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10 Best Video Editing Software 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Sony Vegas Pro Suite [Download]

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,155
User Interface
Editing Tools
Performance

Most important from
2 reviews

User Interface
The Vegas Pro Suite is easy to use and learn, with great quality in the finished product.
Editing Tools
The outcome in your productions is remarkable, though a good knowledge in video editing is required.
Performance
Preview lag can be an issue, making previewing your production less clear compared to other editing programs.

Sony Vegas Pro Suite offers a comprehensive environment for professional content creation. It has an intuitive user interface that simplifies multi-format video editing and supports powerful multi-track audio recording and mixing. This makes it suitable for complex projects where both video and audio quality are critical. Compatibility is robust as it caters to various formats, ensuring flexibility in handling different media types.

The suite includes advanced visual effects creation and compositing with HitFilm 2 Ultimate, which is excellent for users needing high-quality visual effects. Sound Forge Pro covers sound recording, editing, and mastering, making the audio part of your projects just as professional as the video. The inclusion of Production Assistant 2 for batch processing and workflow automation enhances productivity, a big plus for users working on multiple projects simultaneously.

The performance can be dependent on your computer's specs, and it may require a powerful machine to run smoothly. Export options are varied, providing the ability to finalize projects in multiple formats. The product has been around since 2013, which means it is a well-established tool, but it may lack some of the latest features found in newer software. This suite is best suited for professional editors who need a reliable, all-in-one solution for both video and audio production.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,155
User Interface
Editing Tools
Performance

Most important from
2 reviews

User Interface
The Vegas Pro Suite is easy to use and learn, with great quality in the finished product.
Editing Tools
The outcome in your productions is remarkable, though a good knowledge in video editing is required.
Performance
Preview lag can be an issue, making previewing your production less clear compared to other editing programs.
#2

VEGAS Pro 18 Edit – Professional video editing [PC Download]

Rating
10.0
User Interface
Editing Tools
Performance

Most important from
11 reviews

User Interface
Vegas Pro 18 Edit works like a dream with no added fluff.
Editing Tools
The added function of event handles from its sister series 'Movie Studio' really makes a difference.
Performance
It's a good idea to wait for updates to pass at least '300' for optimal performance.

VEGAS Pro 18 Edit is a professional video editing software that offers a range of advanced features. Its user interface is well-designed, making it relatively easy to navigate for both beginners and experienced users. The software is compatible with a wide range of PC systems, ensuring that most users will be able to run it without issues.

It supports various video and audio formats, which is essential for a comprehensive video editing tool. The AI-driven tools, such as Style transfer and Colorization, add a modern touch to the editing process, allowing for creative and efficient workflows. Sophisticated color grading options and planar motion tracking provide high-level precision for professional projects.

The industry-leading hardware acceleration and HDR support enhance performance, making editing smoother and more efficient. Export options are varied, enabling users to save their projects in different formats suited to their needs. On the downside, the software might have a steep learning curve for complete beginners, despite the available learning resources. Additionally, while the AI tools are impressive, they might require powerful hardware to run smoothly. VEGAS Pro 18 Edit is well-suited for professional video editors or serious hobbyists looking for a robust and feature-rich editing software.

Rating
10.0
User Interface
Editing Tools
Performance

Most important from
11 reviews

User Interface
Vegas Pro 18 Edit works like a dream with no added fluff.
Editing Tools
The added function of event handles from its sister series 'Movie Studio' really makes a difference.
Performance
It's a good idea to wait for updates to pass at least '300' for optimal performance.
#3

Sony Vegas Pro 12 [Download]

Rating
10.0
User Interface
Compatibility
Performance

Most important from
6 reviews

User Interface
The intuitive layout and hot-keys make navigation straightforward, even for beginners.
Compatibility
Adding Boris Continuum Complete plugins to Vegas Pro 12 enhances its capabilities significantly.
Performance
Sony Vegas Pro 12 offers great performance when it's working, allowing for complex editing and high-quality results.
Learning Resources
It's easy to learn and adapt to, especially for those familiar with Sony Vegas Platinum.

