New 2024 Approved Free Video FX Apps The Ultimate List for iOS and Android

New 2024 Approved Free Video FX Apps The Ultimate List for iOS and Android

Amelia Lv12

Free Video FX Apps: The Ultimate List for iOS and Android

FREE Best Video Special Effects Apps

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

Every movie clip that you see on a big or small screen has been decorated using a professional video special effects app. Since special effects are added to the footages to make them look more lively and happening, it is important that only highly skilled professionals should do the job.

However, because of the advanced technologies and the robust applications that the developers are coming up with these days, no special training is required to seamlessly add special effects to the videos , and even a novice user can produce professional-level outputs on their smartphone with the help of all the options and features that these latest software programs offer.

With that said, here you will get to know about some of the best iOS and Android programs that you can use to add special effects to your videos. In addition to this, you will also learn about another most admired and widely used movie effects app that is equipped with plethora of templates that you can apply to your clips to make them look more professional.

Part 1: Best Video Special Effects Apps for Both iPhone and Android: FxGuru

We’ve find FxGuru: Movie FX Director is a special effect app which is available on both iPhone, iPad and Android devices, this video special effects app for Android and iOS has almost everything you may need in order to give your recorded videos a professional touch. From ghosts to werewolves, UFOs to dragons, and even tornadoes, earthquakes, and meteors, FxGuru has every special effect under one umbrella.

Simply put, with this app on your phone, you only have to use the device’s camera to capture video footage, and then sail away with your imagination to produce industry-standard clips for commercial promotions and/or for fun.

best vfx apps for both iOS and Android -  FxGuru: Movie FX Director

Click to get the Android version of this special effect app from the App Store or Google Play.

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for iPhone & iPad

If you are a proud owner of an iOS device, the following iPhone and iPad video special effects apps are something you would definitely love to try:

1. Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

With built-in video editor and easy-to-use interface, this iPhone special effects app could be the program you have been looking for all along. The software allows keyframe-based animations , chroma compositing, practically limitless redo and undo iterations, and even non-destructive video editing to make your post-production tasks simple and fun.

With all these features and options, and several more to explore, Enlight Vdeoleap Video Editor leaves no stone unturned to help you produce industry-standard outputs right on your iDevice.

best vfx apps for  iOS -Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

2. Action Movie FX

With around 4.5-star rating on Apple App Store, this movie effects app called Action Movie FX has several Hollywood-style effects templates that let you give more dramatic look to the videos you record from your iDevice. Since the program is a mobile app, you can apply all the VFX right on your iPhone or iPad without transferring the footages to a computer for post-production treatments.

All the built-in effects that Action Movie FX is enriched with such as ALIEN BURST, CAR SMASH, BB-8 Spark, etc. have been designed by some of the most famous artists with ample amount of experience in the field of film production.

Click to get this app on App Store >>

3. Movie FX Maker

This video special effects app is helpful to apply FX on the images to use them as stickers. Although the program is free to use, the in-app purchases give you access to more advanced movie stickers that would allow you to bring life to the still images without having you to transfer them to your PC and/or using an expensive and complex apps like Photoshop.

All you need to do in order to apply special FX to the images is, capture photos on your iDevice, and add the effects Movie FX Maker has. Post modifications, the images can be shared on your favorite social networking site instantaneously.

best vfx apps for  iOS - Movie FX Maker

4. Effects Cam – Visual Effects

Yet another video special effects app, Effects Cam allows you to add special effects like fire, blasts, explosions, etc. to your images in order to make them look live. The images can be captured right from your device’s camera, or imported from other sources like your PC, phone’s memory, etc. Once imported, you can pick any of the available special FX from the app’s library, and apply it to the photo(s).

best vfx apps for  iOS - Effects Cam - Visual Effects

Click to get this app on App Store >>

5. Videorama Text & Video Editor

Videorama Text & Video Editor is an iPhone video special effects app that lets you do various tasks such as trim videos, split them, remove unwanted segments, etc. In addition to this, the tool is also capable of adding and animating texts that can be used as captions for the images or motion clips for information.

Apart from the above, adding special video and sound effects is another lucrative feature that Videorama has because of which the app is most admired and used by majority of people across the globe.

video special effects apps for  iOS - Videorama Text & Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

6. LumaFX

Although LumaFX is a paid video special effects app for iOS devices, it is worth investing. The software has many features that are mostly found in professional post-production tools. These features include color correction, slow motion effect, frame-by-frame animation using the keyframes, and much more.

In addition to all the above, LumaFX also allows you to add audio effects, thus making the videos more interesting and informative that could be broadcasted for commercial gains or shared among your known ones for fun.

best video effects apps for  iOS - LumaFX

Watch Video! Best Free Video Special Effects Apps on Apple Store

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

If you are an Android lover and prefer using non-Apple devices, you have plenty of options when it comes to selecting the best movie effects app that could enable you to apply special effects to the videos your smart device has or captures using its camera.

In case you are looking for an efficient video special effects app for Android, those listed below are worth your attention:

1. Movie Booth FX Free

While using Movie Booth FX Free , all you need to do is, record a footage from your camera, and add special effects to it. The three main categories that this video special effects app ships along with include Action, Sci-Fi, and Horror. Depending on the type of footage you captured, and the kind of output you want to have, you can pick any of these categories, and apply your favorite effect that is available within it.

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Booth FX Free

Although the program is free to install, various other options and features can be unlocked by paying for them with in-app purchases.

2. MovieRide FX

This video special effects app for Android has several templates that allow you to apply various VFX to the footages you record using your Android device. With the effects like Space Wars, Space Walk, Thunder Bolt, Storms, etc., you can virtually live in the movies, and act like a character. Although some of the effects that MovieRide FX has are paid, you definitely won’t regret buying them considering the precision and ease at which you can decorate your clips.

   video effects app for  Andorid - MovieRide FX

3. Movie Effects Maker

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Effects Maker

Movie Effects Maker, as the name suggests, allows you to add special effects to the images you click with your smartphone. With all the VFX options this movie effects app has, you can be virtually anyone you want. For instance, with the sci-fi and horror elements, you can create stickers out of your photos portraying yourself as a hero, add animated effects to your images to make them look live, and much more.

4. Extreme VFX

   effects apps for Andorid - Extreme VFX

With this video special effects app, all you need to do is, record a footage using your Android smart device, and begin applying special effects to them until you are satisfied with the results. Since the app allows you to add multiple VFX to the clips, nothing seems impossible when it comes to decorating the videos, and making them more engaging and entertaining, especially with you playing as the main character.

Get this special video effect app from Google Play>>

Watch Video! Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

Part 4: How to Add Special Effects to Videos in Filmora?

Although all the apps listed above are good, when it comes to creating movies with special effects for commercial usage and public broadcasting, nothing can beat the efficiency and robustness of a movie effects app that has been designed to run on desktop computers.

Even though there are many post-production professional applications by different vendors, Wondershare Filmora has the simplest UI, and follows the most straightforward approach that allows even the novice users to add VFX to their videos.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

The steps given below explain how to add special effects to your recorded footages with Wondershare Filmora:

1. Import Video and Add to Timeline

Launch Wondershare Filmora, click anywhere inside the Media Bin at the upper-left section, use the Open box to import the video you want to add VFX to, hover mouse to the thumbnail of the clip, click the + icon from the middle, and click MATCH TO MEDIA from the Project Setting box when/if it appears.

  Import media in Filmora9

2. Add Effects and Elements

Place the Playhead (Skimmer) in the Timeline you want to apply effects from, click Effects from the standard toolbar at the top, select your preferred category from the left pane, hover mouse to the effect you want to add in the right window, and click the + icon from the center.

 Add Block buster Effects in Filmora9

Optionally you can drag the effect in the Timeline to manage its duration. Next, go to Elements from the top, and repeat the process to add your preferred element to the footage.

Besides the included effects and elements in Filmora, you can find our more video effects on Filmstock effects store, including blockbuster, effects for holidays and vacations. Click to check the free video effects that you can get for free in Filmstock for Filmora.

Filmora free video effects in Filmstock

3. Export the Output

Click EXPORT from the top-center section, go to the Local tab from the top of the Export box that opens up next, choose your preferred extension from the Format list in the left pane, select a destination location in the Save to field in the right window, click SETTINGS and make necessary adjustments (optional), and click EXPORT from the bottom-right corner of the box to begin rendering and to produce the video with the special effects applied to it.

Filmora9 Output Options

Conclusion

With all the programs listed above, selecting the best video special effects app could be a challenging task. Thanks to Wondershare Filmora that not only enables you to add effects and elements to the videos, it is also fast, lightweight, and offers simple and easy-to-use interface that can be exploited to create professional-level outputs in comparatively less time.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

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

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

Every movie clip that you see on a big or small screen has been decorated using a professional video special effects app. Since special effects are added to the footages to make them look more lively and happening, it is important that only highly skilled professionals should do the job.

