Top 12 Best Video Editing Software for Beginners in 2025
- contact733797
- Sep 15
- 17 min read
Stepping into video editing can feel overwhelming, but the right software makes all the difference. Whether you're a podcaster finalising an episode filmed at a DIY studio, a marketer creating a social media reel, or a vlogger launching your first YouTube channel, choosing the best video editing software for beginners is your most critical first step. This guide is designed to cut through the noise and help you find the perfect tool for your creative projects and skill level.
We have analysed the top 12 options for 2025, focusing on what truly matters for newcomers: an intuitive interface, practical features that don’t require a steep learning curve, and transparent pricing. You won't find generic feature lists here. Instead, we provide an in-depth, side-by-side comparison of each platform, complete with honest assessments of their pros and cons, screenshots to show you the user experience, and direct links to get started. Our goal is to equip you with the insights needed to move from raw footage to a polished, professional-looking video with confidence and ease.
For creators using a space like That Creative Hub, finding the right software is the final piece of the puzzle. After a successful shoot in the Cyclorama or Podcast Studio, the next step is post-production. While we can connect you with professional editors, many creators prefer a hands-on approach. This guide will help you select a program that matches your ambition, whether you need simple drag-and-drop functionality for quick edits or are ready to explore more advanced tools like colour grading and audio mixing. Let's find the software that will bring your vision to life.
1. Blackmagic Design – DaVinci Resolve
Blackmagic Design’s website is the direct source for DaVinci Resolve, a professional-grade editor that surprisingly stands out as one of the best video editing software options for beginners. The platform offers a free version that is more powerful than many paid competitors, making it an incredible starting point. Unlike simpler, template-based editors, DaVinci Resolve provides a complete post-production suite, covering everything from multi-track editing and advanced colour correction to visual effects and audio engineering.
The website layout is clean, offering a direct download for the free version on Mac, Windows, and Linux. For creators ready to level up, it also facilitates the purchase of DaVinci Resolve Studio. This one-time purchase, priced in Australian dollars, unlocks advanced features like the AI-powered Neural Engine, more effects, and higher resolution support. This clear upgrade path is a major advantage; you can learn on the free version and grow into the professional suite without ever changing software. While the initial learning curve can be steeper than other beginner tools, the vast ecosystem of official training and community tutorials helps flatten it considerably. The software’s powerful audio editing tools are particularly noteworthy, and for a deeper dive, explore our guide to the best free audio editing software options.
Feature | DaVinci Resolve (Free) | DaVinci Resolve Studio (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
Price | Completely free | One-time purchase |
Best For | Beginners wanting to learn industry-standard workflows. | Professionals needing advanced AI tools and collaboration. |
Key Limitation | Exports limited to Ultra HD; lacks some advanced VFX. | Higher initial cost, though it's a perpetual license. |
Growth Potential | Excellent; seamless transition to the Studio version. | The industry standard for colour grading and post-production. |
2. Adobe – Premiere Elements 2025
Adobe’s website offers a direct path to Premiere Elements 2025, a video editor crafted specifically for newcomers. In a market dominated by complex professional tools, Premiere Elements stands out as one of the best video editing software options for beginners by focusing on guided workflows and AI-powered assistance. The platform simplifies the entire editing process, from importing clips to sharing finished projects, making it less intimidating for those without prior experience. Its core strength lies in its "Guided Edits," which provide step-by-step tutorials for creating effects like picture-in-picture or animated titles.
The website clearly outlines the software's features and provides a one-time purchase option. A notable change from previous years is the shift to a 3-year term license, which includes companion web and mobile beta apps for editing on the go. This model eliminates monthly subscriptions but also moves away from the perpetual licenses of the past. For creators looking to produce high-quality content without a steep learning curve, Adobe’s structured approach is invaluable. The AI-assisted tools, such as auto-colour correction and smart trimming, help new editors achieve polished results quickly, allowing them to focus on creativity rather than technical complexities.
