Free Games Galore Top 10 Websites for PC and Android Game Downloads for 2024

Free Games Galore Top 10 Websites for PC and Android Game Downloads for 2024

Amelia Lv12

Free Games Galore: Top 10 Websites for PC and Android Game Downloads

Top 10 Best Free Game Download Sites [PC & Android][2024]

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

We all know and firmly believe that games are an integral part of our life. But the world has progressed, and we yearn to achieve real-life experiences through virtual reality instead of experiencing the actual thing. Online games are not only mentally stimulating, but they are also very addictive. Not everyone wants to pay to play games for a couple of hours, so here is a list of top free game downloading sites. You can download full versions of your favorite games for free.

If you want to edit a video recorded from games with more effects and templates, we recommend using Filmora . It is an easy-to-use video editor. It offers various title templates. You can also use it to record game videos. Just download it to have a try. Don’t know how to make a video? Visit the Wondershare Video Community and get some inspiration in video creation.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 1: Best Free PC Game Download Sites

1 Acid Play

Platforms: OS X and Windows

acid play screenshot

Key Features:

  • Huge gaming library

The acid play has a gigantic collection of games of various types. The games at acid play have been categorized into action, arcade, board games, RPG, card games, puzzles, driving games, simulation, etc.

  • Custom Search

The customized search helps you find the exact game you are looking for. It saves time since you cannot browse through thousands of games.

  • Ratings

If you are new to this site or looking for a new game to play, you can choose only without trying every game to decide the best one. Just check the ratings provided by other players, and it will solve your problem. You can also rate a game according to your liking.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloadable and free.
  • There is a large variety of games available to play.

Cons:

  • The site is not updated, and no new games are introduced.

2 Origin Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

Origin games are another best-known digital distribution platform for a free online gaming experience. It contains a fairly large library of premium games, but origin games provide links for free downloads for a limited time.

origin games screenshot

Key Features:

  • Social Features

Origin provides its users with many social features like profile management, networking with friends through chatting, and video streaming via TwitchTV. You can also share your game library and community integration through social media and networking sites like Facebook, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Network.

  • Variety in games

It provides various games, from PC games to Fifa and even classic games like Plant Vs. Zombies are also available.

  • On-the-house games

The on-the-house features allow the customers to download a free trial of a premium game.

Pros:

  • It provides great game streaming features.
  • is developed by a renowned and successful company so that it can be trusted.
  • The ‘on-the-house specials’ are appreciated by many gamers, allowing them to play a paid game for free now and then.

Cons:

  • It has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software.
  • Customers have complained that they provide expired discount codes.
  • Customer service needs to be improved as it is not very responsive.

3 AllGamesAtoZ

Platforms: OS X and Windows

If you want the best full version of a game for free, then AllGamesAtoZ is where you should go.

all games atoz

Key Features:

  • The website is full of addictive games from different genres like action, arcade, shooting, role-playing, adventure, racing, simulation, etc.
  • Multiple links for downloading a single game are available.
  • A customized search bar is available so that you can locate the exact game you are looking for without having to browse through thousands of games.
  • The games on AllGamesAtoZ are available on Windows, Linux, and Mac.
  • A forum for game reviews is provided, so it is easier to decide which game you want to download without trying them all.

Pros:

  • The gaming library is enormous.
  • The game reviews make it easier to make a decision and save time.
  • The website does not transfer viruses and is entirely safe from scams.

Cons:

  • The downloading process is quite long.
  • The website is not updated with new games.

4 Mega Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another highly recommended online gaming site. It not only provides PC games for free but also offers 3D PlayStation games to be downloaded on your PC without any charge.

mega games

Key Features:

  • Search and download

Mega games allow a search and download option for every game published on their site.

  • PlayStation games

It has provided its customers with not only PC games but also 3D PlayStation games that can be downloaded for free.

  • Cheat codes

Apart from all the standard gaming features, mega games also provide free cheat codes for the games.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloaded.
  • The games have variety.

Cons:

  • The website stops working after a while, and the download gets interrupted

5 Caiman.us

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another digital distribution platform for free online gaming. After the death of the site’s developer, the site has gone offline.

caiman us

Key Features:

  • It has a vast collection of games and over twenty free games categories.
  • 2D and 3D gaming experiences are also provided.
  • A customized search is available to make it easier for players to find the game they are looking for.

Pros:

  • There is a vast collection of free games to download and play.

Cons:

  • The site is not well organized and confusing.
  • The search bar is at the very bottom of the page, so a person might find it hard to locate.
  • Since the site has gone offline, the games are not updated, so there are no new games.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 2: Best Android Game Download Sites to Download Free Android Games

Android is growing very fast; now, almost everyone uses it and prefers it over any other software. Here are the best websites from where you can download free android apps:

1 Google Play

Google Play is the most common website to download free android apps. It is free, it is fast, and it is efficient. You can not only use this from your android mobile but also operate it and download apps using your laptop.

google play

Key Features:

  • The apps are easily downloaded, depending upon your internet connection.
  • The purchase methods are through credit cards, and the procedure is straightforward.
  • The platform allows everyone and anyone to sell their games.
  • Sign up through your Google account is necessary to access these features.

Pros:

  • It is easily accessible.
  • It is pre-installed on all android supported devices.
  • It contains a massive collection of unique apps, from books to music, workout, and games of various types.

Cons:

  • Since everyone and anyone can access it without paying any registration fee, it is exposed to scams and harassment.
  • A few games do not function and keep crashing.

2 Android Games Room

android games room

It contains thousands of free gaming apps in different categories like action, arcade, adventure, simulation, song games, and puzzle games. The download links are readily available; you can even access this site from your mobile by scanning a QR code. This site is a pretty good platform to download free games but has certain flaws. It does not allow a multiplayer gaming experience, and no customer services are provided.

3 Android Apps

android apps

It is another platform to download android apps for free. This site is pretty good since it updates games that developers handpick almost daily. You can also promote your app using the ‘promote your app’ feature. The site has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software. Furthermore, you can say that they do not have a customer service function because nobody ever responds to the customer’s queries.

4 1 Mobile

1 mobile

One mobile is a free android store. It provides its users the easiest way to locate, download and manage free apps. 1 Mobile has over eighty (80) million apps. One mobile has just been recently updated, has a brand new interface design, and operates much smoother. The content is more prosperous, smoother, and a thousand times better than before the latest update. All the apps and games are 100% free forever without hidden charges. It supports various languages like English, Korean, Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, and Portugal.

5 Approx

approb

It provides the best free apps not only for android but OS as well. You can download it on your phone by scanning a QR code. This software has been functioning for the past six years and is free from viruses or malware.


To furnish your gameplay videos, Filmora also provides some cool effects, transitions, and elements, such as camera shake chaos effects, distortion effects, 3D change, speed blur transitions, and more. Moreover, you can always find some specially designed gaming effects in the Filmstock effects store.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

We all know and firmly believe that games are an integral part of our life. But the world has progressed, and we yearn to achieve real-life experiences through virtual reality instead of experiencing the actual thing. Online games are not only mentally stimulating, but they are also very addictive. Not everyone wants to pay to play games for a couple of hours, so here is a list of top free game downloading sites. You can download full versions of your favorite games for free.

If you want to edit a video recorded from games with more effects and templates, we recommend using Filmora . It is an easy-to-use video editor. It offers various title templates. You can also use it to record game videos. Just download it to have a try. Don’t know how to make a video? Visit the Wondershare Video Community and get some inspiration in video creation.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 1: Best Free PC Game Download Sites

1 Acid Play

Platforms: OS X and Windows

acid play screenshot

Key Features:

  • Huge gaming library

The acid play has a gigantic collection of games of various types. The games at acid play have been categorized into action, arcade, board games, RPG, card games, puzzles, driving games, simulation, etc.

  • Custom Search

The customized search helps you find the exact game you are looking for. It saves time since you cannot browse through thousands of games.

  • Ratings

If you are new to this site or looking for a new game to play, you can choose only without trying every game to decide the best one. Just check the ratings provided by other players, and it will solve your problem. You can also rate a game according to your liking.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloadable and free.
  • There is a large variety of games available to play.

Cons:

  • The site is not updated, and no new games are introduced.

2 Origin Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

Origin games are another best-known digital distribution platform for a free online gaming experience. It contains a fairly large library of premium games, but origin games provide links for free downloads for a limited time.

origin games screenshot

Key Features:

  • Social Features

Origin provides its users with many social features like profile management, networking with friends through chatting, and video streaming via TwitchTV. You can also share your game library and community integration through social media and networking sites like Facebook, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Network.

  • Variety in games

It provides various games, from PC games to Fifa and even classic games like Plant Vs. Zombies are also available.

  • On-the-house games

The on-the-house features allow the customers to download a free trial of a premium game.

Pros:

  • It provides great game streaming features.
  • is developed by a renowned and successful company so that it can be trusted.
  • The ‘on-the-house specials’ are appreciated by many gamers, allowing them to play a paid game for free now and then.

