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17 Best YouTube Video Editors for Beginners in 2023
There are so many things you need to know to become a success on YouTube. Like understanding the complex YouTube algorithm, how to create eye-catching thumbnails, how to get the best audio and visuals, and understanding music licensing rules. Not to mention coming up with amazing content your viewers will actually want to watch.
By the time it comes to choosing a YouTube video editor, you might just skip the research and go for the most expensive, assuming it will be the best.
We’ve done all the research for you and found the best video editing software for YouTube because choosing the right software should not be an afterthought. The tools you choose can mean the difference between becoming a YouTube success or having a major headache.
If you’re just getting started, don’t pay too much for an overly-complicated program that will add hours to your editing time. We’ve found plenty of free YouTube video editors so beginners can test out what works best without emptying their wallets.
So let’s dive right in and learn more about the best video editing software for YouTube.
- Snapshot of Our Top 3 YouTube Video Editors
- How to Pick the Best YouTube Video Editor
- 17 Best YouTube Video Editors for Beginners in 2023
- Best YouTube Video Editors Comparison Chart
- How to Edit a Video for YouTube
- Download the Best YouTube Video Editor
- YouTube Video Editor FAQ
Snapshot of Our Top 3 YouTube Video Editors
1. PowerDirector 365 - Best Overall
PowerDirector is the best video editing software for YouTube. It comes packed with AI features, so you can start editing videos for YouTube right away. Editors will find everything they need to make a video from start to finish, including intros, outros, a royalty-free background music library, direct uploads to YouTube, and much more. Detailed Review >
Download the best video editing software for YouTube for free by clicking the link below.
2. Kapwing - Best for Subtitles
Kapwing is a web-based YouTube video editor with an easy-to-use layout and professional-level tools. It is the best video editing software for YouTube for adding subtitles to your videos.
3. OpenShot - Best Lightweight YouTube Video Editor
Openshot is one of the best video editing software for YouTube because of its uncluttered user interface and unlimited editing tracks. This YouTube video editor is open-source, lightweight, and completely free.
How to Pick the Best YouTube Video Editor
There are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the best video editing software for YouTube. Fortunately, they come in all shapes and sizes, price ranges, and skill levels. For every software you consider, make sure these three things line up:
Budget
There’s a YouTube video editor in every price range from free to expensive. Decide how much you are willing to spend and don’t even consider software outside of your budget.
Skill Level
The best video editing software for YouTube covers a vast range of skill levels from Hollywood pro to first-timer. Check user reviews to make sure any YouTube video editor you get will be appropriate for your skill set.
Compatibility
This might seem obvious, but make sure your YouTube video editor will work on your device. Some are Mac-only, Windows-only, or only work on newer models. If you are editing videos for YouTube with video/audio from multiple devices (such as a webcam, screen recorder, gaming console, DSLR camera, or microphone), make sure they are also supported by your software.
Here are some features you may need in a YouTube video editor:
Screen Recorder
If you are editing videos for YouTube for gaming videos or online tutorials, you will need a screen recorder. These vary from simply recording what’s on your computer screen, to webcam capture, live streaming, and background replacement functions.
To learn more about the best video editing software for YouTube with screen recorders, click here.
Overlay
If you are editing videos for YouTube, you will need a video overlay tool. Video overlay includes adding your logo, “like” and “subscribe” buttons, and any stickers or emojis you want to add just for fun.
Music Stock Library
YouTube is strict about music licensing laws. If your video has copyrighted music, it will be taken down. Find a YouTube video editor with a royalty-free stock music library so you can post videos worry-free. Even better if there is a sound effects library as well.
YouTube Templates
Editing videos for YouTube with pre-determined YouTube aspect ratios and pre-made intro/outro templates will save you tons of time.
17 Best YouTube Video Editors for Beginners in 2023
1. PowerDirector 365- Best Overall
Price: Free
*Premium subscription available for $4.33/month
Compatibility:Windows, Mac
PCMag Rating: 5/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 5/5
Key Features:
- YouTube intro templates/overlays
- AI tools and guided edits
- Animated titles
- Transitions
- Easy green screen/chroma key editing
Who It’s For
PowerDirector 365 is the best video editing software for YouTube amongst beginners and pros. It includes advanced features like multi-cam editing, motion tracking, and 360-degree editing, yet remains beginner-friendly.
