When you are looking for the perfect video software there are three main aspects to consider: import abilities, editing features and export options. Each of these elements is important for creating and sharing professional-looking videos, so we looked for products that include tools and features to address these needs. To ensure we recommend only video editing software that has all the features you need in an easy-to-use interface, these are the criteria we used to review each product:
1. Video Capture/Playback
This section addresses how you can import videos from various devices and in diverse formats. A good application will work with virtually any camera, camcorder or even VCR and let you pull the files you want directly from the device via your computer. We also look at how well the program will play the video during the editing process. Some applications have a choppy or disjointed playback so it is difficult to tell how your final product will look.
2. Ease of Use
Nothing is more frustrating than purchasing an application that is difficult to use. We looked at the different features available for video editing and how simple it was to perform various tasks. This section also includes the design of the user interface and how everything is organized in the application. There is no point in purchasing a program if it is going to make tasks more difficult than they should be.
3. Editing Tools
Editing tools include everything from changing the background lighting and color tones to clipping the video so you get the perfect segment for what you need. This is the section where we evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of each application's editing tools. We specifically look for whether the application includes a storyboard and timeline layout, a video stabilizer and the ability to add text to the video. Without editing tools, the application has little going for it in the way of presentation.
4. Export/Production
There is no point in making a video if there's no way to view it. With the export and production options you are able to save your movie to a variety of discs or locations. Some programs even have a direct upload to YouTube. Not only do you have to worry about what disc to save your movie to, but it is also important to consider the format of the file, whether you want a MPEG or a MOV file.
5. Editing Effects/Transitions
The features we look at in this section are what really define the abilities of video editing software. This is where you add all of the fun transitions between pictures and videos. Some applications are even set up for adding 3D effects to videos as well as working with HD. It is these transitions that really make your video unique so you will want to make sure that the application you choose has all of the options you want.
6. Disc Creation
This section is different from the Export section in a variety of ways. This section covers whether you can make menus and divide your movie into chapters. This makes it easier to navigate through your finished videos. Another aspect this section covers is whether the software itself is capable of burning discs. If the video editing software can burn the discs you don't have to worry about finding another application to transfer the files from your computer to your Blu-ray Disc or DVD.
7. Audio & Photo Editing
Not only can you have video within in your movie, but you can add photos and your own audio to the mix. There are separate editing tools for both audio and photo. By editing the audio clips you can time your music to your videos. And with photo editing, you can have even more options when it comes to showcasing your latest adventure since you won't be limited by having only your video files.
8. Help & Support
When working with any complex software, having manufacturer help and support can make or break an application. It is the nature of video editing software to be feature rich and if you run into a snag you should be able to contact someone for help. Manufacturers provide a variety of options for helping you. These include phone numbers, email addresses, manuals and even tutorials. If the software you select has good support options, you won't have to worry about getting stuck in an application; you can rest assured that you will receive the help you need.
2011 Best Video Editing Software Comparisons and Reviews
| Rank | Software Name | Summary |
|---|---|---|
| # 1 |  |
CyberLink PowerDirector 9 Deluxe
If you are looking for video editing software that has great editing features, multiple export options and reliable help and support, our recommendation is CyberLink PowerDirector 9.With this application you will be sure to have a great experience turning your home videos into movies that your friends and family will enjoy watching. This is video editing software at its best and it's at your fingertips. More Info |
| # 2 |  |
Corel VideoStudio Pro X4
Fine-tuning your video projects is a delight with Corel VideoStudio Pro X4. This program transforms the art of editing your own movies from a laborious chore into a fun hobby. Don't worry if you aren't a professional designer - with this video editing software you can make your HD and 3D movies on your home computer without feeling overwhelmed. The unique flexible workspace is a great advantage to making this product easier to use and the increase in speed using the NVIDIA technology means you don't have any lag time. More Info |
| # 3 |  |
Adobe Premiere Elements 9
Adobe is a name you can trust, and with Premiere Elements, you will get the company's products' professional quality without a huge hassle. This video editing software is top of the line when it comes to functionality, ease of use and quality. Your movies will be something you can be proud of, and you can easily distribute them to your family and friends. Adobe Premiere Elements 9 is an application that gives everyone the opportunity to produce professional quality videos. More Info |