Cons:

  • It has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software.
  • Customers have complained that they provide expired discount codes.
  • Customer service needs to be improved as it is not very responsive.

3 AllGamesAtoZ

Platforms: OS X and Windows

If you want the best full version of a game for free, then AllGamesAtoZ is where you should go.

all games atoz

Key Features:

  • The website is full of addictive games from different genres like action, arcade, shooting, role-playing, adventure, racing, simulation, etc.
  • Multiple links for downloading a single game are available.
  • A customized search bar is available so that you can locate the exact game you are looking for without having to browse through thousands of games.
  • The games on AllGamesAtoZ are available on Windows, Linux, and Mac.
  • A forum for game reviews is provided, so it is easier to decide which game you want to download without trying them all.

Pros:

  • The gaming library is enormous.
  • The game reviews make it easier to make a decision and save time.
  • The website does not transfer viruses and is entirely safe from scams.

Cons:

  • The downloading process is quite long.
  • The website is not updated with new games.

4 Mega Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another highly recommended online gaming site. It not only provides PC games for free but also offers 3D PlayStation games to be downloaded on your PC without any charge.

mega games

Key Features:

  • Search and download

Mega games allow a search and download option for every game published on their site.

  • PlayStation games

It has provided its customers with not only PC games but also 3D PlayStation games that can be downloaded for free.

  • Cheat codes

Apart from all the standard gaming features, mega games also provide free cheat codes for the games.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloaded.
  • The games have variety.

Cons:

  • The website stops working after a while, and the download gets interrupted

5 Caiman.us

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another digital distribution platform for free online gaming. After the death of the site’s developer, the site has gone offline.

caiman us

Key Features:

  • It has a vast collection of games and over twenty free games categories.
  • 2D and 3D gaming experiences are also provided.
  • A customized search is available to make it easier for players to find the game they are looking for.

Pros:

  • There is a vast collection of free games to download and play.

Cons:

  • The site is not well organized and confusing.
  • The search bar is at the very bottom of the page, so a person might find it hard to locate.
  • Since the site has gone offline, the games are not updated, so there are no new games.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 2: Best Android Game Download Sites to Download Free Android Games

Android is growing very fast; now, almost everyone uses it and prefers it over any other software. Here are the best websites from where you can download free android apps:

1 Google Play

Google Play is the most common website to download free android apps. It is free, it is fast, and it is efficient. You can not only use this from your android mobile but also operate it and download apps using your laptop.

google play

Key Features:

  • The apps are easily downloaded, depending upon your internet connection.
  • The purchase methods are through credit cards, and the procedure is straightforward.
  • The platform allows everyone and anyone to sell their games.
  • Sign up through your Google account is necessary to access these features.

Pros:

  • It is easily accessible.
  • It is pre-installed on all android supported devices.
  • It contains a massive collection of unique apps, from books to music, workout, and games of various types.

Cons:

  • Since everyone and anyone can access it without paying any registration fee, it is exposed to scams and harassment.
  • A few games do not function and keep crashing.

2 Android Games Room

android games room

It contains thousands of free gaming apps in different categories like action, arcade, adventure, simulation, song games, and puzzle games. The download links are readily available; you can even access this site from your mobile by scanning a QR code. This site is a pretty good platform to download free games but has certain flaws. It does not allow a multiplayer gaming experience, and no customer services are provided.

3 Android Apps

android apps

It is another platform to download android apps for free. This site is pretty good since it updates games that developers handpick almost daily. You can also promote your app using the ‘promote your app’ feature. The site has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software. Furthermore, you can say that they do not have a customer service function because nobody ever responds to the customer’s queries.

4 1 Mobile

1 mobile

One mobile is a free android store. It provides its users the easiest way to locate, download and manage free apps. 1 Mobile has over eighty (80) million apps. One mobile has just been recently updated, has a brand new interface design, and operates much smoother. The content is more prosperous, smoother, and a thousand times better than before the latest update. All the apps and games are 100% free forever without hidden charges. It supports various languages like English, Korean, Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, and Portugal.

5 Approx

approb

It provides the best free apps not only for android but OS as well. You can download it on your phone by scanning a QR code. This software has been functioning for the past six years and is free from viruses or malware.


To furnish your gameplay videos, Filmora also provides some cool effects, transitions, and elements, such as camera shake chaos effects, distortion effects, 3D change, speed blur transitions, and more. Moreover, you can always find some specially designed gaming effects in the Filmstock effects store.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

We all know and firmly believe that games are an integral part of our life. But the world has progressed, and we yearn to achieve real-life experiences through virtual reality instead of experiencing the actual thing. Online games are not only mentally stimulating, but they are also very addictive. Not everyone wants to pay to play games for a couple of hours, so here is a list of top free game downloading sites. You can download full versions of your favorite games for free.

If you want to edit a video recorded from games with more effects and templates, we recommend using Filmora . It is an easy-to-use video editor. It offers various title templates. You can also use it to record game videos. Just download it to have a try. Don’t know how to make a video? Visit the Wondershare Video Community and get some inspiration in video creation.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 1: Best Free PC Game Download Sites

1 Acid Play

Platforms: OS X and Windows

acid play screenshot

Key Features:

  • Huge gaming library

The acid play has a gigantic collection of games of various types. The games at acid play have been categorized into action, arcade, board games, RPG, card games, puzzles, driving games, simulation, etc.

  • Custom Search

The customized search helps you find the exact game you are looking for. It saves time since you cannot browse through thousands of games.

  • Ratings

If you are new to this site or looking for a new game to play, you can choose only without trying every game to decide the best one. Just check the ratings provided by other players, and it will solve your problem. You can also rate a game according to your liking.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloadable and free.
  • There is a large variety of games available to play.

Cons:

  • The site is not updated, and no new games are introduced.

2 Origin Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

Origin games are another best-known digital distribution platform for a free online gaming experience. It contains a fairly large library of premium games, but origin games provide links for free downloads for a limited time.

origin games screenshot

Key Features:

  • Social Features

Origin provides its users with many social features like profile management, networking with friends through chatting, and video streaming via TwitchTV. You can also share your game library and community integration through social media and networking sites like Facebook, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Network.

  • Variety in games

It provides various games, from PC games to Fifa and even classic games like Plant Vs. Zombies are also available.

  • On-the-house games

The on-the-house features allow the customers to download a free trial of a premium game.

Pros:

  • It provides great game streaming features.
  • is developed by a renowned and successful company so that it can be trusted.
  • The ‘on-the-house specials’ are appreciated by many gamers, allowing them to play a paid game for free now and then.

Cons:

  • It has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software.
  • Customers have complained that they provide expired discount codes.
  • Customer service needs to be improved as it is not very responsive.

3 AllGamesAtoZ

Platforms: OS X and Windows

If you want the best full version of a game for free, then AllGamesAtoZ is where you should go.

all games atoz

Key Features:

  • The website is full of addictive games from different genres like action, arcade, shooting, role-playing, adventure, racing, simulation, etc.
  • Multiple links for downloading a single game are available.
  • A customized search bar is available so that you can locate the exact game you are looking for without having to browse through thousands of games.
  • The games on AllGamesAtoZ are available on Windows, Linux, and Mac.
  • A forum for game reviews is provided, so it is easier to decide which game you want to download without trying them all.

Pros:

  • The gaming library is enormous.
  • The game reviews make it easier to make a decision and save time.
  • The website does not transfer viruses and is entirely safe from scams.

Cons:

  • The downloading process is quite long.
  • The website is not updated with new games.

4 Mega Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another highly recommended online gaming site. It not only provides PC games for free but also offers 3D PlayStation games to be downloaded on your PC without any charge.

mega games

Key Features:

  • Search and download

Mega games allow a search and download option for every game published on their site.

  • PlayStation games

It has provided its customers with not only PC games but also 3D PlayStation games that can be downloaded for free.

  • Cheat codes

Apart from all the standard gaming features, mega games also provide free cheat codes for the games.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloaded.
  • The games have variety.

Cons:

  • The website stops working after a while, and the download gets interrupted

5 Caiman.us

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another digital distribution platform for free online gaming. After the death of the site’s developer, the site has gone offline.

caiman us

Key Features:

  • It has a vast collection of games and over twenty free games categories.
  • 2D and 3D gaming experiences are also provided.
  • A customized search is available to make it easier for players to find the game they are looking for.

Pros:

  • There is a vast collection of free games to download and play.

Cons:

  • The site is not well organized and confusing.
  • The search bar is at the very bottom of the page, so a person might find it hard to locate.
  • Since the site has gone offline, the games are not updated, so there are no new games.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 2: Best Android Game Download Sites to Download Free Android Games

Android is growing very fast; now, almost everyone uses it and prefers it over any other software. Here are the best websites from where you can download free android apps:

1 Google Play

Google Play is the most common website to download free android apps. It is free, it is fast, and it is efficient. You can not only use this from your android mobile but also operate it and download apps using your laptop.

google play

Key Features:

  • The apps are easily downloaded, depending upon your internet connection.
  • The purchase methods are through credit cards, and the procedure is straightforward.
  • The platform allows everyone and anyone to sell their games.
  • Sign up through your Google account is necessary to access these features.

