Best Video Editing Software for YouTube Creators in 2024

As a YouTube creator, you must have video editing software to help you make attention-getting content. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned creator, the right tools can help you create entertaining videos. While some have their strengths, they also come with potential pitfalls. That’s why finding the one that fits your editing needs is important.

1. DaVinci Resolve

If you’ve just started a YouTube channel or are looking for new video editing software, DaVinci Resolve is a top choice. This tool offers professional-grade video editing without breaking the bank. It features:

• Advanced color correction
• Visual effects
• Motion graphics
• Audio mastering

The software offers much more, making it perfect for adding a cinematic touch to their videos.

DaVinci Resolve also offers a workspace that you can separate into tabs. This lets you dip into its full suite, from basic trims to complex visual transitions. Additionally, the software comes packed with features like multi-camera editing, 3D editing and built-in audio post-production tools. It practically has everything you need to create high-quality content.

The best part about DaVinci Resolve is that it offers a free version that includes most of its core features, so you can start accessing it today. The one downside is that the platform is highly intuitive, which can overwhelm first-time users. However, there are tons of resources and video tutorials to show you how to use it.

Another drawback is using the paid version to access its more powerful features. The upgrade costs up to $295, but it’s worthwhile if you start with the basic plan.

2. Wondershare Filmora

Wondershare by Filmora is an excellent option — it offers many great features and an easy-to-use interface. Filmora may have an intuitive design, but it’s also great for beginners! The software makes it effortless to edit your clips with drag-and-drop, making cutting, trimming and arranging your footage easy. 

It also has a library of effects, transitions, music tracks, titles, templates and stickers to help you create professional videos with minimal effort. Plus, Filmora includes screen recording, which is crucial for creators who offer gameplay videos or tutorials. To make the most of these features, you can start the app and choose Instant Mode. This feature guides you through the editing process with a few simple clicks.

The only disadvantage to using Wondershare Filmora is that it needs more advanced features, such as color grading or multi-camera editing. This video editing software is best for beginners, as its main focus is on templates and social media. Keep in mind the app is free — but it places a watermark on videos — which you can only remove by purchasing a license.

3. HitFilm Express

HitFilm Express is a popular video editing software for YouTubers who need more than basic editing capabilities. Although it’s a free tool, it packs a surprising amount of features. Therefore, it’s excellent for beginners or advanced users who want to create professional-looking content without spending a dime. 

With HitFilm Express, you can apply various editing and visual effects. This platform allows you to integrate green screen, 3D compositing, and motion tracking right within your editing timeline. If you want to create content with eye-catching effects, this tool lets you bring your visions to life.

It also supports several video formats, making it highly compatible with your imported footage. If you’re a beginner, you’ll have no trouble getting started. The platform is easy to use but offers enough depth for experienced editors.

The base version of HitFilm Express is free, but it has locked features and effects behind a paywall. Therefore, you may need to pay extra for further access, as it has several monthly subscriptions starting at $12.99.

4. Shotcut

Shotcut is fantastic for content creators needing a free, open-source video editor with many features. It’s suitable for beginners and those with more editing experience, making it easy to navigate but strong enough to handle more complex tasks.

The software’s main strength is handling many formats alongside 4K video. The software also offers numerous audio and video filters, allowing you to fine-tune your content. 

Additionally, Shotcut’s nonlinear timeline lets you easily cut, trim and arrange your clips. The only thing that it could improve upon is playback. Sometimes, it can be choppy, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to view it before finalizing. But, that’s what you get with free, open-source software.

Yet, one good aspect of Shotcut is that it’s always updated. Developers constantly work on it, which means you get new features and improvements for free.

5. Lightworks

Lightworks advertises itself as a video editor at the Hollywood level, as many have used it in producing major films. However, it’s also accessible to YouTube creators who want a high-powered editing tool. 

Lightworks offers a nonlinear editing system, so you can easily edit your clips without losing quality. This makes it great for creators working on more challenging projects with multiple video and audio layers.

The software also supports many formats, so you can work with high-resolution footage without hassle. Additionally, the platform is speedy and efficient. It’s optimized for quick workflows, allowing you to spend less time waiting for renders and focusing more on creative aspects.

The only downfall is that the free version has some limitations. While it’s perfect for beginners, more advanced video editors may need in-depth features. For instance, export options in the free version allow up to 720p. You would need to upgrade to enable higher-quality uploads on YouTube.

6. Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most popular video editing tools among YouTube creators, and for good reason. It’s a software many professionals use, so it offers a great set of features from basic edits to chroma-keying and object-tracking.

It supports video formats like 8K and offers precise editing to make minute adjustments to your footage. The software’s timeline is also nonlinear, giving you flexibility for clip editing. 

Premiere Pro also integrates with other Adobe products like Photoshop. If you’re ready to use tools like these, you’ll appreciate how seamlessly they work together. You can move between different aspects of your project, saving much time in your workflow.

As for its creative features, it includes built-in transitions, effects and color grading. You can also customize the platform to make it easier to access the tools you use most often. 

One thing to consider when using Premiere Pro is that it can be quite resource-intensive. You’ll need a powerful computer to run it smoothly, especially when working with high-resolution footage or complex projects. Otherwise, you might experience lag or crashes during the editing process.

Choosing the Best Video Editing Software

Selecting the right video editing software is crucial for the type of content you create. If you’re a beginner, consider looking for user-friendly options like Wondershare Filmora. Yet, if you need more advanced capabilities, DaVinci Resolve and Adobe Premiere Pro are the tools that can match your needs. It all comes down to which one aligns with your creative vision and helps you grow. Ensure you choose one that will allow your content to stand out on YouTube.