If you decide to add videos to your social networks and website, the first step you need to take is to learn how to edit and present them to your clients. Of course, you can try to take the easier route and hire a specialist in your field, but if videos are just finding their place in your marketing strategy, you can try to master the science of editing yourself (or have your company's marketing specialist do it). And so that you don't have to invest a lot in software, we are sharing free programs.
1. Blender
This program is considered by many, even advanced video creators, as one of the best options. A wide range of tools will allow you to freely express your creative ideas - from regular video editing by cropping and changing colors to creating 3D animations. One of the biggest advantages, however, also highlights a drawback - the set of tools can be confusing for novice users, so if you are just starting your creative path, it is worth starting with a simpler alternative. The program is free, suitable for major operating systems.
2. PowerDirector Essential
While Blender is considered difficult for beginners, PowerDirector Essential is suitable for creators of all abilities. Experts note that the user interface is intuitive, making it easy for beginners to edit videos, and the robust advanced features will satisfy even the most experienced editors. A free version of the program is available, but it limits the use of materials from external platforms (such as Shutterstock) and the formats in which you can save your created content.
3. HitFilm Express
If you want to add visual effects (VFX) to your videos, this is the program for you. With over 180 features and a wide range of video tutorials, you can make even the most bland content look bright and colorful. Before downloading the software, Hitfilm asks users to share the generated message on social media, but that’s a small price to pay for such advanced software. However, advanced users note that the user interface is not very intuitive, so it may take some time to fully utilize the program’s potential.
4. OpenShot
TechRadar, a technology news publication, calls this program the best for beginners who want to use advanced tools. So if you are not yet an editing expert, but improving the sound and stitching two cropped videos together is no longer enough, this program is just for you. The simple and intuitive interface makes it easy to find the necessary tools, and you can move the desired parts of the video or audio recordings to the right place using the drag and drop function. However, advanced users do not spare criticism of OpenShot, because not all functions work as they would like. The program is completely free and compatible with various operating systems.
5. Movie Maker Online
According to experts, this is one of the most easily accessible online tools for free video editing. The program will be of great use to those who do not currently have video editing software for their computer and want to quickly perform basic editing steps. Just go to the website, upload the necessary videos and start editing. No software downloads, no registration. True, the program also includes a library of copyright-free video and audio recordings that you can use to improve your videos. The only serious drawback is that if the Internet disappears, your work will end.
6.WeVideo
Another tool that is often called an indispensable tool for beginners or, for example, a busy social media influencer. WeVideo is famous for its universal video templates, a library of effects, photos and audio recordings, and the ability to process videos in various formats. However, along with the advantages, the program also has limitations - the free version of the program does not allow you to save recordings in a resolution better than 480p, and you can save only 5 minutes of content per month. So, with a few 40-50-second reel-type recordings, you will still fit into the frame, but longer videos will require additional investment.
7. DaVinci Resolve
This program is highly regarded by advanced video editors, as it features a wealth of high-quality video effects, sophisticated artificial intelligence tools (e.g. automatic color balancing), multicam editing capabilities, and a professional audio mixing system. This program is most often used when it is necessary to prepare an ultra-high-definition video, such as a television commercial. Many tools also highlight one of the biggest drawbacks - for the program to work smoothly, a powerful computer with a good graphics card is required.
8. Windows Video Editor
For the end, we left the simple, but not bad, tools that are provided to users by the chosen computer operating system. Windows users can use the integrated Video editor function unlimitedly and for free. The program does not have many different tools, but the automatic preview capabilities (when you can see what the finished recording will look like without fully applying the effect), 3D effects, automatic video editing (the program intuitively glues video clips, selects transitions, etc.) - this is the one for beginners.
9. iMovie
This program is free for users of all devices that support the MAC operating system. In addition to basic trimming and editing tools, iMovie supports 4K resolution videos and a split screen function. However, both free video editing programs for operating systems are criticized by advanced users, who note that the range of functions is extremely limited and is only suitable for very simple editing tasks.