Software | Key Features | Price Model | OS Support | Best Use Case |
Adobe Premiere Pro | Pro-level NLE, multi-cam editing, Lumetri color grading, Adobe CC integration, VR/8K support | Subscription: $22.99/mo (Single App) | Windows, macOS | Professional filmmakers, agencies, studios |
Final Cut Pro X | Magnetic timeline, multicam sync, HDR, 360° editing, ML Smart Conform, Apple ecosystem | One-time: $299.99 | macOS only | Mac-based creators, YouTubers, indie editors |
DaVinci Resolve | Best-in-class color grading, Fusion VFX, Fairlight audio, multi-user collaboration | Free / Studio: $295 one-time | Windows, macOS, Linux | Filmmakers, colorists, advanced professionals |
iMovie | Drag-and-drop editor, templates, green screen, 4K export, iCloud sync | Free | macOS, iOS | Beginners, hobbyists, quick edits |
HitFilm Express | 400+ effects, green screen, 2D/3D compositing, YouTube presets | Free / Paid add-ons ($9–$50 each) | Windows, macOS | Indie filmmakers, VFX-heavy YouTubers |
Filmora | Drag-and-drop UI, AI subtitle generator, motion tracking, effects store, split-screen | Annual: $49.99 / Perpetual: $79.99 | Windows, macOS | Beginners, vloggers, social media creators |
CyberLink PowerDirector | Multicam editing, 360° video, AI motion tracking, GPU acceleration, effects library | Subscription: $4.33/mo (annual) / $99.99 perpetual | Windows, macOS (limited) | Intermediate editors, PC users |
Lightworks | Hollywood-grade precision trimming, wide format support, customizable workflows | Free / Pro: $23.99/mo or $389 lifetime | Windows, macOS, Linux | Professionals, indie film projects |
Shotcut | Open-source, native timeline, wide codec support, lightweight, free filters | Free | Windows, macOS, Linux | Hobbyists, budget-conscious editors |
Vegas Pro (MAGIX) | Advanced audio tools, GPU rendering, HDR/8K support, multicam editing | $19.99/mo or $399 one-time | Windows only | Semi-pro editors, YouTubers, advanced hobbyists |