Editing YouTube videos is not just about cutting and trimming; it’s about telling a story, keeping viewers hooked, and maintaining a professional look. The right video editing software for YouTube can help you elevate your content with smoother transitions, color correction, and professional audio syncing. Plus, the right YouTube video editors also speed up the editing process, which is crucial when you’re uploading content regularly.
So, what do YouTubers use to edit videos that help them stand out? Software that fits their style, has the right features, and makes their workflow easier. Here is the list of the most popular video editing software to check out if you’re a beginner or professional YouTube creator.
Top 10 video editing software for YouTube
When it comes to creating eye-catching YouTube videos, the right editing software can make all the difference. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned creator, having a solid tool in your arsenal is key. Let’s explore some of the best video editors YouTubers rely on.
1) Podcastle
Podcastle is an all-in-one tool perfect for both podcasters and YouTubers. While it was popular for its audio editing capabilities, it recently introduced intuitive video editing features that make editing YouTube videos quick and simple.
If you’re a beginner Youtuber, you’ll love using Podcastle for its ease of use and range of AI-powered features. Whether you're working with audio, visuals, or both, Podcastle makes your recording and editing workflow easy.
How YouTubers use Podcastle
Podcastle is especially popular among YouTubers who create screen-sharing and web-recording style content. It allows you to record high-quality screen capturing and webcam recording video, which you can later edit with a couple of clicks using Podcastle’s video editor—all from the same place. You can also get automated captions, easily change the aspect ratio and the size of your video.
Many YouTubers use Podcastle to enhance the audio quality of their videos, add voiceovers, or sync their visuals with their voice recordings. It’s particularly helpful for creators who need to polish their audio and video content without diving into complex software, improve your audio and video quality with AI, and more.
Key features:
- AI-powered noise reduction, audio enhancements, and video upscaling
- Easy-to-use interface perfect for beginners
- Video editing tools that integrate seamlessly with audio editing
- Podcast and video creation in one platform
- Built-in features for adding captions and subtitles
2) Filmora
Editing videos for YouTube is simple with Filmora. It is a popular choice for YouTubers who want powerful editing tools without the steep learning curve. With its drag-and-drop interface and a wide range of effects, transitions, and filters, Filmora is great for creators looking to add a professional touch to their videos without spending hours learning the software.
How YouTubers use Filmora
YouTubers often turn to Filmora for quick yet polished video edits. Its variety of pre-made templates and easy export options make it simple to create content ready for upload in no time.
Key features:
- Intuitive drag-and-drop functionality
- Hundreds of effects and transitions
- Built-in royalty-free music library
- Easy export to various formats and platforms
- Screen recording and split-screen features
3) iMovie
What do YouTubers use to edit videos on their Mac? The answer is simple: iMovie. If you're a Mac user, iMovie is likely one of the first video editing tools you've encountered. It’s free, beginner-friendly, and offers all the basic editing tools you’ll need to start creating quality YouTube content. With its sleek design, iMovie makes it easy to edit, add effects, and create smooth transitions between clips.
How YouTubers use iMovie
Many YouTubers, especially beginners, use iMovie for simple and straightforward editing tasks. If you want to cut down clips, add background music, or apply filters and don’t want to download any extra software, then simply open the built-in video editor on your Mac and get it all done with iMovie.
Key features:
- Free for Mac users
- Easy-to-use timeline and drag-and-drop interface
- Built-in templates and effects
- Seamless integration with other Apple products
- 4K video support
4) Movavi
Movavi is known for offering a simple yet powerful editing experience, making it an excellent option for YouTubers at any level. It combines basic editing features with more advanced tools, like a chroma key for green screen effects and motion tracking. It’s perfect for creators looking to level up their editing without getting overwhelmed by complicated menus.
How YouTubers use Movavi
YouTubers often opt for Movavi to create quality videos with added effects like picture-in-picture, slow motion, or chroma key. The program's easy learning curve makes it a go-to for those who want to start with simple edits and gradually explore more advanced features.
Key features:
- Chroma key for green screen effects
- Built-in effects and transitions
- 4K video support
- Picture-in-picture mode
- Easy-to-use timeline and editing tools
5) Premiere Elements
Adobe Premiere Elements is the simpler, more beginner-friendly version of Adobe Premiere Pro. It’s perfect for creators who want a more powerful tool than basic software but aren’t quite ready to dive into professional editing. Premiere Elements provides guided edits and smart features, making it easier to master video editing.
