How to Choose the
Best Video Editing Software

If you're just starting out in digital video, or even if you're a season videographer, you may be confused by the vast range of video editing products in the market today. Some software packages cost $500 or more while others are below $100. How do you decide which package to choose? That's the aim of this article - it'll help you understand what factors to consider when choosing that video editing package and how to get the best deal.

1. Your Budget

First and foremost on my list of factors to consider when purchasing a video editing package - your budget. If you're a beginner, I recommend you go for cheaper software like Roxio VideoWave or Pinnacle Studio Plus. I know many people swear by the powerful editing suites like Adobe Premiere Pro, but for the average user, it is complete overkill. The cheaper packages save you money and will fulfill most of your video editing needs. You can always upgrade to better software when you're more experienced.
 

2. Video File Import and Export

Second factor I'd always consider is the ability to import and export various formats of video files. If you want to import Quicktime movie files or RealMedia video and edit them, check the package to ensure you can import those video formats. Same thing for exporting video files - if you want your finished product to be a Windows Media file, ensure the package supports that feature.
 

3. Special Effects

Third point - the special effects included in the video editing software. Cheaper software like Ulead VideoStudio will have more 'stock' special effects that do not allow customization. Packages like Adobe Premiere will allow you more flexibility in special effects. This factor is important if you foresee yourself playing with screen transitions and tilting a lot.
 

4. Bundled Software (Audio/Music/DVD)

Another point is to see what bundled software comes with the video editing package. Very often, you'll have things like VCD/DVD authoring packages thrown in (e.g. Ulead DVD MovieFactory). Some products bundle in music creation packages like Sony Acid Pro. These products can be really good deals as the bundled software can cost hundreds of dollars if sold separately.
 

5. Recommended Software

OK, now let's see what are the video editing products I recommend based on the type of user you are - beginner, intermediate and professional.
 

For the Beginner
For those starting out in video editing, my best recommendation is ... Roxio VideoWave . This is an excellent package built around an automated approach to video movie creation. VideoWave will help you save hours of video editing time and easily turn your home videos into movies on DVD or CD.
 

All in all, there is a huge range of video editing software in the market. My basic advice is to start simple. Go buy a product like Roxio VideoWave and try out its features. Learn the ins and outs, get comfortable with the software. Once you progress and learn more about video editing in general, you can then consider upgrading to better products like A or even B.

Pinnacle Studio Plus is a video editing program that allows you to easily capture video from camcorders into your computer. You can add great-looking transitions, special effects and background music to your plain old home videos. Start converting your videos into Hollywood productions now!

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Ulead Media Studio Pro 7 software review
Pinnacle Studio Plus 9 software review
Adobe Premiere Elements software review
A guide to selecting and buying VCD and DVD authoring software
Top 7 video editing software programs for beginners