Pros:

  • It is easily accessible.
  • It is pre-installed on all android supported devices.
  • It contains a massive collection of unique apps, from books to music, workout, and games of various types.

Cons:

  • Since everyone and anyone can access it without paying any registration fee, it is exposed to scams and harassment.
  • A few games do not function and keep crashing.

2 Android Games Room

android games room

It contains thousands of free gaming apps in different categories like action, arcade, adventure, simulation, song games, and puzzle games. The download links are readily available; you can even access this site from your mobile by scanning a QR code. This site is a pretty good platform to download free games but has certain flaws. It does not allow a multiplayer gaming experience, and no customer services are provided.

3 Android Apps

android apps

It is another platform to download android apps for free. This site is pretty good since it updates games that developers handpick almost daily. You can also promote your app using the ‘promote your app’ feature. The site has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software. Furthermore, you can say that they do not have a customer service function because nobody ever responds to the customer’s queries.

4 1 Mobile

1 mobile

One mobile is a free android store. It provides its users the easiest way to locate, download and manage free apps. 1 Mobile has over eighty (80) million apps. One mobile has just been recently updated, has a brand new interface design, and operates much smoother. The content is more prosperous, smoother, and a thousand times better than before the latest update. All the apps and games are 100% free forever without hidden charges. It supports various languages like English, Korean, Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, and Portugal.

5 Approx

approb

It provides the best free apps not only for android but OS as well. You can download it on your phone by scanning a QR code. This software has been functioning for the past six years and is free from viruses or malware.


To furnish your gameplay videos, Filmora also provides some cool effects, transitions, and elements, such as camera shake chaos effects, distortion effects, 3D change, speed blur transitions, and more. Moreover, you can always find some specially designed gaming effects in the Filmstock effects store.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

We all know and firmly believe that games are an integral part of our life. But the world has progressed, and we yearn to achieve real-life experiences through virtual reality instead of experiencing the actual thing. Online games are not only mentally stimulating, but they are also very addictive. Not everyone wants to pay to play games for a couple of hours, so here is a list of top free game downloading sites. You can download full versions of your favorite games for free.

If you want to edit a video recorded from games with more effects and templates, we recommend using Filmora . It is an easy-to-use video editor. It offers various title templates. You can also use it to record game videos. Just download it to have a try. Don’t know how to make a video? Visit the Wondershare Video Community and get some inspiration in video creation.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 1: Best Free PC Game Download Sites

1 Acid Play

Platforms: OS X and Windows

acid play screenshot

Key Features:

  • Huge gaming library

The acid play has a gigantic collection of games of various types. The games at acid play have been categorized into action, arcade, board games, RPG, card games, puzzles, driving games, simulation, etc.

  • Custom Search

The customized search helps you find the exact game you are looking for. It saves time since you cannot browse through thousands of games.

  • Ratings

If you are new to this site or looking for a new game to play, you can choose only without trying every game to decide the best one. Just check the ratings provided by other players, and it will solve your problem. You can also rate a game according to your liking.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloadable and free.
  • There is a large variety of games available to play.

Cons:

  • The site is not updated, and no new games are introduced.

2 Origin Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

Origin games are another best-known digital distribution platform for a free online gaming experience. It contains a fairly large library of premium games, but origin games provide links for free downloads for a limited time.

origin games screenshot

Key Features:

  • Social Features

Origin provides its users with many social features like profile management, networking with friends through chatting, and video streaming via TwitchTV. You can also share your game library and community integration through social media and networking sites like Facebook, Xbox Live, PlayStation Network, and Nintendo Network.

  • Variety in games

It provides various games, from PC games to Fifa and even classic games like Plant Vs. Zombies are also available.

  • On-the-house games

The on-the-house features allow the customers to download a free trial of a premium game.

Pros:

  • It provides great game streaming features.
  • is developed by a renowned and successful company so that it can be trusted.
  • The ‘on-the-house specials’ are appreciated by many gamers, allowing them to play a paid game for free now and then.

Cons:

  • It has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software.
  • Customers have complained that they provide expired discount codes.
  • Customer service needs to be improved as it is not very responsive.

3 AllGamesAtoZ

Platforms: OS X and Windows

If you want the best full version of a game for free, then AllGamesAtoZ is where you should go.

all games atoz

Key Features:

  • The website is full of addictive games from different genres like action, arcade, shooting, role-playing, adventure, racing, simulation, etc.
  • Multiple links for downloading a single game are available.
  • A customized search bar is available so that you can locate the exact game you are looking for without having to browse through thousands of games.
  • The games on AllGamesAtoZ are available on Windows, Linux, and Mac.
  • A forum for game reviews is provided, so it is easier to decide which game you want to download without trying them all.

Pros:

  • The gaming library is enormous.
  • The game reviews make it easier to make a decision and save time.
  • The website does not transfer viruses and is entirely safe from scams.

Cons:

  • The downloading process is quite long.
  • The website is not updated with new games.

4 Mega Games

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another highly recommended online gaming site. It not only provides PC games for free but also offers 3D PlayStation games to be downloaded on your PC without any charge.

mega games

Key Features:

  • Search and download

Mega games allow a search and download option for every game published on their site.

  • PlayStation games

It has provided its customers with not only PC games but also 3D PlayStation games that can be downloaded for free.

  • Cheat codes

Apart from all the standard gaming features, mega games also provide free cheat codes for the games.

Pros:

  • The games are easily downloaded.
  • The games have variety.

Cons:

  • The website stops working after a while, and the download gets interrupted

5 Caiman.us

Platforms: OS X and Windows

It is another digital distribution platform for free online gaming. After the death of the site’s developer, the site has gone offline.

caiman us

Key Features:

  • It has a vast collection of games and over twenty free games categories.
  • 2D and 3D gaming experiences are also provided.
  • A customized search is available to make it easier for players to find the game they are looking for.

Pros:

  • There is a vast collection of free games to download and play.

Cons:

  • The site is not well organized and confusing.
  • The search bar is at the very bottom of the page, so a person might find it hard to locate.
  • Since the site has gone offline, the games are not updated, so there are no new games.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

Part 2: Best Android Game Download Sites to Download Free Android Games

Android is growing very fast; now, almost everyone uses it and prefers it over any other software. Here are the best websites from where you can download free android apps:

1 Google Play

Google Play is the most common website to download free android apps. It is free, it is fast, and it is efficient. You can not only use this from your android mobile but also operate it and download apps using your laptop.

google play

Key Features:

  • The apps are easily downloaded, depending upon your internet connection.
  • The purchase methods are through credit cards, and the procedure is straightforward.
  • The platform allows everyone and anyone to sell their games.
  • Sign up through your Google account is necessary to access these features.

Pros:

  • It is easily accessible.
  • It is pre-installed on all android supported devices.
  • It contains a massive collection of unique apps, from books to music, workout, and games of various types.

Cons:

  • Since everyone and anyone can access it without paying any registration fee, it is exposed to scams and harassment.
  • A few games do not function and keep crashing.

2 Android Games Room

android games room

It contains thousands of free gaming apps in different categories like action, arcade, adventure, simulation, song games, and puzzle games. The download links are readily available; you can even access this site from your mobile by scanning a QR code. This site is a pretty good platform to download free games but has certain flaws. It does not allow a multiplayer gaming experience, and no customer services are provided.

3 Android Apps

android apps

It is another platform to download android apps for free. This site is pretty good since it updates games that developers handpick almost daily. You can also promote your app using the ‘promote your app’ feature. The site has a lot of updates and takes an unreasonable amount of time to install and update the software. Furthermore, you can say that they do not have a customer service function because nobody ever responds to the customer’s queries.

4 1 Mobile

1 mobile

One mobile is a free android store. It provides its users the easiest way to locate, download and manage free apps. 1 Mobile has over eighty (80) million apps. One mobile has just been recently updated, has a brand new interface design, and operates much smoother. The content is more prosperous, smoother, and a thousand times better than before the latest update. All the apps and games are 100% free forever without hidden charges. It supports various languages like English, Korean, Chinese, French, Spanish, Japanese, and Portugal.

5 Approx

approb

It provides the best free apps not only for android but OS as well. You can download it on your phone by scanning a QR code. This software has been functioning for the past six years and is free from viruses or malware.


To furnish your gameplay videos, Filmora also provides some cool effects, transitions, and elements, such as camera shake chaos effects, distortion effects, 3D change, speed blur transitions, and more. Moreover, you can always find some specially designed gaming effects in the Filmstock effects store.

