20 Video Editing Tools for Beginners on a Budget

Are you excited to start editing videos but worried about expensive software or complicated tools? The good news is, you don’t need a big budget or advanced skills to edit like a pro. There are many beginner-friendly video editing tools—most of them free or very affordable—that make it easy to turn your creative ideas into polished videos.

I’m Riten, founder of Fueler—a platform that helps freelancers and professionals get hired through their work samples. In this article, I’ll introduce you to 20 of the best video editing tools for beginners on a budget. Remember, your portfolio isn’t just a collection of videos—it’s your proof of skill, your credibility, and your shortcut to trust. Let’s help you build that proof, one great edit at a time.

1. PowerDirector

PowerDirector is a beginner-friendly video editor that offers a clean interface and a wide range of features, including AI-powered tools, transitions, and effects. It supports both Windows and Mac, making it accessible to most users. The drag-and-drop timeline and built-in tutorials help you learn editing quickly. You can create everything from simple social media clips to more advanced projects.

Features:

• AI-driven effects and motion tracking
• Speech-to-text for subtitles
• Royalty-free stock library
• Drag-and-drop timeline

Pricing:

• Free version available
• Premium: $4.58/month

Why it matters:

PowerDirector’s easy navigation and professional features make it perfect for beginners who want to create impressive videos without feeling overwhelmed. Its tutorials and templates help you learn editing step by step, so you can grow your skills with every project.

2. OpenShot

OpenShot is a free, open-source video editor available for Windows, Mac, and Linux. It features a simple interface, unlimited video and audio tracks, and a variety of transitions and effects. OpenShot is lightweight and doesn’t require a powerful computer to run smoothly. It’s perfect for those just starting out in video editing.

Features:

• Unlimited layers for video, audio, and images
• 3D animation support
• Chroma key for green screen
• Keyframe animation

Pricing:

• Free

Why it matters:

OpenShot gives beginners creative freedom and flexibility without any cost. The open-source community offers plenty of support, and the software’s simplicity encourages experimentation and learning.

3. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is a professional-grade video editor that is available for free, making it accessible to beginners. It offers advanced color correction, motion tracking, and audio editing tools. The interface is modern and supports both simple and complex projects. It’s widely used by YouTubers and aspiring filmmakers.

Features:

• Advanced color grading
• Motion tracking and visual effects
• Multi-user collaboration
• Audio mixing tools

Pricing:

• Free version
• Studio: $295 (advanced features)

Why it matters:

DaVinci Resolve allows beginners to start with basic edits but also provides room to grow into advanced editing as skills improve. Its professional reputation means you’re learning industry-standard tools from the start.

4. CapCut

CapCut is a free video editor for mobile and desktop, popular among TikTok and YouTube creators. It offers a range of AI effects, transitions, and facial retouching features. The app is lightweight and designed for quick edits and easy sharing. Its user interface is intuitive and beginner-friendly.

Features:

• AI-powered facial recognition and retouching
• Built-in transitions and effects
• Fast export for social media
• Mobile and desktop versions

Pricing:

• Free

Why it matters:

CapCut’s mobile compatibility and quick editing tools make it ideal for anyone who wants to create and share videos on the go. Its features help you keep up with social media trends and produce eye-catching content fast.

5. VideoPad Video Editor

VideoPad Video Editor is a lightweight and easy-to-use tool that supports a variety of video formats. It provides essential editing functions, effects, and transitions, making it suitable for home videos and YouTube content. The interface is clean and simple, so you won’t feel overwhelmed as a beginner.

Features:

• Library of templates and intros
• Audio editing and voice-over
• 3D and 360-degree editing
• Camera shake reduction

Pricing:

• Free version
• Home: $80
• Master’s: $139

Why it matters:

VideoPad’s straightforward design and helpful templates make video editing less intimidating for first-time users. It’s a great stepping stone for those who want to learn the basics before moving to more advanced tools.

6. Movavi Video Editor

Movavi Video Editor is known for its clean layout and wide range of transitions, filters, and color correction tools. It supports many file formats and is designed to help you create polished videos quickly. The drag-and-drop workflow is ideal for beginners.

Features:

• Drag-and-drop timeline
• Filters, transitions, and effects
• Built-in music and titles
• Color correction and stabilization

Pricing:

• Free trial
• Paid: $54.95 (one-time)

Why it matters:

Movavi’s simple workflow and built-in tutorials help you create professional-looking videos without a steep learning curve. It’s perfect for beginners who want fast results.

