Unlike the other programs here, Adobe Premiere Rush comes in PC, Mac, iOS and Android versions. Easy editing for Mac, PC and mobile: Premiere Rush Students and teachers can get it bundled with other Apple creative apps (Logic, Motion, Compressor and MainStage) at a big discount. One advantage over Adobe Premiere is that it’s a one-off ($299/£299) purchase with free upgrades, rather than a monthly subscription. If you’ve edited with other pro apps you may find the trackless ‘magnetic timeline’ unfamiliar at first, but it’s really quick and efficient once you’re used to it. It’s the obvious next step up from iMovie as the interface is similar. It’s powerful and fast, with a full range of professional features, but it’s relatively easy to learn: I’ve taught twelve-year-olds to edit with it. You can also import project files made with the iPhone/iPad version. Best for beginners: iMovie (Mac)Īpple’s own iMovie is easy to learn and use, but it offers a surprising degree of creative control for a free program. The pro programs (Final Cut Pro X, Premiere and Resolve) give you the option of many more video and audio tracks, and let you make precise adjustments and corrections.

All the programs here will allow you to add cutaways (a second video track, so the image changes but the sound stays the same) adjust audio levels, and use extra audio tracks. You can get simpler editing programs than these, but they’re limited.

Which video editing program should you use? And should you consider editing on your phone? Here’s my roundup of the best editing programs for starting filmmaking. You can get free trials of most of these programs if you want to try before you buy. I earn affiliate commission from some of the links on this page.

Imovie for windows and mac