PowerDirector streamlines the process of editing videos for YouTube and makes even the most complicated editing seem effortless. With pre-made templates and AI-powered tools to automate time-consuming edits, you can have your video posted quickly. There’s even a Magic Movie Wizard that uses intelligent recognition technology to combine your photos and clips into premade templates.
Why We Picked It
Use this YouTube video editor to change the backdrop of your video with green screen tools and a library of backgrounds. Add overlays or apply a retro filter. Then add music and sound effects from the large royalty-free stock library. Use Smart Fit to match the length of your video with your music and clean up audio recorded outdoors with wind removal and noise reduction. The possibilities with this YouTube video editor are endless.
Bottom Line
PowerDirector is the best video editing software for YouTube because it offers a lot of professional tools at great value and a low learning curve. Quickly edit and upload your videos to any platform or device using the pre-selected aspect ratios for YouTube and other social media sites. PowerDirector also has the fastest rendering times of all the YouTube video editors on this list, so no matter how many cool effects you put on your video, you’ll be getting likes in no time at all.
Download the best video editing software for YouTube for free by clicking the link below and see how PowerDirector makes editing videos for YouTube a fun and painless process.
PowerDirector App
The best full-featured video editor2. Kapwing - Best for Subtitles
Compatibility: Web Browser
Capterra Rating: 4.4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4.5/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscription available for $16/month
Key Features:
- Speed adjustment
- Remove background
- Meme generator
- Color adjustment
Who It’s For
Kapwing is a browser-based and free platform perfect for editing videos for YouTube.We think it’s the best video editing software for YouTube for adding subtitles to videos because Kapwing has accurate, auto-generated subtitles which save tons of time. It can also be used by those in the deaf and hard-of-hearing community to understand any videos that did not already include subtitles. You can simply copy and paste the URL into Kapwing and AI-powered subtitles will appear.
Why We Picked It
If you are editing videos for YouTube with Kapwing, you can add text, images, filters, and audio. There’s a Smart Cut tool that will automatically cut silences from your video, and tons of YouTube templates. This YouTube video editor also has an auto-translation tool and text-to-speech.
Bottom Line
Kapwing has a simplistic, easy-to-use layout and lots of tools a beginner can use while editing videos for YouTube. The free version of this YouTube video editor allows access to all tools, but has export and file size limits. The problem with Kapwing is that if beginners get comfortable using the free version, it is extremely expensive to move up to the Pro version. If you want to try free software that will grow with you and stay affordable, try PowerDirector.
3. OpenShot - Best Lightweight Video Editor for YouTube
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
G2 Rating: 4.4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4.5/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Bezier curves
- Scaling and snapping
- 40+ vector title templates
- Audio waveforms
Who It’s For
OpenShot is an open-source, free YouTube video editor. It is a slimmed-down program, especially compared with the other software on our list, but that also means it takes up very little space on your computer and is a simple option for beginners. We found it to be one of the best video editing software for YouTube for learning the ropes of video editing in a non-intimidating package.
Why We Picked It
OpenShot has more advanced features than you’d expect from a free YouTube video editor. The program has a range of color adjustment tools, a background remover, keyframe animations, and over 400 preset effects. It also offers unlimited editing tracks.
Bottom Line
The layout is uncluttered and user-friendly. However, we found that by maintaining a clean interface, they have hidden a lot of features. Most people editing videos for YouTube won’t even know the depths of OpenShot’s feature set since they won’t be able to find the tools. This free YouTube video editor also has a history of bugs, something we witnessed in our test.
4. VideoPad - Best for Metadata
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
G2 Rating: 4.1/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4.5/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscription available for $7.72/month, or buy outright for $80 for Home Edition and $139 for Master’s Edition.
Key Features:
- Video Maker Wizard
- Drag and drop editing
- Sound effects library
- 3D and 360-degree editing
Who It’s For
VideoPad is one of the best video editing software for YouTube beginners because it helps you optimize your videos for search engines. With this YouTube video editor, you can add metadata to your video, such as the title, tags, and description— without using YouTube’s publishing tools. You can also upload directly to YouTube.
Why We Picked It
You can edit a video with voiceover, transitions, and visual effects. This free YouTube video editor has professional templates including intros and outros, and custom logos. There’s also video stabilization for editing videos for YouTube that were shot on a smartphone or action camera.
