Low-Cost Video Editing Alternatives

Best Cheap Yet Powerful Video Editing Software

Ollie Mattison

Mar 29, 2024• Proven solutions

The demand for video content on social media is at an all-time high. This also means that the quality of videos posted on social media matters a lot. With the right video editing software, you get the creative freedom to make attention-grabbing videos constantly. In this article, we are going to take you through seven of the most affordable video editing apps for Macs and PCs.

In this article

01 Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

02 Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

03 Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

Statistics indicated the continued growth in the consumption of video content. There is also a significant increase in the use of video editing tools. Here are some notable figures:

• Video Editing Software market size was valued at US$4079.1 million in 2022 and is projected to reach US$5198.23 million by 2028
• An average person spends about 100 minutes per day watching online videos
• 54% of people want to see more video content from marketers
• Over 85% of internet users watch online videos each month
• 86% of businesses use video as a marketing too
• 93% of marketers who use video say that it’s an important part of their marketing strategy
• 80% of video marketers say video has directly helped increase sales
• An impressive 93% of companies report to acquire customers through social media

Top Affordable Video Editing Software: A Comparison Table

Video Editing Tool	Compatibility	Pricing	Main Feature
Filmora (Top Recommend)	macOS, Windows, Android, iOS	Starts US$19.99	AI-powered features; Supports all video file formats; Fit beginners and intermedia users
VideoPad	macOS, Windows	Starts US$24.90	An impressive collection of transitions, visual effects, and text overlays
Adobe Premiere Elements	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license - US$99.99	Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
Magix Movie Edit Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$69.99	More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$139.99	Compatible with a number of plug-ins and video effect packs such as Boris FX or proDAD
Vegas Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$119	360-degree and multi-camera video editing
Final Cut Pro X	macOS	Lifetime license – US$299	Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline

Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

You no longer need access to professional video editing apps if you want to process the footage recorded in the 4K resolution, apply the Chroma Key effect to a video clip, or color grade a video since there are several options that are available for less than a hundred dollars that allow you to do all these things and much more. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editing apps that are not going to burn a hole in your budget.

Please keep in mind that the list is in no particular order of ranking, and the price may vary over time.

1. Filmora

Thousands of gamers, YouTubers, and social media video creators are already using Filmora because it is loaded with powerful features that are remarkably easy to use. The visual effects, transitions, AI features, or music libraries contain hundreds of different options that enable Filmora’s users to enhance color in their videos, switch between two shots smoothly, or create soundtracks with royalty-free music.

Price:

• Subscription Plan: US$19.99 per month
• Cross-Platform Plan: US$69.99 per year
• Perpetual Plan: US$79.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, iPad, online

What Makes Filmora Unique:

• AI-powered features for automated video creation and editing
• Supports nearly all video file formats
• Processes 4K videos recorded with GoPro cameras or Full HD videos s
• Export projects to YouTube or Vimeo directly
• Low learning curve and user-friendly interface
• Made to fit beginners and intermedia users
• Free to try

You can check the detailed introduction of Filmora to find out why you should choose Filmora to edit videos .

2. VideoPad Video Editor

Working with 3D video footage, applying visual effects to 360-degree videos, or exporting videos in the 4K resolution are only a few reasons why VideoPad is one of the best cross-platform video editing apps on the market. It also comes with a wide range of features to make your video editing experience straightforward. The app doesn’t offer free music, which can slightly limit your options if you don’t have your own music you can use as a soundtrack. However, VideoPad lets you record voice-overs with a push of a button and it features an audio effects library that contains hundreds of professional sound effects.

Price:

• Free demo version available
• Lifetime license - US$24.99 for a Home Edition
• Lifetime license – US$34.99 for a Master’s Edition

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes VideoPad Unique:

• Better control over transitions and other options.
• Easy to use for beginners
• Editing 360 videos with VideoPad is super easy

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements is basically a lighter version of Adobe Premiere Pro that is aimed at social media video creators. Mastering the Adobe Premiere Elements won’t take too much of your time and it will enable you to produce captivating videos with ease.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Lifetime license - US$99.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes Adobe Premiere Elements Unique:

• The Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
• Creates highest quality video content
• Additional features like Face Detection, Shake Reduction, or Smart Trim

4. Magix Movie Edit Pro

Magix Movie Edit Pro provides several automatic program wizards that are designed to shorten the amount of time required to make a video. You can just choose one of the automatic programs, and import the footage you would like to include in a project and Magix Movie Edit Pro will do the rest for you.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Movie Studio Platinum - US$69.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Suite - US$79.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Ultimate - US$299 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Magix Movie Edit Pro Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

5. CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra

You can hardly go wrong if you decide to purchase this award-winning video editing software, which features hundreds of video templates that enable you to make a new video in just a couple of minutes.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Perpetual License: US$139.99
• Annual Plan: US$74.99

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

1. Vegas Pro

It is difficult to imagine a video editing task you can’t perform with Vegas Pro. This video editing software supports nearly all video file formats, so you can edit footage captured with almost all digital video cameras.

Price:

• Vegas Pro Edit – US$ 199-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Suite – US$ 299-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Post – US$ 399-lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Vegas Pro Unique:

• HDR color support
• 360-degree and multi-camera video editing
• A broad range of compositing modes
• Quick export directly to YouTube, Facebook, or Vimeo platforms.

2. Final Cut Pro X

There are so many reasons why industry professionals hold Final Cut Pro X in such high esteem. FCPX is undoubtedly an excellent choice for all filmmakers who need a wide spectrum of video editing tools to create movies that sweep audiences off their feet.

Price:

• 90-day free trial
• US$299.99 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: macOS

What Makes Final Cut Pro X Unique:

• Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline
• Organize huge numbers of files easily
• Creates stunning 2D and 3D motion graphics
• Color correction tools with complete control over the hue, saturation, and other color values

Conclusion

Purchasing video editing software is a long-term investment that will enable you to increase the quality of the videos you’re creating over time. This doesn’t mean that the videos you’re producing are going to become better overnight since most video editing apps only offer possibilities that can’t be properly utilized without proper video editing skills.

Well, If you haven’t decided which one to go for so far, I would strongly recommend Filmora to you. It’s free to try, you can download it with the buttons below, and click through to see if it matches your needs.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 29, 2024• Proven solutions

The demand for video content on social media is at an all-time high. This also means that the quality of videos posted on social media matters a lot. With the right video editing software, you get the creative freedom to make attention-grabbing videos constantly. In this article, we are going to take you through seven of the most affordable video editing apps for Macs and PCs.

In this article

01 Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

02 Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

03 Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

Statistics indicated the continued growth in the consumption of video content. There is also a significant increase in the use of video editing tools. Here are some notable figures:

• Video Editing Software market size was valued at US$4079.1 million in 2022 and is projected to reach US$5198.23 million by 2028
• An average person spends about 100 minutes per day watching online videos
• 54% of people want to see more video content from marketers
• Over 85% of internet users watch online videos each month
• 86% of businesses use video as a marketing too
• 93% of marketers who use video say that it’s an important part of their marketing strategy
• 80% of video marketers say video has directly helped increase sales
• An impressive 93% of companies report to acquire customers through social media

Top Affordable Video Editing Software: A Comparison Table

Video Editing Tool	Compatibility	Pricing	Main Feature
Filmora (Top Recommend)	macOS, Windows, Android, iOS	Starts US$19.99	AI-powered features; Supports all video file formats; Fit beginners and intermedia users
VideoPad	macOS, Windows	Starts US$24.90	An impressive collection of transitions, visual effects, and text overlays
Adobe Premiere Elements	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license - US$99.99	Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
Magix Movie Edit Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$69.99	More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$139.99	Compatible with a number of plug-ins and video effect packs such as Boris FX or proDAD
Vegas Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$119	360-degree and multi-camera video editing
Final Cut Pro X	macOS	Lifetime license – US$299	Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline

Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

You no longer need access to professional video editing apps if you want to process the footage recorded in the 4K resolution, apply the Chroma Key effect to a video clip, or color grade a video since there are several options that are available for less than a hundred dollars that allow you to do all these things and much more. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editing apps that are not going to burn a hole in your budget.

Please keep in mind that the list is in no particular order of ranking, and the price may vary over time.

1. Filmora

Thousands of gamers, YouTubers, and social media video creators are already using Filmora because it is loaded with powerful features that are remarkably easy to use. The visual effects, transitions, AI features, or music libraries contain hundreds of different options that enable Filmora’s users to enhance color in their videos, switch between two shots smoothly, or create soundtracks with royalty-free music.

Price:

• Subscription Plan: US$19.99 per month
• Cross-Platform Plan: US$69.99 per year
• Perpetual Plan: US$79.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, iPad, online

What Makes Filmora Unique:

• AI-powered features for automated video creation and editing
• Supports nearly all video file formats
• Processes 4K videos recorded with GoPro cameras or Full HD videos s
• Export projects to YouTube or Vimeo directly
• Low learning curve and user-friendly interface
• Made to fit beginners and intermedia users
• Free to try

You can check the detailed introduction of Filmora to find out why you should choose Filmora to edit videos .

2. VideoPad Video Editor

Working with 3D video footage, applying visual effects to 360-degree videos, or exporting videos in the 4K resolution are only a few reasons why VideoPad is one of the best cross-platform video editing apps on the market. It also comes with a wide range of features to make your video editing experience straightforward. The app doesn’t offer free music, which can slightly limit your options if you don’t have your own music you can use as a soundtrack. However, VideoPad lets you record voice-overs with a push of a button and it features an audio effects library that contains hundreds of professional sound effects.

Price:

• Free demo version available
• Lifetime license - US$24.99 for a Home Edition
• Lifetime license – US$34.99 for a Master’s Edition

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes VideoPad Unique:

• Better control over transitions and other options.
• Easy to use for beginners
• Editing 360 videos with VideoPad is super easy

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements is basically a lighter version of Adobe Premiere Pro that is aimed at social media video creators. Mastering the Adobe Premiere Elements won’t take too much of your time and it will enable you to produce captivating videos with ease.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Lifetime license - US$99.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes Adobe Premiere Elements Unique:

• The Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
• Creates highest quality video content
• Additional features like Face Detection, Shake Reduction, or Smart Trim

4. Magix Movie Edit Pro

Magix Movie Edit Pro provides several automatic program wizards that are designed to shorten the amount of time required to make a video. You can just choose one of the automatic programs, and import the footage you would like to include in a project and Magix Movie Edit Pro will do the rest for you.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Movie Studio Platinum - US$69.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Suite - US$79.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Ultimate - US$299 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Magix Movie Edit Pro Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

5. CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra

You can hardly go wrong if you decide to purchase this award-winning video editing software, which features hundreds of video templates that enable you to make a new video in just a couple of minutes.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Perpetual License: US$139.99
• Annual Plan: US$74.99

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

1. Vegas Pro

It is difficult to imagine a video editing task you can’t perform with Vegas Pro. This video editing software supports nearly all video file formats, so you can edit footage captured with almost all digital video cameras.

