Top Free Video Editing Software for Beginners with Slow Laptops
When it comes to video editing, not everyone has access to powerful hardware. For those with slow laptops or limited resources, there are several free software options that can offer a smooth and effective editing experience. In this article, we will explore some of the best free video editing software available, designed specifically for beginners and those with slower computers.
ShotCut - A User-Friendly Option
One of the most popular free video editing software for beginners is ShotCut. This software is easy to use and offers a wide range of features that make video editing accessible to new users. Whether you are looking to add text, music, effects, or simple editing tasks like trimming and cropping, ShotCut can handle all your basic needs without any lag.
Key Features of ShotCut:
Simple and intuitive interface Ability to add text, music, and effects Smooth playback and efficient editing No watermark on exported videosKdenlive - A Powerhouse with Lightweight Requirements
For users with slower computers, Kdenlive is an exceptional choice. This software can run on as little as 1GB of RAM and any CPU, making it highly compatible with a variety of systems. Kdenlive supports proxy clips, which ensure smooth playback even with large video files. I was able to edit 50 minutes of OBS screen footage with perfect stability, demonstrating its robust performance.
Key Features of Kdenlive:
Runs on minimal system resources Smooth playback with proxy clips Wide range of color scopes Potential for Full FCP X users to follow color grading coursesHowever, users on Windows need to change the backend from DirectX to OpenGL for the color scopes to function properly.
VSDC - Perfect for Basic Editing Tasks
Both VSDC and Kdenlive are excellent choices for those with slower PCs, as they are light on disk space and RAM requirements. VSDC, available only for Windows, takes up about 250 MB of disk space and can operate on around 1 GB of RAM or less. It also supports very old Windows versions, even as far back as XP. From personal experience, VSDC is very stable and can handle up to 20 minutes of video, totaling 50 GB of footage, without any issues.
Key Features of VSDC:
Very stable with minimal system resources Supports up to 20 minutes of video Free version lacks audio waveform, but the paid version is affordable at $20/year for up to 2 different PCsVSDC is especially user-friendly for tasks like adding and animating text and overlays. It is also more intuitive for beginners who want to explore creative edits rather than importing clips sequentially to the timeline.
Conclusion
VSDC, Kdenlive, and ShotCut are all excellent free video editing software options for beginners with slow laptops. While each has its strengths and weaknesses, they all offer a smooth and efficient editing experience on low-spec machines. Whether you are looking for the most intuitive interface, a wide range of color grading options, or basic editing tasks, these software options are a great starting point for your video editing journey.
Experiment with these tools to find the one that best suits your needs and skills. Whether you are an aspiring filmmaker or just someone looking to enhance their content, these free software options can help you achieve your goals without compromising on quality.