However, because of the advanced technologies and the robust applications that the developers are coming up with these days, no special training is required to seamlessly add special effects to the videos , and even a novice user can produce professional-level outputs on their smartphone with the help of all the options and features that these latest software programs offer.

With that said, here you will get to know about some of the best iOS and Android programs that you can use to add special effects to your videos. In addition to this, you will also learn about another most admired and widely used movie effects app that is equipped with plethora of templates that you can apply to your clips to make them look more professional.

Part 1: Best Video Special Effects Apps for Both iPhone and Android: FxGuru

We’ve find FxGuru: Movie FX Director is a special effect app which is available on both iPhone, iPad and Android devices, this video special effects app for Android and iOS has almost everything you may need in order to give your recorded videos a professional touch. From ghosts to werewolves, UFOs to dragons, and even tornadoes, earthquakes, and meteors, FxGuru has every special effect under one umbrella.

Simply put, with this app on your phone, you only have to use the device’s camera to capture video footage, and then sail away with your imagination to produce industry-standard clips for commercial promotions and/or for fun.

best vfx apps for both iOS and Android -  FxGuru: Movie FX Director

Click to get the Android version of this special effect app from the App Store or Google Play.

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for iPhone & iPad

If you are a proud owner of an iOS device, the following iPhone and iPad video special effects apps are something you would definitely love to try:

1. Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

With built-in video editor and easy-to-use interface, this iPhone special effects app could be the program you have been looking for all along. The software allows keyframe-based animations , chroma compositing, practically limitless redo and undo iterations, and even non-destructive video editing to make your post-production tasks simple and fun.

With all these features and options, and several more to explore, Enlight Vdeoleap Video Editor leaves no stone unturned to help you produce industry-standard outputs right on your iDevice.

best vfx apps for  iOS -Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

2. Action Movie FX

With around 4.5-star rating on Apple App Store, this movie effects app called Action Movie FX has several Hollywood-style effects templates that let you give more dramatic look to the videos you record from your iDevice. Since the program is a mobile app, you can apply all the VFX right on your iPhone or iPad without transferring the footages to a computer for post-production treatments.

All the built-in effects that Action Movie FX is enriched with such as ALIEN BURST, CAR SMASH, BB-8 Spark, etc. have been designed by some of the most famous artists with ample amount of experience in the field of film production.

Click to get this app on App Store >>

3. Movie FX Maker

This video special effects app is helpful to apply FX on the images to use them as stickers. Although the program is free to use, the in-app purchases give you access to more advanced movie stickers that would allow you to bring life to the still images without having you to transfer them to your PC and/or using an expensive and complex apps like Photoshop.

All you need to do in order to apply special FX to the images is, capture photos on your iDevice, and add the effects Movie FX Maker has. Post modifications, the images can be shared on your favorite social networking site instantaneously.

best vfx apps for  iOS - Movie FX Maker

4. Effects Cam – Visual Effects

Yet another video special effects app, Effects Cam allows you to add special effects like fire, blasts, explosions, etc. to your images in order to make them look live. The images can be captured right from your device’s camera, or imported from other sources like your PC, phone’s memory, etc. Once imported, you can pick any of the available special FX from the app’s library, and apply it to the photo(s).

best vfx apps for  iOS - Effects Cam - Visual Effects

Click to get this app on App Store >>

5. Videorama Text & Video Editor

Videorama Text & Video Editor is an iPhone video special effects app that lets you do various tasks such as trim videos, split them, remove unwanted segments, etc. In addition to this, the tool is also capable of adding and animating texts that can be used as captions for the images or motion clips for information.

Apart from the above, adding special video and sound effects is another lucrative feature that Videorama has because of which the app is most admired and used by majority of people across the globe.

video special effects apps for  iOS - Videorama Text & Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

6. LumaFX

Although LumaFX is a paid video special effects app for iOS devices, it is worth investing. The software has many features that are mostly found in professional post-production tools. These features include color correction, slow motion effect, frame-by-frame animation using the keyframes, and much more.

In addition to all the above, LumaFX also allows you to add audio effects, thus making the videos more interesting and informative that could be broadcasted for commercial gains or shared among your known ones for fun.

best video effects apps for  iOS - LumaFX

Watch Video! Best Free Video Special Effects Apps on Apple Store

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

If you are an Android lover and prefer using non-Apple devices, you have plenty of options when it comes to selecting the best movie effects app that could enable you to apply special effects to the videos your smart device has or captures using its camera.

In case you are looking for an efficient video special effects app for Android, those listed below are worth your attention:

1. Movie Booth FX Free

While using Movie Booth FX Free , all you need to do is, record a footage from your camera, and add special effects to it. The three main categories that this video special effects app ships along with include Action, Sci-Fi, and Horror. Depending on the type of footage you captured, and the kind of output you want to have, you can pick any of these categories, and apply your favorite effect that is available within it.

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Booth FX Free

Although the program is free to install, various other options and features can be unlocked by paying for them with in-app purchases.

2. MovieRide FX

This video special effects app for Android has several templates that allow you to apply various VFX to the footages you record using your Android device. With the effects like Space Wars, Space Walk, Thunder Bolt, Storms, etc., you can virtually live in the movies, and act like a character. Although some of the effects that MovieRide FX has are paid, you definitely won’t regret buying them considering the precision and ease at which you can decorate your clips.

   video effects app for  Andorid - MovieRide FX

3. Movie Effects Maker

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Effects Maker

Movie Effects Maker, as the name suggests, allows you to add special effects to the images you click with your smartphone. With all the VFX options this movie effects app has, you can be virtually anyone you want. For instance, with the sci-fi and horror elements, you can create stickers out of your photos portraying yourself as a hero, add animated effects to your images to make them look live, and much more.

4. Extreme VFX

   effects apps for Andorid - Extreme VFX

With this video special effects app, all you need to do is, record a footage using your Android smart device, and begin applying special effects to them until you are satisfied with the results. Since the app allows you to add multiple VFX to the clips, nothing seems impossible when it comes to decorating the videos, and making them more engaging and entertaining, especially with you playing as the main character.

Get this special video effect app from Google Play>>

Watch Video! Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

Part 4: How to Add Special Effects to Videos in Filmora?

Although all the apps listed above are good, when it comes to creating movies with special effects for commercial usage and public broadcasting, nothing can beat the efficiency and robustness of a movie effects app that has been designed to run on desktop computers.

Even though there are many post-production professional applications by different vendors, Wondershare Filmora has the simplest UI, and follows the most straightforward approach that allows even the novice users to add VFX to their videos.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

The steps given below explain how to add special effects to your recorded footages with Wondershare Filmora:

1. Import Video and Add to Timeline

Launch Wondershare Filmora, click anywhere inside the Media Bin at the upper-left section, use the Open box to import the video you want to add VFX to, hover mouse to the thumbnail of the clip, click the + icon from the middle, and click MATCH TO MEDIA from the Project Setting box when/if it appears.

  Import media in Filmora9

2. Add Effects and Elements

Place the Playhead (Skimmer) in the Timeline you want to apply effects from, click Effects from the standard toolbar at the top, select your preferred category from the left pane, hover mouse to the effect you want to add in the right window, and click the + icon from the center.

 Add Block buster Effects in Filmora9

Optionally you can drag the effect in the Timeline to manage its duration. Next, go to Elements from the top, and repeat the process to add your preferred element to the footage.

Besides the included effects and elements in Filmora, you can find our more video effects on Filmstock effects store, including blockbuster, effects for holidays and vacations. Click to check the free video effects that you can get for free in Filmstock for Filmora.

Filmora free video effects in Filmstock

3. Export the Output

Click EXPORT from the top-center section, go to the Local tab from the top of the Export box that opens up next, choose your preferred extension from the Format list in the left pane, select a destination location in the Save to field in the right window, click SETTINGS and make necessary adjustments (optional), and click EXPORT from the bottom-right corner of the box to begin rendering and to produce the video with the special effects applied to it.

Filmora9 Output Options

Conclusion

With all the programs listed above, selecting the best video special effects app could be a challenging task. Thanks to Wondershare Filmora that not only enables you to add effects and elements to the videos, it is also fast, lightweight, and offers simple and easy-to-use interface that can be exploited to create professional-level outputs in comparatively less time.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

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

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

Every movie clip that you see on a big or small screen has been decorated using a professional video special effects app. Since special effects are added to the footages to make them look more lively and happening, it is important that only highly skilled professionals should do the job.

However, because of the advanced technologies and the robust applications that the developers are coming up with these days, no special training is required to seamlessly add special effects to the videos , and even a novice user can produce professional-level outputs on their smartphone with the help of all the options and features that these latest software programs offer.

With that said, here you will get to know about some of the best iOS and Android programs that you can use to add special effects to your videos. In addition to this, you will also learn about another most admired and widely used movie effects app that is equipped with plethora of templates that you can apply to your clips to make them look more professional.