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Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

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IMovie on Windows? Try These 10+ Alternatives Instead

Are you looking for an iMovie for Windows alternative? If so, that’s hardly surprising. Mac users are blessed with iMovie, a very handy video editing software. Unfortunately, like many Apple products, it’s unavailable on computers that run on Windows OS. But don’t worry. While there’s no iMovie for windows, there are plenty of alternatives. They will make you feel like you are actually using a Windows version of iMovie. This article will introduce you to the best ones.

wondershare filmora video editor

  1. Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software
  2. WeVideo - Best For Templates
  1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library
  2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag
  3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos
  4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva
  5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments
  6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool
  7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work
  8. Lightworks
  9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor
  10. WeVideo - Best for Templates
  11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

Top 2 Picks for iMovie for Windows Alternative

As mentioned above, there’s a lot of video editing software you can use as an iMovie equivalent for Windows. However, they are not of equal quality. Expectedly, some of them are miles better than others. Therefore, it’s best to do your research before installing - or buying one. That allows you to select the best one for you and, thus, ensure your satisfaction.

Here’s a quick comparison of the top 3 iMovie alternatives for Windows:

Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software

Paid | 4.7 • 693 Ratings

Wondershare Filmora has a slew of powerful video editing tools that let you express your creativity to its fullest. It allows you to make high-quality, impressive, and captivating videos easily.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

WeVideo - Best For Templates

Paid | 4.5 • 783 Ratings

WeVideo is a web-based video editor with customizable templates perfect for beginners and influencers. It has social media-friendly templates for very specific and popular categories like Unboxings and How-To Makeup.

Ultimate Overview on 11 Best Alternatives to iMovie for Windows

There’s a total of 12 best iMovie alternatives for Windows. Each one is different from the others, but they are all solid choices. Here’s a table showing information about each product:

Software OS Beginner Friendly (score/5) AI Editing Royalty-Free Stock Library Free Trial Cost-Effective (score/5)
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac 4.5 4.7
PowerDirector Windows, Mac 5 4.4
APowerEdit Windows, Mac, Online 5 X X 4.5
Typito Windows, Mac 4.5 X 4.2
ShotCut Windows, Mac, Linux 3.5 X 5
AceThinker Video Master Windows 4 X 4
VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac, Linux 4.4 X 4.1
LightWorks Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4
FlexClip Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4.5
WeVideo Windows, Mac, Linux 4 X 4.5
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux 4.5 X 4.5

11 Best Windows Version of iMovie

All of these 12 iMovie alternatives for Windows 10+ are good choices. However, they have differences, meaning one may be suited for you more than the others. Here’s more information about each one, including the pros and cons, ratings, supported OS, and even user reviews.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library

Wondershare Filmora is a powerful video editing tool. Its features allow you to showcase your creativity fully. This tool can make your homemade videos look professionally made.

wondershare filmora on windows

Key Features

  • Picture in Picture - Layer in multiple video clips
  • Green Screen - Change the video background and add effects using this feature
  • Split Screen - Show numerous videos at once with the split screen feature
  • Color Match - Save time by applying color correction settings across multiple clips with one click
  • Video Stabilizing - Eliminate Camera Shake
  • Speech to Text - Convert voice to subtitles in one click
  • Text to Speech - Add AI voiceover to liven up your video

Price

Filmora Costs $49.99 per year for individual users. Meanwhile, it costs $155.88 per year for businesses with one user.

Pros

  • PCMag says Wondershare Filmora has an eye-soothing interface. It’s not intimidating for beginners. Furthermore, Filmora’s ergonomic design makes it an easy-to-use video editing tool
  • Wondershare Filmora has AI editing tools not found on the pre-installed video editor on your Windows PC. As the name suggests, it uses artificial intelligence to apply changes to video clips. Some examples of things you can do with these tools are erasing the background or applying a color correction to all clips with a single mouse click
  • Filmora has lots of effects and overlays you can choose from

Cons

  • High RAM consumption that can slow down your PC

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad

User Review

Wondershare Filmora is the video editing software that you need. It has a slew of powerful tools that help you make amazing videos. A TrustRadius Ratings and Review states, “I take advantage of it on a regular basis and make YouTube movies for my shoppers. Simple to create eye-catching movies.”

Takeaway

Wondershare Filmora is filled with AI editing tools that help users produce high-quality videos.

2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag

PowerDirector is an iMovie alternative for Windows with a bunch of unique tools and features. Despite being simple and easy to use, it allows you to create Hollywood-level films and clips.

powerdirector interface

Key Features

  • Easy 360-degree video editing
  • Keyframing
  • Chroma key
  • AI Motion Tracking
  • Picture in Picture

Price

PowerDirector’s premium subscription costs $4.08/month.

Pros

  • User Friendly
  • Simple but powerful plugins
  • Has AI Editing Tools
  • Thousands of built-in transitions, overlay effects, and templates

Cons

  • You can’t access the Shutterstock and iStock built-in libraries without a Premium subscription

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

Powerdirector enables you to do world-class video editing; it supports 4k, 60 fps video editing! Additionally, it has lots of stickers, transitions, animations, and many more. A G2 reviewer says, “Go for it, guys! It is one of the best editing platforms in the market.”

Takeaway

PowerDirector’s advanced tools make it among the best iMovie alternatives for Windows 10/11.

3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos

APowerEdit is a straightforward video editing tool with dozens of transitions, text effects, overlays, and filters.

apoweredit interface

Key Features

  • Supports all common media formats
  • Includes dynamic title captions
  • Dozens of overlays, transitions, and filters
  • Picture in Picture
  • Quickly correct brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation

Price

APowerEdit is free software with a paid version that costs$29.95 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to navigate due to its user-friendly design
  • Lots of export options
  • Dozens of editing tools

Cons

  • Lacks advanced editing tools needed for bigger projects

Supported OS: Windows, Mac, Online

User Review

APowerEdit is a simple video editing software best for beginners and not-so-tech-savvy users. An AlternativeTo review says, “Apoweredit is super easy to use. It is suitable for beginners like me. Awesome software!”

Takeaway

APowerEdit is a nice tool to have for beginners. However, if you plan to make impressive short films or bigger projects, it is not the ideal software to use.

4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva

Typito is like Canva but for videos. It is a web-based video editing software with drag-and-drop features, stylish typography, images, and brand layouts.

typito interface

Key Features

  • Drag-and-drop interface for easy editing
  • Features built for creating engaging social media posts.
  • Resize video files fast
  • Includes 200+ motion graphic templates

Price

Typito subscriptions start at $15 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple Export Options
  • Has all the basic video editing tools

Cons

  • Too basic for bigger projects
  • The free version has a watermark

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Typito is a web-based video editor and a simple, easy-to-use tool. It receives continuous updates, so it becomes better and better. A G2 review says , “In Typito, even if you are a “Free” user, you can still create a video that looks so professional as if you paid someone to do it for you.”

Takeaway

Typito’s solid selection of tools is enough for simple projects, and it’s one of the best iMovie alternatives for Windows for social media influencers. However, advanced users may find it a little lacking.

5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments

ShotCut is a completely free iMovie alternative for Windows. This tool is an open-source, cross-platform, video-editing software.

shotcut interface

Key Features

  • Webcam Capture
  • Keyframing
  • Auto-Rotate
  • Blending Modes
  • Unlimited Undo and Redo options
  • Powerful color correction tools

Price: Free

Pros

  • Because ShotCut is an open-source program, it gets updated regularly by the community
  • Completely free

Cons

  • No social media integrations
  • Not user-friendly

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Shotcut is free video editing software with a toolkit that rivals paid ones. A G2 review states, “We don’t have to pay anything, and we can edit the professional type of videos. It has all the features which any paid software has.”

Takeaway

Do you not want to spend money? If so, Shotcut is the option for you. It also has the strength of being available on many platforms. And because Shotcut is an open-source program, it gets regular updates from the community. However, its interface is not the most beginner-friendly.

6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool

AceThinker is a video editor, video converter, and video downloader in one package.

acethinker video master interface

Key Features

  • Built-in video player
  • HD video converter
  • Wide range of customization
  • Supports popular video formats
  • Basic video editing tools

Price

AceThinker Video Master’s pricing plans start from $29.95.

Pros

  • Video converter, downloader, editor, and screen recorder in one
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Lack of advanced video editing tools

G2 Rating: 5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac

User Review

AceThinker Video Master is all about convenience. It provides you with a video editor, downloader, and converter in one package. An educator left a review on G2 ; they say, “This has saved me lost time, increased student engagement, and [it is] a wonderful training tool for other educators.”

Takeaway

Is the storage space in your Windows PC running out? If that’s the case, AceThinker Video Master is a fantastic tool for you. It’s essentially four video apps in one package. And it’s not too shabby as video editing software, either. Expectedly, it’s not the best choice for making short films for competitions and projects of similar or bigger scale.