How YouTubers use Premiere Elements
Many YouTubers use Premiere Elements to add professional touches to their videos without the need for advanced skills. The guided edits feature is particularly popular among creators who are still learning the basics of video editing but still want their content to look well-crafted.
Key features:
- Guided edits for easy learning
- Smart trim, which automatically finds and removes low-quality clips
- Built-in effects and transitions
- Automated editing options
- 4K video editing and support
6) Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is the go-to video editing software for professional YouTubers. Known for its advanced tools and endless customization options, this software offers precision and control over every aspect of your editing. From timeline editing to color grading and audio control, Premiere Pro is ideal for YouTubers who want complete creative freedom.
How YouTubers use Premiere Pro
Professional YouTubers use Premiere Pro for everything from editing vlogs and tutorials to producing cinematic-quality videos. With features like multi-cam editing and advanced audio controls, it’s the tool of choice for those who want to deliver high-end content to their audience.
Key features:
- Multi-cam editing and advanced timeline control
- Seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud tools
- Professional-grade color correction and grading
- Wide range of export options, including direct upload to YouTube
- Regular updates with new features and improvements
7) DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse when it comes to color correction and grading, making it a favorite among professional YouTubers who want to create visually stunning content. In addition to its robust color tools, DaVinci offers advanced video editing, visual effects, and audio post-production, all in one program.
How YouTubers use DaVinci Resolve
YouTubers who focus on cinematic visuals or those who want their videos to have that extra pop of color often turn to DaVinci Resolve. Its precise color grading tools are unmatched, and it’s widely used for producing film-like videos that stand out on YouTube.
Key features:
- Best-in-class color correction and grading tools
- Integrated video editing, visual effects, and audio post-production
- Supports both basic edits and complex visual effects
- Multi-user collaboration for larger projects
- Free version available with impressive features
8) Cinema 4D
Cinema 4D is a professional 3D modeling and animation software that’s perfect for YouTubers who specialize in creating animated content or integrating 3D elements into their videos. It’s highly customizable, offering advanced tools for motion graphics, visual effects, and more. While it’s not primarily among the most common YouTube video editors, it’s usually in the toolset of the YouTubers who need to create professional-level animation.
How YouTubers use Cinema 4D
YouTubers who create intricate 3D animations or need motion graphics for intros and transitions often rely on Cinema 4D. Its powerful animation tools make it a popular choice for content creators pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Key features:
- Advanced 3D modeling and animation tools
- Motion graphics features perfect for YouTube intros and transitions
- Integration with Adobe After Effects and other editing tools
- A vast library of customizable templates
- Support for complex animations and visual effects
9) CyberLink PowerDirector 365
CyberLink PowerDirector 365 combines powerful editing tools with an easy-to-use interface, making it a favorite among both professionals and serious YouTubers. It offers high-end features like 360-degree video editing, motion tracking, and multi-cam editing, but its intuitive layout keeps it accessible even to those new to advanced editing.
How YouTubers use PowerDirector 365
Professional YouTubers use PowerDirector 365 to take advantage of its wide array of effects, transitions, and advanced features like motion tracking. Its fast rendering times make it ideal for creators who need to churn out high-quality content consistently.
Key features:
- 360-degree video editing and motion tracking
- Multi-cam editing and advanced timeline features
- Fast rendering and export speeds
- Comprehensive effects library and transitions
- Subscription model ensures access to the latest features and updates
10) Corel VideoStudio
Corel VideoStudio is known for its user-friendly interface paired with professional-grade features, making it a great video editing software for YouTube for those who want to produce high-quality videos without a steep learning curve. With tools like stop-motion animation and motion tracking, VideoStudio is versatile enough for professional creators but simple enough for those transitioning from beginner software.
How YouTubers use Corel VideoStudio
Corel VideoStudio is used by YouTubers for projects that require a mix of simplicity and power. Its unique features, like stop-motion animation and multi-camera editing, allow creators to experiment with different techniques without needing multiple software programs.
Key features:
- User-friendly interface with advanced features
- Stop-motion animation and motion tracking
- Multi-camera editing capabilities
- 4K video support and fast rendering
- Extensive effects, transitions, and filters
Final thoughts
At the end of the day, finding the right video editing software comes down to what works best for your style and needs. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, the right tool can make your editing smoother and your content stand out. Explore your options, test out a few, and find the one that helps you create videos that keep your audience coming back for more