Price:

• Vegas Pro Edit – US$ 199-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Suite – US$ 299-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Post – US$ 399-lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Vegas Pro Unique:

• HDR color support
• 360-degree and multi-camera video editing
• A broad range of compositing modes
• Quick export directly to YouTube, Facebook, or Vimeo platforms.

2. Final Cut Pro X

There are so many reasons why industry professionals hold Final Cut Pro X in such high esteem. FCPX is undoubtedly an excellent choice for all filmmakers who need a wide spectrum of video editing tools to create movies that sweep audiences off their feet.

Price:

• 90-day free trial
• US$299.99 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: macOS

What Makes Final Cut Pro X Unique:

• Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline
• Organize huge numbers of files easily
• Creates stunning 2D and 3D motion graphics
• Color correction tools with complete control over the hue, saturation, and other color values

Conclusion

Purchasing video editing software is a long-term investment that will enable you to increase the quality of the videos you’re creating over time. This doesn’t mean that the videos you’re producing are going to become better overnight since most video editing apps only offer possibilities that can’t be properly utilized without proper video editing skills.

Well, If you haven’t decided which one to go for so far, I would strongly recommend Filmora to you. It’s free to try, you can download it with the buttons below, and click through to see if it matches your needs.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 29, 2024• Proven solutions

The demand for video content on social media is at an all-time high. This also means that the quality of videos posted on social media matters a lot. With the right video editing software, you get the creative freedom to make attention-grabbing videos constantly. In this article, we are going to take you through seven of the most affordable video editing apps for Macs and PCs.

In this article

01 Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

02 Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

03 Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

Statistics indicated the continued growth in the consumption of video content. There is also a significant increase in the use of video editing tools. Here are some notable figures:

• Video Editing Software market size was valued at US$4079.1 million in 2022 and is projected to reach US$5198.23 million by 2028
• An average person spends about 100 minutes per day watching online videos
• 54% of people want to see more video content from marketers
• Over 85% of internet users watch online videos each month
• 86% of businesses use video as a marketing too
• 93% of marketers who use video say that it’s an important part of their marketing strategy
• 80% of video marketers say video has directly helped increase sales
• An impressive 93% of companies report to acquire customers through social media

Top Affordable Video Editing Software: A Comparison Table

Video Editing Tool	Compatibility	Pricing	Main Feature
Filmora (Top Recommend)	macOS, Windows, Android, iOS	Starts US$19.99	AI-powered features; Supports all video file formats; Fit beginners and intermedia users
VideoPad	macOS, Windows	Starts US$24.90	An impressive collection of transitions, visual effects, and text overlays
Adobe Premiere Elements	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license - US$99.99	Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
Magix Movie Edit Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$69.99	More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$139.99	Compatible with a number of plug-ins and video effect packs such as Boris FX or proDAD
Vegas Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$119	360-degree and multi-camera video editing
Final Cut Pro X	macOS	Lifetime license – US$299	Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline

Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

You no longer need access to professional video editing apps if you want to process the footage recorded in the 4K resolution, apply the Chroma Key effect to a video clip, or color grade a video since there are several options that are available for less than a hundred dollars that allow you to do all these things and much more. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editing apps that are not going to burn a hole in your budget.

Please keep in mind that the list is in no particular order of ranking, and the price may vary over time.

1. Filmora

Thousands of gamers, YouTubers, and social media video creators are already using Filmora because it is loaded with powerful features that are remarkably easy to use. The visual effects, transitions, AI features, or music libraries contain hundreds of different options that enable Filmora’s users to enhance color in their videos, switch between two shots smoothly, or create soundtracks with royalty-free music.

Price:

• Subscription Plan: US$19.99 per month
• Cross-Platform Plan: US$69.99 per year
• Perpetual Plan: US$79.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, iPad, online

What Makes Filmora Unique:

• AI-powered features for automated video creation and editing
• Supports nearly all video file formats
• Processes 4K videos recorded with GoPro cameras or Full HD videos s
• Export projects to YouTube or Vimeo directly
• Low learning curve and user-friendly interface
• Made to fit beginners and intermedia users
• Free to try

You can check the detailed introduction of Filmora to find out why you should choose Filmora to edit videos .

2. VideoPad Video Editor

Working with 3D video footage, applying visual effects to 360-degree videos, or exporting videos in the 4K resolution are only a few reasons why VideoPad is one of the best cross-platform video editing apps on the market. It also comes with a wide range of features to make your video editing experience straightforward. The app doesn’t offer free music, which can slightly limit your options if you don’t have your own music you can use as a soundtrack. However, VideoPad lets you record voice-overs with a push of a button and it features an audio effects library that contains hundreds of professional sound effects.

Price:

• Free demo version available
• Lifetime license - US$24.99 for a Home Edition
• Lifetime license – US$34.99 for a Master’s Edition

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes VideoPad Unique:

• Better control over transitions and other options.
• Easy to use for beginners
• Editing 360 videos with VideoPad is super easy

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements is basically a lighter version of Adobe Premiere Pro that is aimed at social media video creators. Mastering the Adobe Premiere Elements won’t take too much of your time and it will enable you to produce captivating videos with ease.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Lifetime license - US$99.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes Adobe Premiere Elements Unique:

• The Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
• Creates highest quality video content
• Additional features like Face Detection, Shake Reduction, or Smart Trim

4. Magix Movie Edit Pro

Magix Movie Edit Pro provides several automatic program wizards that are designed to shorten the amount of time required to make a video. You can just choose one of the automatic programs, and import the footage you would like to include in a project and Magix Movie Edit Pro will do the rest for you.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Movie Studio Platinum - US$69.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Suite - US$79.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Ultimate - US$299 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Magix Movie Edit Pro Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

5. CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra

You can hardly go wrong if you decide to purchase this award-winning video editing software, which features hundreds of video templates that enable you to make a new video in just a couple of minutes.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Perpetual License: US$139.99
• Annual Plan: US$74.99

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

1. Vegas Pro

It is difficult to imagine a video editing task you can’t perform with Vegas Pro. This video editing software supports nearly all video file formats, so you can edit footage captured with almost all digital video cameras.

Price:

• Vegas Pro Edit – US$ 199-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Suite – US$ 299-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Post – US$ 399-lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Vegas Pro Unique:

• HDR color support
• 360-degree and multi-camera video editing
• A broad range of compositing modes
• Quick export directly to YouTube, Facebook, or Vimeo platforms.

2. Final Cut Pro X

There are so many reasons why industry professionals hold Final Cut Pro X in such high esteem. FCPX is undoubtedly an excellent choice for all filmmakers who need a wide spectrum of video editing tools to create movies that sweep audiences off their feet.

Price:

• 90-day free trial
• US$299.99 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: macOS

What Makes Final Cut Pro X Unique:

• Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline
• Organize huge numbers of files easily
• Creates stunning 2D and 3D motion graphics
• Color correction tools with complete control over the hue, saturation, and other color values

Conclusion

Purchasing video editing software is a long-term investment that will enable you to increase the quality of the videos you’re creating over time. This doesn’t mean that the videos you’re producing are going to become better overnight since most video editing apps only offer possibilities that can’t be properly utilized without proper video editing skills.

Well, If you haven’t decided which one to go for so far, I would strongly recommend Filmora to you. It’s free to try, you can download it with the buttons below, and click through to see if it matches your needs.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 29, 2024• Proven solutions

The demand for video content on social media is at an all-time high. This also means that the quality of videos posted on social media matters a lot. With the right video editing software, you get the creative freedom to make attention-grabbing videos constantly. In this article, we are going to take you through seven of the most affordable video editing apps for Macs and PCs.

In this article

01 Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

02 Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

03 Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

Part 1. Need for Video Editing Tools: Industry Statistics

Statistics indicated the continued growth in the consumption of video content. There is also a significant increase in the use of video editing tools. Here are some notable figures:

• Video Editing Software market size was valued at US$4079.1 million in 2022 and is projected to reach US$5198.23 million by 2028
• An average person spends about 100 minutes per day watching online videos
• 54% of people want to see more video content from marketers
• Over 85% of internet users watch online videos each month
• 86% of businesses use video as a marketing too
• 93% of marketers who use video say that it’s an important part of their marketing strategy
• 80% of video marketers say video has directly helped increase sales
• An impressive 93% of companies report to acquire customers through social media

Top Affordable Video Editing Software: A Comparison Table

Video Editing Tool	Compatibility	Pricing	Main Feature
Filmora (Top Recommend)	macOS, Windows, Android, iOS	Starts US$19.99	AI-powered features; Supports all video file formats; Fit beginners and intermedia users
VideoPad	macOS, Windows	Starts US$24.90	An impressive collection of transitions, visual effects, and text overlays
Adobe Premiere Elements	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license - US$99.99	Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
Magix Movie Edit Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$69.99	More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra	macOS, Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$139.99	Compatible with a number of plug-ins and video effect packs such as Boris FX or proDAD
Vegas Pro	Windows	Lifetime license – Starts US$119	360-degree and multi-camera video editing
Final Cut Pro X	macOS	Lifetime license – US$299	Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline

Part 2. Video Editing Software for Less Than $100: Top 9 Best Tools

You no longer need access to professional video editing apps if you want to process the footage recorded in the 4K resolution, apply the Chroma Key effect to a video clip, or color grade a video since there are several options that are available for less than a hundred dollars that allow you to do all these things and much more. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editing apps that are not going to burn a hole in your budget.

Please keep in mind that the list is in no particular order of ranking, and the price may vary over time.

1. Filmora

Thousands of gamers, YouTubers, and social media video creators are already using Filmora because it is loaded with powerful features that are remarkably easy to use. The visual effects, transitions, AI features, or music libraries contain hundreds of different options that enable Filmora’s users to enhance color in their videos, switch between two shots smoothly, or create soundtracks with royalty-free music.

