Virtualdub is a free, open-source video editing software. It is available for Windows and supports 32 and 64-bit downloads. Moreover, it serves a batch feature, which helps you to process multiple files together. Also, it allows you to use external plug-ins like video filters and more. Movavi is generally accepted as the best iMovie for Windows alternative. Like iMovie, Movavi acts as the multimedia creation center for your PC. All of the material can be provided from your end. That is the photos, videos, voiceovers, music, and ideas. Video editing software like iMovie, for Windows? Moreover, you can apply filters, arrange your media library, create videos in multiple formats and get royalty free music tracks for your video. The users are even enabled to get the animated objects designed on the videos. Windows Movie Maker is Microsoft's rather unsuccessful attempts to create an equal rival to Apple's iMovie. While the app gains quite a number of users, it's only because it comes free with Windows. Movie Maker does it jobs well for basic video editing, but you won't find anybody considers it as extraordinary.
When it comes to video editing software, the first thing that comes to our mind may be Final Cut Pro, Premiere, Sony Vegas and EDIUS. For novices, this kind of professional editing software is really too complicated and the price is too high. Since you're finding a video editor like the free iMovie, I will introduce some free and easy-to-use video editing software similar to iMovie in this article. I hope everyone can find the one you like most and make your own cool video with happiness.
As you may know, iMovie only works on Mac and iOS. The PC users have to take an iMovie for PC alternative. This time, I'll try my best and get all platform users covered by recommending cross-platform free video editing software at first, with the quality keeping in mind. Now enjoy free video editing software like iMovie and salute to its developer.
> #1 Best Video Editing Software Like iMovie - Shotcut
> #2 Free Video Editing Software Like iMovie - OpenShot
> #3 Free Video Editing Program Like iMovie - Davinci Resolve
> #4 Free Video Editing Software Like iMovie - Lightworks
> #5 Free Video Editing Program Like iMovie - HitFilm Express
> #6 Free Video Editor Like iMovie - VideoPad Video Editor
#1 Free Video Editing Software Like iMovie - Shotcut
Shotcut is an open source and free video editing software developed by Meltytech LLC, which supports Mac, Windows and Linux. It follows the GNU/GPL protocol, which means anyone can use Shotcut for video editing and movie making for completely free.
Talking about video editing, Shotcut has functions such as GPU acceleration, broad format support, drag and drop operation, filter effects, etc. Like iMovie, Shotcut processes media files fast and does not occupy few computer resources. In my own experience using the software, Shotcut is an intermediate free video editor similar to iMovie. It's much easier than those professional video editing software such as Adobe Premiere, but it is slightly more complicated than other free video editing software with simple features. It can be said that Shotcut is the best of free video editor software. So it won our Gold price of iMovie-like free video editing software.
#2 Free Video Editing Software Like iMovie - OpenShot
The second iMovie alternative free video editing software is called OpenShot, a name similar to Shotcut. It combines all the powerful tools you need for video editing, such as splitting, merging, rotating, transition, effects, animated and 3D titles, etc. The same with Shotcut, OpenShot also works on Mac, Windows and Linux. It helps you quickly and easily create the video you desired.
OpenShot was previously a free video editing program for Linux OS only. Now Mac and Windows versions are also available, but only for 64-bit operating systems. As for the video editing features, this iMovie-like free video editor software provides you with real-time video preview, an array of title templates (2D & 3D), special effects like Slow Motion and Reverse, audio mixing and other features. It comes with a simple interface like iMovie. If you're afraid of intermediate interface, try OpenShot first before Shotcut.
#3 Free Video Editing Program Like iMovie - Davinci Resolve 15
Davinci Resolve is an all-in-one solution for video editing, color adjustment, post-production and visual effects. It's designed to realize unlimited creativity using different toolsets. You can now produce video easily by working together with other creative people.
In all, it's a more powerful and professional video editing solution than iMovie. It's more like Final Cut Pro X. Davinci Resolve is a commercial video production solution but it also provides free version which could be used as a professional iMovie alternative. Keep in mind that this iMovie alternative might require a deep learning curve. Either Mac or Windows is compatible. Thank Blackmagic Design for bring such an amazing video editing and post-production software for free. Download Davinci Resolve 15 now.
#4 Free Video Editing Software Like iMovie - Lightworks
Lightworks is another advanced video editing software like iMovie. Different from other pro software, Lightworks comes with a simple and intuitive interface. Similar to iMovie, it includes media management, video editing tools, multi-color correction, and support for 3D graphics, real-time effects, and built-in support for royalty-free stock video and music.
LightWorks is also a cross-platform free video editing software, which means you can download and use it on Mac, Windows and Linux. You can take this Hollywood-level video production tool anywhere you want. It's an Academy and Emmy award-winning video editing software for totally free. Salute to EditShare. Download Lightworks now.
