Top 6 Best Free Video Editing Software

Whether you're editing a YouTube vlog, a TikTok reel, or a class project, your software choice matters, many users start their search looking for good video editing software, only to find that "free" often comes with compromises.

You may ask yourself: Is there a video editor that's truly free, powerful, and watermark-free?

That's exactly what this article helps you solve. I've tested and compared the best free video editing software available in 2025.

Part 1: 6 Best Free Video Editing Software

HitFilm

HitFilm is a standout pick for creators who want Hollywood-style effects without spending a dime. It's more than just a basic editor; it combines professional-grade timeline control with VFX compositing and motion graphics. If you're hunting for the best free video editing software without a watermark, HitFilm should be on your radar.

• True timeline editor with precise control

• 3D compositing support for cinematic effects

• 400+ built-in effects & presets

• Free export at 1080p with no watermark

Cons:

• Slightly steeper learning curve for beginners

• 4K export and some advanced effects require a Pro upgrade

Features:

• Unlimited video/audio tracks

• Keyframe-based animation tools

• Built-in green screen (chroma key) support

• Advanced color grading and correction

• Particle simulator for complex VFX

• Audio mixer with precise control

• Export presets for YouTube, Instagram, and more

How to Use HitFilm:

• Step 1: Download and install from the official website

• Step 2: Import your video clips into the media panel

• Step 3: Drag them onto the timeline to begin editing

• Step 4: Add effects, transitions, and adjust keyframes as needed

• Step 5: Choose an export preset (e.g., 1080p YouTube) and render your final MP4

I found HitFilm incredibly powerful once I got past the learning curve. It's not the most intuitive at first, but once you get the hang of the timeline and effects layering, it's incredibly rewarding. If you want a good video editing software with depth and professional results, this one checks all the boxes, especially if you don't need 4K.

Lightworks

Lightworks has been a respected name in the professional editing world for years, used in the post-production of films like The Wolf of Wall Street andPulp Fiction. What makes it especially appealing in 2025 is that even its free version delivers a serious editing experience, perfect for users searching for the best free video editing software for PC.

• Pro-level editing timeline and precision controls

• Real-time effects and transitions

• Free export at 720p with no watermark

• Smooth proxy editing for large files

Cons:

• The free tier is capped at 720p export

• 4K, 8K, and advanced color/audio tools require an upgrade to Pro

Features:

• Multi-track video editing with keyboard shortcuts

• 1,500+ VFX presets and transitions

• Built-in audio FX and HDR workflows

• Direct upload to YouTube or Google Drive

• Support for 8K ProRes and AV1 formats

• Cloud collaboration and project backup

How to Use Lightworks:

• Step 1: Download from the Lightworks official site

• Step 2: Import clips into your project bin

• Step 3: Drag them to the timeline and start trimming or layering

• Step 4: Add VFX or transitions using the effects panel

• Step 5: Choose a preset and export your video as MP4 (up to 720p in the free version)

For anyone comfortable with pro-grade tools, Lightworks is one of the best free editing programs I've used. I appreciated how fluid the timeline felt and how stable the platform was with high-res footage. The export resolution limitation might be a drawback for some, but for social media clips or practice work, it's more than enough. Plus, no watermark is a win.

Zubtitle

If your videos rely on captions to boost engagement, Zubtitle is easily one of the best free video editing software options focused on subtitle automation. Designed with short-form and social video creators in mind, Zubtitle uses advanced speech-to-text AI to auto-generate captions and overlays with speed and accuracy. It's a go-to pick when looking for the best free video editing software without watermark, at least for your first few videos each week.