Price:

• Subscription Plan: US$19.99 per month
• Cross-Platform Plan: US$69.99 per year
• Perpetual Plan: US$79.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows, Android, iOS, iPad, online

What Makes Filmora Unique:

• AI-powered features for automated video creation and editing
• Supports nearly all video file formats
• Processes 4K videos recorded with GoPro cameras or Full HD videos s
• Export projects to YouTube or Vimeo directly
• Low learning curve and user-friendly interface
• Made to fit beginners and intermedia users
• Free to try

You can check the detailed introduction of Filmora to find out why you should choose Filmora to edit videos .

2. VideoPad Video Editor

Working with 3D video footage, applying visual effects to 360-degree videos, or exporting videos in the 4K resolution are only a few reasons why VideoPad is one of the best cross-platform video editing apps on the market. It also comes with a wide range of features to make your video editing experience straightforward. The app doesn’t offer free music, which can slightly limit your options if you don’t have your own music you can use as a soundtrack. However, VideoPad lets you record voice-overs with a push of a button and it features an audio effects library that contains hundreds of professional sound effects.

Price:

• Free demo version available
• Lifetime license - US$24.99 for a Home Edition
• Lifetime license – US$34.99 for a Master’s Edition

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes VideoPad Unique:

• Better control over transitions and other options.
• Easy to use for beginners
• Editing 360 videos with VideoPad is super easy

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Adobe Premiere Elements is basically a lighter version of Adobe Premiere Pro that is aimed at social media video creators. Mastering the Adobe Premiere Elements won’t take too much of your time and it will enable you to produce captivating videos with ease.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Lifetime license - US$99.99

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

What Makes Adobe Premiere Elements Unique:

• The Adobe Sensei AI technology automatically creates slideshows and collages from photos and videos
• Creates highest quality video content
• Additional features like Face Detection, Shake Reduction, or Smart Trim

4. Magix Movie Edit Pro

Magix Movie Edit Pro provides several automatic program wizards that are designed to shorten the amount of time required to make a video. You can just choose one of the automatic programs, and import the footage you would like to include in a project and Magix Movie Edit Pro will do the rest for you.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Movie Studio Platinum - US$69.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Suite - US$79.99 for a lifetime license
• Movie Studio Ultimate - US$299 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Magix Movie Edit Pro Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

5. CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra

You can hardly go wrong if you decide to purchase this award-winning video editing software, which features hundreds of video templates that enable you to make a new video in just a couple of minutes.

Price:

• 30-day free trial
• Perpetual License: US$139.99
• Annual Plan: US$74.99

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes CyberLink PowerDirector Ultra Unique:

• Automatic and manual video editing
• More than 1500 visual effects to manipulate video clips
• Multi-cam video editing option and 360-degree videos are available on the Pro Plus version.

Part 3. Best Professional Video Editing Apps That Cost Under $300

1. Vegas Pro

It is difficult to imagine a video editing task you can’t perform with Vegas Pro. This video editing software supports nearly all video file formats, so you can edit footage captured with almost all digital video cameras.

Price:

• Vegas Pro Edit – US$ 199-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Suite – US$ 299-lifetime license
• Vegas Pro Post – US$ 399-lifetime license

Compatibility: Windows

What Makes Vegas Pro Unique:

• HDR color support
• 360-degree and multi-camera video editing
• A broad range of compositing modes
• Quick export directly to YouTube, Facebook, or Vimeo platforms.

2. Final Cut Pro X

There are so many reasons why industry professionals hold Final Cut Pro X in such high esteem. FCPX is undoubtedly an excellent choice for all filmmakers who need a wide spectrum of video editing tools to create movies that sweep audiences off their feet.

Price:

• 90-day free trial
• US$299.99 for a lifetime license

Compatibility: macOS

What Makes Final Cut Pro X Unique:

• Arrange video clips on the video editor’s magnetic timeline
• Organize huge numbers of files easily
• Creates stunning 2D and 3D motion graphics
• Color correction tools with complete control over the hue, saturation, and other color values

Conclusion

Purchasing video editing software is a long-term investment that will enable you to increase the quality of the videos you’re creating over time. This doesn’t mean that the videos you’re producing are going to become better overnight since most video editing apps only offer possibilities that can’t be properly utilized without proper video editing skills.

Well, If you haven’t decided which one to go for so far, I would strongly recommend Filmora to you. It’s free to try, you can download it with the buttons below, and click through to see if it matches your needs.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ditch WMM: Explore These 13 Powerful Video Editing Programs

Windows Movie Maker has been a cornerstone tool for video editors for quite a while. There are a lot of amateurs who’ve made use of the free program and have done wonders with it. As it is discontinued, many Windows Movie Maker alternatives claim to offer ‘just the right video editing tool for you,’ few can live up to their promises—and most are very expensive.

We have ten other programs that can be used to create videos that include everything from Apple iMovie to other basic alternatives.

So whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn how to make a movie, a pro looking for an excellent alternative to Windows Movie Maker, or someone who wants to make a simple slide presentation or online video, you’re bound to find a video creation program here.

1. Wondershare Filmora
2. Avidemux Video Editor
3. VirtualDub
4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio
5. WeVideo
6. Lightworks
7. ShotCut
8. OpenShot
9. Movavi Video Editor Plus
10. VSDC Free Video Editor
11. VideoPad Video Editor
12. HitFilm
13. Magix Movie Studio

• How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative
• Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

Free Download

Free Download

Part 1: Top 3 Picks for Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

The world’s best video editing software is about to change. We look at three of the most popular and valuable alternatives to Windows Movie Maker.

You will need to consider these alternatives to ensure they meet your expectations and needs.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall

Filmora is the best Windows Movie Maker Alternative designed according to your convenience.

Download now on Windows Mac

Ratings: 4.4 Stars out 5

Starting from $49.99

2. Magix Movie Studio - Best for Collages

This alternative offers a variety of tools and plugins for anyone who wants to create professional-level videos in under a minute.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

30-day free trials, then starts from $69.99 all the way to $129

3. Avidemux Video Editor - Best Open-Source Editor

An open-source editor that supports a wide range of formats is free! Avidemux has an interface similar to Windows Movie Maker, which makes it a perfect alternative.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Free Trial

Part 2: Ultimate Overview on 13 Best Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker

We live in visual culture, and we constantly see, capture, upload, and share videos on our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. So, it is only natural that more people seek ways to edit their videos. Windows Movie Maker was one of the most popular video editing apps. So it’s time to dig into the best Windows Movie Maker alternatives, which are arguably better and feature-rich.

Software	OS	Media Resources	AI editing	Easy to Use	Free Trial
Wondershare Filmora	WindowsMacMobile	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Avidemux	WindowsOS XLinuxBSD	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Virtual Dub	Windows	No	No	Yes	Yes
Vegas Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
WeVideo	Online	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Lightworks	LinuxOS X Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
ShotCut	WindowsMacLinuxBSD	Yes	No	No	Yes
OpenShot	WindowsMacLinuxChrome OS	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Movavi Plus	WindowsMac	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VSDC	Windows	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VideoPad	WindowsMaciPad/iPhone	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
HitFilm	WindowsMac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Magix Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

Part 3: 13 Best Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Windows

As we all know, Windows Movie Maker is the most used and trusted tool for creating videos in Windows. With its unique features and user-friendly interface, people often use this software to develop short and entertaining videos.

However, the fact is that Windows Movie Maker is not the current best video editing software for creating complex video projects. For this reason, we compiled a list of the 12 best alternatives to offer you a better option for Windows Movie Maker.

1. Wondershare Filmora

Filmora 11 is a powerful, easy-to-use video editor specially designed to streamline your workflow and save you hours weekly. It supports everything from Windows, Mac, and IOS to Android. The latest update to the flagship app includes several key enhancements that result in a much more efficient video creation workflow and one that’s easier to use than its rivals.

Key features

• Preset Templates
• Instant Mode
• Motion Tracking
• AI Editing Effects
• Auto Synchronization
• Plug-ins

Price

• Annual Plan: $49.99
• Perpetual Plan: $79.99

Pros

• Seamless interface for beginners
• Great customer support
• Plenty of effects and preset templates
• 4K video output options

Cons

• Rendering requires too much time
• The mobile app requires separate subscription

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iOS , Android , iPad

G2 Ratings: 4.4 stars out of 5

Summary

Filmora’s intuitive interface allows experienced and brand-new users to create incredible videos with flawless special effects. Its high ratings and multiple supported formats make it quite popular among users.

2. Avidemux Video Editor

If you are a beginner and want to use a free, open-source software program for basic video editing, then Avidemux is a good choice. The interface is not as fancy as it could be, but there are some presets that’ll save you a lot of time. Avidemux is a cross-platform video editor that allows you to create custom videos, but it doesn’t feature the ability to share the edited footage to social media directly,

Key features

• Video and Audio Filters
• Support Popular Formats
• Convert Video For Archiving or Publishing

Price: Free

Pros

• It can convert Video To A Smaller Size
• Easy cut, trim, split video

Cons

• Out-dated UI
• Lacks sharing option

Supported OS: Windows , OS X , Linux , BSD

Uptodown Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

An open-source video editor that supports most formats. Due to its obsolete UI and lack of sharing features, Avidemux has average ratings.

3. VirtualDub

This open-source software is user-friendly and allows users with little experience to navigate the software without much trouble. It supports 3rd party apps and also offers batch-processing, which means working on multiple videos simultaneously makes it possible.

Key features

• Integrated volume and histogram meter
• Optimized disk
• Noise reduction
• Fractional frame rates

Price: Free

Pros

• Clean interface, easy to use
• Keyboard and mouse shortcuts for faster operation
• Free to use

Cons

• Not suitable for 4K editing
• Lack learning material
• Obsolete Interface

Supported OS: Windows

Compare Camp Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

Virtual Dub supports multitasking, and its features are pretty helpful. However, it lacks 4k editing and a friendly interface. Overall Virtual Dub is a good choice.

4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio

This video editing software makes it easy to create professional-looking videos in minimum time and effort. Vegas Movie Studio software is best for video editing professionals who have been doing it for some time and are looking for something a little more sophisticated than free alternatives. Not only does it has a high retail price, but its internal elements can be too complex for those just beginning.

Key features

• Color correction
• HDV and AVCHD-editing
• DV batch capture
• Wide variety of file formats and codecs

Price: Starting from $7.99 USD per month

Pros

• Customizable interface
• Multicam editing
• Lots of effects and transitions, with plug-in capability
• Good slow motion and warp flow transition tools

Cons

• Less intuitive interface than competitors
• Import from camcorder not ideal
• Some tools are complex

Supported OS: Windows

G2 Ratings: 4.4 out of 5

Summary

Vegas Movie Studio is the choice of professionals. It does all the work without taking up a lot of resources, and like most programs, there is a learning curve. It’s not always intuitive for beginners, but its professional and powerful features score decent in most reviews.

