The demand for high-res (4K) video content is on the rise. The 4K resolution, recognized for its exceptional visual quality (four times that of 1080p), requires a strong and efficient combination of hardware and software to deliver the optimal output. That’s why video editors need to arm themselves with advanced software that can seamlessly manage the complex process of editing 4K or UHD resolution.
Looking for a powerful video editing tool to cover all your needs? Don't worry — we have got you covered with our picks for the best 4K video editing software. In this article, you will find comprehensive insights on each of these platforms to let you decide the right option for your requirements. Irrespective of the budget or proficiency level, you will surely find a suitable video editing platform for you.
1. Movavi Video Editor
Movavi Video Editor is a robust platform for editing 4K videos. The solution provides a full range of key tools that make it a perfect choice for both professionals and beginners.
Key tools and features:
- Basic editing tools — Movavi software comes with a pack of powerful basic editing functions such as cutting, trimming, and merging clips.
- Chroma key — Users can easily replace backgrounds with varied creative options.
- Picture-in-picture — Enables showing events from different angles or adding video commentary.
- Stabilization — Smooths out shaky footage to improve video quality.
- Keyframe animation — Allows for smooth animations by setting target keyframes.
- AI tools — Includes AI-powered tools for tasks like object tracking and noise removal.
- Media library — Offers a built-in library of music, stickers, and backgrounds to enhance video projects.
Best suited for: New users or intermediate users who need a simple and user-convenient tool for video editing.
2. OpenShot
OpenShot is a free open-source solution for both beginners and more experienced video creators. The tool can seamlessly handle 4K video editing, allowing users to work with high-resolution footage without performance bottlenecks.
Important Tools and Features:
- Cross-platform compatibility — OpenShot solution is available on Linux, macOS, Windows, and ChromeOS, making it a perfect match for different operating systems.
- Keyframe animations — Offers powerful curve-based keyframe animations with linear, Bézier, and constant interpolation modes.
- Advanced timeline — Features a drag-and-drop interface with scrolling, zooming, and snapping capabilities. This empowers users to handle complex projects with ease.
- 3D animated titles — Integrates with Blender for creating animated 3D titles and effects.
- Audio mixing and editing — Offers waveform editing and audio mixing features, allowing for precise control over audio tracks.
Best suited for: users looking to edit 4K videos without the financial burden of premium software.
3. Lightworks
Lightworks is a robust and professional-level video editing tool that offers complete support for 4K video editing. The solution makes sure that the image quality is flawless and facilitates even the higher-end projects.
Main Tools and Characteristics:
- Proxy workflows — Offers proxy workflows that enable faster editing of 4K videos by using lower-resolution versions of the footage, which can be switched to full resolution during final export.
- Advanced trimming — Provides advanced trimming tools for precise control over video clips and allows for smooth transitions and edits.
- Multi-cam editing — Supports multicam editing, which is useful for projects involving multiple camera angles.
- Color correction and grading — Offers advanced color correction tools with HDR workflows.
- Titling and graphics — Features a built-in titler with a wide range of customizable titles and motion graphics to enhance video projects.
- Audio editing — Includes refined audio editing capabilities with built-in effects for reverb and distortion.
Best suited for: those with some experience in video editing due to its advanced toolset and steeper learning curve compared to more user-friendly software.
4. HitFilm
HitFilm by FXHome entails a set of features for managing 4K video editing workflows with total convenience. Users find it easy to work with high-resolution footage without sacrificing quality or performance.
Key tools and features:
- Unlimited video tracks — Allows for layering multiple video clips, enabling complex compositing and editing.
- Slip, slice, ripple, and roll edits — Provides thorough control over video clips for smooth transitions and edits.
- 880+ effects — Offers a wide range of video effects, including transitions, blurs, and color adjustments.
- 3D compositing — Integrates 3D models into live-action videos or vice versa and allows for advanced visual effects.
- 360-degree video editing — Supports editing 360-degree VR video content.
Best suited for: Seasoned professionals and experienced enthusiasts aiming for a sophisticated video editing platform. However, HitFilm may not be an ideal choice for beginners due to its intricate interface.
5. DaVinci Resolve 19
DaVinci Resolve 19 is an ideal match solution for enthusiasts and professionals dealing with 4K video projects. Apart from its core functioning capabilities, DaVinci Resolve 19 provides smooth support for 4K workflows.
Key tools and features:
- Text-based editing — Enables quick editing by searching and inserting specific phrases from long clips.
- IntelliTrack — AI-powered tracking for more accurate object tracking.
- HDR grading — Advanced HDR grading tools for high dynamic range content.
- UltraNR noise reduction — Superior noise reduction without softening the image.
- Fairlight audio — Advanced audio post-production tools, including support for Dolby Atmos and Auro-3D audio.
- Dialog separator — Separates dialogue from background noise.
- DaVinci neural engine — Powers AI features like facial recognition, object detection, and smart reframing.
Best suited for: professional video editors, colorists, VFX artists, and audio engineers due to its comprehensive set of tools for editing, color grading, visual effects, and audio post-production.
Pick the Tool That Works Best for You
Selecting the correct4K video editing tool can enable you to generate the top-quality videos you have a vision of. The above solutions will allow you to take better control of your production process and gain more control over your editing proficiency. Are you ready to begin with studio-quality and professional video editing? Proceed further, check the reviews, and choose the platform that is right for you! Begin your journey of producing studio-level video content!