Bottom Line
We moved VideoPad up from #6 to #4 for our 2023 update because we felt it had more tools than we’d given it credit for. However, it is really intended for home videos or social media posts. Beginners who are serious about being YouTubers would need to buy one of the premium versions or try a different free YouTube video editor pretty quickly. Also, the Windows version has a lot more features than the Mac counterpart, so Mac users should give PowerDirector a try first.
5. Magix Movie Studio - Best for Simple Edits
Image from Techradar.
Compatibility: Windows
TechRadar Rating: 4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4.5/5
Price: 30-day free trial, then $69.99 for Movie Studio, $99.99 for Platinum, and $129 for Suite. Annual subscriptions are also available for $2.99/month, $3.99/month, or $4.99/month
Key Features:
- Split-screen
- Speed adjustment tools
- Image stabilization
- Layer masks
Who It’s For
Magix Movie Studio is the best video editing software for YouTube for beginners to make quick and simple edits. Storyboard Mode helps to organize the editing process before you even start, simplifying workflow (frame-by-frame editing is available for more advanced editors). This YouTube video editor has a one-of-a-kind multi-format timeline where you can easily arrange video, audio, and media files on each track.
Why We Picked It
Magix offers plenty of one-click solutions such as Remove Beginning and Split Movie so that even brand-new editors can start editing videos for YouTube. Other tools include over 900 effects, transitions, and titles. Direct upload to YouTube and fast rendering speeds mean you can start editing a video for YouTube and post it in minutes.
Bottom Line
Like our top choice, PowerDirector, this YouTube video editor offers tools you can apply automatically or manually, for any level of expertise. However, Magix Movie Studio doesn’t have a dedicated free version, just a 30-day free trial.
6. Movavi Video Suite - Best Screen Recorder
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
TechRadar Rating: 4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4.5/5
Price: 7-day free trial, then $152.85/year
Key Features:
- Overlays
- Unlimited video tracks
- Motion tracking
- Picture-in-Picture
Who It’s For
Movavi Video Suite is one of the best video editing software for YouTube how-to and instructional videos because of its screen recording capabilities. The screen recorder includes manual control over the capture area and allows you to capture webinars, record instructions/tutorials, or capture streaming videos and online events.
Why We Picked It
This YouTube video editor has a quick-movie creation tool similar to iMovie and PowerDirector that will turn your photos and videos into a slideshow set to music. Create a quality video for YouTube with features such as chroma key, color adjustment, pan/zoom, crop/rotate, and video stabilization. You can also add video effects like blur, vignette, and slow-mo.
Bottom Line
=Movavi= has a user-friendly interface and a low learning curve, plus it comes packed with features, yet doesn’t require a lot of storage. The added features in the 2023 version of the software earned it the #6 spot on our list, moving it up 2 spots. However, seasoned editors won’t like that they don’t have much control over effects, nor will they like the glacially slow rendering times. If speed and control are features you need for editing videos for YouTube, we recommend PowerDirector, Lightworks, and Magix Movie Studio.
7. WeVideo - Best for Templates
Compatibility: Web Browser
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscriptions available for $4.99/month for Power, $7.99/month for Unlimited, $19.99/month for Professional, and $36.99/month for Business
Key Features:
- Add music
- Trim, split, merge and flip video
- Green screen
- Meme maker
Who It’s For
WeVideo is a web-based free YouTube video editor for beginners and YouTubers who prefer automatic video creation. It is one of the best video editing software for YouTube because it comes with tons of YouTube templates, such as How-To Makeup, How-To Recipe, Livestream Coming Soon, Influencer, Vlogger, and Unboxing. There are also templates for YouTube intros and Outros.
Why We Picked It
You can add animated titles while editing videos for YouTube with WeVideo’s easy-to-use text templates. There are 30 effects that beginners can apply with one click. There are also 50 transitions, a voice-over recorder, and a screen recorder included with this free YouTube video editor.
Bottom Line
WeVideo has a free version, but it is unrealistic for anyone hoping to become a successful YouTuber, as it only allows 5 minutes of exported content a month, and the max resolution is 480p. This YouTube video editor offers several different tiers at varying price points, however, they’ve saved features that you need when editing videos for YouTube (such as recording your screen and webcam simultaneously, branding, or direct upload to YouTube) for their expensive Professional plan.
8. VideoProc Vlogger - Best for Action Cam Footage
Image from Capterra.