5. WeVideo

This cloud-based application is a simple-to-use video editing and sharing suite. WeVideo is a full-featured video editing application that uses JumpStart technology to create amazing videos. It’s an innovative app that offers a seamless editing experience as it supports multiple formats of video, images, audio, and graphics.

Key features

• WeVideo JumpStart
• Cloud storage
• Built-in graphics
• Customizable environment
• Advanced text editing
• Multi-track editing and storyboard

Price

• Free trial
• Power Plan: $9.99/month
• Unlimited Plan: $15.99/month
• Professional Plan: $39.99/month
• Business Plan: $73.99/month

Pros

• Constantly improving features
• Ease of use
• Storage is cloud-based

Cons

• Old fashion transition
• Leaves a watermark on free trial

Supported OS: Online

Trustpilot Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

WeVideo is a straightforward yet robust video editor. It offers a variety of features and supports multiple formats, plus its comprehensive pricing plan makes it useful for everyone.

6. Lightworks

Lightworks is the most powerful video editor in its class and an excellent tool for professionals who want to make amazing videos quickly. Lightworks is very fast and straightforward to use, and it has some great features you won’t find in any other video editor. It is available on all popular OS.

Key features

• Audio and Video Effect Plugin Support
• Cloud Connected
• Motion Graphics
• Advanced Metadata
• Proxy Workflows
• Apple ProRes decoding

Price

• Monthly Plan: $9.99/user
• Yearly Plan: $9.99/user
• Perpetual: $154.99

Pros

• High-resolution timeline rendering
• It has social media export templates
• Interfaces for multiple OS are consistent
• Instant autosave

Cons

• Commands are not always intuitive
• A bit pricey as compared to its competitors

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

Techradar Pro Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

Lightworks is not any other video editing tool available on the market of video editing tools. This video editing tool provides amateurs with the most sophisticated features in an optimized platform. Its scores are the highest on almost every review site.

7. ShotCut

Shotcut is a multiplatform video editor that lets you work with various formats for audio, video, image files, etc. This video editor makes it easy to mix and match the resolution and frame rates in a video file. All the changes you make in the editor can be undone and redone often. Shotcut is the best choice for video editing, without question.

Key features

• Webcam capture
• Audio scopes and filters
• Deinterlacing
• Eyedropper tool
• Video wipe transitions
• Keyframes for filter parameters

Price: Free

Pros

• Support for 4K resolutions
• Free

Cons

• Less intuitive than commercial apps
• Lacks built-in sharing to popular sites

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

GetApp Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary

Shotcut is an open-source video editor for creative professionals and is available on mac, Windows, and Linux. The free version of Shotcut has many excellent features, but it doesn’t have the slick interface or advanced techniques of the top paid editors.

8. OpenShot

An award-winning open-source video editor that creates stunning videos. OpenShot is a fast, easy-to-use, and surprisingly powerful video editor. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to work with many different types of tracks so that your edits will seem natural. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to add your custom animations or titles. The options are endless, so it all depends on your time and interest. It is available in more than 70 languages, making it ideal for all types of users.

Key features

• 3D animations
• Animation and keyframes
• Multiple languages and formats
• Cross-platform
• Video-effects

Price: Free

Pros

• It is a non-linear editor with infinite tracks
• 100% free without watermark
• Frequent updates

Cons

• Obsolete interface
• Unstable performance
• Lacks some editing features

Supported OS: Window , Mac , Linux , Chrome OS

Getapp Ratings: 4.2 stars out of 5

Summary

Another open-source video-editor in the list is named OpenShot. It’s a multi-lingual and multi-supported app with unique features. Despite its unstable performance, OpenShot is still an ideal choice for many users.

9. Movavi Video Editor Plus

Movavi Video Editor Plus is the perfect tool to bring your creative ideas to life. It has special effects, ready-made intros, and keyframe animation. Using chroma keying, you can change the background of your video clips to any color or pattern that suits your need. Movavi has now redesigned its user interface to make it easy to use.

Key features

• Effects and transitions
• Built-in media pack
• Fast processing of 4K videos
• Keyframe animation
• Automatic video creation
• Cutting, trimming, joining

Price

• Free version: 7 days
• Video Editor Plus 1 year /1 PC: $49.95
• Video Editor Plus Lifetime /1 PC: $69.95
• Video Suite Lifetime /1 PC: $89.95

Pros

• Easy-to-understand user interface
• Transitions with sound
• Motion tracking and picture-in-picture tools
• Chroma-key capability
• Quick movie-creation tool

Cons

• Lacks advanced trim modes
• Slow rendering

Supported OS: Window , Mac

PCMag Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

If you want to edit your videos with a minimal learning curve, try Movavi. You get PiP, chroma-keying, titling, basic keying, and motion tracking. The program is simple to use but doesn’t have all the features and stands four stars.

10. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC Free Video Editor is an online tool that lets you edit audio and video files to make your creations like movies, YouTube tutorial videos, and more. The audio and video files supported are extensive, and the software includes a codec manager. The Pro version isn’t necessary if you’re using the free edition of the software; it’s more than enough to get the job done.

Key features

• Dark theme
• Subpixel Accuracy
• Powerful Chroma Key tool
• Trendy video effects, filters, and transitions
• Color Blending And Filters
• Built-In DVD Burning Tool

Price: Free

Pros

• Non-linear
• Video effects library
• Video stabilization
• Masking

Cons

• Outdated interface
• Lack keyboard shortcuts
• Only available on Windows

Supported OS: Windows

Capterra Ratings: 4.5 stars out 5

Summary

VSDC is a non-linear editor with extensive format support. It includes all the essential features an editor requires but with an obsolete UI. It is also ideal for many who need a powerful yet free video editor.

11. VideoPad Video Editor

VideoPad is a free video editor that can create stunning videos and perform basic editing tasks. A good video editor can help you to create videos for different social media platforms. You can make your videos look professional and polished with a few clicks and some simple editing skills. There’s nothing particularly exciting or advanced about this app; it’s simple enough for anyone new to video editing or even for seasoned editors. But the simple and easy-to-use interface makes the entire process very exciting.

Key features

• Text snippets
• Range of transitional effects
• Plug-ins Library
• Burn finished videos to Blu-Ray, DVD, etc.
• Color correction and light balance.

Price: Free

Pros

• Simple and clean interface
• Supports multiple file formats
• Includes video effects
• Lightweight on system resources

Cons

• Lack of advanced features

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad/iPhone

Tom’s guide Ratings: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary

Video pad is a free video editor designed for beginners that is lightweight and simple. VideoPad is also great for creating quick videos for social media purposes like Youtube and Facebook. The software has a high rating, as shown above, and it’s available on Windows.

12. HitFilm

HitFilm is a helpful video editing software that makes editing easier for users. In addition to basic features, the program also provides advanced-level functions that make edited videos pop. Hitfilm Express Download has more than 400 features to help casual video editors save time. Features like: visual effects, cinematic elements, and compositing tools preset help unleash your creativity.

Key features

• Color Grading and correction
• Smart search
• Commentator recorder
• Lightning and lens flares
• 3D camera tracker

Price

• Free trial
• Creator: $7.50
• Pro: $12.50
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Pros

• Intuitive interface
• It offers free tutorials and masterclasses
• Works on both Windows and Mac

Cons

• It requires heavy system requirements

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Ratings: 4.5 stars out of 5

Summary

HitFilm Express 15 is a powerful free video editing program that enables you to create high-quality videos in minutes with an intuitive interface. It offers advanced editing features such as advanced video trimming, 3D editing, and more.

13. Magix Movie Studio

Magix is the world’s leading professional audiovisual media software, with Sequoia being its industry-standard audio editing software. This movie editor is an enthusiast-level video editing software that competes with software from Adobe and CyberLink, and it even boasts support for 4K content and 360 degrees. There are many reasons to upgrade. This year’s update includes stabilization, 8K editing, motion tracking, and an in-app plug-in store.

Key features

• NewBlue effects
• Fly-in animation
• New filter view
• Stabilization
• Motion tracking
• 8k support

Price

• Movie Studio 2024: $69.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Platinum: $99.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Suite: $129.00 (30-day free trial)

Pros

• Lots of video effects
• Responsive editing interface
• Multicam
• Trailer-like movie templates
• Solid audio editing

Cons

• Slower project rendering than others
• Lacks import and organization tools

Supported OS: Windows

PCMag Ratings: 3 stars out of 5

Summary

Magix movie studio is a powerful all-around video editing tool with many features that professional users have come to expect. It’s also relatively simple to use. But usability and performance are poor compared to other software programs like Filmora .

Part 4: How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative

Windows Movie Maker was great for editing a video, but it’s no match for some of the best video editing software. We’re talking about software capable of creating a cinematic experience in seconds, all on your computer.

When you need to edit a video with simple, quick edits, like adding a special effect or changing the background, try Filmora . Filmora is an easy-to-use application that allows you to create a movie using simple tools that don’t require additional training. You can’t beat this option if you want to create a professional-quality video for your blog or website.

Let’s dive into a quick tutorial on editing videos in Filmora:

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step1 Open Wondershare Filmora on your PC or Mac

You can start a new project by clicking on ‘New Project’. And you can also change the ‘Aspect Ratio’ according to your project demand.

Step2 Import Videos

You can import your file by clicking the import tab on the upper-left side or clicking the import icon on the main window.

Step3 Drag and drop your footage to the timeline

After importing all the files, click and hold each individual video and drag and drop it to the timeline area according to your ideal sequence.

Step4 Add Audio

Go to the ‘Audio’ tab and select the audio file from the audio library. Once selected, drag and drop the audio file into the music timeline.

Step5 Add Titles

In your video intro, you can insert some title text. Go to the ‘Titles’ tab and select the one you like, and drag and drop it on top of the timeline. Double-click and edit the text and state your ideal statements. You can customize your text fonts and color too.

Step6 Add Transitions

You can add transition effects to ensure a smooth transition from one scene to another. The overall will get more professional look.

Step7 Add Effects

Next; you can get special effects to your video to make them more attractive and engaging to watch. Simple drag down the effect to your video and watch the effect take place in your selective scene.

