The Best Free Video Editing Software For Beginners Mac + PC

When it comes to making video content, the editing process can be the most difficult part to tackle for beginners. I think that’s because editing requires left and right brain power! On the one hand, you will need working knowledge of technology by making sure your computer can handle the video files and managing the software. On the other hand, you’ll need to harness your creative brain to successfully transform the raw footage into a complete piece.

For many content creators, it is the most overwhelming part of the process. What’s more, all these things begin to add up. As an emerging video content creator, you’ve probably seen the dollars rack up within just a few minutes. First, it’s all of the production tools, like the camera, audio and lighting. Next, it’s all of the post production tools, like the computer and software.

If you’ve ever looked into video editing software, you’ve probably noticed that it isn’t cheap. Some of the industry favorites like Final Cut Pro and my personal favorite Adobe Premiere Pro are over $200 dollars for an annual membership. Nothing to sneeze at when you have other costs to consider.

Luckily there is a solution!

I have put together a list of the best free video editing software for beginners currently available for Mac and PC!

The Best FREE Video Editing Software for Beginners

1 | DaVinci Resolve 16

Honestly, I can’t believe this is free. DaVinci resolve 16 is an amazing editing software and an incredible value. It features all of the editing tools that come with higher end softwares including custom timeline settings and image stabilization. It even has facial recognition! If you’re looking for an all purpose, easy to use editing software that’s close to what professional use, look no further than DaVinci Resolve 16.

2 | iMovie

If you don’t want to download a third party product, iMovie is what I recommend for MAC users. It comes pr-eloaded on basically all MACs and it’s a simple, user friendly option for beginners. The best part about it is that it’s already on your computer, so you can open it right now and start editing!

3 | Video Editor on PC

For my PC friends, I recommend “Video Editor”. This is PC’s version of iMovie, and it comes pre-loaded on your computer. It’s best for simple edits and user friendly for beginners. Open it now and start editing!

4 | Openshot

If you’re looking for another alternative, I can recommend Openshot. It’s a third party product similar to DaVinci Resolve 16, but it’s incredibly simple. Despite its simplicity, it still features all of the basic tools to make a complete video including Trim & Slice, Video effects and slow motion/other time effects. It’s a perfect video editing software for beginners.

Start Editing Your Videos!

I hope these recommendations can help you as you set out to make your awesome video projects come to life!