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
KommandoTech Rating: 4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Time-Lapse tool
- Audio extractor
- Split-Screen
- Automatic keyframes
Who It’s For
VideoProc Vlogger is the best video editing software for YouTube if you shot with an action camera or drone. It will remove lens aberrations such as fish-eye that can happen when using these types of cameras, and offers noise/grain removal for videos shot outside in poor lighting. It also has video stabilization, a necessity for any action footage.
Why We Picked It
This free YouTube video editor is easy-to-use, with advanced motion and speed adjustment tools. It includes 20 speed presets and cinematic camera movements like dolly, tilt, and roll. Pan and zoom over still images to create a Ken Burns effect, and use color LUTs to change the look of your video.
Bottom Line
This YouTube video editor is perfect for vloggers who record on the go. It also has great customer service and user support. However, VideoProc Vlogger lacks many basic editing tools, so if you aren’t editing videos for YouTube with lots of action or travel, try a different YouTube video editor from our list.
9. Shotcut - Best Format Support
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
TechRadar Rating: 4/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Blending modes
- Color correction and grading
- Audio filters
- Keyframing
Who It’s For
Shotcut is an open-source, cross-platform, free YouTube video editor. It is one of the best video editing software for YouTubers who need a range of format options because Shotcut supports hundreds of audio and video formats with no import required. This video editor for YouTube also has a wide selection of device and transport options, including webcam capture.
Why We Picked It
Create a video for YouTube with video and audio filters, transitions, over 40,000 instant templates, and unlimited undo and redo options. There’s also batch encoding for creators editing multiple videos in one go. The interface is not as clean and user-friendly as other free YouTube video editors, but it is very customizable.
Bottom Line
Shotcut is similar to Lightworks in that it is a good way for beginners to learn complex video editing without any monetary commitment, but does have a bit of a learning curve. If you are looking for an open-source video editor for YouTube that is more beginner-friendly, try OpenShot.
10. Animoto - Best for Daily Vloggers
Compatibility: Web Browser
Capterra Rating: 4.3/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3.5/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscriptions available for $8/month for Basic, $15/month for Professional, and $39/month for Professional Plus
Key Features:
- Screen recording
- Text effects
- Trim/Crop
- Voice-Over
Who It’s For
Animoto is a cloud-based free YouTube video editor for busy creators trying to churn out content quickly, such as daily vloggers. It has hundreds of YouTube-Friendly video templates you can easily customize with your own video clips, or pull clips from the stock library.
Why We Picked It
Influencers with little design experience or creative know-how can create a professional-looking video for YouTube in minutes. Use an interesting text effect or choose from over 40 professional fonts to put the finishing touches on your video projects with this YouTube video editor.
Bottom Line
Animoto is one of the best video editing software for YouTubers who need a quick fix and don’t mind forgoing creative control. Most of the online reviews complained about the lack of creativity involved in using this program, something we found in our test as well. But if you are under pressure to post vlogs and other social media posts every day, this could be the choice for you.
11. Canva - Best for Graphic Design
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Web Browser
PCMag Rating: 4.5/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
*Pro version available for $119/year
Key Features:
- Filters and effects
- Stickers
- Video scheduler
- Transitions
Who It’s For
Canva is a popular graphic design platform for people with little to no experience. It also happens to be one of the best video editing software for YouTubers. The free version includes 250,000 professionally-designed video templates, many of which are YouTube-specific, and all of which are fully customizable. The site has millions of design assets, ensuring no 2 YouTube videos look the same. You can flex your design skills and creativity and still have a video done in minutes.
Why We Picked It
This YouTube video editor has all the tools a beginner needs to create a viral video, including beautiful intro and outro templates. It has multiple audio tracks for background music, sound effects, dialogue, and voice-over. There are also animations that can be added to entire frames or individual elements.
Bottom Line
Canva has an impressive amount of stock and design assets available for free, plus basic video editing tools. However, serious YouTubers should consider the Pro version for necessary tools like Magic Resize, a background remover, brand kits, and content management. We were surprised to find that Canva doesn’t support direct uploads to YouTube, even though it offers that feature for other platforms such as TikTok and Facebook.
