Today’s world is totally digital: we see modern tech shaping almost every sphere of our lives. From the way we communicate to the way we shop and work, the digital realm keeps developing quickly. And social media has undergone changes as well. Back in the day, we mostly shared photos on the socials, but now, videos are king. No matter what you are up for—a blog, an advertisement, or just a simple personal video as a pleasant memory—you need good video editing software to start creating. However, there are so many video editors and short video SDKs out there! How do you find the one that’s worth your attention?
Picking the right video editing tool goes far beyond getting the priciest one or the one packed with most features. The main point is that it should meet your particular needs. So, today, let’s walk through the process of selecting the best video editing software for you to craft amazing content with confidence.
Analyze your skills
First off, think about how experienced you are in video editing. Are you starting out? Or maybe you are a pro? Or somewhere in between? Answer this question honestly.
- For beginners: If you’re a newcomer in video creation, you need something as easy, clear, and straightforward as possible. Your perfect video editor is the one that doesn’t overwhelm you with tons of features. To get started, having the basic ones, like trimming, cropping, changing the speed, and adding music will be enough. iMovie and Windows Movie Maker may be good options here, as they are pretty simple and don’t require any great technical know-how.
- For intermediate users: If you feel confident but not 100%, you may try the software that gives customization but still remains manageable and understandable. In this case, Adobe Premiere Elements and Filmora may be good to consider. They include handy features like multi-track editing and built-in effects, all while keeping the user interface pretty simple.
- For professionals: If you’re aiming for high-end results, consider giving Final Cut Pro or DaVinci Resolve a try. They are packed with the features any pro would adore, from color correction and special effects to milti-cam editing and beyond. Of course, the learning process is much tougher, but the outcome is definitely worth it.
Evaluate system compatibility
Make sure your video editor functions seamlessly with your computer’s OS and hardware since video editing is a process that requires considerable power from your system.
For example, some video editing software is dependent on the platform. Final Cut Pro is exclusive to Mac, whereas Sony Vegas Pro is built primarily for Windows. Cross-platform options like Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve run on both systems. Always double-check compatibility to guarantee smooth performance in the future.
Plus, handling 4K or high-definition video editing requires a resource-heavy setup. Your computer’s processor (CPU) should be very robust. In addition, it should have enough RAM (at least 8GB) and SSD storage for optimal performance. Without these specs, your editing may lag, and your software could become unstable.
Think about the features you really need
Why pay for a bunch of features you’ll never use? Consider which features are the most necessary for the videos you plan to edit.
- Basic tools: Common editing features like trimming, cutting, and applying transitions or effects are available in most software. So, such tools are suitable for simple edits.
- Pro features: If you’re striving to create more complex videos, seek out software that offers multi-track editing, motion graphics, color grading, and sound editing. For YouTubers, tools like green screens, royalty-free music, and text overlays are often crucial.
- Special effects and animation: If you’re diving into 3D animation or special effects-heavy projects, look for the tools tailored to the advanced level of production and creativity required.
Check for updates and support
As video editing software continually updates, it’s important to select the tool that receives regular support from developers.
- Updates: Make sure the software is still being updated with new features and compatibility for modern video formats and devices. Software that falls behind on updates may become obsolete quickly as standards shift.
- Tutorials: If you’re new to editing or using advanced software, having tutorials and support is crucial. Luckily, most such tools offer extensive tutorial libraries, forums, and customer service to guide you through technical issues or new features.
Try before you buy
Like when shopping online you can use virtual try-on API-based apps to see how this makeup or clothes will look on you in real life, consider trying a video editor before you finally purchase it.
Most video editing tools provide free trials or basic versions, allowing you to assess whether they meet your requirements before committing. This way, try out free trials! Many leading programs offer 30-day trial periods, letting you get familiar with the features and decide if they fit your workflow.
If the free version of a program covers all your demands, there’s no need to spend more. Plenty of users find that free or affordable editing software serves them well without needing a higher-end product.
Streamline your editing with the correct software
Selecting the ideal video editing software doesn’t need to be stressful. By honestly evaluating such factors as your skills, system compatibility, and necessary features, the chances to find the tool that best suits your needs are much higher. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, with the correct software, you’ll streamline your editing process and take your experience to new heights. So, explore your choices carefully and enjoy your editing journey!
Featured image: Pixabay
