The best video editing software

The logos of three of the best video editing software programs, Premiere Pro, CyberLink Power Director and Davini Resolve
(Image credit: Future / Premiere Pro / CyberLink / Blackmagic DesignResolve)

In the best video editing software, there's still more demand than ever – and that also means more competition. With developers adding more and more features to every new release of their programs, including exciting new generative AI tools, it's a time of exciting possibilities for video editors.

As an editor, your editing software is going to be your best friend and closest colleague, so it pays to do some research and make sure you get the right program for you – especially because video editing tools can be a significant investment. This list represents the best programs our experts have tested, including everything from professional editing software to mobile apps and free tools for beginners.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro: The best video editing software overall - free 7 day trialGet the Premiere Pro free trial.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro: The best video editing software overall - free 7 day trial
Our top pick is the industry standard software for video editing. It supports every format, provides a huge amount of flexibility and is rapidly introducing new AI-powered tools to speed up editing. You can try it for free for seven days.
Get the Premiere Pro free trial.

2. DaVinci Resolve 19: The best free software - freeGet DaVinci Resolve for free

2. DaVinci Resolve 19: The best free software - free
This very complete professional video editing program is particularly good for colour grading and effects. We love its versatility, and the free version is easily the best free video editing software around, although it's a steep learning curve for beginners.
Get DaVinci Resolve for free

3. CyberLink PowerDirector - free 30-day trialRead more below

3. CyberLink PowerDirector - free 30-day trial
CyberLink's software is better for enthusiasts, both because of the price and the simpler interface. It still has lots of features, including new AI-powered object detection and background removal. There's also a free version.
Read more below

4. Premiere Elements free for 30 days: Best video editing software for beginners – 30-day free trialGet the Premiere Elements free trial

4. Premiere Elements free for 30 days: Best video editing software for beginners – 30-day free trial
New to video editing? This is the perfect option for you. Elements is a simple version of Premiere Pro, meaning it's easy to learn. Also subscription-free, and comes with a 30-day free trial.
Get the Premiere Elements free trial

Why you can trust Creative Bloq Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test.

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Adobe Premiere Pro scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesIndustry-standard tools and new AI features.★★★★★
VersatilityWide ranging, although colour grading isn't the best.★★★★★
UsabilitySteep learning curve.★★★★
PricingSubscription model requires annual or monthly payment.★★★★
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DaVinci Resolve scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesPro-level editing, effects and colour grading.★★★★
VersatilityCan handle everything up to Hollywood-level productions.★★★★★
UsabilitySteep learning curve.★★★★
PricingGreat value (or free!).★★★★★
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PowerDirector 365 scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesStrong editing suite and new AI tools★★★
VersatilityMore for enthusiasts, but has another tools for vloggers★★★
UsabilityMore straightforward than professional editing programs★★★★★
PricingGood value subscription, plus free version★★★★★
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Premiere Elements scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesLimited features but covers all the basics and more.★★★
VersatilityLacks multi-cam tools and 8K support.★★★
UsabilityClean, intuitive interface.★★★★★
PricingReasonable one-off price.★★★★★
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Final Cut Pro scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesFull professional editing capabilities but updates have been lacking★★★
VersatilitySupport for up to 8K footage, 360 + HDR features★★★★
UsabilityGreat organisational features but may feel intimidating for beginners★★★★
PricingNot cheap, but there's no subscription★★★★
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Adobe Premiere Rush scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesEditing tools lack precision control but are easy to use. ★★★
VersatilityCross-platform support, lots of export options and can handle up to 4K.★★★★
UsabilityA simple interface makes Premiere Rush easy to use on a phone.★★★★
PricingRequires a monthly subscription.★★★
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Adobe Express scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesEditing tools are basic, but there are lots of templates and stock assets.★★★
VersatilityMainly useful for editing videos and posts for social media.★★★
UsabilityEasy to use once you know where to find things.★★★★
PricingAvailable for free but premium tools require a subscriptionion.★★★
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Pinnacle Studio scorecard
AttributesNotesRating
FeaturesA wide range of editing tools but fine-tuning is limited.★★★
VersatilityMainly useful for beginners.★★★
UsabilityEasy to use interface.★★★★
PricingAvailable for free but premium tools require a subscription.★★★
Tom May

Tom May is an award-winning journalist and editor specialising in design, photography and technology. Author of the Amazon #1 bestseller Great TED Talks: Creativity, published by Pavilion Books, Tom was previously editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq, and deputy editor at net magazine. Today, he is a regular contributor to Creative Bloq and its sister sites Digital Camera World, T3.com and Tech Radar. He also writes for Creative Boom and works on content marketing projects. 

With contributions from