10 best free video editing software and start your creative journey? We hope you are good with decision-making because we listed some fantastic free video editing tools.

Whether you're searching for a free video editor that's easy and fun to use or a professional video editing software free for use, we've got you covered. In this article, we will help you discover what are the best free video editors with all the little details you need to know before you make your final decision.

If free video editing software without a watermark sounds tempting, just keep reading and explore all the possibilities for video editing this year.

Here is a quick comparison table that highlights crucial aspects of each software that we will have a detailed look at in the continuation of this article:

How We Picked the Best Free Video Editing Software of 2024

Making a list of the ten best video editors for 2024 was not easy! We tried to consider that, on the one hand, we have various technological features and possibilities, and on the other hand, user characteristics and needs.

Here are some main points that guided us in compiling this list for you:

• Functionality and Features - We explored a range of features each software offers, from basic tools to more advanced ones.
• Ease of Use - An intuitive interface and straightforward controls are inevitable for a video editor that is considered one of the best.
• Performance and Stability - Video editing is a complex process, so good performance is considered a key for the best video editors.
• Platform Compatibility - Availability across multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux, or as a web-based application is another aspect we considered when choosing the best editors for the list.
• Watermark Policy - Many free video editing tools leave a watermark on edited content so we tried to list video editors that either don't leave a watermark or are not so noticeable.
• Support and Community - We tried to pick software that nurtures strong community support with access to useful tutorials, forums, and customer service.
• Update Frequency - Regular updates are a strong sign that software has a dedicated team in the background that cares about the quality and longevity of its program.

With all this said, let's continue to find out which video editors have all these crucial characteristics and have earned a place on our list of best for 2024.

The 10 Best Free Video Editors Reviewed

1.Wondershare Filmora

Wondershare Filmora

Best for amateurs, content creators, and anyone interested in high-quality results without previous experience in video editing.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS

Free & pricing:

• Free version with various features available.
• Monthly Plan for $9.99/mo with additional features unlocked.
• Perpetual Plan for $49.99, one-time payment.
• Annual Plan for $29.99 /yr.

Key Features:

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
• Built-in video effects and transitions.
• AI tools include AI Effects, AI Audio, AI Text-to-Speech, AI Thumbnail Creator, AI Motion Tracking, etc.
• Integrated music library and sound effects.
• Regular updates and new features and effects.

Why We Picked It: Filmora is one of our favorite choices due to its highly user-friendly interface and the various editing options available in the free version. It is perfect for advanced users and beginners in video editing with useful tutorials and tips available.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"Overall, I am using this software for the last 2 years and I am very happy. I have also recommended this software to many of my friends and I highly recommend it to others too" - Prabhakar U.

"Filmora is one of, if not THE best video editing tool I've ever used. It's got a lot of the same capabilities of powerhouses like Adobe Premiere, but in a MUCH easier-to-use package. It's also WAY more affordable than Premiere. I recommend Filmora to everyone I talk to about video editing!" - Julie F.

User Ratings: 4.5/5 on Capterra

2.ActivePresenter

ActivePresenter

Best for educators, instructional designers, and business multimedia presentations and training materials.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS.

Free & pricing:

• Free version available with limited features and watermark on exported videos.
• Paid plans:
• Standard for $199 (one-time payment).
• Professional for $399 (one-time payment).
• Enterprise (custom pricing for large organizations).

Key Features:

• Screen recording with customizable settings can capture high-quality videos.
• Interactive eLearning for interactive simulations and multimedia presentations, perfect for creating quizzes.

Why We Picked It: It is a perfect tool for creating high-quality eLearning content and video tutorials.

It has a powerful screen recording tool, which is extremely useful when creating tutorials and learning materials. You don't need advanced skills and on their YouTube channel, you can find useful tutorials to learn some basic steps.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"My best choice for creating interactive courses and games. I use Active Presenter since one of the earliest version if I remember well about 8 years or more ago. I liked the screen record feature you can use with simplicity." - Angelo G.

"ActivePresenter is one of the best freeware tools for screen recordings. I use it quite often for demo purposes and some light video editing… There is only one thing which is not convenient in this software is that once you pressed record, you can't change any recording settings." - Hakob A.

User Ratings: 4.7/5 on Capterra

3.OpenShot

OpenShot

Best for users looking for a free, open-source video editor with a range of features suitable for both beginners and experienced users.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux.

Free & pricing: 100% free for use.

Key Features:

• User-friendly, drag-and-drop interface.
• 3D animation and effects tools.
• Unlimited tracks and layers for more complex video projects.
• Video transitioning and compositing for smooth scene changes and blending multiple videos and images.
• Keyframe animation for precise control over animations and effects with detailed customization options.