Step8 Export your work

Once all the changes have been made, hit ‘export’ from the top tab. A window will appear where you can change the settings, resolution, frame rate, bit rate, etc. Next, click the ‘export’ button down on that window, and then you can save the file in your drive.

Part 5: Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

1. Why is Windows Movie Maker discontinued?

Microsoft’s video editing program, Windows Movie Maker, did not become a big hit with the public because it failed to do well on the market. Microsoft couldn’t get the support they were looking for from the program’s users. As a result, Microsoft had to cease its support of the program.

2. Is there a free version of Windows Movie Maker?

Microsoft Windows Movie maker was always accessible and pre-installed every windows product. Microsoft has discontinued support for Movie Maker and warns about free downloads of Movie Maker provided by third parties that might contain malware, viruses, or other issues.

3. What are the best free Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Mac?

After switching to a Mac, you’ll find that the Windows Movie Maker alternatives offer much more than just a simple video editor. They provide advanced features, easy transitions, and less technical know-how to create pro-quality results. You should try using these platforms on your Mac if you have a video to edit.

• Wondershare Filmora
• Movavi
• OpenShot

Final Words

Windows Movie Maker is an excellent Windows video editor application for Windows users. But in recent years, it has become outdated due to the continuous development of new technologies. There are many alternatives for Windows Movie Maker, and here we listed some of the best ones. Most of them are free and featured packs. Each program has its unique set of features and capabilities, and each one excels in different areas. Check them out and see what you think.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Free Download

Free Download

Part 1: Top 3 Picks for Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

The world’s best video editing software is about to change. We look at three of the most popular and valuable alternatives to Windows Movie Maker.

You will need to consider these alternatives to ensure they meet your expectations and needs.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall

Filmora is the best Windows Movie Maker Alternative designed according to your convenience.

Download now on Windows Mac

Ratings: 4.4 Stars out 5

Starting from $49.99

2. Magix Movie Studio - Best for Collages

This alternative offers a variety of tools and plugins for anyone who wants to create professional-level videos in under a minute.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

30-day free trials, then starts from $69.99 all the way to $129

3. Avidemux Video Editor - Best Open-Source Editor

An open-source editor that supports a wide range of formats is free! Avidemux has an interface similar to Windows Movie Maker, which makes it a perfect alternative.

Download on Windows

Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Free Trial

Part 2: Ultimate Overview on 13 Best Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker

We live in visual culture, and we constantly see, capture, upload, and share videos on our smartphones, tablets, and laptops. So, it is only natural that more people seek ways to edit their videos. Windows Movie Maker was one of the most popular video editing apps. So it’s time to dig into the best Windows Movie Maker alternatives, which are arguably better and feature-rich.

Software	OS	Media Resources	AI editing	Easy to Use	Free Trial
Wondershare Filmora	WindowsMacMobile	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Avidemux	WindowsOS XLinuxBSD	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Virtual Dub	Windows	No	No	Yes	Yes
Vegas Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
WeVideo	Online	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Lightworks	LinuxOS X Windows	Yes	Yes	No	No
ShotCut	WindowsMacLinuxBSD	Yes	No	No	Yes
OpenShot	WindowsMacLinuxChrome OS	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
Movavi Plus	WindowsMac	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VSDC	Windows	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
VideoPad	WindowsMaciPad/iPhone	Yes	No	Yes	Yes
HitFilm	WindowsMac	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Magix Movie Studio	Windows	Yes	Yes	No	Yes

Part 3: 13 Best Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Windows

As we all know, Windows Movie Maker is the most used and trusted tool for creating videos in Windows. With its unique features and user-friendly interface, people often use this software to develop short and entertaining videos.

However, the fact is that Windows Movie Maker is not the current best video editing software for creating complex video projects. For this reason, we compiled a list of the 12 best alternatives to offer you a better option for Windows Movie Maker.

1. Wondershare Filmora

Filmora 11 is a powerful, easy-to-use video editor specially designed to streamline your workflow and save you hours weekly. It supports everything from Windows, Mac, and IOS to Android. The latest update to the flagship app includes several key enhancements that result in a much more efficient video creation workflow and one that’s easier to use than its rivals.

Key features

• Preset Templates
• Instant Mode
• Motion Tracking
• AI Editing Effects
• Auto Synchronization
• Plug-ins

Price

• Annual Plan: $49.99
• Perpetual Plan: $79.99

Pros

• Seamless interface for beginners
• Great customer support
• Plenty of effects and preset templates
• 4K video output options

Cons

• Rendering requires too much time
• The mobile app requires separate subscription

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iOS , Android , iPad

G2 Ratings: 4.4 stars out of 5

Summary

Filmora’s intuitive interface allows experienced and brand-new users to create incredible videos with flawless special effects. Its high ratings and multiple supported formats make it quite popular among users.

2. Avidemux Video Editor

If you are a beginner and want to use a free, open-source software program for basic video editing, then Avidemux is a good choice. The interface is not as fancy as it could be, but there are some presets that’ll save you a lot of time. Avidemux is a cross-platform video editor that allows you to create custom videos, but it doesn’t feature the ability to share the edited footage to social media directly,

Key features

• Video and Audio Filters
• Support Popular Formats
• Convert Video For Archiving or Publishing

Price: Free

Pros

• It can convert Video To A Smaller Size
• Easy cut, trim, split video

Cons

• Out-dated UI
• Lacks sharing option

Supported OS: Windows , OS X , Linux , BSD

Uptodown Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

An open-source video editor that supports most formats. Due to its obsolete UI and lack of sharing features, Avidemux has average ratings.

3. VirtualDub

This open-source software is user-friendly and allows users with little experience to navigate the software without much trouble. It supports 3rd party apps and also offers batch-processing, which means working on multiple videos simultaneously makes it possible.

Key features

• Integrated volume and histogram meter
• Optimized disk
• Noise reduction
• Fractional frame rates

Price: Free

Pros

• Clean interface, easy to use
• Keyboard and mouse shortcuts for faster operation
• Free to use

Cons

• Not suitable for 4K editing
• Lack learning material
• Obsolete Interface

Supported OS: Windows

Compare Camp Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

Virtual Dub supports multitasking, and its features are pretty helpful. However, it lacks 4k editing and a friendly interface. Overall Virtual Dub is a good choice.

4. Sony Vegas Movie Studio

This video editing software makes it easy to create professional-looking videos in minimum time and effort. Vegas Movie Studio software is best for video editing professionals who have been doing it for some time and are looking for something a little more sophisticated than free alternatives. Not only does it has a high retail price, but its internal elements can be too complex for those just beginning.

Key features

• Color correction
• HDV and AVCHD-editing
• DV batch capture
• Wide variety of file formats and codecs

Price: Starting from $7.99 USD per month

Pros

• Customizable interface
• Multicam editing
• Lots of effects and transitions, with plug-in capability
• Good slow motion and warp flow transition tools

Cons

• Less intuitive interface than competitors
• Import from camcorder not ideal
• Some tools are complex

Supported OS: Windows

G2 Ratings: 4.4 out of 5

Summary

Vegas Movie Studio is the choice of professionals. It does all the work without taking up a lot of resources, and like most programs, there is a learning curve. It’s not always intuitive for beginners, but its professional and powerful features score decent in most reviews.

5. WeVideo

This cloud-based application is a simple-to-use video editing and sharing suite. WeVideo is a full-featured video editing application that uses JumpStart technology to create amazing videos. It’s an innovative app that offers a seamless editing experience as it supports multiple formats of video, images, audio, and graphics.

Key features

• WeVideo JumpStart
• Cloud storage
• Built-in graphics
• Customizable environment
• Advanced text editing
• Multi-track editing and storyboard

Price

• Free trial
• Power Plan: $9.99/month
• Unlimited Plan: $15.99/month
• Professional Plan: $39.99/month
• Business Plan: $73.99/month

Pros

• Constantly improving features
• Ease of use
• Storage is cloud-based

Cons

• Old fashion transition
• Leaves a watermark on free trial

Supported OS: Online

Trustpilot Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

WeVideo is a straightforward yet robust video editor. It offers a variety of features and supports multiple formats, plus its comprehensive pricing plan makes it useful for everyone.

6. Lightworks

Lightworks is the most powerful video editor in its class and an excellent tool for professionals who want to make amazing videos quickly. Lightworks is very fast and straightforward to use, and it has some great features you won’t find in any other video editor. It is available on all popular OS.

Key features

• Audio and Video Effect Plugin Support
• Cloud Connected
• Motion Graphics
• Advanced Metadata
• Proxy Workflows
• Apple ProRes decoding

Price

• Monthly Plan: $9.99/user
• Yearly Plan: $9.99/user
• Perpetual: $154.99

Pros

• High-resolution timeline rendering
• It has social media export templates
• Interfaces for multiple OS are consistent
• Instant autosave

Cons

• Commands are not always intuitive
• A bit pricey as compared to its competitors

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

Techradar Pro Ratings: 4 stars out of 5

Summary

Lightworks is not any other video editing tool available on the market of video editing tools. This video editing tool provides amateurs with the most sophisticated features in an optimized platform. Its scores are the highest on almost every review site.

7. ShotCut

Shotcut is a multiplatform video editor that lets you work with various formats for audio, video, image files, etc. This video editor makes it easy to mix and match the resolution and frame rates in a video file. All the changes you make in the editor can be undone and redone often. Shotcut is the best choice for video editing, without question.

Key features

• Webcam capture
• Audio scopes and filters
• Deinterlacing
• Eyedropper tool
• Video wipe transitions
• Keyframes for filter parameters

Price: Free

Pros

• Support for 4K resolutions
• Free

Cons

• Less intuitive than commercial apps
• Lacks built-in sharing to popular sites

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

GetApp Ratings: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary

Shotcut is an open-source video editor for creative professionals and is available on mac, Windows, and Linux. The free version of Shotcut has many excellent features, but it doesn’t have the slick interface or advanced techniques of the top paid editors.

8. OpenShot

An award-winning open-source video editor that creates stunning videos. OpenShot is a fast, easy-to-use, and surprisingly powerful video editor. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to work with many different types of tracks so that your edits will seem natural. OpenShot Video Editor allows you to add your custom animations or titles. The options are endless, so it all depends on your time and interest. It is available in more than 70 languages, making it ideal for all types of users.