Part 1: Best Video Special Effects Apps for Both iPhone and Android: FxGuru

We’ve find FxGuru: Movie FX Director is a special effect app which is available on both iPhone, iPad and Android devices, this video special effects app for Android and iOS has almost everything you may need in order to give your recorded videos a professional touch. From ghosts to werewolves, UFOs to dragons, and even tornadoes, earthquakes, and meteors, FxGuru has every special effect under one umbrella.

Simply put, with this app on your phone, you only have to use the device’s camera to capture video footage, and then sail away with your imagination to produce industry-standard clips for commercial promotions and/or for fun.

best vfx apps for both iOS and Android -  FxGuru: Movie FX Director

Click to get the Android version of this special effect app from the App Store or Google Play.

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for iPhone & iPad

If you are a proud owner of an iOS device, the following iPhone and iPad video special effects apps are something you would definitely love to try:

1. Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

With built-in video editor and easy-to-use interface, this iPhone special effects app could be the program you have been looking for all along. The software allows keyframe-based animations , chroma compositing, practically limitless redo and undo iterations, and even non-destructive video editing to make your post-production tasks simple and fun.

With all these features and options, and several more to explore, Enlight Vdeoleap Video Editor leaves no stone unturned to help you produce industry-standard outputs right on your iDevice.

best vfx apps for  iOS -Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

2. Action Movie FX

With around 4.5-star rating on Apple App Store, this movie effects app called Action Movie FX has several Hollywood-style effects templates that let you give more dramatic look to the videos you record from your iDevice. Since the program is a mobile app, you can apply all the VFX right on your iPhone or iPad without transferring the footages to a computer for post-production treatments.

All the built-in effects that Action Movie FX is enriched with such as ALIEN BURST, CAR SMASH, BB-8 Spark, etc. have been designed by some of the most famous artists with ample amount of experience in the field of film production.

Click to get this app on App Store >>

3. Movie FX Maker

This video special effects app is helpful to apply FX on the images to use them as stickers. Although the program is free to use, the in-app purchases give you access to more advanced movie stickers that would allow you to bring life to the still images without having you to transfer them to your PC and/or using an expensive and complex apps like Photoshop.

All you need to do in order to apply special FX to the images is, capture photos on your iDevice, and add the effects Movie FX Maker has. Post modifications, the images can be shared on your favorite social networking site instantaneously.

best vfx apps for  iOS - Movie FX Maker

4. Effects Cam – Visual Effects

Yet another video special effects app, Effects Cam allows you to add special effects like fire, blasts, explosions, etc. to your images in order to make them look live. The images can be captured right from your device’s camera, or imported from other sources like your PC, phone’s memory, etc. Once imported, you can pick any of the available special FX from the app’s library, and apply it to the photo(s).

best vfx apps for  iOS - Effects Cam - Visual Effects

Click to get this app on App Store >>

5. Videorama Text & Video Editor

Videorama Text & Video Editor is an iPhone video special effects app that lets you do various tasks such as trim videos, split them, remove unwanted segments, etc. In addition to this, the tool is also capable of adding and animating texts that can be used as captions for the images or motion clips for information.

Apart from the above, adding special video and sound effects is another lucrative feature that Videorama has because of which the app is most admired and used by majority of people across the globe.

video special effects apps for  iOS - Videorama Text & Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

6. LumaFX

Although LumaFX is a paid video special effects app for iOS devices, it is worth investing. The software has many features that are mostly found in professional post-production tools. These features include color correction, slow motion effect, frame-by-frame animation using the keyframes, and much more.

In addition to all the above, LumaFX also allows you to add audio effects, thus making the videos more interesting and informative that could be broadcasted for commercial gains or shared among your known ones for fun.

best video effects apps for  iOS - LumaFX

Watch Video! Best Free Video Special Effects Apps on Apple Store

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

If you are an Android lover and prefer using non-Apple devices, you have plenty of options when it comes to selecting the best movie effects app that could enable you to apply special effects to the videos your smart device has or captures using its camera.

In case you are looking for an efficient video special effects app for Android, those listed below are worth your attention:

1. Movie Booth FX Free

While using Movie Booth FX Free , all you need to do is, record a footage from your camera, and add special effects to it. The three main categories that this video special effects app ships along with include Action, Sci-Fi, and Horror. Depending on the type of footage you captured, and the kind of output you want to have, you can pick any of these categories, and apply your favorite effect that is available within it.

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Booth FX Free

Although the program is free to install, various other options and features can be unlocked by paying for them with in-app purchases.

2. MovieRide FX

This video special effects app for Android has several templates that allow you to apply various VFX to the footages you record using your Android device. With the effects like Space Wars, Space Walk, Thunder Bolt, Storms, etc., you can virtually live in the movies, and act like a character. Although some of the effects that MovieRide FX has are paid, you definitely won’t regret buying them considering the precision and ease at which you can decorate your clips.

   video effects app for  Andorid - MovieRide FX

3. Movie Effects Maker

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Effects Maker

Movie Effects Maker, as the name suggests, allows you to add special effects to the images you click with your smartphone. With all the VFX options this movie effects app has, you can be virtually anyone you want. For instance, with the sci-fi and horror elements, you can create stickers out of your photos portraying yourself as a hero, add animated effects to your images to make them look live, and much more.

4. Extreme VFX

   effects apps for Andorid - Extreme VFX

With this video special effects app, all you need to do is, record a footage using your Android smart device, and begin applying special effects to them until you are satisfied with the results. Since the app allows you to add multiple VFX to the clips, nothing seems impossible when it comes to decorating the videos, and making them more engaging and entertaining, especially with you playing as the main character.

Get this special video effect app from Google Play>>

Watch Video! Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

Part 4: How to Add Special Effects to Videos in Filmora?

Although all the apps listed above are good, when it comes to creating movies with special effects for commercial usage and public broadcasting, nothing can beat the efficiency and robustness of a movie effects app that has been designed to run on desktop computers.

Even though there are many post-production professional applications by different vendors, Wondershare Filmora has the simplest UI, and follows the most straightforward approach that allows even the novice users to add VFX to their videos.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

The steps given below explain how to add special effects to your recorded footages with Wondershare Filmora:

1. Import Video and Add to Timeline

Launch Wondershare Filmora, click anywhere inside the Media Bin at the upper-left section, use the Open box to import the video you want to add VFX to, hover mouse to the thumbnail of the clip, click the + icon from the middle, and click MATCH TO MEDIA from the Project Setting box when/if it appears.

  Import media in Filmora9

2. Add Effects and Elements

Place the Playhead (Skimmer) in the Timeline you want to apply effects from, click Effects from the standard toolbar at the top, select your preferred category from the left pane, hover mouse to the effect you want to add in the right window, and click the + icon from the center.

 Add Block buster Effects in Filmora9

Optionally you can drag the effect in the Timeline to manage its duration. Next, go to Elements from the top, and repeat the process to add your preferred element to the footage.

Besides the included effects and elements in Filmora, you can find our more video effects on Filmstock effects store, including blockbuster, effects for holidays and vacations. Click to check the free video effects that you can get for free in Filmstock for Filmora.

Filmora free video effects in Filmstock

3. Export the Output

Click EXPORT from the top-center section, go to the Local tab from the top of the Export box that opens up next, choose your preferred extension from the Format list in the left pane, select a destination location in the Save to field in the right window, click SETTINGS and make necessary adjustments (optional), and click EXPORT from the bottom-right corner of the box to begin rendering and to produce the video with the special effects applied to it.

Filmora9 Output Options

Conclusion

With all the programs listed above, selecting the best video special effects app could be a challenging task. Thanks to Wondershare Filmora that not only enables you to add effects and elements to the videos, it is also fast, lightweight, and offers simple and easy-to-use interface that can be exploited to create professional-level outputs in comparatively less time.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

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

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

Every movie clip that you see on a big or small screen has been decorated using a professional video special effects app. Since special effects are added to the footages to make them look more lively and happening, it is important that only highly skilled professionals should do the job.

However, because of the advanced technologies and the robust applications that the developers are coming up with these days, no special training is required to seamlessly add special effects to the videos , and even a novice user can produce professional-level outputs on their smartphone with the help of all the options and features that these latest software programs offer.

With that said, here you will get to know about some of the best iOS and Android programs that you can use to add special effects to your videos. In addition to this, you will also learn about another most admired and widely used movie effects app that is equipped with plethora of templates that you can apply to your clips to make them look more professional.

Part 1: Best Video Special Effects Apps for Both iPhone and Android: FxGuru

We’ve find FxGuru: Movie FX Director is a special effect app which is available on both iPhone, iPad and Android devices, this video special effects app for Android and iOS has almost everything you may need in order to give your recorded videos a professional touch. From ghosts to werewolves, UFOs to dragons, and even tornadoes, earthquakes, and meteors, FxGuru has every special effect under one umbrella.

