The best free video software for 2022

Video snapshots and clips are quickly becoming more popular. In fact, the Social Media Revolver says it’s already taking over other types of content. They found that on Twitter, video is six times more likely to be re-shared or liked when compared with other media types.

 

The pandemic has also hastened the shift to video. Hubspot confirms that video viewing has increased dramatically. The BBC reports that video watching has ‘surged’ to nearly 40% of the public’s waking hours.

 

Videos is clearly the way to go to attract attention. Creating noise breaking content doesn’t need to come with a significant budget. We round up the top ten free video software downloads and platforms.

 

 

Vimeo

 

A well-known staple, Vimeo offers an opportunity to create video content. For those starting out, Vimeo has customisable video templates to choose from.  Charities can add branding, music, and additional scenes to video clips. To note, Vimeo subscribers get additional services which enables team working and access controls.

 

Top tip: Vimeo’s templates and web-based editing tools are great for charities looking to save time. The editing tools are drag-and-drop based, so beginners can find their way around.

 

 

Vyond

 

Vyond offers animated video production services for marketing, training, and e-learning. The platform specialises in three types of styles for modern, business-friendly, and white board characters.

 

Top tip: Vyond works well for professional marketing media. While most of the functionality sits behind the pay-wall, charities can get a free trial to create videos.

 

 

Filmora

 

Fimora is free to download and is good for both PC and Mac computers. There are two versions available. Filmora9 pares down sophisticated video editing tools while Filmora Pro offers the full suite of technical features. The software is free to use, but a watermark is added for non-subscribers creating content.

 

Top tip: For charity workers on-the-go, our pro tip here is to download the FilmoraGo app. Creators can edit directly from mobile phones.

 

 

OpenShot Video Editor

 

For the content ‘geeks’ out there, OpenShot is the open-source video editing download. The platform is aimed at charities with technical knowledge of Linux and an interest in creating customisable software. Charities can also donate to support the open-source code cause.

 

Top tip: Spend the time to review the user guide and tutorials. 

 

 

Shot Cut

 

Shot Cut is comparable to OpenShot. Both are open-source platforms, making them a budget-friendly choice for more knowledgeable charities. The platform supports picture, audio, codec, and editing features. However, charities relying on team efforts might find this type of platform more challenging.

 

Top tip: For charities with programming skills, Shot Cut can be used to produce high quality videos.

 

 

HitFilm Express

 

Perfect for charities on a shoestring budget, HitFilm Express offers professional software for media, film and gaming. The free download has digital tools to mash-up real video and animation. Taking aim at more niche markets, HitFilm Express works best for charities looking to create gaming content.

 

Top tip: Get more familiar with the product by checking out the free tutorials.

 

 

DaVinci Resolve 17

 

This is where the professional film makers weigh in on free editing tools. DaVinci Resolve 17 is free to download for Mac, PC and Linux. The software offers powerful film industry grade video editing tools. The platform also sells hardware for those charities looking to professionally edit audio and video.

 

Top tip: Don’t be fooled by the timeline editing format that is familiar to most users. Be prepared to be fully immersed in the tech on this one. This platform offers professional colour and editing features, and is best for charities with some experience.

 

 

Lumen5

 

For less prolific video creators, Lumen5 is a good free option for charities looking to release videos a couple of times per month. For in-house teams or beginners, Lumen5 works specifically for social media platforms Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.

 

Top tip: The freeware productions include a watermark and the resolution is up to a maximum of 720 pixels. Higher quality productions are behind a pay-wall.

 

 

Animoto

 

The big advantage with Animoto is that it has ready-to-go templates for non-profits. The platform’s pre-set colours, fonts, styles and formats help beginners create projects quickly from charity-owned content.

 

Top tip: The platform has an agreement with Getty images, making it easy to create stunning content without worrying about any copyright issues. 

 

 

Lightworks

 

Professionals and beginners alike can get the best out of the Lightworks platform. Strictly a video editor, the platform specialises in stitching film together. The software can also handle a variety of file types.

 

Top tip: The platform is very cost effective – the freeware version has no expiration and even the next level up isn’t expensive.