Are you looking to edit video on a Windows 10 computer, but you’re unsure of the best tools you’ll need to accomplish that?
We’ve done the research for you and found the best of the best, so you don’t have to! Watch the video below for all the details.
Overall, there were 3 that were the best in terms of usability and features. One of them you already have tucked away in one your Windows 10 apps!
Here’s a breakdown of the 3 best free video editors for Windows 10:
Photos – native app by Windows
This tool is actually tucked away inside the native Photos app as a hidden feature. If you know where to look for it, you can use it to create simple videos with a little bit of flair
- It has a very simple and easy to use interface that users might be pleased with, compared to more clunky, overwhelming UIs of other editors.
- This tool handles the approach of editing more like a storyboard than a track-based timeline, which is refreshing if you’re not familiar with pro editing software. This means it’s easy to follow, and there’s not much of a learning curve!
- It allows you to add some fancy stuff to your videos, like on-screen text and even some slick AR effects. Might be a great option if you’re regularly creating social content, especially Instagram Stories, or something similar.
Here’s a video from Microsoft on how to use the built in video editor.
OpenShot
Unlike the Photos app, OpenShot is more like a traditional video editor–albeit in a more slimmed down way. The features are limited compared to the big boys, but it’s enough to get the job done and learn the interface in a short time.
- OpenShot is an open source tool (hence the name, probably), so it’s totally free. You can download it and start editing right away, without having to shell out a subscription fee.
- It has a fairly easy-to-use interface with a traditional timeline built into it. It might be something of a learning curve if you’re not familiar with editing software, but OpenShot provides a simple tutorial to walk you through it when you open it for the first time.
- It has some decent features, like simple transitions and effects you can add to clips. However, a lot of the transitions available are pretty weird and extreme, so you’ll probably only end up using a small handful of what they give you.
Here’s a helpful tutorial on how to use OpenShot.
HitFilm Express
This software is more comparable to the pro alternatives, like Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro X. We recommend this for advanced users who have some familiarity with pro editing software but want to avoid an annoying subscription fee.
- There’s a definite learning curve involved with HitFilm Express, but if you’ve never touched a pro editing tool in your life, it does provide a page in the software with plenty of how-to tutorials that walk you through different things.
- The interface feels almost identical to Adobe’s Premiere Pro, but it’s much more simplified. Effects, transitions, and other features are easy to find with just a couple of clicks.
- It’s technically free, but you’ll need to give HitFilm a shout out on your social media platform of choice before they give you download access. That’s definitely better than paying money though.
Here’s a great beginners’ tutorial on how to use HitFilm Express.
These 3 tools are all free, but what if you do actually want to invest the money in a more professional editing software? Here’s a few paid options for Windows 10 users.
Adobe Premiere Pro
If you’re already paying the monthly subscription for Adobe’s Creative Cloud, then you technically already have access to their editing tool, Premiere Pro, and since you’re already paying for it, using it might be a no brainer. A quick warning though, if you’re not familiar with pro editing tools, Premiere carries a very steep learning curve with it.
- Premiere is loaded with lots of pro features and tools, so you’re definitely getting your money’s worth, and you’ll be able to create some really professional-looking business videos.
- Because Premiere’s interface is clunkier than others, it’s not the best option for short-form or social video content. However, it’s great if you’re creating longer-form content, even documentary-style videos.
Want to learn how to use Premiere Pro? Check out this tutorial video.
Adobe Premiere Rush
In 2018, Adobe released a new editing software called Premiere Rush. While Premiere Pro is aimed more at filmmakers and video producers creating longer-form content, Rush is aimed at content creators and social influencers. Maybe you’re none of those things, but Rush is a very handy and simple tool to crank out video content in no time! And, like Premiere Pro, if you’re already paying for a Creative Cloud subscription, you already have access to Rush.
- Rush has a ridiculously simple interface that anyone can use, and it feels an awful lot like Final Cut Pro. Seems like Adobe took some…”inspiration” from it?
- When working in projects, you can store all of your raw files in the cloud. That way, you can keep working on your stuff on the go using the Premiere Rush mobile app. Seriously, it’s pretty cool.
- Exporting from Rush is a cinch, and it even allows you to publish directly to your social channels, like YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram.
Check out this video for a general walkthrough of Premiere Rush.
Out of all the research and testing we did, these tools stood out the most to us for their ease of use, simplicity, and feature set. If you need a Windows 10 video editor to edit your next business video, these options will work for you!
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