7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work

VideoPad Video Editor is among the most impressive iMovie alternatives for Windows. It has powerful tools that will help you create films that would wow the audience.

videopad video editor interface

Key Features

  • Over 50 Effects and Transitions
  • Supports all video formats
  • 3D Video Editing
  • 360-degree video support
  • Chroma key compositing
  • Camera Stabilizer
  • Speech-to-text feature

Price

VideoPad Home Edition costs $34.99, while the Master’s Edition costs $69.95.

Pros

  • Has basic and advanced tools
  • Direct upload to popular social media channels
  • Fast video stream processor

Cons

  • The interface is outdated
  • The speech-to-text feature is unreliable
  • The free version is full of annoying notifications

G2 Rating: 4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

VideoPad is an easy-to-learn video editing software full of helpful tools. A G2 reviewer states, “This complete and powerful media editing tool offers a variety of possibilities and possibilities to optimize every clip to the fullest.”

Takeaway

VideoPad Video Editor has many free features you can use to improve your videos. Admittedly, there are problems with some of these features. Nevertheless, this tool is a solid choice for a Windows iMovie alternative.

8. Lightworks

Lightworks Pro is a video editor used to make some Oscar-winning films, and Lightworks is a free and less complicated version of it. However, Lightworks is still not that beginner-friendly. Therefore, it’s best to consider this as an iMovie alternative only if you are an intermediate user.

lightworks interface

Key Features

  • Advanced Color Correction
  • Some advanced tools
  • Tooltips to help you learn how to use the features
  • Integration to Cloud services
  • Keyframing
  • Advanced audio controls
  • Autosave

Price

Lightworks is free, but premium subscriptions for Lightworks Create costs $99.9, and Lightworks Pro costs $24.99.

Pros

  • Includes Advanced tools
  • You would not lose progress because of the autosave feature
  • Good performance

Cons

  • Not suited for beginners
  • You can only export up to 720p using the free version

G2 Rating: 3.5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

A TrustRadius Ratings and Review says, “Lightworks is a great tool for a non-designer to use because it provides a number of tools and capabilities that can be quickly learned.” However, they note that Lightworks does not provide advanced video editors with all the tools they need. It’s best for intermediate users.

Takeaway

Lightworks is a fantastic alternative to iMovie for Windows 10+ users. However, it requires you to be quite knowledgeable about video editing tools. This editor has a slightly higher learning curve than others. But once you learn how to use Lightworks, creating quality videos would be super easy.

9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor

flexclip interface

FlexClip is a free online editor. It is a good substitute for iMovie for Windows users, regardless if you are a beginner or a professional.

Key Features

  • Dozens of useful tools like background remover and gif maker
  • Voice and screen recorder
  • Integration with social media platforms
  • It supports all the popular video formats
  • Allows you to export up to 1080p

Price

FlexClip is free, but premium subscriptions are available. Subscriptions start from $9.99 per month.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced editing tools
  • Easy to share your work on social media platforms
  • Allows creation of high-quality videos

Cons

  • Long loading time before you can use it

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

FlexClip being an online video editor means one thing; it does not use your PC’s processing power. It also delivers what it promises. A G2 reviewe r says, “I have used many video editing tools so far, but none is close to FlexClip when it comes to video editing.”

Takeaway

You can’t go wrong with FlexClip. It has powerful tools making it a great iMovie alternative for Windows. You don’t even have to install it; it’s an online tool. Unfortunately, that has some downsides. You need to wait for the website to finish loading before working because it scrolls down for each line that gets loaded.

10. WeVideo - Best for Templates

WeVideo includes social-media-friendly templates, making it a fantastic choice for editing popular video categories like How-to, Unboxings, and Makeup tutorials.

Key Features

  • Color Correction
  • Green Screen Editing Tool
  • Has support for square videos (for Instagram) and vertical videos (for TikTok)
  • Customizable templates plus dozens of pre-made ones

Price

Premium subscriptions start at $60 per year.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced video editing tools
  • Excellent customer support
  • User-friendly

Cons

  • The free version has lots of limitations
  • Importing videos to the website takes a long time

G2 Rating: 4.4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Social media influencers and marketers need to check out WeVideo. A reviewer of this video editing tool on G2 said, “It’s got a handful of Templates that you can use to explore your creativity and inventiveness when creating your content.”

Takeaway

WeVideo is a solid alternative for iMovie for Windows 10/11, but only if you are willing to pay. The free version has lots of restrictions. For example, you can only export 5 minutes of content per month.

11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

openshot interface

OpenShot has a straightforward interface, making it beginner-friendly. It has some fantastic tools you’ll find helpful. There’s a catch with beginner-friendly editors, though. They don’t have the advanced features you can find on other video editors. You can say that for OpenShot.

Key Features

  • 3D Animation
  • Text Editor
  • Keyframing
  • Decent selection of templates and filters

Price: Free

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Includes a wide range of editing tools
  • Lots of export options

Cons

  • Lack of advanced tools like Picture-in-Picture or Chroma Key
  • Very laggy to use sometimes

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

OpenShot is a great introductory software for video editing. Its simplicity, ergonomic design, and set of handy tools make it perfect for beginners. A G2 review states, “I do not have a degree in video editing, but the products from my Openshot edits were of high quality.”

Takeaway

Some tools are intimidating for beginners; there are many buttons, and you don’t know what each one does. That’s not a problem when using OpenShot. Its simple interface is easy to understand, making it the best tool for beginners.

How to Edit a Video with an iMovie Alternative on Windows

Knowing which are the best iMovie alternatives on Windows is not enough. Of course, you also need to learn how to use them. Here’s a guide on how to use Wondershare Filmora, the best overall iMovie alternative for Windows.

Step1 Launch Filmora. Then, if you want to, select the aspect ratio.

filmora interface

Step2 Click New Project, then wait for the video editor to load. Then, click Register to register the product.

Step3 Select the aspect ratio for the final cut. Click Project Settings from the File menu, then select your desired aspect ratio.

filmora project settings

Step4 Import the files you want to edit. Click the Import button in the upper left corner of the video editor. Select Import Media Files, then navigate to the location on your hard drive where the footage you want to edit is stored. Select the files you want to use in your project, then click Import.

importing files to filmora

Step5 Drag and drop the files to the timeline. Please note that the last one you add will always be placed after the previous one. Thus, you need to drag the file on the timeline to put it in the desired position. Press Play to preview.

adding files to filmora timeline

Step6 Apply visual effects, color correction, and other edits you want to make.

adding text to videos on filmora

Step7 Click Export to publish your video. Don’t forget to select your desired file format and resolution.

exporting videos from filmora

Here’s a video tutorial on how to use Wondershare Filmora

image / video 16:9

Final Words

It’s a shame that iMovie is not available on Windows 10/11 computers. Thankfully, there are alternatives you can use. Wondershare Filmora is an outstanding one. It allows you to do what you can do using iMovie and more.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Top 2 Picks for iMovie for Windows Alternative

As mentioned above, there’s a lot of video editing software you can use as an iMovie equivalent for Windows. However, they are not of equal quality. Expectedly, some of them are miles better than others. Therefore, it’s best to do your research before installing - or buying one. That allows you to select the best one for you and, thus, ensure your satisfaction.

Here’s a quick comparison of the top 3 iMovie alternatives for Windows:

Wondershare Filmora - Best Overall Video Editing Software

Paid | 4.7 • 693 Ratings

Wondershare Filmora has a slew of powerful video editing tools that let you express your creativity to its fullest. It allows you to make high-quality, impressive, and captivating videos easily.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

WeVideo - Best For Templates

Paid | 4.5 • 783 Ratings

WeVideo is a web-based video editor with customizable templates perfect for beginners and influencers. It has social media-friendly templates for very specific and popular categories like Unboxings and How-To Makeup.

Ultimate Overview on 11 Best Alternatives to iMovie for Windows

There’s a total of 12 best iMovie alternatives for Windows. Each one is different from the others, but they are all solid choices. Here’s a table showing information about each product:

Software OS Beginner Friendly (score/5) AI Editing Royalty-Free Stock Library Free Trial Cost-Effective (score/5)
Wondershare Filmora Windows, Mac 4.5 4.7
PowerDirector Windows, Mac 5 4.4
APowerEdit Windows, Mac, Online 5 X X 4.5
Typito Windows, Mac 4.5 X 4.2
ShotCut Windows, Mac, Linux 3.5 X 5
AceThinker Video Master Windows 4 X 4
VideoPad Video Editor Windows, Mac, Linux 4.4 X 4.1
LightWorks Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4
FlexClip Windows, Mac, Linux 4 4.5
WeVideo Windows, Mac, Linux 4 X 4.5
OpenShot Windows, Mac, Linux 4.5 X 4.5

11 Best Windows Version of iMovie

All of these 12 iMovie alternatives for Windows 10+ are good choices. However, they have differences, meaning one may be suited for you more than the others. Here’s more information about each one, including the pros and cons, ratings, supported OS, and even user reviews.

