The best video editing software for beginners is CapCut. It is a free video and image editor that works on your phone, desktop and the web, so you can cut a TikTok or Instagram clip wherever you are. For simple editing on a Windows or Mac computer, pick Movavi Video Editor. If you want effects and AI tools, pick Wondershare Filmora.
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effects and AI toolsEffects, AI tools and 4K export for growing creators
Effects, AI tools and 4K export for growing creators
This guide is for beginners, small businesses and creators making videos for TikTok, Instagram, YouTube and the family. You don't need a film-school learning curve, just the right tool for the job. Pick by where you edit (phone or computer), what you make (quick clips or longer videos) and whether you can try it free before you pay.
Pick 1 · CapCutCapCut
CapCut
Best for quick social clips
CapCut is a free video and image editor for your phone, desktop and the web. You shoot, trim and post your clip without switching apps or devices.
Who it's for: Buy it for the TikTok fan, the Instagram regular or the small business owner who wants punchy social clips fast.
The facts that matter
CapCut is a free video and image editor for phone, desktop and web.
The Pro plan unlocks extra effects, transitions, video templates and auto cutout.
CapCut's subscribe page offers 7 days of free Pro, and says you can cancel the plan anytime.
Why it made the list: The free editor gets you started straight away, on whatever screen is closest. The Pro plan unlocks extra effects, transitions, video templates and auto cutout when you want more polish. Our link opens the partner offer shown below: CapCut's subscribe page offers 7 days of free Pro, and says you can cancel the plan anytime.
Worth knowing: Pro renews at the regular price unless you cancel (£21.99 a month on CapCut's pricing page), and trial offers depend on your account, device and region.
The deal: Get 7 days of CapCut Pro free when you subscribe through our link on a computer. The CapCut app itself is free to download.As shown on the brand's site on 16 October 2026. Offers change: check the final price before you pay.
Movavi Video Editor is easy-to-use editing software for Windows and Mac computers. You get a clear, simple way to turn your clips into a finished video on a bigger screen.
Who it's for: Buy it for the parent making family films, or anyone who would rather edit at a desk than on a phone.
The facts that matter
Movavi makes easy-to-use video editing, photo editing, video converting and screen recording software for Windows and Mac.
Every Movavi programme has a free download, so you can try it before you buy.
Movavi Unlimited bundles all 7 Movavi programmes into one one-year subscription, backed by a 14-day money-back guarantee.
Why it made the list: Movavi makes easy-to-use software for video editing, photo editing, video converting and screen recording. Every Movavi programme has a free download, so you try it before you buy. Want the lot? Movavi Unlimited bundles all 7 programmes into one one-year subscription, backed by a 14-day money-back guarantee.
Worth knowing: Movavi's store discounts rotate and expire, so the price you see at checkout may differ from earlier offers.
The deal: Try Movavi free first, or get all 7 programmes in Movavi Unlimited with a 14-day money-back guarantee. The current discount shows at checkout.As shown on the brand's site on 16 October 2026. Offers change: check the final price before you pay.
Wondershare Filmora is a video editor for creators who want effects and AI tools. You make videos that look polished and ready for YouTube.
Who it's for: Buy it for the budding YouTuber or creator who wants their videos to stand out.
The facts that matter
Filmora Basic includes 4K export, no watermark, 2.9M+ creative assets and 1GB of cloud storage.
Filmora Advanced adds 1,000 AI credits a month and 10GB of cloud storage.
You can download Filmora free to try, and most direct purchases are refundable within 30 days of first payment.
Why it made the list: Filmora Basic gives you 4K export (ultra-sharp video), no watermark, 2.9M+ creative assets and 1GB of cloud storage. Step up to Filmora Advanced and you add 1,000 AI credits a month and 10GB of cloud storage. You can download Filmora free to try it, and most direct purchases are refundable within 30 days of first payment.
Worth knowing: Filmora prices are shown in US dollars with no £ price, and yearly plans auto-renew unless you cancel before the renewal charge.
The deal: Download Filmora free to try it. Paid plans start from US$49.99 a year, with a 30-day money-back guarantee on most direct purchases.As shown on the brand's site on 16 October 2026. Offers change: check the final price before you pay.
We shortlisted the video editors UK readers search for when they start making videos. Then we picked on each brand's own published features, plans and terms, read on 16 October 2026. We note one honest catch per pick, so you know what to watch before you sign up.
Before you buy, check these:
Where you edit: phone, computer or both.
Whether there is a free version, free download or free trial to start with.
When a paid plan renews, and how to cancel before it does.
The refund window, and the currency the price is shown in.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best video editing software for beginners?
CapCut is our top pick. It is free and works on phone, desktop and the web, which makes it a quick, easy start for social clips.
Is there free video editing software for beginners?
Yes. CapCut is a free video and image editor. Movavi and Filmora both have a free download, so you can try them before you pay.
Which video editor is best for TikTok and Instagram?
CapCut. It runs on your phone, desktop and the web, so you edit social clips wherever you film them.
Which video editor works on Windows and Mac?
Movavi Video Editor. Movavi makes its editing software for both Windows and Mac.
Does Filmora add a watermark to my videos?
Not on Filmora Basic. The plan includes no watermark, plus 4K export and 1GB of cloud storage.
Can I cancel or get my money back if a plan isn't for me?
CapCut says you can cancel the Pro plan anytime, but it renews unless you do. Movavi Unlimited has a 14-day money-back guarantee, and most direct Filmora purchases are refundable within 30 days of first payment.