I’m starting to edit videos from my GoPro and I’m overwhelmed by the software options. I want something user-friendly for a beginner but versatile enough as I improve. What editing tools do you recommend and why?
If you’re starting with GoPro video editing and want something beginner-friendly but can still offer advanced features as you level up, check out GoPro Quik for starters. It’s made by GoPro (duh), so it’s designed specifically for their footage. Super user-friendly interface, and it’s great for quick cuts, basic effects, and transitions. BUT it’s pretty basic, so it might feel limiting.
If you’re ready to dip a little deeper? DaVinci Resolve is free (yes, FREE!) and super powerful. It’s more advanced, but the color grading alone will make you feel like Scorsese. Of course, if you own a Mac, Final Cut Pro is a powerhouse but comes with a price tag. And don’t dismiss Adobe Premiere Pro either—it’s industry standard but not the easiest to learn if you’re overwhelmed already, plus that subscription costs $$.
Another hidden gem: iMovie (if you’re on Mac) is simple to use but surprisingly versatile. Also, HitFilm Express—free, has solid tutorials, and great for effects. Seriously, it might take some time to figure out what your workflow preferences are, but those are solid starting points. TL;DR: Start simple with Quik, “graduate” to something heavier like Premiere or Davinci!
Oh man, the rabbit hole of GoPro editing software is REAL. @cazadordeestrellas pointed out some solid options, but let me throw in a slightly different perspective. First, Quik is fine if you’re doing basic social media-style edits, but honestly, you’ll outgrow it in like… a week if you’re into any creative control. It’s like training wheels—you’ll want them off ASAP.
Here’s the thing: DaVinci Resolve is talked about like it’s God’s gift to humanity and… yeah, it’s great. But the interface can be intimidating for beginners. If you’re not ready for the commitment to learn it, maybe skip for now.
For simplicity? Filmora is actually a killer middle ground—way more features than Quik but not a total brain melt like Premiere Pro. Plus, it doesn’t demand pro-level skills right away. iMovie is fine too, but if you don’t use a Mac, that’s not even on the table.
Now, let me be the devil’s advocate on Premiere. It is the industry standard, sure, but the subscription cost feels criminal unless you’re gonna use it all the time. HitFilm is awesome for free, but if you’re like me and don’t have an ounce of patience for troubleshooting stuff on YouTube tutorials, maybe steer clear.
TL;DR—Start with Filmora or HitFilm. They’re way more user-friendly for someone just starting out but have that extra oomph to grow with you. Pro tools (Premiere, Resolve, etc.) are cool and all, but maybe let those simmer until you’re confident you won’t cry when staring at a shiny, overwhelming interface.
If we’re diving into video editing from a casual/beginner perspective while aiming to keep things flexible as you evolve, here’s the deal: Filmora sits comfortably in that sweet spot after Quik or iMovie but before you head into the deep waters of professional tools like Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. The drag-and-drop interface is super intuitive—you won’t find yourself shouting “What does this button even do?!”. It’s great for adding titles, music, and effects but doesn’t overcomplicate things.
That said, I gotta agree a little with @espritlibre: Quik makes the onboarding process easy but will hit its ceiling fast if you’re looking for more control or customization. Meanwhile, @cazadordeestrellas calling out DaVinci Resolve being overwhelming for total beginners? Spot. On. It’s powerful but not exactly “friendly” when you first crack it open.
Filmora Pros:
- Affordable (non-subscription pricing, unlike Premiere Pro’s monthly $$).
- User-friendly but with hidden depth—motion tracking, effects galore, chroma key, etc.
- Available for Mac and PC (take that, iMovie exclusivity).
Filmora Cons:
- Watermark on the free version (weird flex but okay, Filmora).
- Limited advanced features—might feel restricting if you reach pro-level editing needs.
For comparison, HitFilm Express is another solid option—it’s free at first, so budget-friendly folks will appreciate that, and it focuses a lot on special effects (think explosions & cool transitions). Nice, right? But yeah, you better love tutorials; otherwise, its complexity might have you tapping out.
If you’re more serious about getting that blockbuster cinematic vibe straight outta the gate and are OK with a learning curve, Final Cut Pro and DaVinci are solid. Just be ready to sink in TIME. Lots of time.
TL;DR: Test-drive Filmora after Quik or iMovie. It gives that middle-ground vibe. Premiere Pro is GOAT long-term but $$$. HitFilm or DaVinci are free, but expect a steep mental workout!