Why We Picked It: OpenShot video editor is perfect for a 100% free tool with advanced features. When you combine user-friendliness and the accessibility of OpenShot for all skill levels, this video editor is the perfect program to start learning video editing. On their official YouTube channel, you can find some useful tutorials.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"Dragging and dropping is good and intuitive, as mentioned, color coding makes things easy to distinguish video and audio tracks. Cons: I felt the production or final producing of the product was slower than some rivals." - Jamie F.

"Overall, the experience was successful, but it needs more modification and development. Cons: Slow if the video quality is high / Need to develop more." - Jasm S.

User Ratings: 4.3/5 on Capterra

4.Kdenlive

Kdenlive

Open-source video editor, ideal for intermediate and advanced users looking for free and flexible video editing solutions.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

Free & pricing: Free, open-source software.

Key Features:

• Multi-track video editing for complex edits with layered effects and transitions.
• Customizable interface.
• Wide range of effects, transitions, and filters.
• It supports various video formats, including MP4, AVI, MOV, and MKV.

Why We Picked It: Kdenlive is on our list because of its open-source nature with continuous updates and improvements. This 100% free video editor offers various tools and features typically available in paid editors. For more insight on their website, you can find useful written and YouTube tutorials.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"I run a YT channel and it's going really good. I use Kdenlive for all my video editing. Sometimes I go to Ardor for audio/recording. Overall it gets the job done and is easier to set it up on Linux." - Reddit

User Ratings: No available user rating.

5.Shotcut

Shotcut

Best for amateurs, enthusiasts, and budget-conscious users who want high-quality video editing without any fees.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

Free & pricing: Free, open source.

Key Features:

• Wide format support, including MP4, MOV, AVI, MKV, and many more.
• Customizable interface, extremely adaptable to user's needs.
• Multi-track timeline supports various video and music tracks for sound effects and background music.
• Wide range of video effects and filters, including color correction, transitions, and visual enchantments.
• Hardware acceleration for optimized performance and better editing speed.

Why We Picked It: Shotcut is the perfect free video editor for intermediate-level users. When you combine the zero cost and various powerful features with constant updates and improvements, it is clear why this editor is on our list. For total beginners, Shotcut prepared some useful tutorials on their website.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"It offers many advanced features such as support for multiple file formats, the ability to add effects and transitions, as well as the ability to adjust playback speed and create slow motion or fast motion.

Despite its advantages, I have found that Shotcut can sometimes lack stability and crash when processing large files or long videos. It can also be difficult to use for beginners due to a fairly complex user interface and some advanced features that may require technical knowledge."

– Géovanny N.

"Shotcut saved me when my PC couldn't handle powerful video editors and allowed me to design something that my clients ended up loving… Cons: This video editor looks and works like an early version of any top video editor, if you miss windows movie maker, Shotcut is that limited and basic software that for some reason you're looking for." - Cristhian Josue J.

User Ratings: 4.4/5 on Capterra

6.Lightworks

Lightworks

Professional video editing software, best for filmmakers, video editors, and content creators.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

Free & pricing:

• Free version with limited options.
• The pro version includes advanced features and higher quality options for $24/month or $174.99/year.

Key Features:

• Advanced multi-track editing, ideal for complex projects with multiple video and audio layers.
• Real-time effects and advanced color correction tools.
• Flexible interface with comprehensive media management such as tagging, searching, and sorting.
• Multicam editing for projects involving multiple camera angles.
• Collaboration tools allow multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.

Why We Picked It: Lightworks combines a highly intuitive interface and professional, complex features. It is very appreciated in video making industry and its free version offers a solid introduction to capabilities that Lightworks own. And if you want to learn more, visit Lightworks Academy and explore all the possibilities they offer.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

" Pros: The Lightworks video editing platform is highly versatile and offers a range of features to suit all types of users, no matter the kind of project they are working on. It really does have something for everyone! Cons: It can be difficult at first to find out how to do certain things, such as cuts or dissolves." - Kris M.

"Pros: Lightworks takes the very complicated job of editing videos and makes it about as easy as it can be without sacrificing functionality. I tried several other packages and kept running into things they could not do. Cons: I was unhappy with a lack of sync between the audio and video several times. It was all fine outside lightworks but when I imported it things got out of sync." - Peter B.

User Ratings: 4.2/5 on Capterra

7.Canva

Canva

Canva is an intuitive tool best for anyone who needs professional quality visuals, quick and easy with no previous knowledge required.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

Supported OS: Web-based

Free & pricing:

• Free plan with limited templates and features.
• Canva Pro includes an extensive library of assets, templates, and advanced features for $12.99 per month or $119.99 per year.
• Canva Enterprise for large teams with additional benefits.