Key features

• 3D animations
• Animation and keyframes
• Multiple languages and formats
• Cross-platform
• Video-effects

Price: Free

Pros

• It is a non-linear editor with infinite tracks
• 100% free without watermark
• Frequent updates

Cons

• Obsolete interface
• Unstable performance
• Lacks some editing features

Supported OS: Window , Mac , Linux , Chrome OS

Getapp Ratings: 4.2 stars out of 5

Summary

Another open-source video-editor in the list is named OpenShot. It’s a multi-lingual and multi-supported app with unique features. Despite its unstable performance, OpenShot is still an ideal choice for many users.

9. Movavi Video Editor Plus

Movavi Video Editor Plus is the perfect tool to bring your creative ideas to life. It has special effects, ready-made intros, and keyframe animation. Using chroma keying, you can change the background of your video clips to any color or pattern that suits your need. Movavi has now redesigned its user interface to make it easy to use.

Key features

• Effects and transitions
• Built-in media pack
• Fast processing of 4K videos
• Keyframe animation
• Automatic video creation
• Cutting, trimming, joining

Price

• Free version: 7 days
• Video Editor Plus 1 year /1 PC: $49.95
• Video Editor Plus Lifetime /1 PC: $69.95
• Video Suite Lifetime /1 PC: $89.95

Pros

• Easy-to-understand user interface
• Transitions with sound
• Motion tracking and picture-in-picture tools
• Chroma-key capability
• Quick movie-creation tool

Cons

• Lacks advanced trim modes
• Slow rendering

Supported OS: Window , Mac

PCMag Ratings: 4.0 stars out of 5

Summary

If you want to edit your videos with a minimal learning curve, try Movavi. You get PiP, chroma-keying, titling, basic keying, and motion tracking. The program is simple to use but doesn’t have all the features and stands four stars.

10. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC Free Video Editor is an online tool that lets you edit audio and video files to make your creations like movies, YouTube tutorial videos, and more. The audio and video files supported are extensive, and the software includes a codec manager. The Pro version isn’t necessary if you’re using the free edition of the software; it’s more than enough to get the job done.

Key features

• Dark theme
• Subpixel Accuracy
• Powerful Chroma Key tool
• Trendy video effects, filters, and transitions
• Color Blending And Filters
• Built-In DVD Burning Tool

Price: Free

Pros

• Non-linear
• Video effects library
• Video stabilization
• Masking

Cons

• Outdated interface
• Lack keyboard shortcuts
• Only available on Windows

Supported OS: Windows

Capterra Ratings: 4.5 stars out 5

Summary

VSDC is a non-linear editor with extensive format support. It includes all the essential features an editor requires but with an obsolete UI. It is also ideal for many who need a powerful yet free video editor.

11. VideoPad Video Editor

VideoPad is a free video editor that can create stunning videos and perform basic editing tasks. A good video editor can help you to create videos for different social media platforms. You can make your videos look professional and polished with a few clicks and some simple editing skills. There’s nothing particularly exciting or advanced about this app; it’s simple enough for anyone new to video editing or even for seasoned editors. But the simple and easy-to-use interface makes the entire process very exciting.

Key features

• Text snippets
• Range of transitional effects
• Plug-ins Library
• Burn finished videos to Blu-Ray, DVD, etc.
• Color correction and light balance.

Price: Free

Pros

• Simple and clean interface
• Supports multiple file formats
• Includes video effects
• Lightweight on system resources

Cons

• Lack of advanced features

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad/iPhone

Tom’s guide Ratings: 3.5 stars out of 5

Summary

Video pad is a free video editor designed for beginners that is lightweight and simple. VideoPad is also great for creating quick videos for social media purposes like Youtube and Facebook. The software has a high rating, as shown above, and it’s available on Windows.

12. HitFilm

HitFilm is a helpful video editing software that makes editing easier for users. In addition to basic features, the program also provides advanced-level functions that make edited videos pop. Hitfilm Express Download has more than 400 features to help casual video editors save time. Features like: visual effects, cinematic elements, and compositing tools preset help unleash your creativity.

Key features

• Color Grading and correction
• Smart search
• Commentator recorder
• Lightning and lens flares
• 3D camera tracker

Price

• Free trial
• Creator: $7.50
• Pro: $12.50
• Enterprise: Custom pricing

Pros

• Intuitive interface
• It offers free tutorials and masterclasses
• Works on both Windows and Mac

Cons

• It requires heavy system requirements

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

TechRadar Ratings: 4.5 stars out of 5

Summary

HitFilm Express 15 is a powerful free video editing program that enables you to create high-quality videos in minutes with an intuitive interface. It offers advanced editing features such as advanced video trimming, 3D editing, and more.

13. Magix Movie Studio

Magix is the world’s leading professional audiovisual media software, with Sequoia being its industry-standard audio editing software. This movie editor is an enthusiast-level video editing software that competes with software from Adobe and CyberLink, and it even boasts support for 4K content and 360 degrees. There are many reasons to upgrade. This year’s update includes stabilization, 8K editing, motion tracking, and an in-app plug-in store.

Key features

• NewBlue effects
• Fly-in animation
• New filter view
• Stabilization
• Motion tracking
• 8k support

Price

• Movie Studio 2024: $69.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Platinum: $99.99 (30-day free trial)
• Movie Studio 2024 Suite: $129.00 (30-day free trial)

Pros

• Lots of video effects
• Responsive editing interface
• Multicam
• Trailer-like movie templates
• Solid audio editing

Cons

• Slower project rendering than others
• Lacks import and organization tools

Supported OS: Windows

PCMag Ratings: 3 stars out of 5

Summary

Magix movie studio is a powerful all-around video editing tool with many features that professional users have come to expect. It’s also relatively simple to use. But usability and performance are poor compared to other software programs like Filmora .

Part 4: How To Edit a Video With a Windows Movie Maker Alternative

Windows Movie Maker was great for editing a video, but it’s no match for some of the best video editing software. We’re talking about software capable of creating a cinematic experience in seconds, all on your computer.

When you need to edit a video with simple, quick edits, like adding a special effect or changing the background, try Filmora . Filmora is an easy-to-use application that allows you to create a movie using simple tools that don’t require additional training. You can’t beat this option if you want to create a professional-quality video for your blog or website.

Let’s dive into a quick tutorial on editing videos in Filmora:

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step1 Open Wondershare Filmora on your PC or Mac

You can start a new project by clicking on ‘New Project’. And you can also change the ‘Aspect Ratio’ according to your project demand.

Step2 Import Videos

You can import your file by clicking the import tab on the upper-left side or clicking the import icon on the main window.

Step3 Drag and drop your footage to the timeline

After importing all the files, click and hold each individual video and drag and drop it to the timeline area according to your ideal sequence.

Step4 Add Audio

Go to the ‘Audio’ tab and select the audio file from the audio library. Once selected, drag and drop the audio file into the music timeline.

Step5 Add Titles

In your video intro, you can insert some title text. Go to the ‘Titles’ tab and select the one you like, and drag and drop it on top of the timeline. Double-click and edit the text and state your ideal statements. You can customize your text fonts and color too.

Step6 Add Transitions

You can add transition effects to ensure a smooth transition from one scene to another. The overall will get more professional look.

Step7 Add Effects

Next; you can get special effects to your video to make them more attractive and engaging to watch. Simple drag down the effect to your video and watch the effect take place in your selective scene.

Step8 Export your work

Once all the changes have been made, hit ‘export’ from the top tab. A window will appear where you can change the settings, resolution, frame rate, bit rate, etc. Next, click the ‘export’ button down on that window, and then you can save the file in your drive.

Part 5: Hot FAQs on Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

1. Why is Windows Movie Maker discontinued?

Microsoft’s video editing program, Windows Movie Maker, did not become a big hit with the public because it failed to do well on the market. Microsoft couldn’t get the support they were looking for from the program’s users. As a result, Microsoft had to cease its support of the program.

2. Is there a free version of Windows Movie Maker?

Microsoft Windows Movie maker was always accessible and pre-installed every windows product. Microsoft has discontinued support for Movie Maker and warns about free downloads of Movie Maker provided by third parties that might contain malware, viruses, or other issues.

3. What are the best free Windows Movie Maker Alternatives for Mac?

After switching to a Mac, you’ll find that the Windows Movie Maker alternatives offer much more than just a simple video editor. They provide advanced features, easy transitions, and less technical know-how to create pro-quality results. You should try using these platforms on your Mac if you have a video to edit.

• Wondershare Filmora
• Movavi
• OpenShot

Final Words

Windows Movie Maker is an excellent Windows video editor application for Windows users. But in recent years, it has become outdated due to the continuous development of new technologies. There are many alternatives for Windows Movie Maker, and here we listed some of the best ones. Most of them are free and featured packs. Each program has its unique set of features and capabilities, and each one excels in different areas. Check them out and see what you think.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Seamless Transitions: Mastering Color Matching in PowerDirector

How to Color Match Different Video Clips in PowerDirector?

Liza Brown

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How good is CyberLink PowerDirector when it comes to automatic color matching?”

CyberLink is one of the best video editors with features including motion tracking, screen recording, Multicam editing, etc. It further consists of tools such as titles, transitions, and effects to use quickly. However, we need to talk here about the PowerDirector color match process and assess its easiness. No matter how good a video editor is, the process must be simple to understand for the primary users. So, let’s begin with the step-by-step guide on how to color match different video clips in PowerDirector.

The Color Match feature of CyberLink PowerDirector allows matching tones and colors on selected video clips.

Part 1: How to Color Match Different Video Clips in PowerDirector?

Applying color match/color correction to different clips at the same time also speeds up your workflow.

Step 1: Download ColorDirector

The first step to effectively do color matching in CyberLink PowerDirector is to download the ColorDirector. It contains a real camera and color effects to achieve cinematic color match editing.

Step 2: Apply Presets to multiple clips on singletrack

We assume that you already have clips imported into the timeline. Thus, do a left-click on the first clip, select Fix/Enhance tab, and then choose ColorDirector in the preview window.

Step 3: Make manual adjustments

Yes, you are required to make manual adjustments by clicking the Manual and Adjustments tab in the preview window.

You can now make some adjustments to RGB Channel, as here we have made it a little darker.

After you’re over with the manual adjustment, click Back to go back to the PowerDirector. Now, you can see that an adjustment is made to the selected clip.

Then, you need to click Apply to All and see the effect getting added to all the clips on the same track.

Step 4: Apply color match adjustments at different tracks

Again, apply the same process by left-clicking the video clip on a different track. Select Fix/Enhance and then go to Color Director.

Now, make some adjustments to the RBG Channel as we have made it a little brighter here. Then, you need to save this adjustment as Preset to apply to multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks. Hit the Create > Preset tab as shown in the image below.