#5 Free Video Editing Program Like iMovie - HitFilm Express
HitFilm is a commercial video editing and VFX software with two versions: HitFilm Pro and HitFilm Express. As a free video editing software similar to iMovie, it's also simple and easy to use HitFilm to split and trim your video, add transitions and title, as well as make green/blue screen and color correction. As a professional video editor, HitFilm also empowers you to design your own transitions, import 3D models and apply 400+ specialized effects like lens flare, muzzle flashes, distortion, lightning, and much more. For those artists who want more video creation elements, HitFilm Express provides many add-on packs, adding more values to this iMovie-like free video editor.
HitFilm works on Mac and Windows. To download this free video editor for Mac and PC, you have to sign up to create an account on their website, and share on your social account. Then you need to claim your free license.
#6 Free Video Editor Like iMovie - VideoPad Video Editor
VideoPad is definitely an all-platform video editing software free for personal and home use. It can run on Mac, Windows, iPhone, iPad, Android, and even Kindle! Unbelievable! From this view point, it's a free video editing software better than iMovie which only supports Mac, iPhone, and iPad.
VideoPad is a fully-featured and classic video editor. Totally different from the above video editing software, VideoPad enables you to capture video from a DV camcorder, VHS, GoPro, webcam, then edit video with its free editing tools like split, reverse, transition, effects, audio mixer, and speed control. When your video editing is complete, you're able to share your video anywhere. DVD burning is not a popular feature nowadays. If you want to watch your movie on TV, DVD disc is still a good choice. VideoPad can export videos in multiple resolutions up to 4K, same with iMovie. If you make videos for non-commercial use, download this free video editor like iMovie right now.
Comparison Table of iMovie-like Free Video Editors
Check out some important differences between free video editing programs to choose your favorite one.
iMovie Alt. | OS | Import | GPU Accel. | 3D Titles | VFX | Export |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Shotcut | Mac, Windows, Linux | All common media formats, webcam, ProRes, DNxHD | Yes | No | No | YouTube, Facebook, iPhone, iPad, PSP, Video Files, Audio Files |
OpenShot | Mac, Windows, Linux | All common media formats | No | Yes | No | All common media formats |
Davinci Resolve | Mac, Windows | All common media formats, webcam | Yes | Yes | Yes | YouTube, Vimeo, FCP, PR, and all common media formats |
LightWorks | Mac, Windows, Linux | ProRes, Avid DNxHD, AVC-Intra, DVCPRO HD, RED R3D, DPX, AVCHD, and all common media formats | Yes | Yes | Yes | YouTube, Vimeo, and all common media formats |
HitFilm Express | Mac, Windows | All common media formats, webcam | Yes | Yes | Yes | YouTube, 8K video export,all common media formats |
VideoPad | Mac, Windows, Linux, iOS, Kindle | All common media formats, webcam, GoPro, VHS, and DV Camcorder | No | No | No | YouTube, Facebook, iPhone, iPad, PSP, Video Files, Audio Files, VR headsets, DVD disc. |
Conclusion for iMovie-like Free Video Editors
iMovie is the entry-level video editor for Mac and iOS users. The standard equivalent should be the same free Windows Movie Maker for Windows operating system. The reasons why I haven't recommended WMM to you as a free video editing software alternative to iMovie are: a) Windows Movie Maker is much simpler than iMovie. It's a crapped free video editor for Windows only.
b) Windows Movie Maker only runs in Windows which conflicts with my choosing standard I described at the beginning of this article.
In short, all the picked free video editing software like iMovie has similar or more powerful features than iMovie. All of them supports two or three platforms (Mac and Windows at least). If you still want to try Windows Movie Maker, get it here.
Install Imovie For Windows
For paid video editing software similar to iMovie, I humbly recommend Movavi Video Editor, which has the closest interface and features with iMovie for Mac. Below is its demo video.
Download Movavi Video Editor now to assemble your media files and share anywhere.
iMovie for Mac Tips
- What is the best alternative to YouTube Video Editor in 2020?
- Is there some free video editing software for YouTube available in the market?
- What is the best video editor for YouTube free?
YouTube is not only a great place to watch videos but also a fantastic platform to share your own created videos with friends all over the world. Uploading videos to YouTube is easy, but it is not easy to create an awesome video. More and more YouTube users want to find a professional video editing software for YouTube, free or paid.
Can't Miss: What Video Editing Software Do YouTubers Use
Yes, you will come across many free or paid YouTube video maker or editor software over the Internet to cooperate. All YouTube video editing software has distinct features that you should look out for and pros and cons. The following top 5 free video editors for YouTube will give you a good starting point.
In short: If you're looking for the best video editing software for YouTube (like me), you'll love this guide.
Now, let's get started.
Filmora Video Editor - Best YouTube Video Maker [Free or Paid]
Filmora Video Editor for Windows (or Filmora Video Editor for Mac) is the best video editing software for YouTube on Mac or Windows. This video editor for YouTube has many effects that you can use to personalize your video when editing. They include intro/credit, where you will enjoy multiple templates and transitions to help develop a flawless exchange from one scene to another, sound, effect and filters. The selection will be all yours to make, and you should be very keen on what you decide to use with your video. Furthermore, this powerful YouTube video editing software supports many file formats and guarantees high quality to edited files.
Key Features:
- This video editing software for YouTube has video color correction, which allows for adjustment of brightness, saturation, and contrast.
