Best 4K Video Editing Software in 2023
Multimedia • March 13, 2023
As the demand for high-resolution video content continues to rise, video editors must rely on advanced software that can seamlessly handle the complex task of editing 4K or UHD resolution. The 4K resolution, known for its superior visual quality that is four times the resolution of 1080p, necessitates a robust and powerful hardware and software combination to achieve the desired output.
But, rest assured, we have your back with our top picks for the finest 4K video editing software of the year 2023. We left no stone unturned, extensively researched the market, conducted thorough testing, and evaluated numerous software options to bring you a comprehensive list of seven excellent choices. Regardless of your expertise or financial plan, we have an option that caters to all. Whether you are a novice or an experienced professional, our recommended software tools are equipped to provide you with the necessary resources and features to facilitate your editing process.
Best 4K Video Editors in 2023
- Movavi Video Editor
- PowerDirector 356
- Adobe Premiere Pro
- Pinnacle Studio 26
- Final Cut Pro
- VEGAS Edit
- Shotcut
1) Movavi Video Editor: Best for Beginners
If you’re an amateur in the world of video editing, and the complexity of professional-level software sends shivers down your spine, Movavi Video Editor can be your guiding light to create and edit 4K videos with ease. With its simple and intuitive user interface, even those with no prior experience in video editing can easily grasp the software’s functionality and swiftly bring their creative vision to life.
Movavi Video Editor comes packed with an array of essential editing tools, including trimming, cropping, and the ability to add text and audio, to name a few. The software also includes a broad range of effects, transitions, and filters, which can elevate your videos to the next level of perfection. Moreover, the cherry on top of the cake is that Movavi Video Editor fully supports 4K resolution and boasts of hardware acceleration, providing lightning-fast processing to hasten your editing workflow.
Performance in tests: We tested the software’s ability to handle 4K videos on a PC with a 10th Gen i7 processor and 8GB of RAM, and we were pleased to find that it did so with ease. The software was able to import, edit, and export 4K videos without any lag or issues. We also tested the software’s basic editing tools and found them to be efficient and effective, with a user interface that was easy enough to get around. Upon evaluating the effects, transitions, and filters offered by Movavi Video Editor, we found them to be satisfactory.
Pricing: The standard version of Movavi costs $39.95, while the Plus version costs around $59.95.
2) PowerDirector 365: Best for Intermediate Users
PowerDirector 365 is an excellent option for intermediate users who want more advanced features than beginner-level software. The software provides a wide range of editing tools and effects, including color correction, audio mixing, and 3D video editing.
PowerDirector 365 also supports 4K resolution and offers hardware acceleration for fast processing. The software includes a motion tracking feature, which allows users to track objects and add effects or text. PowerDirector 365 also provides multi-cam editing, enabling users to edit footage from multiple cameras simultaneously.
Performance in tests: First, we tested the software’s ability to handle 4K resolution, and it performed well on our MacBook Air. We were able to import, edit, and export 4K videos without any issues, and the software handled the high-resolution footage with ease. Next, we tested the advanced editing tools and effects provided by PowerDirector 365, including color correction, audio mixing, and 3D video editing on our MSI GF63 budget gaming laptop. We found these features to be powerful and intuitive, allowing us to make detailed adjustments to our videos with ease.
Pricing: PowerDirector 365 is available as a subscription-based service, and the cost of the subscription is around $69.99 per year.
3) Adobe Premiere Pro: Best for Professionals
Adobe Premiere Pro is the best software for professionals who require advanced features and capabilities. The software offers a range of tools for color grading, audio mixing, and visual effects. Additionally, Adobe Premiere Pro provides support for 360-degree video editing, VR video, and HDR.
Adobe Premiere Pro is compatible with a range of hardware and supports 4K resolution. The software also offers collaborative editing features, allowing multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously.
Performance in tests: We were able to import, edit, and export 4K videos with ease on our 12th Gen i7 PC, and the software didn’t show any lag or hiccups even when working with large, high-resolution files.
We also examined the advanced editing features, including color grading, audio mixing, and visual effects. These features proved to be powerful and precise, allowing us to make detailed adjustments to our videos to achieve the desired look and feel.
Pricing: The software is available as a part of an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription, which costs around $20.99 per month for a single app or $52.99 per month for the full Creative Cloud suite.
4) Pinnacle Studio 26: Best for Windows
Pinnacle Studio 26 is a powerful 4K video editing software option that is ideal for Windows users. The software offers a range of advanced features, including multi-camera editing, color grading, and 360-degree video editing. Pinnacle Studio 26 also supports 4K resolution and provides hardware acceleration for fast processing.
The software includes a range of effects, transitions, and templates, as well as an intuitive interface for easy navigation. Pinnacle Studio 26 also includes a motion tracking feature and supports keyframing for precise editing.
Performance in tests: To evaluate Pinnacle Studio 26’s performance, we put it through a series of tests. Firstly, we tested the software’s ability to handle 4K resolution or Windows 10 PC, and it didn’t disappoint. We were able to play with 4K videos smoothly and efficiently, with no noticeable lag or hiccups. Pinnacle Studio 26 also provides hardware acceleration, which helped to speed up the processing time and allowed us to work with large, high-resolution files without any significant delays.
