Best paid video editing software in 2024

Paid , the best video editing software lets you make great home movies for little investment

Best paid video editing software in 2024 : Accessing top-tier video editing software is crucial for regular video content creators, whether you’re a novice filmmaker, a seasoned hobbyist, or a professional cinematographer. Having the appropriate tools is essential for achieving desired results.

Today’s best video editing software offerings are more robust than ever, offering comprehensive features necessary for crafting professional-grade videos. Moreover, even the most advanced software is designed to be user-friendly, with tutorials and intuitive interfaces catering to beginners. Additionally, cost shouldn’t deter you, as many options are affordable, with most on our list priced under $100, and there are excellent free packages available as well, which we’ve outlined below.

After thorough testing, we believe that Adobe Premiere Elements stands out as the top choice for most users. While it may lack some advanced functionalities, its user-friendly interface and gentle learning curve make it ideal for both beginners and professionals who value ease of use. Nevertheless, it’s not the sole option available, so to aid you in making an informed decision, we’ve assessed various products based on their features, ease of use, and value for money. Without further delay, delve into our selections for the best video editing software.

THE BEST VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE YOU CAN BUY TODAY

These are our top three picks for the title of best video editor in 2024. However, there are more to choose from than just these three, and others may suit your needs better. Read on to see the whole list.

1. Adobe Premiere Elements 2022

When considering user-friendliness, advanced functionalities, and options for video output, Adobe Premiere Elements emerges as the top choice for most users across platforms. This software utilizes Adobe’s Sense.ai artificial intelligence, streamlining the editing process. Its Guided Edits feature is particularly beneficial for newcomers, providing clear guidance through the editing process. Additionally, it offers support for 4K resolutions and stabilized video, along with tools for selective edits, double-exposure video, and real-time effects. Output options include social media formats, video reframing, and compatibility with vertical videos.

Despite its strengths, Adobe Premiere Elements does have some limitations, such as the absence of 360-degree video editing and multicam editing support. Nevertheless, it stands out as the most comprehensive option among the video editing software we’ve assessed.

2. CyberLink PowerDirector 365

Finally, CyberLink PowerDirector is now compatible with Mac operating systems in addition to Windows, offering an impressive range of innovative video editing features presented in an intuitive and visually appealing interface to a broader audience.

CyberLink provides various versions of PowerDirector: PowerDirector Ultra ($99) and PowerDirector Ultimate ($139) are available as one-time purchases, whereas PowerDirector 365 ($69.99/year) operates on a subscription basis, incorporating Shutterstock integration, along with unlimited access to CyberLink’s background music and video editing plugins. (A detailed comparison can be found here).

While Mac users might consider exploring alternative software options, as the Windows version of PowerDirector 365 boasts a more extensive set of features and tools compared to its Mac counterpart, such as the absence of support for importing 360 photos and videos, there are still plenty of compelling features to captivate many users.

3. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate

For a while now, Corel has stood as a competitor to Adobe in the realm of video editing software. This rivalry persists with VideoStudio Ultimate, a top-notch editing package tailored for beginners using the Windows platform.

VideoStudio presents a robust yet user-friendly application suitable for those seeking to craft straightforward videos efficiently, avoiding the complexities of intricate controls. Its streamlined interface, though minimalistic, hosts a vast array of features, including 4K support, 360-degree video editing, multicam support, over 2,000 effects, advanced lens-correction tools, and 3D text editing capabilities. One notable drawback is its exclusivity to Windows, and customization of the workspace isn’t as seamless compared to other software options.

4. VideoPad

VideoPad stands out among top-tier video editing software by being compatible with both Mac and PC systems, expanding its accessibility. However, it’s worth noting that the Windows version offers more features compared to its Mac counterpart.

Although you can obtain a free non-commercial version of VideoPad, it comes with bothersome notifications, making the paid versions preferable. The Home Edition ($39) and Master’s Edition ($69) eliminate these notifications while also unlocking additional features like unlimited audio tracks and plugins.

Despite lacking the flashy appeal of some commercial alternatives, VideoPad remains a dependable choice for basic video editing needs. It supports various resolution options for platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Flickr, Dropbox, and Google Drive, catering to diverse user preferences.

5. Final Cut Pro X

Final Cut Pro X and Adobe Premiere Pro are closely matched in terms of their extensive features and suitability for professional video editing. Both are widely recognized in the industry, making it challenging to declare one superior to the other overall. However, notable distinctions exist between them.

One significant difference lies in their pricing structures. While Adobe Premiere Pro operates on a subscription basis, Final Cut Pro does not. Nevertheless, Final Cut Pro comes with a relatively high initial cost. Although it may prove more economical in the long term compared to monthly subscriptions, some users may hesitate to invest such a substantial sum upfront. Fortunately, Final Cut Pro offers a complimentary 90-day trial period, allowing users ample time to explore its capabilities before committing.

While Adobe Premiere Pro seamlessly integrates with Creative Cloud, making it an ideal choice for those working primarily within that ecosystem, Final Cut Pro aligns seamlessly with the broader Apple environment. It leverages the power of Metal for exceptionally fast graphics processing and is optimized for Mac Pro.

Final Cut Pro boasts a plethora of advanced features, such as the Magnetic Timeline, extensive range-of-effect options, and intelligent Smart Conform cropping, which intelligently follows the dominant motion on the screen to preserve essential content. It is designed to be intuitive, efficient, and tailored for Mac users. Unless users are strongly committed to Creative Cloud, Final Cut Pro presents a compelling array of advantages.

6. Pinnacle Studio

Pinnacle Studio, developed by Corel, the same company behind VideoStudio Ultimate, earns its place among the top video editing software options. Catering to a more professional user base compared to VideoStudio, Pinnacle offers extensive features including multicam video support, stop-motion animation, motion tracking, 360-degree VR, and 4K video capabilities.

Recent updates have significantly improved the user interface, making the software more intuitive and enjoyable to work with, although occasional bugs or sluggish performance may still arise. The Home screen provides access to tutorials, news, feature updates, and add-ons, aiding users in getting started. Import, Edit, and Export modes encompass all necessary tools for creating high-quality videos.

Pinnacle excels in rendering speed and boasts a rich library of effects along with robust audio editing capabilities. Advanced features such as video masking, clip nesting, LUT presets, and batch processing cater to the needs of professional editors.

For enthusiasts of Corel’s products, Pinnacle’s refined appearance and comprehensive set of professional-grade features will feel familiar and welcoming.

7. Filmora9

Filmora9 by Wondershare stands out as an excellent choice for aspiring video editors and beginners dipping their toes into the craft. Its interface is refreshingly straightforward, facilitating easy comprehension and navigation, while boasting a wide array of effects and filters that can effortlessly enhance footage (much to the delight of YouTubers). Additionally, its royalty-free sound library, featuring a plethora of effects and music, empowers users to infuse their projects with emotion and creativity.

While it may not offer the advanced functionalities present in Final Cut Pro or Adobe Premiere Pro, such as motion tracking, multicam support, or VR capabilities, it’s important to note that Filmora9 caters to a different audience and skill level. Furthermore, it remains accessible with its affordable pricing structure – a fully-featured free version (albeit with a watermark) and a watermark-free full version priced at just $59.99, inclusive of full user support.

For newcomers seeking a user-friendly yet potent editing tool that won’t break the bank, Filmora9 emerges as a compelling choice to kickstart their journey in video editing.