Feature | Premiere Elements 2025 (Term License) | Comparison (e.g., DaVinci Resolve) |
|---|---|---|
Price | One-time purchase for a 3-year term license | Often free or a one-time perpetual license purchase. |
Best For | Absolute beginners needing hand-holding and automated features. | Users willing to learn professional workflows from the start. |
Key Limitation | Lacks the depth of manual controls found in professional suites. | Steeper initial learning curve with complex interfaces. |
Growth Potential | Good for foundational skills; users may eventually outgrow it. | Excellent; skills are directly transferable to professional work. |
3. Amazon Australia – Adobe Premiere Elements 2025
For beginners who prefer purchasing software through a familiar and trusted retailer, Amazon Australia provides a straightforward platform for acquiring Adobe Premiere Elements 2025. This option is ideal for those who value the convenience of local AU billing, want to keep their software purchases within their existing Amazon order history, and potentially take advantage of promotional pricing. Unlike direct subscriptions, this is a one-time purchase, making it one of the best video editing software choices for beginners who want to avoid recurring fees. Premiere Elements itself is designed for ease of use, featuring guided edits, AI-powered automation for tasks like reframing and trimming, and a simplified interface.
The Amazon AU website offers an instant digital download, providing a redemption code immediately after purchase for Mac or Windows. This process bypasses complex international payment systems and offers the consumer protections associated with a major local retailer. While Amazon handles the transaction, it’s important to note that post-purchase support for the software is managed directly by Adobe. The purchase-once model of Premiere Elements is a significant advantage for budget-conscious creators; you own the 2025 version outright. The software strikes a balance between user-friendly, automated features and manual controls, allowing new editors to grow their skills without being overwhelmed by a professional-grade timeline. This makes it a powerful yet accessible entry point into the world of video editing.
Feature | Amazon Australia – Adobe Premiere Elements 2025 |
|---|---|
Price | One-time purchase, with price often competitive on Amazon. |
Best For | Beginners wanting a simple, AI-assisted editor with a single upfront cost. |
Key Limitation | Lacks the advanced controls and multi-track complexity of professional software. |
Growth Potential | Good for foundational skills before transitioning to more advanced editors. |
4. Harvey Norman Australia – Adobe Photoshop & Premiere Elements 2025 bundle
For beginners who prefer purchasing from a trusted, local Australian retailer, Harvey Norman’s website offers an excellent option with the Adobe Photoshop & Premiere Elements 2025 bundle. This platform provides a familiar and secure purchasing experience, bundling Adobe’s user-friendly video editor with its powerful photo editing counterpart. Premiere Elements is specifically designed for novices, simplifying the editing process with guided edits, AI-powered features, and a clean interface, making it one of the best video editing software choices for those just starting.
The Harvey Norman site presents a straightforward way to acquire the software via a digital redemption code, combining online convenience with the benefits of big-box retailer support, including Australian consumer law protections and potential price matching. While it’s a digital download rather than a physical disc, this method ensures immediate access after purchase. The bundled approach is perfect for creators who want to manage both video and photo content without subscribing to Adobe's Creative Cloud. It offers a single, one-time purchase for perpetual licences to both programs, providing a comprehensive and accessible toolkit for aspiring content creators who value local support and a simple acquisition process.
Feature | Adobe Photoshop & Premiere Elements 2025 Bundle |
|---|---|
Price | One-time purchase (price varies) |
Best For | Beginners wanting an all-in-one photo and video solution from a local retailer. |
Key Limitation | Lacks the advanced features of professional suites; digital redemption only. |
Growth Potential | Good foundation; skills are transferable to Adobe’s professional apps like Premiere Pro. |
5. Microsoft – Clipchamp
Microsoft’s acquisition of Clipchamp integrated a user-friendly, browser-based editor directly into the Windows ecosystem, establishing it as one of the most accessible and best video editing software for beginners. The platform is designed for speed and simplicity, making it perfect for creating social media content, personal projects, or short marketing videos without a steep learning curve. Its template-driven workflow, combined with a clean drag-and-drop timeline, allows new creators to produce polished videos in minutes.
The Microsoft website provides direct access to the app, which runs in-browser or as a native Windows application. The free tier is surprisingly capable, offering unlimited watermark-free exports at up to 1080p resolution. For those needing more power, the Premium plan, priced in Australian dollars, unlocks 4K exports, a vast library of premium stock video and audio, and brand kit features for maintaining visual consistency. This simple upgrade path, along with AI-powered tools like auto-composition and text-to-speech, offers significant value, especially for users already invested in the Microsoft 365 environment.
