With the rise of social media and video content, video editing has become an essential skill for content creators, businesses, marketers and anyone looking to share compelling videos online. But with so many video editing apps available, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best option.
In this article, we will examine the top contenders for the best video editing app and look at the features, capabilities, pricing, ease of use and other factors to help you decide which app is right for your needs.
Top Video Editing Apps
Here are some of the top video editing apps to consider:
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Final Cut Pro
- Adobe Premiere Elements
- Filmora
- iMovie
- DaVinci Resolve
- InShot
- KineMaster
Let’s take a deeper look at each of these top apps and what they have to offer.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the leading video editing software used by professionals and enthusiasts. Here are some key features:
- Advanced editing capabilities – Premiere Pro provides a full suite of professional editing tools including multiple video and audio tracks, effects, color grading, titling and more.
- Integration with other Adobe apps – It works seamlessly with other Adobe programs like Photoshop, After Effects, Audition and others.
- Support for VR/360 videos – You can edit and output 360 degree videos for VR headsets.
- Industry standard – Used widely in film, TV and online media.
- Steep learning curve – The interface and tools take time to master.
- Subscription pricing – You pay a monthly or annual fee for Premiere Pro as part of Adobe’s Creative Cloud.
Overall, Premiere Pro is geared towards professionals and offers expansive high-end features, but may be overkill for basic editing needs.
Final Cut Pro
Final Cut Pro is Apple’s pro-level video editing software for Mac users. Here are some standout features:
- Optimized for Mac – Takes full advantage of Apple hardware and OS architecture.
- Multicam editing – Syncs and edits footage from multiple cameras.
- Extensive library of effects and templates – Get creative with stylized titles, transitions, filters and more.
- Color grading – Built-in tools for color correction and enhancement.
- Affordable pro software – At $299.99 it’s cheaper than competitors.
- Mac only – Can only be used on Mac devices.
- Steep learning curve – Not the most beginner friendly.
Final Cut Pro strikes a balance between professional caliber editing power and approachable interface. But it’s only viable for Mac users.
Adobe Premiere Elements
Adobe Premiere Elements is the stripped down, beginner-friendly version of Premiere Pro. Key attributes include:
- Guided edits – Step-by-step editing assistance for common projects.
- Simplified timeline – Streamlined multi-track timeline.
- Templates – Themed title options, transitions and effects.
- Easy sharing – Directly upload finished videos to YouTube and social media.
- Affordable – Available for a one-time fee around $100.
- Limited functionality – Lacks some advanced and specialty tools.
- Max output quality 1080p – Cannot export 4K video.
Premiere Elements is a scaled back editor best for beginners looking for an easy entry point to video editing.
Filmora
Filmora from Wondershare is a popular introductory level editing app with the following features:
- Drag and drop interface – Easy to rearrange clips in the timeline.
- Pre-made templates – Themed titles, effects and transitions.
- Audio editing – Add background music and sound effects.
- 4K video support – Export videos up to 4K resolution.
- Affordable subscription pricing – Starts at $39 per year.
- Limited functionality – Not as robust as advanced editors.
- Fewer export options – MP4 is the primary export format.
Filmora hits the sweet spot between accessibility and power for casual users new to video editing.
iMovie
iMovie is the native video editing app for Mac and iOS devices. Here is an overview:
- Free with Apple devices – Already installed and ready to use.
- Intuitive interface – User-friendly for beginners.
- Mobile editing – Create and edit videos on iPhone/iPad.
- Desktop features – More advanced tools on Mac version.
- Apple device integration – Import media from Photos and iTunes.
- Limited control – Customization options are restricted compared to paid apps.
- No support for 4K -Max output resolution is 1080p.
iMovie is the obvious hassle-free choice for Apple users, albeit with some limitations.
DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve from Blackmagic Design offers extensive post-production capabilities:
- Free version available – The basic editor is free for personal use.
- Multi-track timeline – Cut clips together across video, dialogue, music and more.
- Advanced color correction – Used on Hollywood films for color grading.
- Fairlight audio tools – Professional-grade sound editing.