- A green screen is another feature that makes it possible to replace the background.
- Scene detection helps to know when changes have been made to scenes.
- Face off offers fun faces for making a video funny.
- PIP effect makes it possible to overlay more than one video together.
- Handy video editing tools and provide various video and audio effects.
- Different output options help you directly upload a video to YouTube or Vimeo for sharing as you like.
Easy Steps to Use This Best Video Editing Software for YouTube
The Filmora YouTube Video Editing software is very affordable and can edit both videos and audios. With this software, you can edit the YouTube video, which helps apply effects or customize your video.
Step 1. Import the Video for YouTube
At first, you need to download the Filmora Video Editor from the official website. After the installation, you can import the video clips by two methods. Click the 'FULL FEATURE MODE' from the main window. You can directly drag your videos to the software or click on the 'Import Media Files Here' button to import all video clips to Filmora Video Editor.
Step 2. Edit Your Video Clips
Drag the video clips to the timeline directly, now you can adjust the video clips' order by clicking on the video clips and drag, and you can also trim unwanted video clips.
Step 3. Add Effects to Your Videos
After you cut and splice the video clips to a complete video you want to post to YouTube, you can choose to add some effects on the video to make it unique.
For example, you can add filters to the video, click on the 'FILTERS' option from the menu, and see all the Filmora Video Editor's filters. Please select a suitable filter and drag it to a timeline to apply.
In addition to the filter, there are many other effects you can apply to your videos, including transitions, overlays, audio effect, and others as follows:
- How to overlay videos (picture in picture)
- How to make a split-screen video
- How to make cool videos with effects
Step 4. Export the Videos to YouTube Directly
After you are satisfied with your video editing, you can preview the excellent video in Filmora Video Editor first and then export it to YouTube directly.
Bonus:
If you want to learn more technical skills about how to perform the Filmora Video Editor, please check the below video tutorial to find something you might not know before:
Top 4 Free YouTube Video Editing Software for Windows, Mac OS X
iMovie (Mac)
When you are looking for the best free YouTube video editing software program to use with Mac, iMovie will be the best choice to consider. This free video editing software for YouTube allows for easy importing of videos and editing to add effects, insert titles, and add soundtracks. A simple drag and drop will help you add files to the program.
Pros:
- This video editor for YouTube is straightforward to use. And it is the best alternative to the YouTube Video Editor.
- This video editing tool has a friendly interface and allows for the sharing of edited videos online. Those are the standout advantages you will enjoy.
Cons:
- One of the most significant disadvantages of iMovie is the inability to import files in MP4 format.
- It is not readily available because of its price tag that ranges around $14.99.
Windows Movie Maker (Windows)
This YouTube video editing software is another best video editing software for YouTube videos, and Microsoft designs it. You can create, edit, and publish your videos using this program on online sites like YouTube and Facebook. That will help in enhancing your overall editing experience. It has support for many transitions, effects, and titles to help customize the video.
Pros:
- The key advantages of using this software program are available for free.
- This video editor for YouTube is easy for beginners to learn.
- This video editing tool offers a variety of editing tools and functions and perfect for photos slide shows.
Download Imovie On Windows 10
Cons:
- When you choose this program, expect to enjoy limitations on the number of features you will enjoy because it comes for free.
- This video editing tool is not suitable for advanced users.
- It is highly prone to crashing down, thus not reliable enough.
YouTube Video Editor (Windows and Mac)
This free YouTube video editor allows for easy customizing of video files through specialized tools and effects. It would be best if you chose the right combination of those that will suit your video editing. Also, the program helps in trimming down the size of videos.
Pros:
- You will have an easy time learning how to use this program.
- This video editing tool works at high speeds, and it is available for free and allows adding music to video.
Cons:
- Its availability for free means this program comes with limitations on some features.
- You will enjoy only the basic features.
LightWorks (Windows and Mac)
This free editing software is a professional, free video editing software for YouTube that you can use to work on any YouTube files. It's non-linear and has support for resolutions amounting to 4K. It works well with videos on both HD and SD formats. If you have a film that you want to edit, LightWorks will be an excellent choice to consider at any given time.
Pros:
- The ability to customize is the most significant advantage of using this software program.
- Different platforms support other pros.
- Support for professional video editing and availability as paid or free versions.
Cons:
- This video editing tool lacks FireWire support for Linux.
- The pro version has changed in pricing and does not offer any help with essential hints alone.
Write in the End
Although some online video editors or editing apps for YouTube provide the most promising results, there aren't as good as professional video editors available for Windows and Mac. One of the most significant disadvantages is that you will not edit the videos if you don't have an internet connection. Moreover, if your video needs a lot of editing, you can't perform all the functions using online video editors.
So, suppose you want to create a fantastic video or have some YouTube video requirements. In that case, I'd like to strongly recommend the Filmora Video Editor or Filmora Video Editor for Mac for your reference. It can help you quickly make a cool video with effects.
[Attention]
This post is focused on the video editing software for YouTube, so if you want to find video editor for other platforms like Chromebook, etc., you can view the recommendation in this site.