In today’s digital world, video content is everywhere—from YouTube vlogs and TikTok videos to business promos and family montages. If you’re just starting your video editing journey, choosing the right software can feel overwhelming. You want something that’s powerful enough to create impressive videos but simple enough not to require a film degree. Luckily, there are plenty of beginner-friendly options that balance ease of use, functionality, and affordability. Here’s a guide to the best video editing software for beginners in 2024, and tips to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
What to Look for in Beginner Video Editing Software
Before picking a platform, consider:
- Ease of Use: A clean interface, helpful tutorials, and intuitive tools.
- Built-In Features: Basic editing (cutting, trimming), transitions, titles, and audio options.
- Cost: Free or affordable pricing with options to upgrade later.
- Compatibility: Works with your operating system (Windows, Mac, or mobile).
- Performance: Runs smoothly without needing a high-end computer.
Pro tip:
Start simple—you can always upgrade to more advanced tools as you grow.
Top Video Editing Software for Beginners
1. iMovie (Mac and iOS)
Why it’s great for beginners:
iMovie is Apple’s free, built-in editing software that offers everything a beginner needs with an incredibly user-friendly interface.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop editing
- Built-in themes, titles, and transitions
- Basic color correction and audio editing
- 4K video support
- Seamless integration with iPhone and Mac ecosystems
Best for:
Mac users looking for a free, no-fuss editing tool.
2. Adobe Premiere Rush (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android)
Why it’s great for beginners:
Premiere Rush is a streamlined, beginner-focused version of Adobe’s professional Premiere Pro. It’s designed for quick, quality video creation across devices.
Key features:
- Easy drag-and-drop timeline
- Preset transitions and titles
- Built-in motion graphics templates
- Cross-platform syncing (edit on your phone or desktop)
- Direct export to social media platforms
Best for:
Creators who want to edit on the go and publish videos quickly to YouTube, TikTok, or Instagram.
3. Clipchamp (Windows, Web-Based)
Why it’s great for beginners:
Owned by Microsoft, Clipchamp is a powerful yet very accessible editor you can use right in your browser—with no downloads required.
Key features:
- Simple timeline editing
- Built-in stock media (videos, audio, images)
- Free basic features with premium upgrades available
- Templates for YouTube, TikTok, Instagram
- AI voiceover generator
Best for:
Windows users or anyone who prefers a cloud-based, low-hassle editing experience.
4. DaVinci Resolve (Windows, Mac, Linux)
Why it’s great for beginners:
Although DaVinci Resolve is known for professional-level color correction and editing, it also offers a generous free version that’s surprisingly beginner-friendly for those willing to learn.
Key features:
- Powerful editing, color grading, and audio tools
- Multicam editing and advanced transitions
- Hollywood-quality output
- Free version has most features intact
Best for:
Beginners who are serious about learning professional editing skills without paying upfront.
5. Filmora by Wondershare (Windows, Mac)
Why it’s great for beginners:
Filmora is specifically designed for new video editors, offering lots of creative tools in a simple, drag-and-drop format.
Key features:
- Huge library of transitions, titles, and effects
- Motion tracking and keyframing (easy to learn)
- Green screen support
- Built-in royalty-free music
- Affordable one-time purchase or subscription
Best for:
Beginners who want easy creative flexibility with room to grow.
6. Canva Video Editor (Web-Based, Mobile Apps)
Why it’s great for beginners:
If you already use Canva for graphic design, you’ll love its simple video editing tools—perfect for short, polished projects.
Key features:
- Drag-and-drop simplicity
- Pre-made video templates
- Easy animation and text overlays
- Music library and stock footage
- Great for social media videos
Best for:
Absolute beginners and content creators making short marketing or social media videos.
Other Notable Mentions
- OpenShot (Windows, Mac, Linux): Open-source, free, and easy to use, but a little basic compared to others.
- Shotcut (Windows, Mac, Linux): Free and flexible with more technical depth if you’re ready to explore.
- CapCut (Mobile): Owned by ByteDance (the parent company of TikTok), great for mobile video creators.
Tips for Beginners to Get Started
- Keep It Simple:
Focus on learning basic cuts, transitions, and text overlays before diving into advanced effects. - Use Templates:
Many beginner-friendly programs offer templates to make your first projects easier. - Learn Keyboard Shortcuts:
Simple commands (like “cut,” “paste,” “undo”) speed up your editing significantly. - Work with Short Projects:
Start by editing small clips (30 seconds to 2 minutes) to build confidence. - Watch Tutorials:
YouTube is filled with free tutorials specific to every software mentioned here. - Be Patient:
Like any creative skill, video editing takes time to master—enjoy the process!
Choosing the best video editing software for beginners comes down to your goals, your platform (desktop or mobile), and how much time you’re willing to invest. Whether you start with the sleek simplicity of iMovie, the creative flexibility of Filmora, or the powerful features of DaVinci Resolve, there’s a perfect tool out there for you. Take your time, explore a few options, and remember: great video editing is less about fancy effects and more about telling a clear, engaging story. Happy editing!