7. Shotcut

Shotcut is a free, open-source video editor that works on Windows, Mac, and Linux. It supports a wide variety of formats and offers both basic and advanced editing tools. The interface is customizable, allowing you to set up your workspace as you like.

Features:

• Chroma key and green screen
• Wide format support
• Customizable workspace
• Video and audio filters

Pricing:

• Free

Why it matters:

Shotcut is ideal for those who want a free tool that can grow with their skills. Its flexibility and open-source nature make it a favorite for budget-conscious beginners.

8. Lightworks

Lightworks is a professional video editor with a free version that’s great for beginners. It features a universal timeline, advanced trimming, and direct export to YouTube. The software is used in the film industry but offers a simple mode for new users.

Features:

• Universal timeline for mixed footage
• Export directly to YouTube
• Advanced trimming tools
• Multi-track editing

Pricing:

• Free version
• Create: $9.99/month
• Pro: $23.99/month

Why it matters:

Lightworks lets you start with simple edits and gradually use more advanced features as you grow, making it a robust choice for beginners who want to learn industry tools.

9. iMovie

iMovie is Apple’s free video editor for Mac users, offering drag-and-drop editing, pre-made themes, and easy sharing options. It’s designed for users of all ages and skill levels, making video creation fun and accessible.

Features:

• Pre-made themes and trailers
• One-click color correction
• Audio editing and voiceover
• Direct export to YouTube

Pricing:

• Free (Mac only)

Why it matters:

iMovie is the best starting point for Mac users, offering a smooth learning curve and all the basics for high-quality videos. Its simplicity encourages creativity without technical barriers.

10. Blender

Blender is a free, open-source tool mainly for 3D animation, but it also has a built-in video editor. It supports video and audio editing, visual effects, and simulations, making it a versatile choice for creative projects.

Features:

• 3D modeling and animation
• Video and audio editing
• Visual effects and simulations
• Open-source customization

Pricing:

• Free

Why it matters:

Blender is perfect for creative beginners interested in both video editing and animation. Its all-in-one approach lets you experiment with different types of content.

11. HitFilm

HitFilm offers a free version with VFX and editing tools, perfect for YouTubers and beginners wanting to add effects to their videos. The software includes built-in tutorials and a helpful online community.

Features:

• Visual effects library
• Foundry 3D camera tracking
• Built-in tutorials
• Multi-track editing

Pricing:

• Free version
• Create: $7.99/month
• Pro: $12.99/month

Why it matters:

HitFilm is ideal for beginners who want to experiment with cool effects and transitions. Its tutorials make learning new techniques easy and fun.

12. Kdenlive

Kdenlive is a free, open-source editor for Linux, Windows, and Mac. It offers multi-track editing, a customizable interface, and a wide range of effects and transitions. Kdenlive is perfect for users who want flexibility and control.

Features:

• Multi-track timeline
• Custom text editor with animations
• Wide format support
• Audio and video effects

Pricing:

• Free

Why it matters:

Kdenlive is a strong choice for Linux users and anyone who loves open-source software. Its features rival many paid editors, making it great for budget-conscious beginners.

13. Avid Media Composer First

Avid Media Composer First is a free version of the industry-standard editor, offering basic tools and a professional workflow. It’s widely used in film and TV, so you’re learning on a platform trusted by the pros.

Features:

• 4-way split multicam editing
• Audio editing and ducking
• Video stabilization
• Color correction tools

Pricing:

• Free version
• Media Composer: $23.99/month
• Ultimate: $49.99/month

Why it matters:

Avid is perfect for beginners who want to learn industry tools without paying upfront. It’s a great way to start building professional skills.

14. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is a browser-based video editor owned by Microsoft. It’s easy to use, with templates, stock footage, and direct export to social media. You can edit videos from any device with an internet connection.

Features:

• Templates for quick edits
• Stock footage and audio
• Cloud-based editing
• Direct export to social media

Pricing:

• Free version
• Essentials: $11.99/month

Why it matters:

Clipchamp is great for beginners who want to edit videos from any device without installing software. Its templates make video creation fast and simple.

15. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is a free Windows video editor with a non-linear timeline, visual effects, and export options for different platforms. It’s powerful yet beginner-friendly, offering a range of features for creative projects.