1. Wondershare Filmora - Enhanced Royalty-Free Stock Library

Wondershare Filmora is a powerful video editing tool. Its features allow you to showcase your creativity fully. This tool can make your homemade videos look professionally made.

wondershare filmora on windows

Key Features

  • Picture in Picture - Layer in multiple video clips
  • Green Screen - Change the video background and add effects using this feature
  • Split Screen - Show numerous videos at once with the split screen feature
  • Color Match - Save time by applying color correction settings across multiple clips with one click
  • Video Stabilizing - Eliminate Camera Shake
  • Speech to Text - Convert voice to subtitles in one click
  • Text to Speech - Add AI voiceover to liven up your video

Price

Filmora Costs $49.99 per year for individual users. Meanwhile, it costs $155.88 per year for businesses with one user.

Pros

  • PCMag says Wondershare Filmora has an eye-soothing interface. It’s not intimidating for beginners. Furthermore, Filmora’s ergonomic design makes it an easy-to-use video editing tool
  • Wondershare Filmora has AI editing tools not found on the pre-installed video editor on your Windows PC. As the name suggests, it uses artificial intelligence to apply changes to video clips. Some examples of things you can do with these tools are erasing the background or applying a color correction to all clips with a single mouse click
  • Filmora has lots of effects and overlays you can choose from

Cons

  • High RAM consumption that can slow down your PC

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , iPad

User Review

Wondershare Filmora is the video editing software that you need. It has a slew of powerful tools that help you make amazing videos. A TrustRadius Ratings and Review states, “I take advantage of it on a regular basis and make YouTube movies for my shoppers. Simple to create eye-catching movies.”

Takeaway

Wondershare Filmora is filled with AI editing tools that help users produce high-quality videos.

2. PowerDirector - Top Ranked Video Editor, PC Mag

PowerDirector is an iMovie alternative for Windows with a bunch of unique tools and features. Despite being simple and easy to use, it allows you to create Hollywood-level films and clips.

powerdirector interface

Key Features

  • Easy 360-degree video editing
  • Keyframing
  • Chroma key
  • AI Motion Tracking
  • Picture in Picture

Price

PowerDirector’s premium subscription costs $4.08/month.

Pros

  • User Friendly
  • Simple but powerful plugins
  • Has AI Editing Tools
  • Thousands of built-in transitions, overlay effects, and templates

Cons

  • You can’t access the Shutterstock and iStock built-in libraries without a Premium subscription

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

Powerdirector enables you to do world-class video editing; it supports 4k, 60 fps video editing! Additionally, it has lots of stickers, transitions, animations, and many more. A G2 reviewer says, “Go for it, guys! It is one of the best editing platforms in the market.”

Takeaway

PowerDirector’s advanced tools make it among the best iMovie alternatives for Windows 10/11.

3. APowerEdit - Easiest Way to Edit Videos

APowerEdit is a straightforward video editing tool with dozens of transitions, text effects, overlays, and filters.

apoweredit interface

Key Features

  • Supports all common media formats
  • Includes dynamic title captions
  • Dozens of overlays, transitions, and filters
  • Picture in Picture
  • Quickly correct brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation

Price

APowerEdit is free software with a paid version that costs$29.95 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to navigate due to its user-friendly design
  • Lots of export options
  • Dozens of editing tools

Cons

  • Lacks advanced editing tools needed for bigger projects

Supported OS: Windows, Mac, Online

User Review

APowerEdit is a simple video editing software best for beginners and not-so-tech-savvy users. An AlternativeTo review says, “Apoweredit is super easy to use. It is suitable for beginners like me. Awesome software!”

Takeaway

APowerEdit is a nice tool to have for beginners. However, if you plan to make impressive short films or bigger projects, it is not the ideal software to use.

4. Typito - Video Editing Tool Equivalent of Canva

Typito is like Canva but for videos. It is a web-based video editing software with drag-and-drop features, stylish typography, images, and brand layouts.

typito interface

Key Features

  • Drag-and-drop interface for easy editing
  • Features built for creating engaging social media posts.
  • Resize video files fast
  • Includes 200+ motion graphic templates

Price

Typito subscriptions start at $15 per month.

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple Export Options
  • Has all the basic video editing tools

Cons

  • Too basic for bigger projects
  • The free version has a watermark

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Typito is a web-based video editor and a simple, easy-to-use tool. It receives continuous updates, so it becomes better and better. A G2 review says , “In Typito, even if you are a “Free” user, you can still create a video that looks so professional as if you paid someone to do it for you.”

Takeaway

Typito’s solid selection of tools is enough for simple projects, and it’s one of the best iMovie alternatives for Windows for social media influencers. However, advanced users may find it a little lacking.

5. Shotcut - Best for Color Adjustments

ShotCut is a completely free iMovie alternative for Windows. This tool is an open-source, cross-platform, video-editing software.

shotcut interface

Key Features

  • Webcam Capture
  • Keyframing
  • Auto-Rotate
  • Blending Modes
  • Unlimited Undo and Redo options
  • Powerful color correction tools

Price: Free

Pros

  • Because ShotCut is an open-source program, it gets updated regularly by the community
  • Completely free

Cons

  • No social media integrations
  • Not user-friendly

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Shotcut is free video editing software with a toolkit that rivals paid ones. A G2 review states, “We don’t have to pay anything, and we can edit the professional type of videos. It has all the features which any paid software has.”

Takeaway

Do you not want to spend money? If so, Shotcut is the option for you. It also has the strength of being available on many platforms. And because Shotcut is an open-source program, it gets regular updates from the community. However, its interface is not the most beginner-friendly.

6. AceThinker Video Master - All in one Video Tool

AceThinker is a video editor, video converter, and video downloader in one package.

acethinker video master interface

Key Features

  • Built-in video player
  • HD video converter
  • Wide range of customization
  • Supports popular video formats
  • Basic video editing tools

Price

AceThinker Video Master’s pricing plans start from $29.95.

Pros

  • Video converter, downloader, editor, and screen recorder in one
  • User-friendly interface

Cons

  • Lack of advanced video editing tools

G2 Rating: 5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac

User Review

AceThinker Video Master is all about convenience. It provides you with a video editor, downloader, and converter in one package. An educator left a review on G2 ; they say, “This has saved me lost time, increased student engagement, and [it is] a wonderful training tool for other educators.”

Takeaway

Is the storage space in your Windows PC running out? If that’s the case, AceThinker Video Master is a fantastic tool for you. It’s essentially four video apps in one package. And it’s not too shabby as video editing software, either. Expectedly, it’s not the best choice for making short films for competitions and projects of similar or bigger scale.

7. VideoPad Video Editor - Best for Social Media Work

VideoPad Video Editor is among the most impressive iMovie alternatives for Windows. It has powerful tools that will help you create films that would wow the audience.

videopad video editor interface

Key Features

  • Over 50 Effects and Transitions
  • Supports all video formats
  • 3D Video Editing
  • 360-degree video support
  • Chroma key compositing
  • Camera Stabilizer
  • Speech-to-text feature

Price

VideoPad Home Edition costs $34.99, while the Master’s Edition costs $69.95.

Pros

  • Has basic and advanced tools
  • Direct upload to popular social media channels
  • Fast video stream processor

Cons

  • The interface is outdated
  • The speech-to-text feature is unreliable
  • The free version is full of annoying notifications

G2 Rating: 4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac

User Review

VideoPad is an easy-to-learn video editing software full of helpful tools. A G2 reviewer states, “This complete and powerful media editing tool offers a variety of possibilities and possibilities to optimize every clip to the fullest.”

Takeaway

VideoPad Video Editor has many free features you can use to improve your videos. Admittedly, there are problems with some of these features. Nevertheless, this tool is a solid choice for a Windows iMovie alternative.

8. Lightworks

Lightworks Pro is a video editor used to make some Oscar-winning films, and Lightworks is a free and less complicated version of it. However, Lightworks is still not that beginner-friendly. Therefore, it’s best to consider this as an iMovie alternative only if you are an intermediate user.

lightworks interface

Key Features

  • Advanced Color Correction
  • Some advanced tools
  • Tooltips to help you learn how to use the features
  • Integration to Cloud services
  • Keyframing
  • Advanced audio controls
  • Autosave

Price

Lightworks is free, but premium subscriptions for Lightworks Create costs $99.9, and Lightworks Pro costs $24.99.

Pros

  • Includes Advanced tools
  • You would not lose progress because of the autosave feature
  • Good performance

Cons

  • Not suited for beginners
  • You can only export up to 720p using the free version

G2 Rating: 3.5 Stars

Supported OS Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

A TrustRadius Ratings and Review says, “Lightworks is a great tool for a non-designer to use because it provides a number of tools and capabilities that can be quickly learned.” However, they note that Lightworks does not provide advanced video editors with all the tools they need. It’s best for intermediate users.

