10 Incredible iMovie Alternatives You Can’t Miss for Windows
With iMovie, you can edit video clips, add music, insert titles, apply transitions, and customize your video with many filters and effects. It supports 4K resolution, so it a great tool for creating stunning visual projects, whether it's a family movie, a school project, or a YouTube video.
However, you can use iMovie only on devices running on macOS and iOS. This limitation leaves Windows users searching for an iMovie alternative that can deliver the same level of simplicity and functionality. If you're looking for a Windows-compatible video editor that rivals iMovie, we’ll discuss the top 10 choices to help you create stunning videos effortlessly.
Part 1. Best iMovie Alternative for Windows: Top 10 Picks
1. Adobe Premiere Elements
Adobe Premiere Elements is a simplified version of the industry-standard Premiere Pro and is a great iMovie equivalent for Windows users. This software offers an easy-to-navigate interface with guided edits for beginners, yet it's powerful enough to handle more advanced tasks like motion tracking and green-screen effects.
Price:
- 3-year term license: $99.99.
Pros
- User-friendly with guided tutorials.
- Offers automated editing features like Smart Trim.
- Supports a wide range of file formats.
Cons
- Very expensive than other alternatives.
- Lacks some advanced tools found in Premiere Pro.
2. Movavi Video Editor Plus
Movavi Video Editor Plus strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and advanced editing tools. It features a drag-and-drop interface that’s beginner-friendly while still providing advanced effects, transitions, and a built-in library of music and titles. As mentioned above, iMovies on Windows doesn’t work, so if you are looking for the same features, Movavi Video Editor is your best bet.
Price:
- Free version and a $64.95 yearly subscription for the pro version.
Pros
- Simple interface suitable for beginners.
- Offers advanced tools like chroma keying.
- Fast rendering and exporting speeds.
Cons
- Some features require additional purchases.
- Limited advanced features compared to professional editors.
3. OpenShot
With OpenShot, you can combine video editing with visual effects. While it has a steeper learning curve, its robust features—ranging from advanced compositing tools to 3D modeling—make it worth the effort.
Price:
- Free to use.
Pros
- Excellent for creating cinematic visuals.
- Includes free tutorials for learning.
- Comprehensive feature set, even in the free version.
Cons
- Requires a powerful computer for smooth operation.
- The interface can be overwhelming for beginners.
4. CyberLink PowerDirector
CyberLink PowerDirector is a one-of-a-kind video editing tool known for its blend of advanced features and ease of use. It offers tools for everything from simple edits to 360-degree video editing, so this makes it suitable for all kinds of projects.
Price:
- Free version and Pro that costs $4.99 per month.
Pros
- Supports 4K and 360-degree video editing.
- Includes AI-powered tools for motion tracking and scene detection.
- Regular updates ensure new features.
- More than 10GB cloud storage in paid plans.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Some features are locked behind a subscription.
- May be overkill for normal users.
5. Wondershare Filmora
Filmora is an excellent choice for you as a beginner or intermediate editor. With its sleek, intuitive interface, it provides a range of drag-and-drop tools, effects, and pre-built templates to help you create professional-quality videos with ease.
Price:
- Free version.
- Basic: $9.99/month, Advanced/year: $27.99, Perpetual: $37.49 one-time fee.
Pros
- User-friendly interface.
- Rich library of effects and transitions.
- Affordable pricing.
Cons
- Watermark on free version exports.
- Limited to mid-level editing needs.
6. Shotcut
Shotcut, a free and open-source video editor, is perfect for you if you're on a budget. It supports many file formats and offers advanced tools like keyframe animation and multi-track editing, which makes it surprisingly powerful for a free tool.
Price:
- Open-source free video editor.
Pros
- Completely free with no hidden charges.
- Supports 4K video editing.
- Cross-platform compatibility.
Cons
- Outdated interface design.
- Steeper learning curve for beginners.
7. DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is the go-to choice for professionals looking for advanced editing, color grading, and audio post-production in one software. Its free version packs powerful features, while the paid Studio version unlocks even more capabilities.
Price:
- Free and $299 Studio version.
Pros
- Professional-grade color grading tools.
- Integrated audio editing with Fairlight.
- Free version offers robust features.
Cons
- Resource-intensive; requires a high-end computer.
