Best Software for Video Editing

1. DaVinci Resolve

Reason: Best overall for its all-in-one capabilities, free tier power, and support for modern trends like immersive editing.

  • Pros: Free version with 8K support, unmatched color grading, cross-platform, fast rendering, integrated VFX/audio tools.
  • Cons: Steep learning curve, hardware-intensive for complex projects, limited free export codecs.
  • What: Top software for versatile, professional-grade editing.
  • Why: Offers pro tools for free and handles 360-degree/AR/VR workflows.
  • Who: Beginners to pros, especially budget-conscious creators or colorists.
  • When: Ideal now (2025) for its trend-aligned updates and cost-effectiveness.
  • Where: Windows, macOS, Linux—any decently powerful setup.
  • How: Outshines with free features but lacks subscription ecosystem like Adobe.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro

Reason: Industry standard for its seamless integration with Adobe’s Creative Cloud and robust editing tools.

  • Pros: Excellent plugin ecosystem, multi-cam editing, 360-degree/VR support, frequent updates, team collaboration features.
  • Cons: Subscription-based ($20.99/month), resource-heavy, less intuitive for beginners.
  • What: Leading choice for professional editors in film/TV.
  • Why: Its integration with After Effects/Photoshop and VR capabilities make it a workflow king.
  • Who: Pros and teams needing Adobe ecosystem synergy.
  • When: Perfect for 2025’s collaborative, immersive projects.
  • Where: Windows and macOS, best with high-end hardware.
  • How: Excels in pro environments but costs more than Resolve’s one-time fee.

3. Final Cut Pro

Reason: Best for Mac users with its optimized performance and sleek interface.

  • Pros: Fast rendering on Apple silicon, magnetic timeline, great color tools, one-time cost ($299), 360-degree editing support.
  • Cons: Mac-only, no Linux/Windows option, expensive upfront.
  • What: Premium editing software for Apple loyalists.
  • Why: Tailored for macOS efficiency and supports immersive formats.
  • Who: Mac-based creators, from YouTubers to filmmakers.
  • When: Strong in 2025 for solo creators leveraging Apple’s M-series chips.
  • Where: Exclusively macOS, optimized for MacBook/iMac.
  • How: Faster than Premiere on Macs but lacks cross-platform flexibility.

4. CapCut

Reason: Best for quick, mobile-friendly edits, especially short-form content for social media.

  • Pros: Free, user-friendly, AI tools (auto-captions, effects), mobile/desktop versions, trend-focused templates.
  • Cons: Limited for complex projects, no native 360-degree/AR/VR support, basic compared to pro tools.
  • What: Go-to for fast, casual video editing.
  • Why: Dominates short-form video trends (TikTok, Reels) with simplicity and AI.
  • Who: Beginners, influencers, or small businesses on a budget.
  • When: Hot in 2025 for quick-turnaround social media content.
  • Where: Mobile (iOS/Android) or lightweight desktop use.
  • How: Beats others for ease/speed but lacks depth for pro work.

Comparison and Recommendation

  • For 360-degree/AR/VR: DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro lead with native support and advanced tools; Final Cut Pro follows, while CapCut lags.
  • For Pros: Premiere Pro or Resolve—Premiere for ecosystem, Resolve for cost/value.
  • For Beginners: CapCut for simplicity, Resolve for free power.
  • For Mac Users: Final Cut Pro shines.