Best Video Editing Software for Macs and Windows

If you’re a Mac user and in need of top-notch video editing software, look no further than Apple Final Cut Pro. Packed with features and designed to seamlessly integrate with the Apple ecosystem, Final Cut Pro is a powerful choice for video editing.

Why Choose Final Cut Pro?(Macs only)

  • Ease of Use: Final Cut Pro is known for its user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for beginners.
  • Advanced Features: This software offers a wide range of features, including multi-cam editing, HDR with advanced color grading, video noise reduction, and the ability to work with third-party extensions to enhance functionality.
  • 360° Video Editing: It supports 360° video editing, allowing you to create immersive experiences.
  • High Resolution: Edit videos up to an 8K resolution, ensuring your content looks stunning.

Final Cut Pro is available on the Mac App Store for around $300. While its non-traditional trackless timeline might not be everyone’s cup of tea, it remains a popular choice among Mac users.

But wait, there’s more! If Final Cut Pro doesn’t quite meet your needs, don’t worry; we’ve got more options to explore.

Best Special Effects with HitFilm Pro

If creating mind-blowing special effects is your top priority, HitFilm Pro is the tool you need. It’s a non-linear editor that comes with a powerful visual effects creator built right in.

What Sets HitFilm Pro Apart?

  • 800+ Effects: HitFilm Pro boasts over 800 special effects to help you create stunning visuals.
  • Audio Editing: It offers tools for audio editing, ensuring your videos sound as good as they look.
  • Custom 3D Models: You can use custom 3D models, lighting, and shadows for unique effects.
  • High Resolution: Support for resolutions up to 8K ensures your videos are of the highest quality.

HitFilm Pro is available for both Windows 10 or newer and Mac OS 11 Big Sur or newer. They’ve updated their pricing structure, with options starting from $12.99 per month. There’s also a limited free plan and a creator plan for around eight bucks per month.

Best Value Video Editing with Pinnacle Studio Ultimate

If you’re on the hunt for the best value in video editing, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate offers a fantastic deal. It’s a professional-grade video editor that won’t break the bank.

Why Pinnacle Studio Ultimate?

  • Screen Recorder: This software includes a screen recorder as part of the package.
  • 2,000+ Filters and Effects: With over 2,000 filters and effects, you’ll have plenty of creative options.
  • Motion Tracking: Easily add motion tracking to your videos for professional-looking results.
  • Royalty-Free Music: Access a library of royalty-free music to enhance your projects.

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is available for Windows 10 and Windows 11, with a one-time cost of around $100. It supports up to 4K and 360° video, making it a solid choice for both beginners and advanced users.

Best Overall Video Editing Software

Now, let’s talk about the best overall video editing software. We have two recommendations, one for those who prefer a subscription model and another for those who prefer a one-time license fee.

Best Overall (Subscription): Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is the reigning champion when it comes to subscription-based video editing software.

What Makes Premiere Pro Stand Out?

  • Format Compatibility: It can handle nearly any file format, including virtual reality video, HDR, and 8K footage.
  • Transitions and Multi-Cam Editing: Offers dozens of transition effects and supports an unlimited number of video tracks.
  • Lumetri Color Panel: Includes professional color grading tools.
  • Learning Resources: Find helpful guides, tutorials, and user guides on their learn and support page.

Premiere Pro is available for both Windows and Mac, with individual plans starting at around $23 per month. If you’re part of the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite, plans start at around $60 per month.

Best Overall (One-Time Fee): DaVinci Resolve Studio

For those who prefer a one-time license fee, DaVinci Resolve Studio is the ultimate choice.

Why Choose DaVinci Resolve Studio?

  • Feature-Rich: It includes nearly every feature you could ever need, including support for 8K editing.
  • Fusion VFX: Comes with compositing software for visual effects artists called Fusion VFX.
  • Fairlight Audio: Includes Fairlight, a digital audio workstation.
  • Cross-Platform: Available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.

DaVinci Resolve Studio with all features and faster video rendering comes at a one-time cost of $295. They also offer hardware control panels for more precise editing control.

In conclusion, whether you’re on a Mac or another platform, there’s a video editing software option that suits your needs. From Final Cut Pro’s seamless integration to Adobe Premiere Pro’s industry-standard capabilities, you have a range of choices to unleash your creativity. So, get editing and bring your video projects to life! 🎥✨