- It's not beginner-friendly.
8. Pinnacle Studio
Pinnacle Studio offers a streamlined editing experience with powerful tools like 360-degree editing, motion tracking, and dynamic split-screen effects. It’s a great pick for intermediate users who want more advanced capabilities without overwhelming complexity.
Price:
- Pinnacle Studio 26: $29.99, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate: $79.99, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate: $99.99.
Pros
- Offers a wide range of creative effects.
- Supports advanced editing like multi-cam editing.
- Affordable one-time purchase option.
Cons
- No free version is available.
- Occasionally experiences performance lags.
9. VSDC Free Video Editor
If you are on the hunt for an iMovie alternative for Windows, VSDC Free Video Editor is a lightweight yet amazing tool that offers non-linear editing. This allows you to edit complex projects with multiple layers. Despite being free, it provides features like motion tracking and 4K support.
Price:
- Free editor and a Pro version that costs $19.99.
Pros
- Free with advanced tools included.
- Supports a variety of formats and resolutions.
- Lightweight and easy to run on most PCs.
Cons
- Lacks a modern interface.
- Customer support is limited in the free version.
10. Lightworks
Lightworks is a professional-grade editor that’s been used for Hollywood films. It has an intuitive interface that works great for newbies but also offers advanced tools like multi-cam editing and real-time effects for experienced users.
Price:
- Free, Create: $13.99/m, Pro: $27.99/m.
Pros
- Offers a free version with extensive features.
- High-quality real-time effects.
- Supports 4K editing.
Cons
- Exporting options are limited in the free version.
Part 2. Online Alternative to iMovie for Windows - HitPaw Online AI Video Enhancer
iMovie alternative software, as discussed above, works great on Windows PCs and offers almost the same advanced features for video editing. However, if you don’t want to spend too much time and are not fond of learning the complex UI of these editors, HitPaw AI Video Enhancer is the best equivalent for iMovie.
First, the tool works great on any Windows browser. All you need to do is to visit the HitPaw Online AI Video Enhancer and upload your video.
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After uploading the video, just click the “Color Enhancement” to sharpen the footage or select the “Low-Light Video Enhancement” option to brighten the video or change it from black-and-white to color.
HitPaw Video Enhancer leverages the latest AI algorithms to give you before and after results, which you can preview and then save to your device.
Part 3. FAQs of iMovie Alternative
Q1. What to consider when choosing an iMovie alternative for Windows?
A1. When choosing an iMovie alternative for Windows, consider your skill level and the features you need, such as basic editing or advanced tools like color grading. Also, check the software’s system requirements to make sure it runs without lags on your PC, and evaluate its cost—many offer free versions with upgrades. You might also want to look out for output formats and 4k resolutions.
Q2. Is there something like iMovie for Windows?
A2. Yes, several alternatives to iMovie are available for Windows that offer similar ease of use and features. Software like Wondershare Filmora, Movavi Video Editor Plus, and Adobe Premiere Elements provide intuitive interfaces with features perfect for beginners and intermediate users. For more advanced editing, DaVinci Resolve and CyberLink PowerDirector deliver professional-grade capabilities.
Q3. What is the open source equivalent of iMovie?
A3. Shotcut is a great open-source equivalent to iMovie. It's free, cross-platform, and packed with powerful video editing features like multi-track editing, keyframe animations, and support for 4K resolution. The software is beginner-friendly but also caters to professional users with its advanced tools. While its interface may feel outdated compared to modern editors, its simple features and zero cost suit those who want an iMovie-like experience on Windows.
Conclusion on iMovie Alternative
Finding the best iMovie alternative for Windows really depends on your skill level and needs. For example, Wondershare Filmora and Movavi Video Editor Plus are excellent choices for beginners with easy-to-use UIs, while DaVinci Resolve and PowerDirector offer advanced tools for professionals.
But if you prefer an online solution, the HitPaw Online AI Video Enhancer is an excellent choice. It eliminates the need to download any tools, uses AI to upscale videos, improves quality, and makes editing quick and accessible.
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Joshua Hill
Editor-in-Chief
I have been working as a freelancer for more than five years. It always impresses me when I find new things and the latest knowledge. I think life is boundless but I know no bounds.
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