The Best Tools for DIY Video Developers
- Von: Mag. Dominik Mikulaschek
Videos are a pervasive type of content that people love to consume in long-form and short-form formats. We eagerly await the release of new blockbuster flicks, stream our favorite shows more frequently than we care to admit, and fall into endless hours of scrolling through TikToks, Reels, and YouTube shorts.
This interest in video content also extends to the production of videos. With easier access than ever to create and share videos, there are now a huge number of DIY video developers producing everything from marketing content to recreating the latest video trends on social media.
For DIY video developers, there is a vast selection of video editing tools to choose from. Each has its pros and cons based on pricing, ease of use, and features. Of all the options available, these five are among the best free choices you can find for your video needs.
1. DaVinci Resolve
Known for its professional quality, DaVinci Resolve is a versatile video editor that new video creators and pros alike can easily use. The pro version of the editor has been used in developing movies and commercials. PC Mag calls it “the most powerful free video editing option you can find.”
For those who have used other video editing apps or software, there can be a learning curve with this program as the editing format differs from standard editing options. With that being said, it is highly rated for its usability once you adjust to it.
2. CapCut
CapCut is a popular video editing tool that’s versatile and easy to use. Users can upload their video content and use the app’s templates or create a custom video. Its many features include adjusting video playback speed, reversing clips, and adding text and stickers. It also has AI features to add animations.
One of the reasons for the popularity of this app, beyond how easy it is to use, is that it also has a huge selection of music and audio that anyone, including businesses, can use. Another reason for the app’s popularity is that it was created by ByteDance, the same company that brought the world TikTok.
The video editor is available on mobile devices, tablets, and desktops. CapCut can be used for free, although a paid version is also available starting at $10 per month.
3. Magisto
Magisto is an excellent all-purpose video editing program that truly can do a little bit of everything. Thanks to its easy-to-use drag-and-drop platform, it allows users to edit videos without any previous editing experience. Users can add all sorts of elements to their videos, including watermarks, text, filters, and graphics. It also allows you to quickly and easily edit audio by transcribing your video, allowing you to read through and delete sections from video clips.
Like CapCut, Magisto has a huge catalog of free stock videos, photos, and audio that users can use to enhance their video creations.
Magisto can be used on mobile devices through the mobile app and desktops with its online editor. It also has a free version and multiple paid versions to choose from.
4. Clipchamp
Clipchamp is a robust, free video editing platform you can use via your browser. You can easily change video speed, layer video, add text, and edit audio. The editor allows you to add automatic captions, a valuable tool for creating accessible content. Clipchamp also offers a wide selection of free stock photos, graphics, and audio.
5. PowToon
PowToon is a marvelous and easy-to-use option for businesses who want to take on video creation with little to no experience. It’s used to create animated videos, and it makes this simple by offering templates that users can select and customize. It also offers its users a huge selection of royalty-free stock videos and music.
A key feature that makes this appealing for businesses is the program allows multiple users to collaborate on projects. Common business uses of PowToon include creating training videos for new hires and marketing materials. While the program was designed with these types of content in mind, it is by no means limited to them. Users can still be creative and bring a wide range of ideas to life.
There is a free and paid version of PowToon, and it’s an online app that can be used on mobile and desktop devices.
Honorable Mentions
A few names that almost made this list include PowerDirector, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Adobe After Effects. These programs have extensive capabilities and features, but unfortunately, they do not offer a free version and can have a steep learning curve. If, over time, you realize your love for video creation and development is only growing and you want to expand your skill set, these programs are great to add to your video-creation wheelhouse.
iMovie was another contender, but unfortunately, it’s limited to Apple devices. For this reason, it wasn’t included, but this is an excellent free video editor worth considering for video developers who use an iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Conclusion
Video editing and development is a popular activity and a growing necessity for many businesses. With the options mentioned here, anyone, regardless of their level of experience, can take on video creation on their own.
To truly pull off professional quality videos, look for tutorials for the editor you opt for—even if they seem straightforward, as you might learn a fun trick or two. Just as you might discover a new gaming platform thanks to the fact that casinos.com reviews the top online slots sites, other video editor users have likely found a few hidden gems about each program you’ll be keen to incorporate into your workflow.