• Accurate auto-captioning in 60+ languages

• 3 free 1080p exports per week, watermark-free

• Stylish burn-in subtitle presets (karaoke, outline, fade)

• Optimized for TikTok, Reels, and YouTube Shorts

Cons:

• File size and duration capped at 200 MB/10 minutes per video

• No full editing timeline, focused mostly on text overlays

• Brand kits and batch export are only available on paid plans

Features:

• Drag-and-drop subtitle editor

• Progress bar and headline overlays

• Safe-zone guides for mobile platforms

• Team sharing and collaboration links

• One-click export with MP4 download or shareable link

How to Use Zubtitle:

• Step 1: Upload your video to zubtitle.com

• Step 2: Auto-transcription runs in seconds

• Step 3: Edit your captions, choose a preset style, and adjust timing

• Step 4: Add an optional headline or progress bar

• Step 5: Export as MP4 or copy a shareable link (1080p without watermark for the first 3 exports)

Zubtitle saved me hours when batch-captioning Instagram reels. The AI is surprisingly accurate, even with different accents, and the preset styles make your captions pop without extra work. It's not a full-fledged editor like HitFilm or Lightworks, but when I need fast, branded videos with captions, it's my top choice. A great tool if you care about accessibility or creating content for silent viewers.

Clipchamp

Clipchamp, now owned by Microsoft, has rapidly become one of the best video editing software options for casual creators and professionals alike. It blends AI-powered features with a simple drag-and-drop interface, offering real value to Windows users who want a seamless, cloud-backed experience. It stands out in the list of the best free video editing software for Windows thanks to native OneDrive integration and 1080p watermark-free exports.

• Free 1080p exports with no watermark

• AI auto-captioning in 80+ languages

• OneDrive cloud sync and built-in webcam/screen recording

• Clean, intuitive interface ideal for beginners

Cons:

• Free plan limits projects to 15 minutes or 1 GB

• Advanced color grading and 4K export are locked behind a paywall

• Premium stock media access is restricted in the free plan

Features:

• Brand kit (fonts, logos, color palettes)

• Text-to-speech voiceovers

• Green-screen effects

• Speed ramping and transition packs

• Real-time subtitle generation

• Team collaboration via shareable cloud links

How to Use Clipchamp:

• Step 1: Visit clipchamp.com and create a free account

• Step 2: Click "Create a video" and upload or record content

• Step 3: Drag clips to the timeline and use the "Captions" tool for automatic subtitles

• Step 4: Add transitions, voiceovers, or text

• Step 5: Export in 1080p and save locally or directly to OneDrive

Clipchamp is my go-to when I need a quick turnaround. I love how it autosaves projects in the cloud, which means I can start on one device and finish on another. The built-in voiceover generator was a nice surprise, especially for tutorials or walkthroughs. For anyone using a Windows machine, this is arguably the best free video editing software for PC that doesn't feel limiting right out of the box.

iMovie

For Mac users, iMovie remains one of the best free video editing software programs for Mac, and for good reason. It's sleek, stable, and tightly integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Whether you're creating home movies or editing YouTube content, iMovie gives you high-quality tools without the overwhelm. And the best part? It's completely free, with no watermarks or export limits.

• Free 1080p export with no watermark

• Built-in on all Apple devices

• Smooth performance and minimal crashes

• Pre-designed cinematic templates for intros, trailers, and more

Cons:

• Limited control over keyframes and effects compared to Pro Tools

• No built-in screen recording or advanced audio EQ

• Only available on macOS and iOS

Features:

• Drag-and-drop editing

• Color correction and audio filters

• Picture-in-picture, split screen, and green-screen modes

• Built-in music and sound effects

• Smart transitions with customizable titles

• Direct export to YouTube or AirDrop

How to Use iMovie:

• Step 1: Open iMovie on your Mac or iOS device

• Step 2: Click "Create New" → choose "Movie"

• Step 3: Import clips and drag them into the timeline

• Step 4: Add transitions, titles, and adjust audio or color

• Step 5: Click "Export" → choose 1080p and save or share your video

iMovie feels like the Apple version of "set it and forget it." I often use it when I need polished results without getting lost in settings. For vlog-style videos or product walkthroughs, it's perfect. If you're inside the Apple ecosystem, it's one of the best free editing software options you can trust, especially since it never nags you to upgrade or unlock extra features.

VideoPad

VideoPad by NCH Software is a lightweight yet surprisingly capable editor, ideal for beginners or anyone with a less powerful PC. With native support for 360° footage and direct DVD burning, it fills a niche among the best free video editing software for PC that want a classic editing environment with just enough modern flair.