Features:

• Non-linear timeline
• Visual and audio effects
• Export presets for YouTube, Instagram, and more
• Color correction tools

Pricing:

• Free version
• Pro: $19.99/year

Why it matters:

VSDC offers advanced features in a free package, making it ideal for Windows users on a budget. Its export presets help you share your videos anywhere.

16. InVideo

InVideo is an online video editor with thousands of templates for social media, ads, and presentations. It’s perfect for quick, professional-looking videos without starting from scratch.

Features:

• 5000+ templates
• Text-to-video and AI tools
• Stock media library
• Online collaboration

Pricing:

• Free version
• Business: $15/month

Why it matters:

InVideo is great for beginners who want to create content fast and easily. Its templates and AI tools save time and simplify the editing process.

17. FlexClip

FlexClip is a browser-based editor with templates, stock assets, and easy drag-and-drop editing for quick video creation. It’s ideal for beginners who want to make videos fast and share them online.

Features:

• Templates for various video types
• Stock video, music, and photos
• Easy drag-and-drop interface
• Text and logo overlays

Pricing:

• Free version
• Plus: $9.99/month

Why it matters:

FlexClip’s templates and simple workflow help beginners create polished videos in minutes. It’s perfect for social media content and quick edits.

18. Magisto

Magisto is an AI-powered video editor that automatically creates videos from your clips and photos. It’s designed for users who want to make engaging videos with minimal effort.

Features:

• AI-driven editing
• Built-in music and effects
• Social media sharing
• Smart video templates

Pricing:

• Free trial
• Premium: $4.99/month

Why it matters:

Magisto’s automation makes video editing easy for anyone, even with zero experience. It’s great for quick, professional results.

19. WeVideo

WeVideo is a cloud-based video editor with a simple interface and lots of templates. It’s great for students, teachers, and content creators who want to edit anywhere and collaborate online.

Features:

• Cloud-based editing
• Stock media library
• Templates for quick projects
• Multi-device access

Pricing:

• Free version
• Power: $4.99/month

Why it matters:

WeVideo’s cloud platform lets you edit videos from any device, making it ideal for beginners on the go. Its templates make video creation easy and fun.

20. Canva Video Editor

Canva’s video editor is an extension of its popular design platform. It’s easy to use, with drag-and-drop editing, templates, and a huge library of stock assets. You can create stylish videos for social media, presentations, or school projects.

Features:

• Video templates and animations
• Drag-and-drop timeline
• Stock footage, music, and graphics
• Collaboration tools

Pricing:

• Free version
• Pro: $12.99/month

Why it matters:

Canva Video Editor is perfect for beginners who want to create stylish videos quickly. Its design tools and templates make it easy to produce eye-catching content.

Why Your Video Editing Portfolio Matters

Once you start editing, don’t forget to showcase your best work! A strong video portfolio helps you get noticed by clients, employers, or collaborators. Platforms like Fueler make it easy to organize and share your proof of work, helping you turn your video editing skills into real opportunities.

Final Thoughts

With these 20 budget-friendly video editing tools, anyone can start creating and sharing videos—no expensive software or advanced skills required. Pick the tool that fits your needs, practice regularly, and start building your portfolio. The more you create, the more you’ll learn and grow as a video editor.

FAQs: Video Editing Tools for Beginners on a Budget

1. What is the best free video editing tool for beginners?

OpenShot, Shotcut, and DaVinci Resolve are top free editors for beginners, offering a balance of features and simplicity.

2. Can I edit videos on my phone for free?

Yes, apps like CapCut and InVideo let you edit videos on your phone without any cost.

3. Which video editor is best for YouTube beginners?

iMovie (for Mac), PowerDirector, and Lightworks are popular choices for YouTube beginners due to their easy export options.

4. Are there video editors without watermarks for free?

Many tools on this list, like OpenShot and Shotcut, offer free exports with no watermarks.

5. How do I build a video editing portfolio as a beginner?

Edit a few sample projects and upload them to a platform like Fueler to showcase your skills and attract clients or employers.

What is Fueler Portfolio?

Fueler is a career portfolio platform that helps companies find the best talents for their organization based on their proof of work.

You can create your portfolio on Fueler, thousands of freelancers around the world use Fueler to create their professional-looking portfolios and become financially independent. Discover inspiration for your portfolio

Sign up for free on Fueler or get in touch to learn more.