12. Premiere Elements - Best for Organizing Media
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
PCMag Rating: 3.5/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 4/5
Price: 30-day free trial, then $149.99 (bundled with Photoshop Elements)
Key Features:
- AI technology
- Time-Lapse
- Double exposure
- Freeze frame
Who It’s For
Premiere Elements is a consumer-targeted, pared-down version of Adobe Premiere Pro, making it one of the best video editing software for YouTubers just starting out. Premiere Elements comes with organizational tools like Auto Curate and Smart Tags, which automatically tag video files by date, subject, people, places, and events.
Why We Picked It
Although it lacks some more advanced features, this YouTube video editor has all the tools you need to start editing videos for YouTube, including keyframing, multi-track editing, transitions, and titles. There are also YouTube aspect ratios to choose from right on the starting page and an output option that allows you to compress large files before uploading.
Bottom Line
Since our last review, this YouTube video editor has changed its pricing model and is only available in a bundle with Photoshop Elements. Anyone who doesn’t need photo editing software will be annoyed at the extra cost. Premiere Elements is missing some pro-level tools like 360-degree editing, multi-cam editing, and screen recording, but the slimmed-down offerings make it an easier choice for novices. However, we found this YouTube video editor had very slow rendering times and output speed. PowerDirector, by contrast, has the fastest rendering times in the business.
13. iMovie - Best for Instant Movies
Image from gsmarena.
Compatibility: Mac
G2 Rating: 4.3/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Speed adjustment
- Cinematic mode
- Split-screen
- Picture-in-Picture
Who It’s For
iMovie is Apple’s free YouTube video editor for beginners. It is free to Mac users and comes included with every macOS, making it one of the best video editing software for YouTubers who are just starting out. It also makes editing videos for YouTube a fast and easy process with Storyboards - premade video templates that guide you through the movie-making process. There’s also Magic Movie, which instantly creates an edited video complete with transitions, titles, and music in just a few clicks. You can even make movie trailers and credits sequences in no time at all with ready-made templates.
Why We Picked It
It’s easy to share videos across devices like your iPad or iPhone with this free YouTube video editor. You can also easily upload your video to YouTube in a few simple steps. iMovie has a good amount of movie-making tools and effects like green screen, filters, and Smart Soundtrack that automatically adjusts the length of your music to your video.
Bottom Line
Even though iMovie is built for beginners, the interface is not as easy-to-learn as you might expect. It is also updated very infrequently, so the software lags behind others of its kind. If trending tools and new features are something you crave, try the best video editing software for YouTube, PowerDirector, which is updated frequently.
14. Lightworks - Best for Transitions
Compatibility: Windows, Mac, Linux
Capterra Rating: 4.3
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscriptions available for $9.99/month for Create and $23.99/month for Pro
Key Features:
- Simple and advanced trimming
- Filters and LUTs
- Motion graphics
- Auto-Save function
Who It’s For
We think Lightworks is one of the best video editing software for YouTube beginners who are serious about learning video editing. For 30 years Lightworks has been used to edit Oscar-winning films such as Braveheart and Pulp Fiction. The free version of the Hollywood classic is pared-down and a better fit for editing videos for YouTube. We think it is one of the top YouTube video editors because of its 100s of creative transitions, including all the advanced transitions found in the Pro version.
Why We Picked It
YouTube video editors will find the free version of Lightworks includes some excellent tools for editing videos for YouTube, such as YouTube presets, access to the stock music library, voice-over, and professional editing features such as trim-slip, ripple, roll, slide, insert, replace, and backfill. Best of all, this free YouTube video editor has background processing, so you can save time by importing, exporting, and rendering complex effects while you work.
Bottom Line
Although Lightworks intended this to be a beginner-friendly version of their complicated software, in our test we found it still had a learning curve. That’s why we think this is the best video editing software for YouTube beginners with dreams of becoming professional video editors. It’s also why we placed it behind iMovie which is more beginner-friendly. If you are willing to put in the time to learn, you could become proficient at industry-leading editing software without paying a dime. However, if you want a free YouTube video editor with advanced features that you can use on your first try, we recommend PowerDirector.
15. Avid Media Composer First - Best for Budding Professionals
Compatibility: Windows, Mac
G2 Rating: 4.1/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
*Premium subscriptions available for $23.99/month for Media Composer and $49.99/month for Media Composer Ultimate
Key Features:
- Frame flex
- Time code tool
- Bulk edit
- Audio ducking
Who It’s For
Lightworks and Avid Media Composer First could duke it out for the title of best video editing software for YouTube for budding professionals because both are free versions of professional editing software used in Hollywood. But because Avid is more well-known and the industry standard for video editing, we thought it fit this free YouTube video editor best. Budding professionals now have a chance to learn Avid in a much cheaper and easier-to-use package.