Then, you can name the Preset and hit on Save tab.

After you go back to the PowerDirector, you can see your recently-saved preset in the Presets list.

Now, select multiple clips. Left-click on a clip, hold the Ctrl key, then left-click on another clip while holding the Ctrl key, and so on. You will be able to choose more than one clip in this manner.

Then, check the Color Presets/CLUTs tab and select the Preset that you have saved to apply on multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks.

So, these were the steps of PowerDirector color match manual adjustments. We have only adjusted RGB Channel, but there are many others to look for and consider.

Part 2: An Easier Solution to Automatically Matching the Color of Video Footage

Got confused by manual adjustments? There is an alternative solution if you also hate the manual process of color adjustments in CyberLink PowerDirector. Go no far than the professional yet beginner-friendly Wondershare Filmora to check in for automatic color match adjustments. Yes, you don’t have to go for separate adjustments in RGB Channel, etc., as you have done before.

The Wondershare Filmora is also one of the most considerable video editors in the professional industry. It comes with pretty intuitive advanced editing tools such as Video Stabilization, Color Tuning, Color Matching, Green Screen, Key Framing, and Motion Tracking, etc., to name a few.

Without further ado, let’s note down the automatic color match process in Wondershare Filmora as follows.

Steps for Automatic Color Matching Different Video Clips in Wondershare Filmora

Step 1: Download Wondershare Filmora

Firstly, tap the Try It Free button to download Wondershare Filmora and proceed with the installation.

Step 2: Import media files

Then, import media files. We have imported two stock footage with different color schemes, as shown below.

Step 3: Apply Color Match

Double-click the footage over the timeline and head to the Color panel, as shown in the screenshot below. Then, select the Color Match option.

Turn on the Comparison View and move the slider given in the preview section. To match color settings, click on Match and wait a few seconds to let it see the same in both the Reference and Current preview window.

So, this is all you need to do as an alternative for the PowerDirector color match. The color match settings in Wondershare Filmora are relatively automatic and do not require additional RGB Channels adjustments.

Conclusion

After discussing the steps on the PowerDirector color match process, we’d now like to mention our final words. To find the easy, effective, and time-saving method, you should first consider the length of steps above in both sections. After the small analysis, you can check up on your favorite way of color matching.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How good is CyberLink PowerDirector when it comes to automatic color matching?”

CyberLink is one of the best video editors with features including motion tracking, screen recording, Multicam editing, etc. It further consists of tools such as titles, transitions, and effects to use quickly. However, we need to talk here about the PowerDirector color match process and assess its easiness. No matter how good a video editor is, the process must be simple to understand for the primary users. So, let’s begin with the step-by-step guide on how to color match different video clips in PowerDirector.

The Color Match feature of CyberLink PowerDirector allows matching tones and colors on selected video clips.

Part 1: How to Color Match Different Video Clips in PowerDirector?

Applying color match/color correction to different clips at the same time also speeds up your workflow.

Step 1: Download ColorDirector

The first step to effectively do color matching in CyberLink PowerDirector is to download the ColorDirector. It contains a real camera and color effects to achieve cinematic color match editing.

Step 2: Apply Presets to multiple clips on singletrack

We assume that you already have clips imported into the timeline. Thus, do a left-click on the first clip, select Fix/Enhance tab, and then choose ColorDirector in the preview window.

Step 3: Make manual adjustments

Yes, you are required to make manual adjustments by clicking the Manual and Adjustments tab in the preview window.

You can now make some adjustments to RGB Channel, as here we have made it a little darker.

After you’re over with the manual adjustment, click Back to go back to the PowerDirector. Now, you can see that an adjustment is made to the selected clip.

Then, you need to click Apply to All and see the effect getting added to all the clips on the same track.

Step 4: Apply color match adjustments at different tracks

Again, apply the same process by left-clicking the video clip on a different track. Select Fix/Enhance and then go to Color Director.

Now, make some adjustments to the RBG Channel as we have made it a little brighter here. Then, you need to save this adjustment as Preset to apply to multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks. Hit the Create > Preset tab as shown in the image below.

Then, you can name the Preset and hit on Save tab.

After you go back to the PowerDirector, you can see your recently-saved preset in the Presets list.

Now, select multiple clips. Left-click on a clip, hold the Ctrl key, then left-click on another clip while holding the Ctrl key, and so on. You will be able to choose more than one clip in this manner.

Then, check the Color Presets/CLUTs tab and select the Preset that you have saved to apply on multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks.

So, these were the steps of PowerDirector color match manual adjustments. We have only adjusted RGB Channel, but there are many others to look for and consider.

Part 2: An Easier Solution to Automatically Matching the Color of Video Footage

Got confused by manual adjustments? There is an alternative solution if you also hate the manual process of color adjustments in CyberLink PowerDirector. Go no far than the professional yet beginner-friendly Wondershare Filmora to check in for automatic color match adjustments. Yes, you don’t have to go for separate adjustments in RGB Channel, etc., as you have done before.

The Wondershare Filmora is also one of the most considerable video editors in the professional industry. It comes with pretty intuitive advanced editing tools such as Video Stabilization, Color Tuning, Color Matching, Green Screen, Key Framing, and Motion Tracking, etc., to name a few.

Without further ado, let’s note down the automatic color match process in Wondershare Filmora as follows.

Steps for Automatic Color Matching Different Video Clips in Wondershare Filmora

Step 1: Download Wondershare Filmora

Firstly, tap the Try It Free button to download Wondershare Filmora and proceed with the installation.

Step 2: Import media files

Then, import media files. We have imported two stock footage with different color schemes, as shown below.

Step 3: Apply Color Match

Double-click the footage over the timeline and head to the Color panel, as shown in the screenshot below. Then, select the Color Match option.

Turn on the Comparison View and move the slider given in the preview section. To match color settings, click on Match and wait a few seconds to let it see the same in both the Reference and Current preview window.

So, this is all you need to do as an alternative for the PowerDirector color match. The color match settings in Wondershare Filmora are relatively automatic and do not require additional RGB Channels adjustments.

Conclusion

After discussing the steps on the PowerDirector color match process, we’d now like to mention our final words. To find the easy, effective, and time-saving method, you should first consider the length of steps above in both sections. After the small analysis, you can check up on your favorite way of color matching.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How good is CyberLink PowerDirector when it comes to automatic color matching?”

CyberLink is one of the best video editors with features including motion tracking, screen recording, Multicam editing, etc. It further consists of tools such as titles, transitions, and effects to use quickly. However, we need to talk here about the PowerDirector color match process and assess its easiness. No matter how good a video editor is, the process must be simple to understand for the primary users. So, let’s begin with the step-by-step guide on how to color match different video clips in PowerDirector.

The Color Match feature of CyberLink PowerDirector allows matching tones and colors on selected video clips.

Part 1: How to Color Match Different Video Clips in PowerDirector?

Applying color match/color correction to different clips at the same time also speeds up your workflow.

Step 1: Download ColorDirector

The first step to effectively do color matching in CyberLink PowerDirector is to download the ColorDirector. It contains a real camera and color effects to achieve cinematic color match editing.

Step 2: Apply Presets to multiple clips on singletrack

We assume that you already have clips imported into the timeline. Thus, do a left-click on the first clip, select Fix/Enhance tab, and then choose ColorDirector in the preview window.

Step 3: Make manual adjustments

Yes, you are required to make manual adjustments by clicking the Manual and Adjustments tab in the preview window.

You can now make some adjustments to RGB Channel, as here we have made it a little darker.

After you’re over with the manual adjustment, click Back to go back to the PowerDirector. Now, you can see that an adjustment is made to the selected clip.

Then, you need to click Apply to All and see the effect getting added to all the clips on the same track.

Step 4: Apply color match adjustments at different tracks

Again, apply the same process by left-clicking the video clip on a different track. Select Fix/Enhance and then go to Color Director.

Now, make some adjustments to the RBG Channel as we have made it a little brighter here. Then, you need to save this adjustment as Preset to apply to multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks. Hit the Create > Preset tab as shown in the image below.

Then, you can name the Preset and hit on Save tab.

After you go back to the PowerDirector, you can see your recently-saved preset in the Presets list.

Now, select multiple clips. Left-click on a clip, hold the Ctrl key, then left-click on another clip while holding the Ctrl key, and so on. You will be able to choose more than one clip in this manner.

Then, check the Color Presets/CLUTs tab and select the Preset that you have saved to apply on multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks.

So, these were the steps of PowerDirector color match manual adjustments. We have only adjusted RGB Channel, but there are many others to look for and consider.

Part 2: An Easier Solution to Automatically Matching the Color of Video Footage

Got confused by manual adjustments? There is an alternative solution if you also hate the manual process of color adjustments in CyberLink PowerDirector. Go no far than the professional yet beginner-friendly Wondershare Filmora to check in for automatic color match adjustments. Yes, you don’t have to go for separate adjustments in RGB Channel, etc., as you have done before.

The Wondershare Filmora is also one of the most considerable video editors in the professional industry. It comes with pretty intuitive advanced editing tools such as Video Stabilization, Color Tuning, Color Matching, Green Screen, Key Framing, and Motion Tracking, etc., to name a few.

Without further ado, let’s note down the automatic color match process in Wondershare Filmora as follows.

Steps for Automatic Color Matching Different Video Clips in Wondershare Filmora

Step 1: Download Wondershare Filmora

Firstly, tap the Try It Free button to download Wondershare Filmora and proceed with the installation.

Step 2: Import media files

Then, import media files. We have imported two stock footage with different color schemes, as shown below.

Step 3: Apply Color Match

Double-click the footage over the timeline and head to the Color panel, as shown in the screenshot below. Then, select the Color Match option.

Turn on the Comparison View and move the slider given in the preview section. To match color settings, click on Match and wait a few seconds to let it see the same in both the Reference and Current preview window.

So, this is all you need to do as an alternative for the PowerDirector color match. The color match settings in Wondershare Filmora are relatively automatic and do not require additional RGB Channels adjustments.

Conclusion

After discussing the steps on the PowerDirector color match process, we’d now like to mention our final words. To find the easy, effective, and time-saving method, you should first consider the length of steps above in both sections. After the small analysis, you can check up on your favorite way of color matching.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

“How good is CyberLink PowerDirector when it comes to automatic color matching?”

