Best Free Video Editing Software

They say that you get what you pay for, and sometimes they're right. There is plenty of freeware available on the Internet that isn't worth the time you took to download it. When it comes to video editing software, however, there are a few that work almost as well as the editing software you pay for, and you won't owe the manufacturer's a dime. If you're wanting to produce a few special home videos or even if you just like to play, here are three free video editing software suites that will get it done.

Apple's iMovie HD

If you're a Mac user, Apple's iMovie HD is a great free video editing software suite that comes with plenty of third-party support. I especially like this particular freeware program because it comes with free plug-ins to enhance your movie-making experience. You can use this program to create podcasts and even live video blog entries and the software is incredibly easy to use. There are several free reference manuals located online that you can likewise download for free.

If you decide that free video editing software doesn't meet your needs, iMovie HD also upgrades to Final Cut Express, which isn't cheap, but provides you with far more video editing tools.

Avid's FreeDV

This free video editing software is recommended especially for students who are operating on a tight budget. Avid's FreeDV allows you to play with some of the more professional video editing tools as you work your way up the ladder. It has a two-screen professional interface that gives you flexibility as you edit your movies and support for both Windows XP and OS platforms.

After you've familiarized yourself with Avid's FreeDV, you can always upgrade to Xpress Pro. Keep in mind, however, that this particular free video editing software isn't as easy to use and troubleshoot as the iMovie HD mentioned above, and you might need to work with it for several months before you can figure out exactly how to use it. It's usually best if you know someone who has used it before and can show you how to make the most of this freeware.

Microsoft's Movie Maker 2.1

This free video editing software is by far the easiest to use and has a convenient drag-and-drop interface that allows you to decide exactly what you want to do, when you want to do it. Like most Microsoft products, it comes with free automatic updates from your desktop and allows you to make your own DVD's if you have the necessary third-party software.

I'm always partial to Microsoft products, but as mentioned above, anyone can use this free video editing software. Like Apple's freeware listed above, Microsoft's Movie Maker comes with free add-ons and plug-ins to enhance your videos.