Sony Vegas Pro 12 offers a robust environment for video, audio, and disc authoring, making it suitable for both professional and amateur video editors. It supports a wide range of popular production formats such as AVCHD, XDCAM, HDCAM SR, RED, P2, and AVC QuickTime DSLR files, ensuring compatibility with various video sources. It also handles SD, HD, 2K, and 4K workflows, which is excellent for high-definition projects and future-proofing your work.

The software shines with its intuitive and professional-grade user interface that caters to both beginners and experienced users. Editing tools are extensive and include innovative 2D and stereoscopic 3D tools, providing creative flexibility. The Smart Proxy workflow is particularly beneficial for those using entry-level hardware, as it allows for smoother editing of high-resolution content.

Performance-wise, the 64-bit architecture ensures efficient handling of large files and complex projects. Export options are diverse, allowing you to render projects in various formats suited for different platforms and purposes. This flexibility is essential for video editors who need to deliver content across multiple channels.

The learning curve can be steep for beginners due to the software’s vast array of features and professional focus. While there are learning resources available, some users might find it challenging to master all the tools and functions without dedicated effort. Additionally, being an older version, it might lack some modern features found in newer software.

Sony Vegas Pro 12 is a powerful tool well-suited for users looking to engage in professional video editing, though beginners should be prepared for a significant learning period.

Rating
10.0
User Interface
Compatibility
Performance

Most important from
6 reviews

User Interface
The intuitive layout and hot-keys make navigation straightforward, even for beginners.
Compatibility
Adding Boris Continuum Complete plugins to Vegas Pro 12 enhances its capabilities significantly.
Performance
Sony Vegas Pro 12 offers great performance when it's working, allowing for complex editing and high-quality results.
Learning Resources
It's easy to learn and adapt to, especially for those familiar with Sony Vegas Platinum.

Buying Guide for the Best Video Editing Software

Choosing the right video editing software can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your video projects. Whether you're a beginner or a professional, understanding the key features and specifications of video editing software will help you make an informed decision. Consider your specific needs, such as the type of videos you plan to create, your skill level, and the hardware you have available. Here are some important specs to consider when selecting video editing software.
User InterfaceThe user interface (UI) of video editing software refers to how the software looks and how easy it is to navigate. A good UI is important because it can make the editing process more intuitive and less frustrating. Beginners might prefer software with a simple and clean interface, while professionals might need more advanced features that could make the UI more complex. Choose a UI that matches your comfort level and editing needs.
CompatibilityCompatibility refers to whether the software can run on your computer's operating system and hardware. This is crucial because not all software works on all systems. Check the system requirements of the software to ensure it will run smoothly on your device. If you have a Mac, make sure the software is compatible with macOS; if you have a PC, ensure it works with Windows. Additionally, consider the hardware requirements like RAM and processor speed.
Supported FormatsSupported formats are the types of video, audio, and image files that the software can import and export. This is important because you need to be able to work with the file types you have and produce videos in formats that are widely accepted. Look for software that supports a wide range of formats, especially the ones you frequently use. If you work with high-resolution videos, ensure the software supports formats like 4K or even 8K.
Editing ToolsEditing tools are the features that allow you to manipulate your video footage. These include cutting, trimming, adding transitions, effects, and more. The importance of editing tools depends on your editing needs. Beginners might need basic tools like cut and trim, while professionals might require advanced features like color correction, motion tracking, and multi-camera editing. Choose software with the tools that match your editing style and project requirements.
PerformancePerformance refers to how efficiently the software runs, especially when handling large files or complex projects. Good performance is crucial for a smooth editing experience. Software that frequently crashes or lags can be very frustrating. Look for software that is known for stability and speed. If you plan to work on high-resolution videos or projects with many layers, ensure the software can handle such tasks without slowing down.
Export OptionsExport options are the settings and formats available for saving your final video. This is important because you need to be able to export your video in the format and quality you desire. Some software offers a wide range of export settings, including different resolutions, bitrates, and formats. Consider what platforms you will be sharing your videos on (e.g., YouTube, social media, professional presentations) and choose software that offers suitable export options.
Learning ResourcesLearning resources include tutorials, manuals, and community support that help you understand how to use the software. These are important because they can significantly shorten your learning curve and help you make the most of the software's features. Beginners should look for software with comprehensive tutorials and a supportive community. Professionals might benefit from advanced guides and forums where they can share tips and tricks.

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