Feature | Clipchamp (Free) | Clipchamp (Premium) |
|---|---|---|
Price | Completely free | Monthly/annual subscription (or included with Microsoft 365) |
Best For | Quick social media videos, personal projects, and beginners. | Small businesses and creators needing brand kits and 4K exports. |
Key Limitation | Lacks advanced timeline controls and multi-cam editing. | Browser-based workflow can be limiting for complex projects. |
Growth Potential | Good; the Premium tier adds valuable professional assets. | Excellent within its niche, but users may outgrow it for advanced work. |
6. Apple App Store (AU) – iMovie
Apple’s App Store is the gateway to iMovie, the quintessential free video editor for anyone within the Apple ecosystem. For creators just starting, iMovie is often the first and best introduction to video editing, offering an incredibly intuitive interface without any cost. It comes pre-installed on most Apple devices, making it immediately accessible. The software simplifies the editing process with features like Magic Movie, which can automatically assemble a polished video from your clips, and Storyboards, which provide pre-made templates for popular video types like cooking tutorials or product reviews. This makes it an outstanding choice for beginners looking to create high-quality content without a steep learning curve.
The App Store provides a seamless download and update experience across iPhone, iPad, and Mac, ensuring you always have the latest version. This cross-device compatibility is a major advantage, allowing you to start a project on your phone and finish it on your desktop. For creators who eventually outgrow its capabilities, iMovie offers a smooth transition to Apple’s professional software, Final Cut Pro. This clear upgrade path means you can build foundational skills on a simple platform before investing in a more advanced tool. The combination of zero cost, user-friendly design, and powerful automated features solidifies its place as one of the best video editing software options for beginners on Apple hardware.
Feature | iMovie |
|---|---|
Price | Completely free with Apple devices |
Best For | Absolute beginners and Apple users needing quick, polished videos. |
Key Limitation | Only available on Apple devices; lacks advanced manual controls. |
Growth Potential | Good; provides a seamless project handoff to Final Cut Pro. |
7. CapCut
Originating from ByteDance, the same company behind TikTok, CapCut has quickly become a go-to video editor, especially for creators focused on social media. Its website and desktop app provide a gateway to a seamless editing experience that mirrors the popular mobile version, making it one of the best video editing software options for beginners aiming for viral content. The platform excels at simplifying complex edits into one-click actions, offering a vast library of trending effects, filters, and audio clips that are perfect for Reels, Shorts, and TikToks. Its powerful auto-captioning feature is a standout, saving creators significant time.
The user interface is incredibly intuitive, with a minimal learning curve that allows new editors to produce high-quality videos almost immediately. Cloud project syncing ensures you can start an edit on your phone and finish it on your desktop without missing a beat. While the free version is robust, the Pro subscription unlocks premium assets, effects, and cloud storage. This model allows users to start for free and only upgrade when specific creative needs arise. CapCut's strength lies in its speed and trend-focused toolset, although it's less suited for long-form, complex projects. For a closer look at its mobile capabilities, see our list of the best free video editing apps for creators.
Feature | CapCut (Free) | CapCut Pro (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free with watermarks on some premium features | Monthly/annual subscription |
Best For | Social media creators needing fast, trendy edits. | Users wanting full access to the asset library and cloud tools. |
Key Limitation | Reliance on templates; less timeline control. | Subscription cost can add up for casual users. |
Growth Potential | Good for social media, but limited for complex cinematic projects. | Unlocks more creative assets but not a professional-grade workflow. |
8. Wondershare Filmora
Wondershare's website is the official hub for Filmora, a video editor celebrated for its exceptionally gentle learning curve, making it a top contender for the best video editing software for beginners. The platform is designed to get new creators producing polished content quickly, without the intimidating complexity of professional-grade suites. Its user interface is clean and intuitive, prioritising accessibility with a drag-and-drop workflow, pre-built templates, and a rich library of effects, titles, and transitions that are easy to apply.