• Free for non-commercial use with no watermark

• 50+ transitions and visual effects

• Supports 360° and 4K export

• Includes webcam capture and screen recorder

Cons:

• Free license is for home use only

• Some features, like advanced color grading, require a paid license

• Smaller library of stock assets

Features:

• Classic timeline-based editing

• Green-screen and chroma key support

• Text-to-speech voiceover tool

• Speed controls and fade transitions

• DVD and Blu-ray burning

• Direct upload to YouTube, Facebook, or cloud backup

How to Use VideoPad:

• Step 1: Download from NCH Software

• Step 2: Launch and click "New Project"

• Step 3: Import clips or record from webcam

• Step 4: Drag to the timeline and apply effects, audio, or transitions

• Step 5: Choose your export settings (MP4/DVD/cloud) and render

When I first tried VideoPad, I didn't expect much, but it grew on me fast. It's extremely beginner-friendly and works well on older hardware. I liked that it offered tools like DVD burning and 360° export, which most free editors skip. If you're looking for a reliable, free editing program that's low on system demand but high on utility, this is a solid choice.

Part 2: Comparison Table: Best Free Video Editing Software [2025]

If you're editing high-impact effects or gaming montages, HitFilm or Lightworks shine. For creators focused on short-form content with stylish captions, Zubtitle is a gem. Meanwhile, Clipchamp and iMovie are reliable all-rounders depending on your OS, and VideoPad is excellent for lightweight projects or offline DVD burning.

Part 3: Free YouTube Video Downloader: Elevate Your Viewing Pleasure

Just now, we explored the best free video editing software tools that help you craft your content. But what if you want to download inspiration or reference material from YouTube to use in your editing? That's where Toolsmart's Free YouTube Video Downloader comes in.

Whether you're collecting footage for tutorials, backing up favorite videos, or working offline, this tool delivers high-quality results instantly. It's completely free, runs 100% online (no software install), and doesn't require any account registration.

Features:

1. Lossless HD/4K quality downloads

2. Batch download support for multiple videos

3. MP3 audio extraction from any video

4. No app needed, works on all major browsers

5. Subtitle and thumbnail downloading for added context

How to Use:

• Step 1: Find the YouTube video you want and copy the URL

• Step 2: Go to Toolsmart YouTube Downloader

• Step 3: Paste the URL into the input field

• Step 4: Click the purpleDownload button

• Step 5: Choose your format and resolution → Download to device.

What impressed me most about Toolsmart was the speed; downloads that took minutes with other tools finished in seconds here. It's also rare to find a best free editing software companion that doesn't throw pop-ups or force registration. Whether you need raw clips for editing or just want offline access, this tool is simple, safe, and highly effective.

FAQs

Q: Can I export 1080p with no watermark on Canva's free plan?

No. While Canva doesn't add a watermark, 1080p export is only available for Pro users.

Q: Does Kapwing auto-subtitle on the free plan?

Yes, it does. Kapwing offers auto-subtitles with 720p export on the free plan.

Q: How many free exports per week are available on Zubtitle?

Zubtitle allows 3 watermark-free 1080p exports per week on its free tier.

Q: Is 4K export free on Clipchamp?

No, 4K export is a Premium feature. The free plan supports up to 1080p.

Q: What platforms does Toolsmart's Free YouTube Video Downloader support?

It works across Windows, macOS, and Linux via any modern web browser.

Q: How fast is the download speed of Toolsmart's Free YouTube Video Downloader?

It's impressively fast, and downloads typically finish in just a few seconds.

Summary

Choosing the best free video editing software in 2025 comes down to your specific needs, whether it's full timeline control, quick captioning, or easy social media exports. Tools like HitFilm and Lightworks offer professional-grade features, while Clipchamp, iMovie, and VideoPad balance power and simplicity for everyday creators. For those focused on short-form videos or accessibility, Zubtitle stands out with effortless auto-captioning.

And don't forget, editing is only part of the creative process. When you need to download reference content or offline videos from YouTube,Toolsmart's Free YouTube Video Downloader is the perfect companion. It's fast, 100% online, and requires zero setup, ideal for both beginners and pros.

Whether you're crafting cinematic edits or quick social clips, these tools give you everything you need to create without spending a cent. Try a few, find your favorite, and keep creating.