CyberLink is one of the best video editors with features including motion tracking, screen recording, Multicam editing, etc. It further consists of tools such as titles, transitions, and effects to use quickly. However, we need to talk here about the PowerDirector color match process and assess its easiness. No matter how good a video editor is, the process must be simple to understand for the primary users. So, let’s begin with the step-by-step guide on how to color match different video clips in PowerDirector.

The Color Match feature of CyberLink PowerDirector allows matching tones and colors on selected video clips.

Part 1: How to Color Match Different Video Clips in PowerDirector?

Applying color match/color correction to different clips at the same time also speeds up your workflow.

Step 1: Download ColorDirector

The first step to effectively do color matching in CyberLink PowerDirector is to download the ColorDirector. It contains a real camera and color effects to achieve cinematic color match editing.

Step 2: Apply Presets to multiple clips on singletrack

We assume that you already have clips imported into the timeline. Thus, do a left-click on the first clip, select Fix/Enhance tab, and then choose ColorDirector in the preview window.

Step 3: Make manual adjustments

Yes, you are required to make manual adjustments by clicking the Manual and Adjustments tab in the preview window.

You can now make some adjustments to RGB Channel, as here we have made it a little darker.

After you’re over with the manual adjustment, click Back to go back to the PowerDirector. Now, you can see that an adjustment is made to the selected clip.

Then, you need to click Apply to All and see the effect getting added to all the clips on the same track.

Step 4: Apply color match adjustments at different tracks

Again, apply the same process by left-clicking the video clip on a different track. Select Fix/Enhance and then go to Color Director.

Now, make some adjustments to the RBG Channel as we have made it a little brighter here. Then, you need to save this adjustment as Preset to apply to multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks. Hit the Create > Preset tab as shown in the image below.

Then, you can name the Preset and hit on Save tab.

After you go back to the PowerDirector, you can see your recently-saved preset in the Presets list.

Now, select multiple clips. Left-click on a clip, hold the Ctrl key, then left-click on another clip while holding the Ctrl key, and so on. You will be able to choose more than one clip in this manner.

Then, check the Color Presets/CLUTs tab and select the Preset that you have saved to apply on multiple clips simultaneously on different tracks.

So, these were the steps of PowerDirector color match manual adjustments. We have only adjusted RGB Channel, but there are many others to look for and consider.

Part 2: An Easier Solution to Automatically Matching the Color of Video Footage

Got confused by manual adjustments? There is an alternative solution if you also hate the manual process of color adjustments in CyberLink PowerDirector. Go no far than the professional yet beginner-friendly Wondershare Filmora to check in for automatic color match adjustments. Yes, you don’t have to go for separate adjustments in RGB Channel, etc., as you have done before.

The Wondershare Filmora is also one of the most considerable video editors in the professional industry. It comes with pretty intuitive advanced editing tools such as Video Stabilization, Color Tuning, Color Matching, Green Screen, Key Framing, and Motion Tracking, etc., to name a few.

Without further ado, let’s note down the automatic color match process in Wondershare Filmora as follows.

Steps for Automatic Color Matching Different Video Clips in Wondershare Filmora

Step 1: Download Wondershare Filmora

Firstly, tap the Try It Free button to download Wondershare Filmora and proceed with the installation.

Step 2: Import media files

Then, import media files. We have imported two stock footage with different color schemes, as shown below.

Step 3: Apply Color Match

Double-click the footage over the timeline and head to the Color panel, as shown in the screenshot below. Then, select the Color Match option.

Turn on the Comparison View and move the slider given in the preview section. To match color settings, click on Match and wait a few seconds to let it see the same in both the Reference and Current preview window.

So, this is all you need to do as an alternative for the PowerDirector color match. The color match settings in Wondershare Filmora are relatively automatic and do not require additional RGB Channels adjustments.

Conclusion

After discussing the steps on the PowerDirector color match process, we’d now like to mention our final words. To find the easy, effective, and time-saving method, you should first consider the length of steps above in both sections. After the small analysis, you can check up on your favorite way of color matching.

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Top Time-Lapse Video Editors : Free and Paid Options

Best Time-Lapse Video Editing Software in 2024

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

All types of vistas change as time passes. Consequently, an outdoor scene looks differently throughout different parts of the day, which makes it impossible to capture the full extent of its beauty by snapping a single photo or recording a short video of it.

That is why you must utilize the time-lapse technique to depict the passage of time at a particular shooting location and create a sequence in your video that suggests that a certain amount of time has passed by. So in this article, we will take you through some of the best time-lapse video editing software you can find on the market in 2024.

Best Time-Lapse Video Post-Production Software in 2024

There are two different recording methods you can use to create time-lapse videos. You can either record videos or take photos at a precisely set interval, but regardless of the approach you choose, you must have the right equipment for the job.

This means that you must have a time-lapse tripod that ensures the smooth movement of your camera, an intervalometer, and a camera setup capable of taking pictures or recording videos over an extended period of time.

Most importantly, you must have access to a video editor that enables you to process the footage and control its playback rate. Let’s take a look at the best post-production software products that allow its users to create stunning time-lapses video.

1. Filmora : Best Time-lapse Software for Beginners [Windows & Mac]

Price: Freemium

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

Mac and PC users can create time-lapse videos with Filmora effortlessly, even though the actual steps you will need to take throughout the process depend on the type of footage you’re using to create a time-lapse. If you decide to make a time-lapse out of still images, you must ensure that you have enough footage since the video you’re producing must have 24 or 30 frames per second. That’s why you need 30 or 24 photos for each second of your time-lapse video, and you must arrange all of these images on the editor’s timeline before you begin adjusting their duration.

Select all timeline photos placed in the timeline panel, right-click to access the Duration setting, and then set the input duration of each picture to 0.01 seconds.

Click OK to continue, and you’ll find that the duration of all timelapse photos has changed to a brief second. Click the playback button in the Preview window, and you’ll see the time-lapse video is made already.

If you are working with video files, you should double the playback rate to create the time-lapse effect. The results you will get largely depend on the quality of the footage you’ve recorded. You must do everything in your power to capture the photos or videos properly before you start the video editing process.

You can check the details about two ways of making a time-lapse video in Filmora here.

2. iMovie : Best Free Time-lapse Software for Mac

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS and iOS

iMovie may not be the most advanced video editing software for Mac computers, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t use iMovie to create time-lapse videos. In fact, all you have to do to make a time-lapse video with this software is to arrange the photos on the editor’s timeline and change their duration to 0.1 seconds from the Clip Information panel.

However, if you do this, your time-lapse video will play only 10 frames per second, so to speed it up , you first have to export the video you’ve created in this manner and then import it back into iMovie.

Afterward, you can select the Custom option from the Speed menu that lets you select the playback speed of a video clip. Making a time-lapse video in iMovie is a slow process that requires a lot of patience, especially if you are working with a large number of photos or video clips.

If you want to edit videos further with iMovie, here is a brief tutorial about How to Use iMovie to Edit Videos .

3. VirtualDub : Free Time-lapse Video Editor for Windows

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows

This open-source video editor is commonly used for batch-processing of AVI video files and sets of BMP image files. Even though VirtualDub doesn’t offer a lot of video editing tools, its batch-processing capabilities make it a perfect choice for all PC users who want to create time-lapse videos.

Nonetheless, the process of making a time-lapse in VirtualDub is highly technical as you’ll need to make sure that all the images you want to use in the video are the same size. Besides, you’ll have to set up the video’s frame rate , aspect ratio , and compression manually, before you can apply it to all files you imported into the video editor. That’s why you first need to familiarize yourself with VirtualDub and then start using it to make time-lapse videos.

4. GoPro Quik : Best Video Editor for Creating Time-Lapse Photos Shot With GoPro

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

GoPro cameras offer a plethora of ways to capture the footage you can later turn into time-lapse videos. Besides a GoPro camera, you will also need additional equipment like rotating camera mounts, extra batteries, or several memory cards to record the time-lapse footage properly.

GoPro’s Quik video editor features all the tools you’re going to need to organize large quantities of video and photo files and create time-lapse videos. The software also enables you to add panning effects to your time-lapses that simulate the camera movement. However, GoPro Quik is a good choice only for filmmakers and video content creators who record most of their footage with different models of GoPro cameras.

5. Final Cut Pro X : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Mac

Price: $299.99

Compatibility: macOS

Controlling the playback speed of the files you import into a project in FCPX is simple, since you just have to place the photos or videos on the timeline and select them. Afterward, you should head over to the Retime submenu that is located in the Modify drop-down menu and select one of the Custom Speed, Blade Speed or Fast options.

You will have to tweak the particular settings depending on the option you select, but your main goal should be to speed up the footage just enough to suggest the rapid passage of time. Try out different values to find the playback speed that is best suited for the time-lapse video you’re working on.

Learn more details about Making a Time Lapse Video in Final Cut Pro .

6. Adobe Premiere Pro : Best Professional Video Editing Software for Time-lapse Video on Windows

Price: $20.99 per month as a single app

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

The way you capture your photos and organize them is crucial in creating a time-lapse video in Adobe Premiere Pro. You must arrange all the photos numerically, and once you’re ready to import them into the software, you must make sure that the Image Sequence checkbox is selected. Adobe Premiere Pro will automatically generate a video from the photos so you can add a video file to the timeline instead of hundreds of still images. This professional video editing software provides with a broad range of video editing tools you can use to simulate camera movement, perform color correction or control the video’s playback speed. The process of creating a time-lapse video with Adobe Premiere Pro isn’t complicated, but you must be prepared for each step of this process if you want to go through it smoothly.

7. LRTimelapse

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $99.00

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

The time-lapse photos you take with your camera must be edited before you can turn them into a video. LRTimelapse software is designed to reduce the amount of time you have to spend editing the footage. It allows you to process each image in Adobe Lightroom and then import those edits into the project you created in LRTimelapse. Furthermore, this app for PC and Mac computers lets you fade in and fade out time lapses, adjust the white balance throughout the sequence you’re creating, or get rid of the unwanted flickering effect. LRTimelapse allows you to export videos in resolutions up to 8K, making it a perfect choice for all filmmakers and photographers in need of powerful time-lapse post-production software.

Conclusion

Preparation is the most important segment of the time-lapse video production process. The photos or video clips you want to include in the video must be captured perfectly to depict the passage of time seamlessly. Moreover, the video editing software you choose must provide you with all the tools you’re going to need to create a professionally-looking time-lapse video. Each of the time-lapse post-production software products we featured in this article enables you to create a time-lapse video with ease. Which video editing software are you using to create time-lapse videos? Leave a comment and let us know.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

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