Takeaway

Lightworks is a fantastic alternative to iMovie for Windows 10+ users. However, it requires you to be quite knowledgeable about video editing tools. This editor has a slightly higher learning curve than others. But once you learn how to use Lightworks, creating quality videos would be super easy.

9. Flexclip - Easy-to-Use Online Editor

flexclip interface

FlexClip is a free online editor. It is a good substitute for iMovie for Windows users, regardless if you are a beginner or a professional.

Key Features

  • Dozens of useful tools like background remover and gif maker
  • Voice and screen recorder
  • Integration with social media platforms
  • It supports all the popular video formats
  • Allows you to export up to 1080p

Price

FlexClip is free, but premium subscriptions are available. Subscriptions start from $9.99 per month.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced editing tools
  • Easy to share your work on social media platforms
  • Allows creation of high-quality videos

Cons

  • Long loading time before you can use it

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

FlexClip being an online video editor means one thing; it does not use your PC’s processing power. It also delivers what it promises. A G2 reviewe r says, “I have used many video editing tools so far, but none is close to FlexClip when it comes to video editing.”

Takeaway

You can’t go wrong with FlexClip. It has powerful tools making it a great iMovie alternative for Windows. You don’t even have to install it; it’s an online tool. Unfortunately, that has some downsides. You need to wait for the website to finish loading before working because it scrolls down for each line that gets loaded.

10. WeVideo - Best for Templates

WeVideo includes social-media-friendly templates, making it a fantastic choice for editing popular video categories like How-to, Unboxings, and Makeup tutorials.

Key Features

  • Color Correction
  • Green Screen Editing Tool
  • Has support for square videos (for Instagram) and vertical videos (for TikTok)
  • Customizable templates plus dozens of pre-made ones

Price

Premium subscriptions start at $60 per year.

Pros

  • Includes basic and advanced video editing tools
  • Excellent customer support
  • User-friendly

Cons

  • The free version has lots of limitations
  • Importing videos to the website takes a long time

G2 Rating: 4.4 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

Social media influencers and marketers need to check out WeVideo. A reviewer of this video editing tool on G2 said, “It’s got a handful of Templates that you can use to explore your creativity and inventiveness when creating your content.”

Takeaway

WeVideo is a solid alternative for iMovie for Windows 10/11, but only if you are willing to pay. The free version has lots of restrictions. For example, you can only export 5 minutes of content per month.

11. OpenShot - Best for Amateurs

openshot interface

OpenShot has a straightforward interface, making it beginner-friendly. It has some fantastic tools you’ll find helpful. There’s a catch with beginner-friendly editors, though. They don’t have the advanced features you can find on other video editors. You can say that for OpenShot.

Key Features

  • 3D Animation
  • Text Editor
  • Keyframing
  • Decent selection of templates and filters

Price: Free

Pros

  • Beginner-friendly
  • Includes a wide range of editing tools
  • Lots of export options

Cons

  • Lack of advanced tools like Picture-in-Picture or Chroma Key
  • Very laggy to use sometimes

G2 Rating: 4.5 Stars

Supported OS: Windows , Mac , Linux

User Review

OpenShot is a great introductory software for video editing. Its simplicity, ergonomic design, and set of handy tools make it perfect for beginners. A G2 review states, “I do not have a degree in video editing, but the products from my Openshot edits were of high quality.”

Takeaway

Some tools are intimidating for beginners; there are many buttons, and you don’t know what each one does. That’s not a problem when using OpenShot. Its simple interface is easy to understand, making it the best tool for beginners.

How to Edit a Video with an iMovie Alternative on Windows

Knowing which are the best iMovie alternatives on Windows is not enough. Of course, you also need to learn how to use them. Here’s a guide on how to use Wondershare Filmora, the best overall iMovie alternative for Windows.

Step1 Launch Filmora. Then, if you want to, select the aspect ratio.

filmora interface

Step2 Click New Project, then wait for the video editor to load. Then, click Register to register the product.

Step3 Select the aspect ratio for the final cut. Click Project Settings from the File menu, then select your desired aspect ratio.

filmora project settings

Step4 Import the files you want to edit. Click the Import button in the upper left corner of the video editor. Select Import Media Files, then navigate to the location on your hard drive where the footage you want to edit is stored. Select the files you want to use in your project, then click Import.

importing files to filmora

Step5 Drag and drop the files to the timeline. Please note that the last one you add will always be placed after the previous one. Thus, you need to drag the file on the timeline to put it in the desired position. Press Play to preview.

adding files to filmora timeline

Step6 Apply visual effects, color correction, and other edits you want to make.

adding text to videos on filmora

Step7 Click Export to publish your video. Don’t forget to select your desired file format and resolution.

exporting videos from filmora

Here’s a video tutorial on how to use Wondershare Filmora

image / video 16:9

Final Words

It’s a shame that iMovie is not available on Windows 10/11 computers. Thankfully, there are alternatives you can use. Wondershare Filmora is an outstanding one. It allows you to do what you can do using iMovie and more.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Stream Anything: The Ultimate Chromecast Video Playback Guide

How to Stream Any Video Format to Google Chromecast

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Google Chromecast is a digital media player that allows you to stream MP4, WebM, MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video formats on your High Definition Television (HDTV). It requires a wireless connection using the Internet or a network-connected computer, tablet, or smartphone. You can play various multimedia content, but only Google Cast-supported formats can be streamed directly.

If you would like to play unsupported formats, such as MKV, VOB, FLV, and AVI, you will need to get a video format converter to stream movies, TV shows, and music videos with unsupported formats. We’ve picked some best video converters that you can use which also support 4K footage. Check the list of thebest 4K video converters here. In this article, you will learn about supported and unsupported video formats and how you can stream them using your Chromecast media player.

google chromecast


This article contains:


Part 1: Chromecast Supported and Unsupported Video Formats

The default Chromecast video formats are MP4 and WebM. It also supports MPEG-DASH, Smooth Streaming, and HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) video files. All other video formats are unsupported. The following information provides a brief introduction of supported and unsupported formats.

Standard supported Chromecast video formats include:

  • MP4 - MPEG 4 or MP4 video files use the standard .mp4 extension. It is most commonly used to store video and audio files.
  • WebM – An open video format for the web that allows everyone to stream video and audio codecs.

Some unsupported video formats include:

  • AVI – AVI (Audio Video Interleave), the most common format for audio/video data on the PC, is a multimedia container format with video and audio.
  • MKV – The Matroska Multimedia Container holds video, audio, picture, or subtitle tracks in one file.
  • FLV – Flash video formats are video files that are streamed over the Internet using the Adobe Flash Player.
  • MOV – MOV is a multimedia file format that contains one and more tracks of data, such as audio, video or text.
  • VOB – VOB (Video Object) files are DVD-Video file formats that contain digital video audio, audio, and subtitles relevant to DVDs.
  • 3G2 – This is a video container file for audio, video, and text that is an extension of MP4.

What are the differences between each format? Check What’s Video Format?

Since Chromecast only supports few video formats, it is recommended that you get avideo streaming application that allows you to stream unsupported formats, such as M2TS, 3GP, DIVX, RM, RMVB, ASF, TS, DV, F4V, OGV, TOD. Wondershare Video Converter for example allows you to use Chromecast to stream unsupported formats through your Windows computer to your television.


Part 2: Three Ways to Stream Supported Videos

There are various ways that you can stream supported videos using your Chromecast media player, but here you will learn three of the most commonly used methods. You will learn how to connect using a computer, mobile device, and through the YouTube app.

1.Connect with your Mobile device

To stream videos using your mobile device, you will need to download and open the Chromecast app on your Android or iOS smartphone or tablet using Google Play or the App Store. The Chromecast app is available for Android tablets and smartphones through Google Play and for iPhones and iPads in the App store.

Note: You should ensure that your mobile device is connected to your Wi-Fi and not your mobile network. Also, you must have the latest app installed and be on the same network as your Chromecast digital media player.

2.Connect with your Computer

Chromecast allows you to stream videos on your TV using your Mac or PC running the Chrome browser. This is the only browser that Chromecast is compatible with. Follow the instructions below to connect with your computer.

Step 1. Open the Chrome browser on your computer and then set up Chromecast.

cast video

Step 2. Download the Chromecast app to your computer.

Step 3. Select the instruction below that is applicable to your computer.

i. On your Windows computer, Save the file, run the Chromecast app and follow the prompts to complete setting up Chromecast.
ii. On your Mac OS X computer, drag and drop the Chromecast app into your Applications folder. You will need to open the folder, run the application, and then select the Chromecast device. Follow the instructions to complete the setup process.

3. Connect with YouTube

Follow the instructions below to download and set up YouTube to watch videos on your TV using your Chromecast device.

Step 1. Connect your Chromecast device to an available HDMI slot on your HDTV.
Step 2. When your Chromecast digital media player is securely connected to your TV you will see the Chromecast Home screen with your Wi-Fi name at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3. Now, download the YouTube app on your Android or Apple tablet or smartphone.
Step 4. Connect your Android or Apple device to the same Wi-Fi network as your Chromecast device.
Step 5. Open the YouTube app on your Android or Apple device and click the Cast button to start streaming videos.