- Steep learning curve – Highly complex interface even in free version.
- Collaboration requires subscription – $295 yearly to work across multiple seats.
DaVinci Resolve packs unbelievable power into a free tool, but has a very difficult interface for newcomers.
InShot
InShot is a popular mobile video editing app with these features:
- Free version available – Core editor is free with in-app purchases.
- Mobile focused interface – Intuitive controls optimized for touch.
- Social media integration – Directly export edited videos to Instagram, YouTube, etc.
- Quick editing tools – Trim, merge, adjust speed, add filters and music.
- Limited track timeline – No multilayer video editing.
- Minimal control – Most adjustments use presets rather than custom values.
InShot provides a fast and easy editing experience right on your smartphone.
KineMaster
KineMaster is a full-featured mobile editing app for Android and iOS:
- Multiple video tracks – Stack and cut together clips on timeline.
- Chroma key – Green screen masking ability.
- Precise controls – Frame by frame trimming and cutting.
- Affordable subscription – $39.99 annually for premium features.
- Mobile only – No desktop version available.
- Steep learning curve on mobile – Complex tools on small touch screens.
KineMaster brings advanced editing tools like multiple tracks to mobile devices.
Factors for Choosing a Video Editing App
With an overview of the top options, here are some key factors to consider when selecting the best video editing app for your needs:
Platform Compatibility
Consider what devices you need to edit on – Windows, Mac, iPhone, Android etc. Some apps are exclusive to specific platforms like Final Cut Pro for Mac. Others like Adobe Premiere Pro work across both PC and Mac. Mobile apps like InShot and KineMaster let you edit video right on your smartphone.
Learning Curve & Ease of Use
Look at the complexity of the interface and tools. Apps like iMovie are designed for quick and easy editing that beginners can grasp quickly. More advanced software like DaVinci Resolve has a steep learning curve. The ideal app provides the right balance of approachability and depth for your experience level.
Editing Capabilities
Evaluate if the app has the editing tools you require. Entry-level apps offer basic functionality like trimming clips, adding transitions and titles. Pro-grade apps allow for chroma keying, multi-track editing, custom effects and more in-depth features.
Output Quality & Options
Consider the highest video resolution and frame rates supported for export. Mobile apps often max out at 1080p while desktop software can export up to 4K and higher. The available file format options are also important – MP4, MOV and more.
Price
Pricing varies widely from free options like iMovie to paid subscriptions and one-time purchases. Compare one-time fees versus ongoing subscriptions for desktop apps. Many mobile apps offer in-app purchases to unlock more features.
Specialty Features
Some apps cater to specific use cases like multicam editing or color grading. Make sure the app you choose provides any must-have niche tools you need.
The Best Video Editing App
Taking all factors into account, here is our pick for the top video editing app:
Adobe Premiere Pro
While not the most beginner friendly, Adobe Premiere Pro is the best video editing app overall based on capabilities, ecosystem, industry standards and more. Here’s a recap of some of its winning features:
- Professional grade editing tools – Premiere Pro is used widely in professional film and TV production.
- Tight integration with Photoshop, After Effects and other Adobe software allows seamless workflows.
- Support for 360 VR videos, 4K and 8K resolution, HDR and the latest formats.
- Wide platform support for PC and Mac.
- Extensive community resources and assets like presets and templates help accelerate editing.
Adobe Premiere Pro is unmatched in features and ecosystem support. While not the easiest to use, it provides the most control and capabilities for dedicated video editors and creators.
Conclusion
Determining the best video editing app depends largely on your specific needs and experience level. While Adobe Premiere Pro rises to the top in terms of features, beginning users may find apps like iMovie or Filmora more approachable. KineMaster and InShot provide powerful mobile editing options right on your phone. And platforms like Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve offer more affordable pro-level tools.
Take stock of your budget, the types of projects you work on, your target platforms and other factors. Testing some different video editors with free trials can help inform what feels best for your style and needs. With so many great options available, you’re sure to find the perfect video editing app to take your filmmaking and content creation to the next level.