The video editing industry is filled with various types of software. If a decade ago, one had to spend a fortune to get their hands on a decent video editor, now things have changed drastically.
With the advancements in technology, video editing software has become more accessible and affordable for everyone. Now you have traditional, template-based, automated, and even mobile options available.
But in some cases, some video editors are exclusive to a certain OS, causing inconvenience for users who don’t have access to those operating systems. One such example is iMovie, which is only available on macOS and iOS devices.
So, how can Windows users get their hands on iMovie? In this guide, we will explore how to get iMovie for Windows with these six best alternatives to have a similar or better experience on your device.
Top 6 Alternatives to iMovie for Windows
Pinnacle Studio
Originally released in 1999, Pinnacle Studio has come a long way to a powerful option for video editing. Last versions of this program give users an intuitive timeline, predefined video templates, and royalty-free music.
This value-packed editing application offers a complete set of editing tools and effects to create professional-looking videos. It also includes advanced audio tools and keyframe-based editing, providing users with precise control over their projects.
Pros:
- Easy to navigate
- Offers plenty of features and advanced tools for video editing
- Includes 3D and 4K support
Cons:
- Can be resource-intensive, leading to slower performance on older machines
- Lacks enough audio editing features for professional use
Supported OS: Windows 7 and higher
Price: 15-day free trial, the paid version costs $59.99/one-time purchase
Lightworks
Lightworks is a professional-grade editing program used in the production of many early Hollywood films. It offers a comprehensive set of features, including multi-track editing, real-time effects, and a vast array of export options.
The software is known for its powerful performance and the ability to handle high-resolution video files efficiently. Its interface, while more complex, is highly customizable, allowing users to create a workspace that suits them best.
Pros:
- Semi to fully professional features
- Supports popular video formats
- Real-time effects and color correction
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for beginners
- Limited audio editing capabilities
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free version available with limited features; Create and Pro versions cost $179.99 and $399.99, respectively
Movavi Video Editor
Movavi Video Editor helps transform your disorganized clips into astonishing movies. It’s one of the best video editing software for beginners, as it doesn’t complicate things with too many menus or options. The drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to apply effects, transitions, and music.
Apart from that, the software doesn’t leave you with basic tools. You can apply color correction presets, compress sound, chroma key, and much more. The AI-powered feature ‘Montage Wizard’ helps create a video with ready-to-use themes and transitions.
Pros:
- User-friendly program
- Offers a collection of assets
- Export in all popular formats, up to 4K, or share online
Cons:
- Limited advanced features compared to professional-grade programs
Supported OS: Windows, macOS
Price: Free version with a watermark; full version price starts at $19.95/month
Olive Video Editor
Olive Video Editor is license-free video editing software that aims to be a decent alternative to commercial products. Still in its alpha stage, Olive is already packed with features such as a node-based compositing system, real-time preview, and keyframe animation.
While its interface may look intimidating, it still offers smooth performance and quick editing. And the best thing it’s completely free and available for Windows, Mac, and Linux.
Pros:
- Open-source and free to use
- Provides basic options for video editing
- Supports multi-track editing
Cons:
- The interface may seem outdated to a modern user
- May still have some bugs and stability issues due to being in the alpha stage
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free to download and use on all platforms
OpenShot
Another open-source video editor that makes the list with powerful tools. OpenShot supports a wide variety of video, audio, and image formats, and offers features such as unlimited tracks, video transitions with real-time previews, and advanced timeline control.
Among advanced features, it includes support for 3D animations, chroma key compositing, and curve-based animation.
Pros:
- Free without any watermarks
- Has both basic and advanced editing features
- Cross-platform compatibility
Cons:
- Users have reported occasional crashes and bugs
- The interface may seem cluttered and overwhelming
Supported OS: Windows, macOS, Linux
Price: Free
VSDC Free Video Editor
VSDC Free Video Editor is a non-linear video editing freeware with a rich feature set that includes video effects, audio effects, and a great chroma key tool. It supports all popular video formats and codecs, and offers export options tailored for various devices and social media platforms.
VSDC is designed to provide a professional editing experience without a hefty price tag, making it a great option for budget-conscious users.
Pros:
- Comprehensive set of features for a free editor
- Supports a wide range of formats and export options
- Provides advanced color correction and audio tools
Cons:
- The interface can be overwhelming for beginners
- The Free version lacks some advanced features available in the Pro version.
Platforms:Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS
Price: Free; Pro version available for $19.99 per year
Conclusion
While iMovie remains a standard for macOS users, it still doesn’t provide that much flexibility and has limited features.
For Windows users specifically, looking for the best free video editing software or just a suitable equivalent to iMovie, these six options can help you achieve amazing results in your video projects.
Consider your level of expertise, features you require, and budget before making a decision. Experiment with each one and see which software fits your needs best.