Why We Picked It
Although it is a scaled-down version, this free YouTube video editor contains many pro-level tools you would come to expect from the Avid brand. Start editing videos for YouTube on up to 4 videos and 8 audio tracks. Use video stabilization, advanced color tools, 4-way multi-cam editing, audio punch-in, and more to give a professional quality to your first YouTube videos.
Bottom Line
While Avid Media Composer First is easier to use than Avid Media Composer, it’s not exactly “beginner-friendly.” So if you aren’t looking to learn Avid and need a free YouTube video editor that a novice can use, try VideoPad or the best video editing software for YouTube overall, PowerDirector.
16. Movie Maker Online - Best for First-Time Editors
Compatibility: Web Browser
TechRadar Rating: 3.5/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Transitions
- Greyscale effect
- Slideshow maker
- Blur tools
Who It’s For
If you are a brand-new YouTuber who has never edited a video, we recommend Movie Maker Online. First of all, it is completely free with no watermark and even has a free stock library. Second, you can start editing videos for YouTube immediately, as there is no signup, nothing to download and it has zero learning curve. Simply visit the site, drag and drop your video clips, and use the simple tools to create a clickable video.
Why We Picked It
It’s one of the best video editing software for YouTube beginners because it offers easy-to-use effects like reverse video, slow-motion, chroma key, and a mirror effect. It also comes with excellent text options and a royalty-free music library.
Bottom Line
If you are a first-timer who is editing videos for YouTube, Movie Maker Online will get the job done. Its tools aren’t up to par with downloadable or paid software, but it’s hard to complain when you aren’t spending a dime. Those with editing experience will find it lacks advanced tools and may be confused by the atypical interface. This YouTube video editor has a vertical editing timeline instead of a horizontal one, which won’t bother novices, but could mean a learning curve for editors used to other software.
17. Windows Video Editor - Best for Windows Photos Users
Compatibility: Windows
TechRadar Rating: 2/5
Beginner-Friendly Tools: 3/5
Price: Free
Key Features:
- Customizable titles and credits
- Draw feature
- Split/Trim clips
- 3D effects
Who It’s For
Windows Video Editor (which replaced Windows Movie Maker) is an easy-to-use free YouTube video editor included with Windows 10 and up. It is found inside the Windows Photo App and is the best video editing software for YouTube for users who are already using it to edit and organize their photos.
Why We Picked It
Beginners looking for a YouTube video editor will like the Auto Movie option, allowing you to start editing videos for YouTube in no time at all. It comes with all the basic editing tools you need such as filters, themes, transitions, music, and text.
Bottom Line
If you use Windows Photos to store photos and videos, Windows Video Editor is the best video editing software for YouTube for putting together fun video projects from your personal videos. However, the software is too basic to grow with you as your YouTube career progresses.
Best YouTube Video Editors Comparison Chart
| Software | OS | YouTube Templates | Upload Directly to YouTube | Motion Tracking | MultiCam Editing |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerDirector 365 | Windows, Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kapwing | Web Browser | Yes | Yes - on Pro and Business Versions only | No | No |
| OpenShot | Windows, Mac, Linux | No | No | No | No |
| VideoPad | Windows, Mac | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Magix Movie Studio | Windows | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Movavi Video Suite | Windows, Mac | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| WeVideo | Web Browser | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| VideoProc Vlogger | Windows, Mac | No | No | No | No |
| Shotcut | Windows, Mac, Linux | No | No | No | No |
| Animoto | Web Browser | Yes | Yes | No | No |
| Canva | Windows, Mac, Web Browser | Yes | No | No | No |
| Premiere Elements | Windows, Mac | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| iMovie | Mac | No | No | No | No |
| Lightworks | Windows, Mac, Linux | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Avid Media Composer | Windows, Mac | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Movie Maker Online | Web Browser | No | No | No | No |
| Windows Video Editor | Windows | No | No | No | No |
PowerDirector 365
vs
OS
Windows, Mac
-
YouTube Templates
Yes
-
Upload Directly to YouTube
Yes
-
Motion Tracking
Yes
-
MultiCam Editing
Yes
-
How to Edit a Video for YouTube
Now we are going to show you how to start editing videos for YouTube with PC Mag Editor’s Choice for the best video editing software, PowerDirector. To get the most out of this section download it for free by clicking the link below, then follow along.
