We consulted 40 video editors and content creators, asking them what software was their to go-to for creating content with standout sound, color design and hosting.
You don't need a background in film production to create compelling video ads for a brand, create eye-catching Amazon product videos, or produce engaging content for social media platforms. The secret often lies in choosing the right software.
But with so many options out there, which one should you pick?
To find the answer, we consulted 40 video editors and content creators, asking them about the software they depend on to create their visual content. They shared the 20 software tools that they turn to for everything from quick social media marketing to polished video ads and detailed Amazon product videos, catering to both novices and seasoned professionals.
These software options distinguish between the clichéd content creator, who might focus on superficial Instagram posts like latte art on Instagram, and the savvy content creator, who strategically utilizes monetization, trending colors and Superbowl commercial worthy video ads. By utilizing advanced editing capabilities, these tools empower users to produce content that not only looks good but also ranks well and generates meaningful value.
Adobe Creative Suite
Creative Cloud Suite starts at $39/mo. The industry-standard for video and creative editing, boasting seamless app integration. Essential for professionals seeking a comprehensive toolkit.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Industry-standard suite with robust features Seamless integration between apps. | Steep learning curve The suite can be resource intensive. | Affinity Suite Final Cut Pro DaVinci Resolve |
StudioBinder Production
StudioBinder indie plans start at $49/mo. A tool for organizing video production tasks and breaking down scripts. Critical for video producers seeking a smooth production process.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Excellent breakdown features Intuitive Streamlined production management. | Occasional UI glitches Higher tier features can be expensive. | Celtx
Yamdu |
Artlist Music Licensing
Enterprise Artist licensing starts at $199/yr. A vast library for music licensing needs. Vital for editors in need of diverse, licensed music.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Simple licensing for users Wide music selection & constantly updated. | No free plan Yearly commitment required for licensing and WAV formats | Epidemic Sound Musicbed |
Neat Video
Legacy Neat Acess starts at $200/Lifetime. Specialized in noise reduction, enhancing video quality. Imperative for editors needing to optimize footage quality.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Powerful noise reduction and optimizes video quality. Compatible with Adobe, Davinci and Final Cut Pro. | No Trial and costly for occasional users Requires a high GPU graphics card to edit in real time. | Red Giant Denoiser DaVinci Resolve has built-in noise reduction. |
Color. io
Pro Pricing Tiers varies with $150/Lifetime. AI-powered color grading tool for dynamic and natural film looks. Color.io offers an intuitive, web-based tool that emulates the analog film response, perfect for both photographers and filmmakers.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Compatibility with any camera, software, or screen. No need for downloads and ACES HDR compliant | Learning curve for advanced features & novice colorists The free version may have limitations | Adobe Color Davinci Resolve |
Vimeo Video Hosting
Standard Subscriptions starts at $33/mo. Premium video hosting platform without ads. A must-have for professionals wanting high-quality video sharing.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
High-quality video hosting Ad-free viewing and robust privacy settings | Limited features on free plan Upload restrictions based on plan level. | YouTube Wistia |
Blender 3D Studio
Open source and free software A powerful free 3D creation tool. Essential for editors venturing into 3D video creation.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Free Download at no cost Powerful 3D creation suite that's regularly updated. | Complex interface Steep learning curve for intermediate 3d artists | Cinema 4D Autodesk Maya |
Cinema 4D
Full Maxon Suite starts at $94.99/mo. Top-tier 3D modeling software with a vibrant community. Important for professionals in 3D video creation.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Powerful 3D modeling, Wide range of features, | Expensive, Requires powerful hardware | Blender Autodesk Maya |
DaVinci Resolve
Black Magic Design Studio costs $299 Lifetime. Renowned for its color grading and audio post-production capabilities. A must-have for editors prioritizing color and grading.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Professional-grade color grading, audio post-production Free version incredibly robust. | Requires high-performance hardware steep learning curve | Adobe Premiere Pro Final Cut Pro |
Corebook Branding
Team Brand Studio per brand costs $180/mo. Simplified project management tailored for team collaboration. Key for video editors working in teams.
Pros | Cons | Competitors |
Simplifies brand kits and identity management User-friendly and downloadable assets | Limited features compared to competitors. Best for small teams. | GingerSauce ZeBrand |
Each of these software solutions brings its own set of advantages, intricacies, and potential drawbacks, but together, they form a powerhouse toolkit for any media production company. From project inception to publication, and every step in between, these tools can help streamline your process, enhance your product, and set your company apart. Choose wisely and watch your production quality skyrocket.
Choose your go-to video editing software
Adobe Creative Suite
Davinci Resolve
Final Cut Pro
iMovie
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