Simply put, with this app on your phone, you only have to use the device’s camera to capture video footage, and then sail away with your imagination to produce industry-standard clips for commercial promotions and/or for fun.

best vfx apps for both iOS and Android -  FxGuru: Movie FX Director

Click to get the Android version of this special effect app from the App Store or Google Play.

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for iPhone & iPad

If you are a proud owner of an iOS device, the following iPhone and iPad video special effects apps are something you would definitely love to try:

1. Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

With built-in video editor and easy-to-use interface, this iPhone special effects app could be the program you have been looking for all along. The software allows keyframe-based animations , chroma compositing, practically limitless redo and undo iterations, and even non-destructive video editing to make your post-production tasks simple and fun.

With all these features and options, and several more to explore, Enlight Vdeoleap Video Editor leaves no stone unturned to help you produce industry-standard outputs right on your iDevice.

best vfx apps for  iOS -Enlight Videoleap Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

2. Action Movie FX

With around 4.5-star rating on Apple App Store, this movie effects app called Action Movie FX has several Hollywood-style effects templates that let you give more dramatic look to the videos you record from your iDevice. Since the program is a mobile app, you can apply all the VFX right on your iPhone or iPad without transferring the footages to a computer for post-production treatments.

All the built-in effects that Action Movie FX is enriched with such as ALIEN BURST, CAR SMASH, BB-8 Spark, etc. have been designed by some of the most famous artists with ample amount of experience in the field of film production.

Click to get this app on App Store >>

3. Movie FX Maker

This video special effects app is helpful to apply FX on the images to use them as stickers. Although the program is free to use, the in-app purchases give you access to more advanced movie stickers that would allow you to bring life to the still images without having you to transfer them to your PC and/or using an expensive and complex apps like Photoshop.

All you need to do in order to apply special FX to the images is, capture photos on your iDevice, and add the effects Movie FX Maker has. Post modifications, the images can be shared on your favorite social networking site instantaneously.

best vfx apps for  iOS - Movie FX Maker

4. Effects Cam – Visual Effects

Yet another video special effects app, Effects Cam allows you to add special effects like fire, blasts, explosions, etc. to your images in order to make them look live. The images can be captured right from your device’s camera, or imported from other sources like your PC, phone’s memory, etc. Once imported, you can pick any of the available special FX from the app’s library, and apply it to the photo(s).

best vfx apps for  iOS - Effects Cam - Visual Effects

Click to get this app on App Store >>

5. Videorama Text & Video Editor

Videorama Text & Video Editor is an iPhone video special effects app that lets you do various tasks such as trim videos, split them, remove unwanted segments, etc. In addition to this, the tool is also capable of adding and animating texts that can be used as captions for the images or motion clips for information.

Apart from the above, adding special video and sound effects is another lucrative feature that Videorama has because of which the app is most admired and used by majority of people across the globe.

video special effects apps for  iOS - Videorama Text & Video Editor

Click to get this app on App Store >>

6. LumaFX

Although LumaFX is a paid video special effects app for iOS devices, it is worth investing. The software has many features that are mostly found in professional post-production tools. These features include color correction, slow motion effect, frame-by-frame animation using the keyframes, and much more.

In addition to all the above, LumaFX also allows you to add audio effects, thus making the videos more interesting and informative that could be broadcasted for commercial gains or shared among your known ones for fun.

best video effects apps for  iOS - LumaFX

Watch Video! Best Free Video Special Effects Apps on Apple Store

Part 2: Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

If you are an Android lover and prefer using non-Apple devices, you have plenty of options when it comes to selecting the best movie effects app that could enable you to apply special effects to the videos your smart device has or captures using its camera.

In case you are looking for an efficient video special effects app for Android, those listed below are worth your attention:

1. Movie Booth FX Free

While using Movie Booth FX Free , all you need to do is, record a footage from your camera, and add special effects to it. The three main categories that this video special effects app ships along with include Action, Sci-Fi, and Horror. Depending on the type of footage you captured, and the kind of output you want to have, you can pick any of these categories, and apply your favorite effect that is available within it.

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Booth FX Free

Although the program is free to install, various other options and features can be unlocked by paying for them with in-app purchases.

2. MovieRide FX

This video special effects app for Android has several templates that allow you to apply various VFX to the footages you record using your Android device. With the effects like Space Wars, Space Walk, Thunder Bolt, Storms, etc., you can virtually live in the movies, and act like a character. Although some of the effects that MovieRide FX has are paid, you definitely won’t regret buying them considering the precision and ease at which you can decorate your clips.

   video effects app for  Andorid - MovieRide FX

3. Movie Effects Maker

 action movie  video effects apps for  Andorid - Movie Effects Maker

Movie Effects Maker, as the name suggests, allows you to add special effects to the images you click with your smartphone. With all the VFX options this movie effects app has, you can be virtually anyone you want. For instance, with the sci-fi and horror elements, you can create stickers out of your photos portraying yourself as a hero, add animated effects to your images to make them look live, and much more.

4. Extreme VFX

   effects apps for Andorid - Extreme VFX

With this video special effects app, all you need to do is, record a footage using your Android smart device, and begin applying special effects to them until you are satisfied with the results. Since the app allows you to add multiple VFX to the clips, nothing seems impossible when it comes to decorating the videos, and making them more engaging and entertaining, especially with you playing as the main character.

Get this special video effect app from Google Play>>

Watch Video! Best VFX Video Effects Editor Apps for Android

Part 4: How to Add Special Effects to Videos in Filmora?

Although all the apps listed above are good, when it comes to creating movies with special effects for commercial usage and public broadcasting, nothing can beat the efficiency and robustness of a movie effects app that has been designed to run on desktop computers.

Even though there are many post-production professional applications by different vendors, Wondershare Filmora has the simplest UI, and follows the most straightforward approach that allows even the novice users to add VFX to their videos.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

The steps given below explain how to add special effects to your recorded footages with Wondershare Filmora:

1. Import Video and Add to Timeline

Launch Wondershare Filmora, click anywhere inside the Media Bin at the upper-left section, use the Open box to import the video you want to add VFX to, hover mouse to the thumbnail of the clip, click the + icon from the middle, and click MATCH TO MEDIA from the Project Setting box when/if it appears.

  Import media in Filmora9

2. Add Effects and Elements

Place the Playhead (Skimmer) in the Timeline you want to apply effects from, click Effects from the standard toolbar at the top, select your preferred category from the left pane, hover mouse to the effect you want to add in the right window, and click the + icon from the center.

 Add Block buster Effects in Filmora9

Optionally you can drag the effect in the Timeline to manage its duration. Next, go to Elements from the top, and repeat the process to add your preferred element to the footage.

Besides the included effects and elements in Filmora, you can find our more video effects on Filmstock effects store, including blockbuster, effects for holidays and vacations. Click to check the free video effects that you can get for free in Filmstock for Filmora.

Filmora free video effects in Filmstock

3. Export the Output

Click EXPORT from the top-center section, go to the Local tab from the top of the Export box that opens up next, choose your preferred extension from the Format list in the left pane, select a destination location in the Save to field in the right window, click SETTINGS and make necessary adjustments (optional), and click EXPORT from the bottom-right corner of the box to begin rendering and to produce the video with the special effects applied to it.

Filmora9 Output Options

Conclusion

With all the programs listed above, selecting the best video special effects app could be a challenging task. Thanks to Wondershare Filmora that not only enables you to add effects and elements to the videos, it is also fast, lightweight, and offers simple and easy-to-use interface that can be exploited to create professional-level outputs in comparatively less time.

Free Download

For Win 7 or later (64-bit)

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Free Download

For macOS 10.14 or later

Filmora secure download Secure Download

Click here to get Filmora for PC by email
or Try Filmora App for mobile >>>

download filmora app for ios ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t ) download filmora app for android ](https://app.adjust.com/b0k9hf2%5F4bsu85t )

author avatar

Ollie Mattison

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

Follow @Ollie Mattison

From Bland to Grand: Elevate Your YouTube Thumbnails with These Proven Tactics

YouTube Thumbnail Size Template & Practical Tactics for You

An easy yet powerful editor

Numerous effects to choose from

Detailed tutorials provided by the official channel

Try It Free Try It Free

A YouTube thumbnail is like a cover page of your video that creates the first impression. Though a default thumbnail is created for each video by YouTube, you can always customize it and make it more appealing and attractive.

YouTube Thumbnails

More in detail about Youtube thumbnail size template, tips, and others can be learned from the following content.

In this article

01 [Youtube Thumbnail Specifications ](#Part 1)

02 [Youtube Thumbnail Templates](#Part 2)

03 [Top 5 Tips for Creating Effective Thumbnails](#Part 3)

04 [How to Add a Customized Thumbnail to a Youtube Video](#Part 4)

Part 1 YouTube Thumbnail Specifications

To stand out from the crowd and create an impact over the viewers, a well-customized thumbnail works great. A customized thumbnail proves effective in ways more than one like encouraging attention, increasing engagement, giving a professional look, portraying your personality, and much more. The right size of the thumbnail is an important consideration and the following are the suggested YouTube video thumbnail dimensions.