PowerDirector App
The best full-featured video editorHow to Split and Trim Clips
- Select Import Media Folder and choose the folder on your desktop that contains your media files. Click Select Folder.
- Once you have your media files in the media library, you can begin putting your video together by adding your photos and videos to the video timeline. Add the media clips in the order you want to tell your story. To add a video file to the video timeline, select it in the Media Library and then drag it to the video timeline.
- Split and trim clips using the Video Timeline Slider. Move the slider where you want to split the clip and click the Double Arrow button.
For a more in-depth look at splitting and trimming clips, click here.
How to Add Transitions
- Add your video to the timeline.
- Go to the Transition Room then click and drag a transition between 2 clips.
For more information on adding transitions, click here.
How to Add Titles
- Add your video to the timeline.
- Click on the Title Room, then click and drag a title text template to the Title Track on the video timeline.
- Click the Designer button then enter the text you want to use.
Click here for a more in-depth look at adding text and titles to your video using the best video editing software for YouTube.
How to Add Music
- Add your video to the timeline.
- Go to the Media Library Window and select Media Content, then Background Music. Choose the music you want and drag it to the audio track on the editing timeline.
Click here for our tutorial on editing videos for YouTube with music.
How to Upload Your Video to YouTube
- Click Produce to export your video, then click the Online tab.
- Select the YouTube option and enter the video title, description, and other information. Click Start to upload.
Download the Best YouTube Video Editor
Finding the best video editing software for YouTube at a reasonable price involves a lot of trial and error. That’s why we brought you the best free YouTube video editors.
PowerDirector 365 has all the features you need when editing videos for YouTube, like title templates, transitions, animated overlays, video speed adjustment, a video stabilizer, special effects, and so much more.
This YouTube video editor has a large royalty-free library of background music, sound effects, photos, and videos, as well as fun audio effects like a voice-changer. You can change the background or remove unwanted objects from your shot and upload your video directly to YouTube.
PowerDirector also has tools and features for any kind of video, from feature films to TikTok. Splice scenes, rotate, flip, trim, and crop videos, and control brightness, color, and saturation with precision. PowerDirector has tons of effects like glitch, mirror, and emboss. It is the best video editing software for YouTube beginners with a user-friendly interface and a low learning curve.
Click the link below to download PowerDirector 365 for free and start editing videos for YouTube today.
PowerDirector App
The best full-featured video editorYouTube Video Editor FAQ
1. What features should I look for in a free YouTube video editor?
The top ten features you need when editing videos for YouTube are
- Titles
- Royalty-Free music stock library
- Transitions
- Split/Trim/Crop features
- Animated stickers/overlays/text
- YouTube templates
- Beginner-Friendly
- Background replacement
- Object removal
- Filters
If you’re looking for a free YouTube video editor that checks all of these boxes, we recommend PowerDirector 365.
2. What software do YouTubers use to edit videos?
Content creators trust PowerDirector 365 when editing videos for YouTube because they can create high-quality, professional-level, unique videos quickly, easily, and affordably. PowerDirector is a Google Play Editor’s Choice, PC Mag Editor’s Choice, Tom’s Guide’s Best Video Editing Software, and TechRadar Best Free Video Editing Software.
3. How do YouTubers get paid?
YouTubers get paid through ads and sponsorships.
There are 2 kinds of YouTube ads - pre-roll and bumper. Pre-rolls are the ads that play before a video and give the viewer the option to skip. Bumper ads are quick ads that play in the middle of longer videos and can’t be skipped. The higher your video’s view count, the more the ad plays, and the more money you make. When an ad is watched in its entirety, the channel makes even more.
When a company pays to have its product mentioned or used in the video for YouTube directly, it’s a sponsorship. You see this a lot in toy unboxing videos and movie promotions. As a YouTube video creator, it’s a good idea to connect with companies in your niche.
4. How do YouTubers record their videos?
This depends on the individual YouTuber and the type of content they are making. A gamer will record using a webcam and screen recorder, while a vlogger might use a webcam or mobile phone to record. DSLR cameras are often used as well, although these days mobile phones record just as well! Travel or Action vloggers use an action camera such as GoPro to record in bumpy or wet conditions.