The website clearly outlines its subscription-based pricing, offering annual plans and a perpetual license, which all remove the watermark present in the free trial. It also promotes its creative asset subscriptions, providing an ever-growing collection of stock media and effects. This model, while easy to start with, can lead to upsell prompts and requires careful management of subscriptions. For those new to the software, the site provides a robust support section with tutorials to help users get started immediately. Its cross-platform availability for both Mac and Windows ensures a consistent experience regardless of your operating system.
Feature | Filmora (Trial) | Filmora (Paid Plans) |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free with watermark | Annual subscription or one-time purchase |
Best For | Absolute beginners needing fast, stylish results. | Content creators prioritising speed and ease of use. |
Key Limitation | Watermarked exports and recurring cost model. | Lacks the depth and precision of professional software. |
Growth Potential | Good; frequent updates add new features. | Limited; users may eventually outgrow it for more complex work. |
9. Movavi – Video Editor 2025
Movavi’s website presents its Video Editor 2025 as a streamlined, user-friendly solution, making it one of the best video editing software options for beginners who want quick, polished results without a steep learning curve. The platform is designed for efficiency, offering a clean interface that guides users through its AI-powered features, modern templates, and drag-and-drop effects. It’s an ideal choice for creators focused on social media content, family videos, or simple marketing projects.
The website clearly outlines the purchase options for Windows and macOS, including monthly, annual, and lifetime licenses, often with significant discounts and a 30-day money-back guarantee. Movavi stands out by bundling its editor with other tools like screen recorders and photo editors, providing extra value for content creators. While it lacks the deep, professional-level controls of more complex software in areas like colour grading, its strengths lie in accessibility and speed. Features like AI-powered auto-subtitles, background removal, and motion tracking are easily accessible, allowing beginners to produce high-quality videos right away.
Feature | Movavi Video Editor | Movavi Video Suite |
|---|---|---|
Price | Subscription (Monthly/Annual) or Lifetime | Subscription or Lifetime (often bundled) |
Best For | Quick social media edits and beginner-friendly projects. | Content creators needing an all-in-one editing and recording tool. |
Key Limitation | Less depth in advanced colour and audio controls. | Core editor is the same; value depends on need for extra tools. |
Growth Potential | Good for foundational skills; users may outgrow it. | Excellent value, but lacks a direct path to professional suites. |
10. CyberLink – PowerDirector
CyberLink’s PowerDirector, available directly through its website or on platforms like Steam, is a long-standing favourite and one of the best video editing software choices for beginners on Windows. It strikes a fantastic balance between user-friendly, guided editing and powerful manual controls. The platform is known for its intuitive interface, which features clear modes for different tasks like timeline editing or creating slideshows, making it less intimidating than professional suites. For those new to video, its template library and AI-powered tools provide a significant head start.
The website and Steam store page offer various purchasing options, including subscriptions (PowerDirector 365) and perpetual licences (PowerDirector Ultra/Ultimate). This flexibility is a key advantage, allowing users to choose a model that fits their budget. Buying through Steam often includes access to sales and simplifies licence management. Key features like AI background removal, speech-to-text, and motion tracking are surprisingly robust for this price point, enabling creators to produce polished content without a steep learning curve. The software's performance is optimised for modern hardware, ensuring a smooth editing experience. This accessibility makes it a great tool for small businesses aiming to create high-quality content, and you can get expert guidance by exploring our guide on corporate video production in Melbourne.
Feature | PowerDirector (Perpetual) | PowerDirector 365 (Subscription) |
|---|---|---|
Price | One-time purchase | Annual or monthly subscription |
Best For | Beginners and hobbyists looking for a powerful buy-once tool. | Creators wanting continuous updates and access to stock assets. |
Key Limitation | Windows-only; stock assets require a separate subscription. | Ongoing cost; can be more expensive over time. |
Growth Potential | Good; the software includes advanced features to grow into. | Excellent; always has the latest features and effects packs. |
11. Shotcut
Shotcut’s website is a refreshingly straightforward hub for what is arguably one of the best free video editing software options for beginners. It is a completely free, open-source, and cross-platform editor, meaning you can download and use it on Windows, macOS, or Linux without ever paying a cent, creating an account, or dealing with watermarks. The platform offers a non-linear editor with a flexible interface, making it an excellent choice for users who want to learn the fundamentals of video editing without the commitment of a paid subscription or the complexity of a professional suite.