An ideal width and height of YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 X 720 pixels

The size of the thumbnail should be kept under 2MB.

Use the thumbnail in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or GIF format.

The ideal thumbnail ratio for YouTube has to be kept at 16:9.

The width of the thumbnail should not be less than 640 pixels.

YouTube Thumbnail Size

Part 2 YouTube Thumbnail Templates

If you are struggling to find the right thumbnail for your video, templates are a great rescue. There are several sites and programs where you can find multiple templates that can be customized and edited to suit your requirements. We have shortlisted a few sites where you can check different types of interesting templates for the YouTube thumbnails.

Canva: This online site has a huge collection of free as well as paid video thumbnails in different categories, and types. You can filter the collection of templates based on style and theme. The templates can be further customized as needed after which they can be downloaded to be used on YouTube.

Canva

VistaCreate: Interesting template designs are available at this site to be used as a YouTube video thumbnail. You can even create your own design or customize the ones available. The site also has an option to choose the desired thumbnail design using the search bar.

VistaCreate

Postermywall: YouTube templates in an array of designs, themes, and genres are available at this site. There are also Youtube Thumbnail Size Template and from these you can choose the one that matches the personality of your video and customize it as per the requirements. The search bar to look for your choice of template is also available.

Postermywall

Visme: Templates for all types of video thumbnails are available at this site to choose from. You simply need to choose the template as per your choice and you are all set to have an impressive thumbnail for your video. You can even look for your choice of design using the search bar.

Visme

Snappa: There is a wide selection of templates in different categories at this site that can be used for creating a customized thumbnail for your YouTube videos. The templates are free and you need to create a free account on the site to use them.

Snappa

Part 3 Top 5 Tips For Creating Effective Thumbnails

To make your thumbnails interesting and effective we have shortlisted a few useful tips as below.

Keep it clutter-free: It’s always good to keep your thumbnail simple and clean without any clutter. If you use too many elements in a thumbnail, they will look messy when watched on a mobile device.

Using a still image from the video: Though you can set a customized thumbnail for your videos, an automatic image is also selected by YouTube. It might be a possibility that the image automatically selected is good enough and effective and thus creating a customized thumbnail is not required.

Using editing software like Wondershare Filmora Video Editor for creating customized graphics: A good editing software can be used for creating an effective and impressive image. Wondershare Filmora is one such professional tool that can be considered. This Windows and Mac-based program can let you edit your images using multiple features. Simple and fast to use, the software also supports batch processing so that multiple files as thumbnails for multiple videos can be created at a time. Additional features supported by the software include motion tracking, adding text and tiles, adding overlays and filters, adding transitions and elements, color tuning, and more.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

filmora-video-editor

Use eye-catchy titles: Using catchy titles in your thumbnails is an effective way to grab the attention of the viewers. A title will give a glimpse to the viewers of the content of the video.

Try different designs: If you are not sure about a thumbnail design, create multiple ones and then add them to the video one by one. Select the design that goes best and looks attractive.

Wondershare Filmora

Part 4 How to Add A Customized Thumbnail To A Youtube Video

Once a customized thumbnail image is created, the next step is to add it to the video on your YouTube. The process is simple and quick and involves the following steps.

Step 1. Open your YouTube account and add the new video using the camera-plus icon. Alternatively, to add a thumbnail to the already uploaded video, go to the Studio dashboard and tap on the video for editing the settings.

Step 2. At the bottom of the video settings window, you can see the 3 thumbnails generated automatically. To upload the customized image, click on the Custom thumbnail box at the bottom right-hand side.

Step 3. Browse and import the created thumbnail image and click on the Upload button.

The selected image will not be used as the thumbnail for the video.

Add Custom Thumbnail To YouTube Video

Key Takeaways from This Episode

A YouTube thumbnail works as the cover for your video and is the first thing that will get the attention and the interest of the viewer.

YouTube video thumbnail dimensions as recommended must be used.

Several pre-designed templates are available for creating interesting thumbnails.

To create an effective thumbnail, several tips and tricks can be used like using editing software like Wondershare Filmora.

Try It Free Try It Free

A YouTube thumbnail is like a cover page of your video that creates the first impression. Though a default thumbnail is created for each video by YouTube, you can always customize it and make it more appealing and attractive.

YouTube Thumbnails

More in detail about Youtube thumbnail size template, tips, and others can be learned from the following content.

In this article

01 [Youtube Thumbnail Specifications ](#Part 1)

02 [Youtube Thumbnail Templates](#Part 2)

03 [Top 5 Tips for Creating Effective Thumbnails](#Part 3)

04 [How to Add a Customized Thumbnail to a Youtube Video](#Part 4)

Part 1 YouTube Thumbnail Specifications

To stand out from the crowd and create an impact over the viewers, a well-customized thumbnail works great. A customized thumbnail proves effective in ways more than one like encouraging attention, increasing engagement, giving a professional look, portraying your personality, and much more. The right size of the thumbnail is an important consideration and the following are the suggested YouTube video thumbnail dimensions.

An ideal width and height of YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 X 720 pixels

The size of the thumbnail should be kept under 2MB.

Use the thumbnail in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or GIF format.

The ideal thumbnail ratio for YouTube has to be kept at 16:9.

The width of the thumbnail should not be less than 640 pixels.

YouTube Thumbnail Size

Part 2 YouTube Thumbnail Templates

If you are struggling to find the right thumbnail for your video, templates are a great rescue. There are several sites and programs where you can find multiple templates that can be customized and edited to suit your requirements. We have shortlisted a few sites where you can check different types of interesting templates for the YouTube thumbnails.

Canva: This online site has a huge collection of free as well as paid video thumbnails in different categories, and types. You can filter the collection of templates based on style and theme. The templates can be further customized as needed after which they can be downloaded to be used on YouTube.

Canva

VistaCreate: Interesting template designs are available at this site to be used as a YouTube video thumbnail. You can even create your own design or customize the ones available. The site also has an option to choose the desired thumbnail design using the search bar.

VistaCreate

Postermywall: YouTube templates in an array of designs, themes, and genres are available at this site. There are also Youtube Thumbnail Size Template and from these you can choose the one that matches the personality of your video and customize it as per the requirements. The search bar to look for your choice of template is also available.

Postermywall

Visme: Templates for all types of video thumbnails are available at this site to choose from. You simply need to choose the template as per your choice and you are all set to have an impressive thumbnail for your video. You can even look for your choice of design using the search bar.

Visme

Snappa: There is a wide selection of templates in different categories at this site that can be used for creating a customized thumbnail for your YouTube videos. The templates are free and you need to create a free account on the site to use them.

Snappa

Part 3 Top 5 Tips For Creating Effective Thumbnails

To make your thumbnails interesting and effective we have shortlisted a few useful tips as below.

Keep it clutter-free: It’s always good to keep your thumbnail simple and clean without any clutter. If you use too many elements in a thumbnail, they will look messy when watched on a mobile device.

Using a still image from the video: Though you can set a customized thumbnail for your videos, an automatic image is also selected by YouTube. It might be a possibility that the image automatically selected is good enough and effective and thus creating a customized thumbnail is not required.

Using editing software like Wondershare Filmora Video Editor for creating customized graphics: A good editing software can be used for creating an effective and impressive image. Wondershare Filmora is one such professional tool that can be considered. This Windows and Mac-based program can let you edit your images using multiple features. Simple and fast to use, the software also supports batch processing so that multiple files as thumbnails for multiple videos can be created at a time. Additional features supported by the software include motion tracking, adding text and tiles, adding overlays and filters, adding transitions and elements, color tuning, and more.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

filmora-video-editor

Use eye-catchy titles: Using catchy titles in your thumbnails is an effective way to grab the attention of the viewers. A title will give a glimpse to the viewers of the content of the video.

Try different designs: If you are not sure about a thumbnail design, create multiple ones and then add them to the video one by one. Select the design that goes best and looks attractive.

Wondershare Filmora

Part 4 How to Add A Customized Thumbnail To A Youtube Video

Once a customized thumbnail image is created, the next step is to add it to the video on your YouTube. The process is simple and quick and involves the following steps.

Step 1. Open your YouTube account and add the new video using the camera-plus icon. Alternatively, to add a thumbnail to the already uploaded video, go to the Studio dashboard and tap on the video for editing the settings.

Step 2. At the bottom of the video settings window, you can see the 3 thumbnails generated automatically. To upload the customized image, click on the Custom thumbnail box at the bottom right-hand side.

Step 3. Browse and import the created thumbnail image and click on the Upload button.

The selected image will not be used as the thumbnail for the video.

Add Custom Thumbnail To YouTube Video

Key Takeaways from This Episode

A YouTube thumbnail works as the cover for your video and is the first thing that will get the attention and the interest of the viewer.