Whatever you use to record, make sure the resolution is somewhere between 1080 and 4K. Editing videos for YouTube in that resolution will look high-quality, yet won’t exceed YouTube’s size limit.
5. Can I edit videos on YouTube?
Yes. There is a free YouTube video editor available on the site that is easy for beginners.
Follow these steps to start editing videos for YouTube using YouTube Studio:
- Sign in to YouTube Studio. You need to have an account to use the video editor.
- Click Upload and choose the video for YouTube you want to edit.
- After your video has been uploaded, you can click on Content, then click on the thumbnail of your uploaded video.
- Click Editor to open the video editing suite.
6. Is the YouTube editor free?
Yes. YouTube Studio is free for anyone with a YouTube account.
7. Can I pay someone to edit my YouTube videos?
Yes, you can pay someone to edit your video for YouTube. There are plenty of video editors and fellow YouTubers out there who would love the extra cash.
If you will be posting several videos a month, consider signing up with a subscription-based editing service, which will save you money overall.
If the idea of editing videos for YouTube scares you, but you don’t have the money to hire someone, try the best video editing software for YouTube beginners, PowerDirector. Who knows, someday it could be you getting hired to edit someone else’s video for YouTube!
8. How much does it cost to hire a video editor for YouTube?
Subscription-based YouTube editing company VidCHOPS charges $325/month for 4 videos, $595/month for 8-12 videos, and $995/month for 16-20.
The company Upwork hires out YouTube video editors by the hour, and most cost between $15-30/hour.
If you hire an independent editor, it can cost anywhere from $300 to $1000, depending on the complexity of your video.
9. How do I learn to edit videos for YouTube?
Editing videos for YouTube can be easily learned if you have a beginner-friendly YouTube video editor. Jump in and start practicing with PowerDirector, our choice of the best video editing software for YouTube. If you need help along the way, PowerDirector has a Learning Center that gives simple, step-by-step instructions for every tool.
10. Does YouTube still have an editor?
Yes, the YouTube video editor is still available for free in YouTube Studio.
11. Do YouTubers pay their editors?
Yes, if they aren’t editing videos for YouTube themselves, they will pay an outside editor.
12. How do I learn to edit videos for YouTube?
Editing videos for YouTube can be easily learned if you have a beginner-friendly YouTube video editor. Jump in and start practicing with PowerDirector, our choice of the best video editing software for YouTube. If you need help along the way, PowerDirector has a Learning Center that gives simple, step-by-step instructions for every tool.
13. Is it worth hiring a YouTube editor?
Whether to hire a YouTube editor comes down to 3 things: time, money, and expertise. Everyone’s combination of the three will be different, but you can use them as guideposts to decide if an outside hire is right for you.
For instance, a popular YouTuber who is bringing in lots of money and has little time available would probably find it beneficial to hire an outside editor, even if they have video editing experience.
If you are skilled at editing videos for YouTube, have plenty of time on your hands, and have a tight budget, it would make sense to edit videos yourself.
On the flip side, if money is no object and you have zero editing skills, the expense of an outside hire would be worth it.
14. How much income per 1,000 views on YouTube?
YouTube monetization is not an exact science, so that number can range from $4 - $24 per 1,000 views. Your take depends on where you live, your video length, how many viewers skip ads, how many YouTube Premium viewers you have, and many other factors.
Basically, the same YouTuber could make 2 videos that get the same number of views and make vastly different amounts on each.
There are several sites that claim $18 per 1,000 views is what the average YouTuber makes, while others claim it’s $5-$7.
15. How many hours do YouTubers edit?
A good rule of thumb is about 30 minutes to 1 hour for each minute of edited video. Therefore, if you have a 5-minute YouTube video it could take 2.5 - 5 hours. If you add features like special effects or advanced color correction, it will take longer.
However, many of the YouTube video editors on our list are made specifically for beginners and have pre-made templates and one-click effects that allow you to create videos at a much quicker pace.
16. How much money are 100K YouTube streams?
This number can fluctuate from as low as $500 to as high as $2500 depending on a number of factors, including video length and whether viewers skip the ads. Most people will make closer to the lower end, while only the most famous YouTubers will get near the top amount.
Related Articles:
- Publishing and Promoting on YouTube
- Editing Videos for YouTube
- Shooting Videos for YouTube
- Pre-Production for YouTube
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