The website provides direct, hassle-free downloads and is transparent about system requirements. While Shotcut lacks the polished, AI-driven features or vast template libraries of its commercial counterparts, its strength lies in its core editing capabilities, including support for 4K resolution and a wide range of formats. Its active development means regular updates are always available, introducing new features and fixes. However, support primarily comes from community forums and documentation rather than official, guided tutorials. This makes it ideal for self-starters who are comfortable learning through experimentation and community resources. For creators filming in a studio, like our podcast space at That Creative Hub, Shotcut is a powerful, no-cost tool for piecing together raw footage.
Feature | Shotcut |
|---|---|
Price | Completely free and open-source |
Best For | Beginners and hobbyists looking for a powerful, no-cost NLE. |
Key Limitation | The interface can feel less intuitive than paid editors. |
Growth Potential | Good for mastering core editing skills before moving on. |
12. VN Video Editor
VN Video Editor, accessible via its official website vlognow.me, carves out a niche as one of the best video editing software for beginners, particularly those creating content for social media. Its mobile-first design philosophy translates into an incredibly intuitive interface on both smartphones and its desktop counterparts for Mac and Windows. The platform offers a robust free version with no watermarks or time limits, making it a go-to for creators producing short-form content for TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts. Its streamlined timeline, pre-made templates, and large library of effects allow for quick, professional-looking edits without a steep learning curve.
The website provides direct downloads for all platforms and highlights the cross-platform sync feature, a major benefit for creators who start projects on their phone and finish on a computer. While the free version is comprehensive, VN also offers a Pro subscription that unlocks an expanded library of assets, more advanced effects, and other premium features. The community support is a significant advantage; countless tutorials are available online, making it easy to master new skills. This accessibility and focus on speed make it an excellent choice for marketers and entrepreneurs who need to generate high-quality social content quickly and efficiently, without getting bogged down in complex professional software.
Feature | VN Video Editor (Free) | VN Video Editor Pro (Paid) |
|---|---|---|
Price | Completely free | Monthly or annual subscription |
Best For | Social media creators needing fast, stylish edits. | Users wanting a wider variety of creative assets and effects. |
Key Limitation | Mobile-first UI can feel basic on the desktop version. | Subscription model may not appeal to users who prefer one-off buys. |
Growth Potential | Good for social content, but limited for complex projects. | Unlocks the app's full creative potential for polished videos. |
Beginner Video Editors: Top 12 Software Comparison
Product / Vendor | Core Features / Highlights | User Experience / Quality ★★★★☆ | Value Proposition 💰 | Target Audience 👥 | Unique Selling Points ✨ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blackmagic Design – DaVinci Resolve | Free UHD editing, Studio AI engine, cross-platform | Powerful pro-level features; steep learning curve | Free + one-time Studio license | Beginners to professionals | Professional-grade AI tools & direct AU pricing 🏆 |
Adobe – Premiere Elements 2025 | Guided edits, AI tools, 3-year license | Beginner-friendly, tutorial-driven | Fixed term license, no monthly fees | New video editors | AI-assisted workflows, template focus ✨ |
Amazon AU – Adobe Premiere Elements | Local purchase, instant download, competitive pricing | Easy local checkout, digital delivery | Often promotional pricing | AU buyers wanting trusted retailer | Local billing & trusted fulfillment |
Harvey Norman AU – Photoshop & Premiere | Digital code bundle, local support | Trusted retailer, online AU purchase | Price matching, local return options | AU buyers preferring retail support | Bundle of photo & video editing tools |
Microsoft – Clipchamp | Browser/app editor, free 1080p, premium tiers | Simple, AI tools, fast learning | Affordable, integrates with Microsoft 365 | Social media & quick editors | Microsoft 365 integration & AI tools ✨ |
Apple App Store (AU) – iMovie | Free Apple device editor, templates, 4K export | Very easy, stable, Apple ecosystem only | Free | Apple users, beginners | Magic Movie auto-assembly & Final Cut Pro handoff ✨ |
CapCut | Templates for social, cross-platform cloud sync | Fast social video results, large community | Free + Pro subscription | Social media content creators | TikTok-focused effects & frequent updates ✨ |
Wondershare Filmora | Easy UI, templates, 4K export, trial available | Polished results, gentle learning curve | Subscription-based with creative assets | Beginners wanting polished output | Bundled asset libraries |