YouTube video thumbnail dimensions as recommended must be used.

Several pre-designed templates are available for creating interesting thumbnails.

To create an effective thumbnail, several tips and tricks can be used like using editing software like Wondershare Filmora.

Try It Free Try It Free

A YouTube thumbnail is like a cover page of your video that creates the first impression. Though a default thumbnail is created for each video by YouTube, you can always customize it and make it more appealing and attractive.

YouTube Thumbnails

More in detail about Youtube thumbnail size template, tips, and others can be learned from the following content.

In this article

01 [Youtube Thumbnail Specifications ](#Part 1)

02 [Youtube Thumbnail Templates](#Part 2)

03 [Top 5 Tips for Creating Effective Thumbnails](#Part 3)

04 [How to Add a Customized Thumbnail to a Youtube Video](#Part 4)

Part 1 YouTube Thumbnail Specifications

To stand out from the crowd and create an impact over the viewers, a well-customized thumbnail works great. A customized thumbnail proves effective in ways more than one like encouraging attention, increasing engagement, giving a professional look, portraying your personality, and much more. The right size of the thumbnail is an important consideration and the following are the suggested YouTube video thumbnail dimensions.

An ideal width and height of YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 X 720 pixels

The size of the thumbnail should be kept under 2MB.

Use the thumbnail in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or GIF format.

The ideal thumbnail ratio for YouTube has to be kept at 16:9.

The width of the thumbnail should not be less than 640 pixels.

YouTube Thumbnail Size

Part 2 YouTube Thumbnail Templates

If you are struggling to find the right thumbnail for your video, templates are a great rescue. There are several sites and programs where you can find multiple templates that can be customized and edited to suit your requirements. We have shortlisted a few sites where you can check different types of interesting templates for the YouTube thumbnails.

Canva: This online site has a huge collection of free as well as paid video thumbnails in different categories, and types. You can filter the collection of templates based on style and theme. The templates can be further customized as needed after which they can be downloaded to be used on YouTube.

Canva

VistaCreate: Interesting template designs are available at this site to be used as a YouTube video thumbnail. You can even create your own design or customize the ones available. The site also has an option to choose the desired thumbnail design using the search bar.

VistaCreate

Postermywall: YouTube templates in an array of designs, themes, and genres are available at this site. There are also Youtube Thumbnail Size Template and from these you can choose the one that matches the personality of your video and customize it as per the requirements. The search bar to look for your choice of template is also available.

Postermywall

Visme: Templates for all types of video thumbnails are available at this site to choose from. You simply need to choose the template as per your choice and you are all set to have an impressive thumbnail for your video. You can even look for your choice of design using the search bar.

Visme

Snappa: There is a wide selection of templates in different categories at this site that can be used for creating a customized thumbnail for your YouTube videos. The templates are free and you need to create a free account on the site to use them.

Snappa

Part 3 Top 5 Tips For Creating Effective Thumbnails

To make your thumbnails interesting and effective we have shortlisted a few useful tips as below.

Keep it clutter-free: It’s always good to keep your thumbnail simple and clean without any clutter. If you use too many elements in a thumbnail, they will look messy when watched on a mobile device.

Using a still image from the video: Though you can set a customized thumbnail for your videos, an automatic image is also selected by YouTube. It might be a possibility that the image automatically selected is good enough and effective and thus creating a customized thumbnail is not required.

Using editing software like Wondershare Filmora Video Editor for creating customized graphics: A good editing software can be used for creating an effective and impressive image. Wondershare Filmora is one such professional tool that can be considered. This Windows and Mac-based program can let you edit your images using multiple features. Simple and fast to use, the software also supports batch processing so that multiple files as thumbnails for multiple videos can be created at a time. Additional features supported by the software include motion tracking, adding text and tiles, adding overlays and filters, adding transitions and elements, color tuning, and more.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

filmora-video-editor

Use eye-catchy titles: Using catchy titles in your thumbnails is an effective way to grab the attention of the viewers. A title will give a glimpse to the viewers of the content of the video.

Try different designs: If you are not sure about a thumbnail design, create multiple ones and then add them to the video one by one. Select the design that goes best and looks attractive.

Wondershare Filmora

Part 4 How to Add A Customized Thumbnail To A Youtube Video

Once a customized thumbnail image is created, the next step is to add it to the video on your YouTube. The process is simple and quick and involves the following steps.

Step 1. Open your YouTube account and add the new video using the camera-plus icon. Alternatively, to add a thumbnail to the already uploaded video, go to the Studio dashboard and tap on the video for editing the settings.

Step 2. At the bottom of the video settings window, you can see the 3 thumbnails generated automatically. To upload the customized image, click on the Custom thumbnail box at the bottom right-hand side.

Step 3. Browse and import the created thumbnail image and click on the Upload button.

The selected image will not be used as the thumbnail for the video.

Add Custom Thumbnail To YouTube Video

Key Takeaways from This Episode

A YouTube thumbnail works as the cover for your video and is the first thing that will get the attention and the interest of the viewer.

YouTube video thumbnail dimensions as recommended must be used.

Several pre-designed templates are available for creating interesting thumbnails.

To create an effective thumbnail, several tips and tricks can be used like using editing software like Wondershare Filmora.

Try It Free Try It Free

A YouTube thumbnail is like a cover page of your video that creates the first impression. Though a default thumbnail is created for each video by YouTube, you can always customize it and make it more appealing and attractive.

YouTube Thumbnails

More in detail about Youtube thumbnail size template, tips, and others can be learned from the following content.

In this article

01 [Youtube Thumbnail Specifications ](#Part 1)

02 [Youtube Thumbnail Templates](#Part 2)

03 [Top 5 Tips for Creating Effective Thumbnails](#Part 3)

04 [How to Add a Customized Thumbnail to a Youtube Video](#Part 4)

Part 1 YouTube Thumbnail Specifications

To stand out from the crowd and create an impact over the viewers, a well-customized thumbnail works great. A customized thumbnail proves effective in ways more than one like encouraging attention, increasing engagement, giving a professional look, portraying your personality, and much more. The right size of the thumbnail is an important consideration and the following are the suggested YouTube video thumbnail dimensions.

An ideal width and height of YouTube thumbnail size is 1280 X 720 pixels

The size of the thumbnail should be kept under 2MB.

Use the thumbnail in JPEG, PNG, BMP, or GIF format.

The ideal thumbnail ratio for YouTube has to be kept at 16:9.

The width of the thumbnail should not be less than 640 pixels.

YouTube Thumbnail Size

Part 2 YouTube Thumbnail Templates

If you are struggling to find the right thumbnail for your video, templates are a great rescue. There are several sites and programs where you can find multiple templates that can be customized and edited to suit your requirements. We have shortlisted a few sites where you can check different types of interesting templates for the YouTube thumbnails.

Canva: This online site has a huge collection of free as well as paid video thumbnails in different categories, and types. You can filter the collection of templates based on style and theme. The templates can be further customized as needed after which they can be downloaded to be used on YouTube.

Canva

VistaCreate: Interesting template designs are available at this site to be used as a YouTube video thumbnail. You can even create your own design or customize the ones available. The site also has an option to choose the desired thumbnail design using the search bar.

VistaCreate

Postermywall: YouTube templates in an array of designs, themes, and genres are available at this site. There are also Youtube Thumbnail Size Template and from these you can choose the one that matches the personality of your video and customize it as per the requirements. The search bar to look for your choice of template is also available.

Postermywall

Visme: Templates for all types of video thumbnails are available at this site to choose from. You simply need to choose the template as per your choice and you are all set to have an impressive thumbnail for your video. You can even look for your choice of design using the search bar.

Visme

Snappa: There is a wide selection of templates in different categories at this site that can be used for creating a customized thumbnail for your YouTube videos. The templates are free and you need to create a free account on the site to use them.

Snappa

Part 3 Top 5 Tips For Creating Effective Thumbnails

To make your thumbnails interesting and effective we have shortlisted a few useful tips as below.

Keep it clutter-free: It’s always good to keep your thumbnail simple and clean without any clutter. If you use too many elements in a thumbnail, they will look messy when watched on a mobile device.

Using a still image from the video: Though you can set a customized thumbnail for your videos, an automatic image is also selected by YouTube. It might be a possibility that the image automatically selected is good enough and effective and thus creating a customized thumbnail is not required.

Using editing software like Wondershare Filmora Video Editor for creating customized graphics: A good editing software can be used for creating an effective and impressive image. Wondershare Filmora is one such professional tool that can be considered. This Windows and Mac-based program can let you edit your images using multiple features. Simple and fast to use, the software also supports batch processing so that multiple files as thumbnails for multiple videos can be created at a time. Additional features supported by the software include motion tracking, adding text and tiles, adding overlays and filters, adding transitions and elements, color tuning, and more.