Part 3: Comparison Methods for Streaming Supported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming supported videos using a computer, YouTube, and a mobile device.

| | Computer | YouTube | Mobile Devices | |
| ———————– | ———————————————- | —————————————– | ————– |
| TELEVISION | HDTV | HDTV | HDTV |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X 7 or higher or Windows 7 or higher | Android or iOS | Android or iOS |
| MOBILE APPLICATION | Chromecast | YouTube | Chromecast |
| INTERNET CONNECTION | Wireless | Wireless | Wireless |
| GOOGLE DEVICE | Chromecast | Chromecast | Chromecast |
| BROWSER | Chrome | | |
| MOBILE DEVICE | iPad, iPhone, and Android smartphone or Tablet | iPad, iPhone, and Android Phone or Tablet | |


Part 4: Three Ways to Stream Unsupported Videos

  • Wondershare Video Converter – It provides a powerful plugin called “Media Server” which allows you to directly stream both supported and unsupported audio and video formats to Chromecast.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

  • Wondershare DreamStream Application - DreamStream allows HD streaming from PC and tablet to TV through Chromecast. It allows you to stream TV shows, movies, and music videos with any video format to your TV.

Download Win Version

  • RealPlayer Cloud– The Real Player Cloud app allows you to stream unsupported videos to your TV with your computer or mobile device.

Part 5: Comparison Methods for Streaming Unsupported Videos

The following chart provides a list of requirements for streaming unsupported videos to your TV using iDealShare video converter, RealPlayer Cloud app, and Wondershare DreamStream.

| | Wondershare Video Converter | Wondershare DreamStream Application | RealPlayer Cloud | |
| —————————————————————————– | —————————————————————————————- | ————————————————————————————————————————– | ————————————————————– |
| VIDEO FORMATS | MKV, AVI , MP4 , Apple ProRes, MOV, FLV, VOB, DAV, MPG, MXF, avchd, WTV, WMV , ASF, RMVB | MP4 , WebM, AVI , MKV , RM, RMVB, MOV, MPG, VOB, FLV , WMV, ASF, TS, M2TS, 3G2, 3GP, DIVX, DV, F4V, MTS, OGV, TOD, TP, TRP | FLV , WMV , MKV , DIVX, XVID, MOV, AVI , and MP4 . |
| AUDIO FORMATS | LAC, DTS, AIFF, APE, WAV, WMA, Apple Lossless, M4A, OGG, CAF | MP3, WMA, APE, FLAC, OGG, M4A, WAV, AC3, MP2 | Android or iOS |
| OPERATING SYSTEM | Mac OS X and Windows | Windows | Chromecast |
| PRICE | $49.95 | Free Lite, $4.99 mo. (Registered) | Free app, $4.99 to $29.99 mo. (25 to 300 GB Storage) |
| BROWSER | Firefox, Chrome, Safari, etc | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) | All Browsers (Firefox, Safari, Internet Explorer, Chrome, etc) |
| MOBILE DEVICE | Windows Tablet | iPhone, iPad, Android tablet and smartphone | |

At the end of the day, streaming supported and unsupported video formats to your TV with Chromecast are easy to accomplish with any of the methods and tools discussed.

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Final Cut Pro X: The Art of Freeze Frames and Slow Motion Storytelling

Final Cut Pro X: Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

A very simple, yet very effective effect is changing the speed of a video clip. This could be a simple still-frame (also called “Freeze Frame”) or playing a clip in slow or fast motion.

This article shows you how to do this using Final Cut Pro X.

For more tutorials on slow-motion please refer to this article: Top 10 Slow Motion Video Editing Software.

Freeze-Frames and Slow Motion in Final Cut Pro X

1. STILL FRAMES

still frames

A still-frame freezes action. For instance, here is a clip of a hummingbird getting ready to land on a bird feeder. I want to create a freeze-frame of the bird in flight. (Um, yeah, I use “freeze-frame” and “still-frame” interchangeably.)

In Final Cut Pro X, put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to freeze and type Option+F.

freeze frames

This creates a two-second freeze-frame at the position of the playhead.

create freeze frame

Adjust the duration of the frame by trimming the edge; just like any other clip. Here, for example, I’m making the duration of the freeze-frame 11 frames shorter.

freeze frames in FCP X

In case you were wondering, this is what the freeze looks like. It freezes the flight of the hummingbird in the middle of playback, allowing us to add graphics or other text then resume the action as though nothing had happened.

Very cool, except….

Well, the good news is that this is fast and easy. The bad news is that we can’t change the location of the still frame.

So, here’s another way to do this.

Put the playhead (or skimmer, but I prefer the playhead) on the frame you want to freeze, select the clip, then type Shift+F.

Playhead

This locates the source clip in the Browser, selects both the Browser and the clip, and matches the position of the In, Out, and playhead.

match clips

Now, with the Browser selected, type Option+F. This creates a freeze-frame of the Browser clip and places it at the location of the playhead as a connected clip in the Timeline.

As a connected clip, we can move this new freeze-frame wherever we want. However, be careful in moving the clip, because, unless you mark the original frame with a marker (type “M”), there’s no easy way to match the still frame with the source frame, once the still frame is moved somewhere else.

I use both these techniques in many different projects.

2. HOLD FRAME

A Hold Frame is similar to an in-line still frame, but with more flexibility.

hold frame

Put the playhead (or skimmer) on the frame you want to hold. Then, Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf-on-a-headset” Toolbar icon, choose Hold Frame (or type: Shift+H).

hold frames in fcp x

This displays the orange Retime editor bar above the clip, with a small red portion indicating the Hold frame.

create hold frames

Change the duration of the Hold frame by dragging the small thumb at the right end of the red bar.

speed016

Add a speed ramp transition at the end of the Hold frame by clicking the downward-pointing arrow next to the word “Hold” in the Retime Editor.

speed018

To change the actual frame being held, double-click the bar icon to the LEFT of the red Hold section and choose Source Frame (Edit). This allows you to slide the Hold frame selection left or right.

NOTE: Changing the source frame is a feature that I like a LOT!

3. SLOW (or FAST) MOTION

fast/slow motion

We use slow-motion to show events that are too fast for the unaided eye to see. And fast motion to speed up very slow events. Both of these effects use what’s called a “constant speed change,” where the entire clip changes by the same amount - either faster or slower.

WE create either effect using the same tools, just different values. Here’s how.

slow motion

Select the clip who’s speed you want to change. Then, using either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” Toolbar icon, select Slow (or Fast).

Choose one of the available speeds; in this case, 50%. (Yes, you can change this to any value you want, I’ll show you how in a minute.)

create slow/fast motion

Three things happen at once:

  • The duration of the clip changes
  • The orange Retiming bar appears over the top of the clip
  • The speed of the clip changes

speed010

To reset the speed back to normal (100%), click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Normal (100%).

There are two ways to change the speed of a clip.

speed017

The easy way is to grab the small handle at the end of the clip and drag left or right. The speed will change as you drag it.

Or, for more precision, click the downward-pointing arrow in the Retiming bar and choose Custom.

speed011

This opens a new dialog allowing a number of changes:

  • Reverse. Plays the clip in reverse.
  • Rate. Select a specific speed change as a percentage of normal speed for a clip. Less than 100% is slow-motion. More than 100% is fast-motion.
  • Duration. Select a specific duration for a clip and FCP X will calculate how fast or slow it needs to go.
  • Ripple. When checked, adjusts the duration of a clip based upon the speed. When unchecked, the clip duration remains fixed even when speed changes.

You will get the smoothest speed changes when the percentage you choose divides evenly into 200. For example, 100, 66, 50, 40, 33, 25, 20, 10 and so on.

4. EXTRA CREDIT

There is one more setting to consider when slowing a clip. (This does not apply when creating fast motion.)

speed012

Using, again, either Modify > Retime or the “Smurf” menu, select Video Quality.

  • Normal. This is the best choice for speeds of 50% or faster.
  • Frame Blending. This is the best choice for speeds of about 20% to 50%.
  • Optical Flow. This is the best choice for speeds slower than about 20%.

Frame blending puts a short dissolve between frames when running in slow motion to improve the illusion of motion. Optical Flow invents in-between frames to minimize the jerkiness of extremely slow motion.

Frame blending is relatively fast and easy. Optical Flow will look better in most cases, but takes a long time to render.


This is a basic tutorial about Apple Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. However, if video editing is new to you, consider Wondershare Filmora for Mac . This is a powerful but easy-to-use tool for users just starting out. Download the free trial version below.

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )


SUMMARY

Whether you want your clips to speed up, slow down or just plain stop, Final Cut Pro X makes the entire process easy.

author avatar

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

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  • Created at : 2024-06-16 10:10:17
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