Movavi – Video Editor 2025 | AI tools, templates, discounts, 30-day refund | Easy to learn, responsive | Monthly/annual/lifetime purchase options | Beginners seeking affordable options | Frequent discounts & clear purchase choices |
CyberLink – PowerDirector | AI background removal, templates, Steam licenses | Approachable & guided tools | Buy once with updates via Steam | Windows beginners | AI & motion tracking with flexible licensing ✨ |
Shotcut | Free GPL, cross-platform, 4K, no watermarks | Lightweight, growing features, no subscription | Completely free | Beginners wanting no-cost editor | Open-source, no sign-in or watermarks |
VN Video Editor | Simple timeline, cross-platform, cloud sync | Fast learning, free core app | Free + Pro subscription | Mobile-first social video creators | Cloud sync & large tutorial base |
From Studio to Software: Completing Your Creative Vision
Navigating the world of video editing can feel overwhelming, but as we've explored, the landscape is rich with powerful, accessible tools designed specifically for newcomers. Choosing the best video editing software for beginners is a pivotal first step, but it's ultimately a deeply personal decision that hinges on your unique creative goals, your budget, and the type of projects you plan to tackle. From the comprehensive, all-in-one power of DaVinci Resolve to the intuitive simplicity of iMovie and CapCut, there is a perfect starting point for every creator.
We've analysed everything from free, open-source options like Shotcut that offer surprising depth, to user-friendly paid software like Wondershare Filmora and Movavi Video Editor, which prioritise a gentle learning curve with pre-built assets. For those dipping their toes into the Adobe ecosystem, Premiere Elements provides a fantastic, subscription-free gateway. Meanwhile, browser-based editors like Clipchamp offer unparalleled convenience for quick edits and social media content. The key is to realise there's no single "best" editor, only the one that best aligns with your immediate needs and future aspirations.
Key Takeaways for Your Creative Journey
Reflecting on the dozen platforms we've reviewed, several core themes emerge. Your choice should be guided by a clear understanding of what you want to achieve.
For Aspiring Professionals: If you envision a future in professional videography or filmmaking, starting with a tool like DaVinci Resolve is a strategic move. While the learning curve is steeper, mastering its workflow provides a direct pathway to industry-standard practices, saving you from having to relearn fundamentals later on.
For Content Creators & Marketers: If your focus is on producing consistent, high-quality content for platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, tools like CapCut, VN Video Editor, and Wondershare Filmora are your strongest allies. They are built for speed, featuring trendy effects, streamlined workflows, and direct social sharing integrations that are invaluable for a fast-paced production schedule.
For Hobbyists and Family Projects: For those simply looking to compile holiday videos, family memories, or personal projects, simplicity is paramount. iMovie (for Apple users) and Premiere Elements offer a perfect balance of user-friendliness and creative control without the intimidating complexity of professional-grade software.
How to Make the Most of Your DIY Studio Experience at That Creative Hub
At That Creative Hub, we’re all about empowering you to create — whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out. Our spaces are designed to be plug-and-play, but we’re always here to support behind the scenes.
Using the Cyclorama Studio?Bring your own camera and crew or ask us to connect you with a trusted photographer or videographer from our network. If you’re new to lighting or unsure how to get started, we can guide you through what you need or step in with setup support. The goal is to make it easy for you to walk in and create confidently.
Podcast Studio AccessFor podcast users, we offer a fully-equipped, ever-evolving set with a dedicated production manager on-site. Whether you’re filming an interview, a solo series, or a branded piece of content, we can help set the vibe and adjust the layout to suit your vision. The set is flexible, the gear is high-quality, and the support is here if you need it.
Need Help? Just AskCan’t get a crew together? Let us handle it. We act as a concierge service for creators, linking you with the right people and tools to bring your vision to life. From photographers to editors, lighting setups to sound checks — we’ve got you.
Ready to elevate your entire creative process, from capturing incredible footage to finalising the perfect edit? At That Creative Hub, we provide the professional studio spaces and concierge support to bring your vision to life. Book a tour of our studios today and discover how we can help you create with confidence.
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