Key Features:

• Simple and intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
• Rich template library with access to thousands of customizable templates for various needs, categorized by industry.
• Design magic tools like magic resize or background remover.
• Design elements and assets with an extensive library of stock photos, illustrations, icons, and other design elements.
• Collaboration tools for easier team working.

Why We Picked It: Canva stands out for its simplicity and quality results. You can get the job done with the free plan and it's like you have a little graphic designer in your fingers. It simplifies the design process with professional graphics results. For total beginners, Canva offers useful tutorials on their website.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"Overall, my experience with Canva has been nothing short of life-changing. I use this platform daily and could not imagine working without it. It has completely streamlined my work process while allowing me to create with all the customizations I need… Sometimes features are limited, or certain editors (like brightness adjustments or background removers) can be a bit touchy." - Meagan S.

"The workflow is further streamlined by Canva's integrations with various programs and platforms, including Dropbox, Google Drive, and social media sites, which facilitate the import and export of files as well as the sharing and immediate publication of designs. Time is saved and the possibility of mistakes is decreased by this integration, which lessens the need to transition between several platforms and tools." - Md. Rafiew I.

8.iMovie

iMovie

Best for beginners and casual video editors with polished interface and seamless integration with Apple devices.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: macOS, iOS

Free & pricing: Free with Apple devices.

Key Features:

• Intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
• Integration with Apple ecosystem (iCloud, Apple Music…).
• Built-in templates and themes.
• Voiceover recording and sound effects library.

Why We Picked It: iMovie stands out as a casual video editor for Apple users, that won't overwhelm you with a complex interface and editing steps. It has a simple interface and good quality of final results. And everything you need to know about it, you can find on iMovie Help.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"iMovie is by far the easiest video editing tool I've used. While I wouldn't try editing a feature film with it, it works great for quick edits of social media content. Pros: I liked the ease of dropping in content to edit by just dragging from my computer. Cons: It doesn't have all of the professional-level features of some other platforms." - Verified Reviewer

User Ratings: 4.5/5 on Capterra

9.Blender

Blender

Best for artists, architects, and developers looking to create high-quality 3D modeling, animation, and visual effects.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux

Free & pricing: Completely free and open-source.

Key Features:

• Advanced 3D modeling and sculpting tools.
• Full-featured animation and rigging tools.
• High-quality rendering engines: Cycles and Eevee.
• Advanced simulation capabilities, including fluids, smoke, and particles

Why We Picked It: Blender stands out among other video editors with complex features for zero cost. It is the best colleague you can get as a professional, with industry-standard tools, advanced functionalities, and fantastic support.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"Great tool regardless of your usage, very versatile, easy to export assets and get ready to use content for game development, animations and more. Pros: I like how many different aspects of Blender can be explored, 3D rendering, 2D with some work around, video and audio editing, and more. Cons: Not very beginners friendly, especially when dealing with shadders and external plugins" - Verified Reviewer

"Using Blender changed how I presented my architectural designs during this period. It took some time to master, but now it's an essential part of my design toolkit. Not for every scenario, though, but it's great to have the alternative in my software portfolio to produce high-quality visuals that bring my projects to life." - Favio R.

User Ratings: 4.7/5 on Capterra

10.HitFilm

HitFilm

Perfect for content creators and filmmakers who seek powerful tools with professional-grade features.

⭐⭐⭐⭐(4/5)

Supported OS: Windows, macOS

Free & pricing:

• Free plan with basic features.
• Creator for €7.99/month, perfect for social media content creators.
• Pro Perfect for €12.99/month, for advanced video creators.

Key Features:

• Professional-grade visual effects and compositing tools.
• Integrated audio editing and color correction.
• Real-time editing and playback.

Why We Picked It: HitFilm offers various visual effects and it can handle complex projects while keeping user-friendliness. It is a strong competitor among advanced video editors with the fantastic community and support that FXhome, creator of HitFilm, offers.

What Do Other Users Say About It:

"The quick setup process and ease of use is something that I like about this software. Price is reasonable, editing features are great compared to other software in the market. They could add more options when it comes to editing and color grading. This software really works great with smaller projects and increasing the options users can use will definitely make it an even better program." - Robin

User Ratings: 4.3/5 on FinancesOnline

Conclusion

To wrap things up, 2024 is the year for video creators. On the menu, we have free editing software for every taste and need. From casual enthusiasts to professional filmmakers, there is a perfect tool for everyone.

From intuitive drag-and-drop interfaces to advanced AI tools and specific functionalities for free or at affordable prices, we have everything on the menu. So study our list, choose your software, grab your computer, and prepare yourself for the next video project!