Pricing: Pinnacle Studio 26 is available in three versions: Standard, Plus, and Ultimate, with prices ranging from $59.95 to $129.95.
5) Final Cut Pro: Best for Mac
Final Cut Pro is the go-to software for Mac users looking for the best 4K video editing experience. The software provides a range of advanced features, including multi-camera editing, color grading, and 360-degree video editing. Final Cut Pro also supports 4K resolution and provides hardware acceleration for fast processing.
The software includes a range of effects, transitions, and templates, as well as an intuitive interface for easy navigation. Final Cut Pro also includes a motion tracking feature and supports keyframing for precise editing.
Performance in tests: We tested the software’s ability to import, edit, and export 4K videos on our MacBook Air and MacBook Pro 2019, and it performed well. We also tested the advanced editing features, including multi-camera editing, color grading, and 360-degree video editing. These features were intuitive and easy to use, and we were able to make precise edits and adjustments without any lag or delays.
Pricing: The software is available for a one-time purchase of $299.99.
6) VEGAS Edit: Best for YouTube Creators
VEGAS Edit is a 4K video editing software that caters to the needs of YouTube creators. The software provides a range of features that enable creators to produce high-quality videos for their channels. VEGAS Edit supports 4K resolution and offers hardware acceleration for fast processing.
The software includes a range of tools for color grading, audio mixing, and special effects. Additionally, VEGAS Edit offers a range of templates, transitions, and effects to enhance videos. The software also includes a range of features to optimize videos for YouTube, including support for 360-degree video and HEVC codec.
Performance in tests: VEGAS Edit performed excellently on our i5 and RTX 3060 PC. We were able to edit 4K and even 5K videos with ease. No complaints about this one. Without a doubt the best 4K video editor for YouTubers.
Pricing: VEGAS Edit Pro is available in three versions: VEGAS Edit, VEGAS Edit Pro, and VEGAS Edit Suite, with prices ranging from $399 to $799.
7) Shotcut: Best Free 4K Video Editor
Shotcut is a free 4K video editing software option that offers a range of features for users on a budget. The software provides a range of basic editing tools, including trimming, splitting, and merging. Shotcut also offers a range of effects, filters, and transitions to enhance videos.
Shotcut supports 4K resolution and provides hardware acceleration for fast processing. The software is open-source, meaning that users can modify and customize the software to their liking. Shotcut is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux operating systems.
Performance in tests: In our tests, Shotcut was found to be stable and reliable, with no major issues or crashes reported. The software also includes features such as audio mixing, color correction, and keyframing for more advanced editing. Despite being free software, Shotcut’s interface is easy to navigate.
FAQs
What is 4K video resolution?
4K video resolution is a video format that provides a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. It is four times the resolution of 1080p, providing a more detailed and sharper image.
Is 4K the same as UHD?
Yes, 4K and UHD refer to the same resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. The terms are often used interchangeably, although UHD is more commonly used in the consumer market.
What is needed for 4K video editing?
4K video editing requires powerful hardware, including a powerful processor, a dedicated graphics card, and sufficient RAM. A minimum of 16GB of RAM is recommended, and a solid-state drive (SSD) is also essential for fast data transfer rates. A dedicated graphics card with at least 4GB of video memory is recommended for smoother video playback and rendering.
How to choose the best 4K video editor?
When choosing the best 4K video editor, consider your level of experience, the features you require, and your budget. Beginner-level software, such as Movavi Video Editor, is suitable for those with no prior video editing experience. Intermediate-level software, such as PowerDirector 365, is suitable for users who require more advanced features. Professional-level software, such as Adobe Premiere Pro, is suitable for those who require the most advanced features and capabilities.
What is the best 4K editing software for beginners?
Both CyberLink PowerDirector 365 and Movavi Video Editor are excellent options for beginners. Movavi Video Editor is slightly easier to use, with a more intuitive interface, while PowerDirector 365 offers more advanced features for users who require them.
Is there an open-source 4K video editor?
Yes, Shotcut is an open-source 4K video editor that provides a range of features for users on a budget. iMovie is another option for Mac users, providing basic editing tools and support for 4K resolution. However, iMovie is not open-source and is only available on Mac operating systems.
Conclusion
Now, you’ve a handful of 4K video editing software to choose from, with different needs that can help you accomplish your goals.
If you’re new to the game, Movavi Video Editor is your best bet. It’s user-friendly and comes equipped with basic editing tools. For intermediate users, PowerDirector 365 offers more advanced features to keep you entertained. But if you’re a pro and require top-tier capabilities, go for Adobe Premiere Pro. It’s the cream of the crop.
If you’re on Windows, Pinnacle Studio 26 has got you covered with its range of features and 4K support. On the other hand, if you’re a Mac user, Final Cut Pro will be your best friend with its advanced features and seamless integration with Mac operating systems.
YouTube creators, you’re in luck. VEGAS Edit is your go-to, offering features that optimize videos for the platform, such as support for 360-degree videos and the HEVC codec. And if you’re on a tight budget, Shotcut has got you covered with its range of basic editing tools and support for 4K resolution.
Long story short, when choosing a 4K video editor, consider your level of experience, what features you need, and your budget. With so many options out there, you’re bound to find software that fits your needs and allows you to produce high-quality videos with ease.
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