| # 4 |  |
MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 17 Plus HD
If you are tired of feeling constrained by subpar 3D editing tools, MAGIX Movie Edit Pro 17 HD is a great choice. It is topnotch when it comes to 3D options; not only that, but you get its HD and surround-sound features as well. This video editing software is a perfect choice for anyone who wants an easy way to make quality movies time and time again. You can't go wrong when you choose this application for your movie-making plans. More Info |
| # 5 |  |
VideoPad Master's Edition 2.30
Overall, VideoPad Master's Edition has some excellent features. Not only can you import files directly from many types of devices, but it also has 3D and green-screen capabilities. We were pleased with how easy it is to use; there are plenty of effects and editing tools available. While it does cost extra to get the complete support package for the application, it is well worth the money if you think you will run into some difficulties. This video editing software has a lot going for it and is well worth looking into. More Info |
| # 6 |  |
Pinnacle Studio HD 15
With Pinnacle Studio HD, you get an application that has all of the basics you need to create stylish home movies. Though it doesn't have all of the bells and whistles that some other applications have, we were impressed with the selection it does have. There are a few drawbacks to this software, such as no Blu-ray burning capabilities, but overall you will be pleased with all that this application has to offer. More Info |
| # 7 |  |
Roxio Creator 2011
Roxio Creator is highly suitable as a digital media studio, but it is lacking in some aspects of video editing. It does have good 3D options and basic editing tools. If you want something that will be more than just a video editing software suite, you might find what you are looking for with this particular application. More Info |
| # 8 |  |
Sony Vegas Movie Studio Platinum 11
With the release of Sony Vegas Movie Studio 11 you get even more features from an already feature-rich product. With 3D editing as well as an easy-to-use interface, you can make amazing videos in even less time than ever. There is a learning curve with this program, but you won't have to spend hours watching the tutorials before you even get started. This is yet another reliable and comprehensive video editing software application from Sony. More Info |
| # 9 | |
Roxio Video Lab HD
Roxio Video Lab HD offers a lot of good tools, it is missing a few features that come with other video editing software applications. You will have great success converting a 2D moving into 3D, but you won't have green screen editing tools, a video stabilizer or even menu templates to choose from. However, if you're looking for video editing software without these extras, this program may be worth your while. More Info |
| # 10 |  |
ShowBiz DVD 2
With ShowBiz DVD you get a lot of options when it comes to making interactive menus for your DVDs. It is also straightforward and comes with a good selection of transitions. The downside to this video editing software is in the lack of online distribution options. If you are hoping for an application that will let you easily upload a video to YouTube or another online format, then you will probably want to look elsewhere. More Info |
| # 11 |  |
Corel DVD Movie Factory Pro 7
Corel DVD Movie Factory has some good options when it comes to basic video editing, but this is not where its main focus lies. There are plenty of options for adding effects, but the effects are minimal and you will have better luck with another program if you want to do anything too complex or in 3D. More Info |
| # 12 |  |
PowerProducer Ultra
This video editing software doesn't come with some of the advanced features that you will find in other applications. PowerProducer only focuses on the basics, giving people the option to chose simplicity if they don't want or need all the bells and whistles. The final videos look great, and you will soon see that the advantage to this application is its ease of use. Without all of the extras, you don't have to spend time learning to use the software. Instead, you can directly begin editing and producing your movies. More Info |
| # 13 |  |
Nero Vision Xtra 10
If you are willing to spend the time to learn where the features are and aren't concerned about its limited number of editing options, Nero Vision Xtra might not be a bad investment. The complexity of the user interface is a big dissuader, though; if you want to do much with HD or 3D editing, it would be best if you looked elsewhere for video editing software. More Info |
| # 14 |  |
MoviePlus X5
With all of the new additions, MoviePlus has definitely improved in its functionality and ease of use. We were impressed with all of the tools that help with editing movies as well as the extras the company added to the import and export options. Though a few key elements are still missing from this video editing software, MoviePlus has come a long way from where it once was. More Info |
| # 15 |  |
Muvee autoProducer 6
Muvee autoProducer is an application that is only useful if you don't want to do any editing or add many effects. The auto-editing tools are useful for saving time, but they don't allow you to make little changes for the best results. We would have liked to see more tools that don't rely on the application's algorithms. You'll probably have better luck looking elsewhere for a video editing software application. More Info |
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