Wondershare Filmora

Get started easily with Filmora’s powerful performance, intuitive interface, and countless effects!

Try It Free Try It Free Try It Free Learn More >

filmora-video-editor

Use eye-catchy titles: Using catchy titles in your thumbnails is an effective way to grab the attention of the viewers. A title will give a glimpse to the viewers of the content of the video.

Try different designs: If you are not sure about a thumbnail design, create multiple ones and then add them to the video one by one. Select the design that goes best and looks attractive.

Wondershare Filmora

Part 4 How to Add A Customized Thumbnail To A Youtube Video

Once a customized thumbnail image is created, the next step is to add it to the video on your YouTube. The process is simple and quick and involves the following steps.

Step 1. Open your YouTube account and add the new video using the camera-plus icon. Alternatively, to add a thumbnail to the already uploaded video, go to the Studio dashboard and tap on the video for editing the settings.

Step 2. At the bottom of the video settings window, you can see the 3 thumbnails generated automatically. To upload the customized image, click on the Custom thumbnail box at the bottom right-hand side.

Step 3. Browse and import the created thumbnail image and click on the Upload button.

The selected image will not be used as the thumbnail for the video.

Add Custom Thumbnail To YouTube Video

Key Takeaways from This Episode

A YouTube thumbnail works as the cover for your video and is the first thing that will get the attention and the interest of the viewer.

YouTube video thumbnail dimensions as recommended must be used.

Several pre-designed templates are available for creating interesting thumbnails.

To create an effective thumbnail, several tips and tricks can be used like using editing software like Wondershare Filmora.

Top Video Editors for 4K Proxy Workflow: 2023 Edition

Top 8 Video Editing Apps for 4K Proxy Video Editing

author avatar

Max Wales

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Shooting videos in high resolutions can help you create visually impressive content your followers on social media are going to adore. The only trouble is that the size of 4K videos can slow you down during the video editing process if your computer doesn’t have enough RAM memory or processing power. Additionally, quite a few inexpensive or free video editing apps don’t allow their users to create low-resolution proxy files that make the process of editing 4K videos much faster. That’s why in this article we are going to take you through the best 8 video editors you can use for 4K proxy video editing.

The Best Video Editing Apps for Proxy Editing in 2020

Some of the video editing apps we featured in this article can only run on computers that already have the advanced hardware setups. However, even if you have a computer setup that can easily support processing of the 4K video files, proxy editing can still be useful as it can reduce the amount of time you will have to spend on performing complex video editing tasks. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editors that support proxy editing.

1. Filmora

Price: Free version available, subscription plans start at $49.99 per year

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

The wide range of video editing options, support for nearly all popular video file formats or quick and simple exporting process are only a few reasons why Filmora is one of the best video editors you can use this year. Creating proxy files in Filmora is not a difficult task, because the software generates them automatically for you. You just have to choose between the 1280x720p or 1920x1080p resolutions and Filmora will create proxies for all media files that are larger than the resolution you’ve selected. However, the amount of time Filmora is going to need to create proxies depends on your computer’s processing power, but also on the size and the number of the RAW files you imported into a project.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Price: $20,99 per month, different subscription plans available

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

This is probably one of the best, if not the best non-linear video editing software ever created, so it is hardly surprising that you can easily create proxy files for all videos you use in a project you create in Adobe Premiere Pro. So, to create proxy files you just need to open the folder that contains those files from the Media Browser and then click on the Ingest button. You should then click on the wrench tool and pick the Create Proxies option from the drop-down menu located next to the Ingest option. Afterward, you should select one of the available resolution presets and proceed to import the footage into the project. However, before you can start editing with proxies you have to click on the Toggle Proxy button.

3. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299,99

Compatibility: macOS

Transcoding media with FCPX doesn’t require too much effort, as the software offers a couple of options that make the editing process faster. You can opt to generate optimized media files by transcoding the original video clips into Apple ProRes 422 codec format that shortens the amount of time needed for rendering and provides excellent quality of color that is required for compositing. The proxy media files will also be created by transcoding the videos to Apple ProRes 422 codec format that retains original aspect ratio and frame rate of the video clips you transcoded. It is also worth noting that FCPX transcodes all mp3 files you import into a project to MOV audio files.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: Subscription plans start from $249,00

Compatibility: Windows

This video editor is often overlooked in conversations about the most powerful video editing apps, but the tools it offers are powerful enough to enable you to edit videos at a professional level. Creating proxy files in Vegas Pro is remarkably easy, as you just have to import the files into a new project, select each file you want to transcode and then choose the Create Video Proxy option from the right-click menu. Just keep in mind that you must create proxy files before you do any actual editing because otherwise, the transcoding process is not going work.

5. Blender

Price: Free

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

Blender is a 3D modeling and VFX software that lets you track objects or use 3D painting tools among numerous other options. Even though creating proxies with this app is not a particularly complicated process, you still have to be familiar with Blender in order to make full use of its transcoding options. The software allows you to generate proxy files whose size is only 25% of the video’s original size, although you can also create proxies that have 50% and 75% of the video’s original size. After you’ve adjusted the transcoding settings you should simply click on the Rebuild Proxy and Timecode Indices button.

6. Shotcut

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Despite the fact that this cross-platform video editor supports 4K and ProRes files that can cause it to lag at times, creating proxies in Shotcut is a highly technical process. In case you decide to make a proxy file by yourself, you will have to export a version of the file that is two or four times smaller than the original. You must also remember that you have to go through the entire process of creating proxies before you make any edits. The trick to creating proxies in Shotcut is to make a project file with the larger version of the video, then replace the larger version of the file with a smaller version of that same video file, before you actually start editing. Once you’ve completed the editing process, you can then once again add the larger source file to the project and export your video in high resolution.

7. Lightworks

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $24,99 per month

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

The process of creating proxies in Lightworks is rather simple since you just have to import the video files you’d like to edit into the software and make sure they are selected before you right-click on them. Once the right-click menu appears on the screen you should click on the Media submenu and select the Make Proxies option. The amount of time Lightworks is going to need to generate the proxy files depends on the number of the source files and their size. You can then proceed to add the proxies to the timeline, edit them and Lightworks will automatically use the source files instead of proxies during the rendering process.

8. HitFilm Express

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Once you create a new project and import all video clips you want to use in that project into the editor you should just go to the Assets menu that is located in the Media panel and click on the Make Proxy option. You will be able to continue editing while the transcoding process is still in progress, and after the source files are transcoded they will be replaced by proxies. However, making adjustments to a proxy version of a composite shot will invalidate that proxy file, which is why it is important to make all edits on that shot before you create its proxy.

Conclusion

Reducing the size of video clips you use in your projects is going to save you a lot of time during the video editing process. Each video editing software we featured in this article allows its users to generate proxy files effortlessly. Which video editor are you going to be using for proxy video editing? Leave a comment below and let us know.

author avatar

Max Wales

Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Max Wales

Max Wales

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Shooting videos in high resolutions can help you create visually impressive content your followers on social media are going to adore. The only trouble is that the size of 4K videos can slow you down during the video editing process if your computer doesn’t have enough RAM memory or processing power. Additionally, quite a few inexpensive or free video editing apps don’t allow their users to create low-resolution proxy files that make the process of editing 4K videos much faster. That’s why in this article we are going to take you through the best 8 video editors you can use for 4K proxy video editing.

The Best Video Editing Apps for Proxy Editing in 2020

Some of the video editing apps we featured in this article can only run on computers that already have the advanced hardware setups. However, even if you have a computer setup that can easily support processing of the 4K video files, proxy editing can still be useful as it can reduce the amount of time you will have to spend on performing complex video editing tasks. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editors that support proxy editing.

1. Filmora

Price: Free version available, subscription plans start at $49.99 per year

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

The wide range of video editing options, support for nearly all popular video file formats or quick and simple exporting process are only a few reasons why Filmora is one of the best video editors you can use this year. Creating proxy files in Filmora is not a difficult task, because the software generates them automatically for you. You just have to choose between the 1280x720p or 1920x1080p resolutions and Filmora will create proxies for all media files that are larger than the resolution you’ve selected. However, the amount of time Filmora is going to need to create proxies depends on your computer’s processing power, but also on the size and the number of the RAW files you imported into a project.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Price: $20,99 per month, different subscription plans available

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

This is probably one of the best, if not the best non-linear video editing software ever created, so it is hardly surprising that you can easily create proxy files for all videos you use in a project you create in Adobe Premiere Pro. So, to create proxy files you just need to open the folder that contains those files from the Media Browser and then click on the Ingest button. You should then click on the wrench tool and pick the Create Proxies option from the drop-down menu located next to the Ingest option. Afterward, you should select one of the available resolution presets and proceed to import the footage into the project. However, before you can start editing with proxies you have to click on the Toggle Proxy button.

3. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299,99

Compatibility: macOS

Transcoding media with FCPX doesn’t require too much effort, as the software offers a couple of options that make the editing process faster. You can opt to generate optimized media files by transcoding the original video clips into Apple ProRes 422 codec format that shortens the amount of time needed for rendering and provides excellent quality of color that is required for compositing. The proxy media files will also be created by transcoding the videos to Apple ProRes 422 codec format that retains original aspect ratio and frame rate of the video clips you transcoded. It is also worth noting that FCPX transcodes all mp3 files you import into a project to MOV audio files.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: Subscription plans start from $249,00

Compatibility: Windows

This video editor is often overlooked in conversations about the most powerful video editing apps, but the tools it offers are powerful enough to enable you to edit videos at a professional level. Creating proxy files in Vegas Pro is remarkably easy, as you just have to import the files into a new project, select each file you want to transcode and then choose the Create Video Proxy option from the right-click menu. Just keep in mind that you must create proxy files before you do any actual editing because otherwise, the transcoding process is not going work.

5. Blender

Price: Free

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

Blender is a 3D modeling and VFX software that lets you track objects or use 3D painting tools among numerous other options. Even though creating proxies with this app is not a particularly complicated process, you still have to be familiar with Blender in order to make full use of its transcoding options. The software allows you to generate proxy files whose size is only 25% of the video’s original size, although you can also create proxies that have 50% and 75% of the video’s original size. After you’ve adjusted the transcoding settings you should simply click on the Rebuild Proxy and Timecode Indices button.

6. Shotcut

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Despite the fact that this cross-platform video editor supports 4K and ProRes files that can cause it to lag at times, creating proxies in Shotcut is a highly technical process. In case you decide to make a proxy file by yourself, you will have to export a version of the file that is two or four times smaller than the original. You must also remember that you have to go through the entire process of creating proxies before you make any edits. The trick to creating proxies in Shotcut is to make a project file with the larger version of the video, then replace the larger version of the file with a smaller version of that same video file, before you actually start editing. Once you’ve completed the editing process, you can then once again add the larger source file to the project and export your video in high resolution.

7. Lightworks

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $24,99 per month

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

The process of creating proxies in Lightworks is rather simple since you just have to import the video files you’d like to edit into the software and make sure they are selected before you right-click on them. Once the right-click menu appears on the screen you should click on the Media submenu and select the Make Proxies option. The amount of time Lightworks is going to need to generate the proxy files depends on the number of the source files and their size. You can then proceed to add the proxies to the timeline, edit them and Lightworks will automatically use the source files instead of proxies during the rendering process.

8. HitFilm Express

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Once you create a new project and import all video clips you want to use in that project into the editor you should just go to the Assets menu that is located in the Media panel and click on the Make Proxy option. You will be able to continue editing while the transcoding process is still in progress, and after the source files are transcoded they will be replaced by proxies. However, making adjustments to a proxy version of a composite shot will invalidate that proxy file, which is why it is important to make all edits on that shot before you create its proxy.

Conclusion

Reducing the size of video clips you use in your projects is going to save you a lot of time during the video editing process. Each video editing software we featured in this article allows its users to generate proxy files effortlessly. Which video editor are you going to be using for proxy video editing? Leave a comment below and let us know.

author avatar

Max Wales

Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Max Wales

Max Wales

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Shooting videos in high resolutions can help you create visually impressive content your followers on social media are going to adore. The only trouble is that the size of 4K videos can slow you down during the video editing process if your computer doesn’t have enough RAM memory or processing power. Additionally, quite a few inexpensive or free video editing apps don’t allow their users to create low-resolution proxy files that make the process of editing 4K videos much faster. That’s why in this article we are going to take you through the best 8 video editors you can use for 4K proxy video editing.

The Best Video Editing Apps for Proxy Editing in 2020

Some of the video editing apps we featured in this article can only run on computers that already have the advanced hardware setups. However, even if you have a computer setup that can easily support processing of the 4K video files, proxy editing can still be useful as it can reduce the amount of time you will have to spend on performing complex video editing tasks. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editors that support proxy editing.

1. Filmora

Price: Free version available, subscription plans start at $49.99 per year

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

The wide range of video editing options, support for nearly all popular video file formats or quick and simple exporting process are only a few reasons why Filmora is one of the best video editors you can use this year. Creating proxy files in Filmora is not a difficult task, because the software generates them automatically for you. You just have to choose between the 1280x720p or 1920x1080p resolutions and Filmora will create proxies for all media files that are larger than the resolution you’ve selected. However, the amount of time Filmora is going to need to create proxies depends on your computer’s processing power, but also on the size and the number of the RAW files you imported into a project.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Price: $20,99 per month, different subscription plans available

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

This is probably one of the best, if not the best non-linear video editing software ever created, so it is hardly surprising that you can easily create proxy files for all videos you use in a project you create in Adobe Premiere Pro. So, to create proxy files you just need to open the folder that contains those files from the Media Browser and then click on the Ingest button. You should then click on the wrench tool and pick the Create Proxies option from the drop-down menu located next to the Ingest option. Afterward, you should select one of the available resolution presets and proceed to import the footage into the project. However, before you can start editing with proxies you have to click on the Toggle Proxy button.

3. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299,99

Compatibility: macOS

Transcoding media with FCPX doesn’t require too much effort, as the software offers a couple of options that make the editing process faster. You can opt to generate optimized media files by transcoding the original video clips into Apple ProRes 422 codec format that shortens the amount of time needed for rendering and provides excellent quality of color that is required for compositing. The proxy media files will also be created by transcoding the videos to Apple ProRes 422 codec format that retains original aspect ratio and frame rate of the video clips you transcoded. It is also worth noting that FCPX transcodes all mp3 files you import into a project to MOV audio files.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: Subscription plans start from $249,00

Compatibility: Windows

This video editor is often overlooked in conversations about the most powerful video editing apps, but the tools it offers are powerful enough to enable you to edit videos at a professional level. Creating proxy files in Vegas Pro is remarkably easy, as you just have to import the files into a new project, select each file you want to transcode and then choose the Create Video Proxy option from the right-click menu. Just keep in mind that you must create proxy files before you do any actual editing because otherwise, the transcoding process is not going work.

5. Blender

Price: Free

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

Blender is a 3D modeling and VFX software that lets you track objects or use 3D painting tools among numerous other options. Even though creating proxies with this app is not a particularly complicated process, you still have to be familiar with Blender in order to make full use of its transcoding options. The software allows you to generate proxy files whose size is only 25% of the video’s original size, although you can also create proxies that have 50% and 75% of the video’s original size. After you’ve adjusted the transcoding settings you should simply click on the Rebuild Proxy and Timecode Indices button.

6. Shotcut

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Despite the fact that this cross-platform video editor supports 4K and ProRes files that can cause it to lag at times, creating proxies in Shotcut is a highly technical process. In case you decide to make a proxy file by yourself, you will have to export a version of the file that is two or four times smaller than the original. You must also remember that you have to go through the entire process of creating proxies before you make any edits. The trick to creating proxies in Shotcut is to make a project file with the larger version of the video, then replace the larger version of the file with a smaller version of that same video file, before you actually start editing. Once you’ve completed the editing process, you can then once again add the larger source file to the project and export your video in high resolution.

7. Lightworks

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $24,99 per month

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

The process of creating proxies in Lightworks is rather simple since you just have to import the video files you’d like to edit into the software and make sure they are selected before you right-click on them. Once the right-click menu appears on the screen you should click on the Media submenu and select the Make Proxies option. The amount of time Lightworks is going to need to generate the proxy files depends on the number of the source files and their size. You can then proceed to add the proxies to the timeline, edit them and Lightworks will automatically use the source files instead of proxies during the rendering process.

8. HitFilm Express

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Once you create a new project and import all video clips you want to use in that project into the editor you should just go to the Assets menu that is located in the Media panel and click on the Make Proxy option. You will be able to continue editing while the transcoding process is still in progress, and after the source files are transcoded they will be replaced by proxies. However, making adjustments to a proxy version of a composite shot will invalidate that proxy file, which is why it is important to make all edits on that shot before you create its proxy.

Conclusion

Reducing the size of video clips you use in your projects is going to save you a lot of time during the video editing process. Each video editing software we featured in this article allows its users to generate proxy files effortlessly. Which video editor are you going to be using for proxy video editing? Leave a comment below and let us know.

author avatar

Max Wales

Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Max Wales

Max Wales

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Shooting videos in high resolutions can help you create visually impressive content your followers on social media are going to adore. The only trouble is that the size of 4K videos can slow you down during the video editing process if your computer doesn’t have enough RAM memory or processing power. Additionally, quite a few inexpensive or free video editing apps don’t allow their users to create low-resolution proxy files that make the process of editing 4K videos much faster. That’s why in this article we are going to take you through the best 8 video editors you can use for 4K proxy video editing.

The Best Video Editing Apps for Proxy Editing in 2020

Some of the video editing apps we featured in this article can only run on computers that already have the advanced hardware setups. However, even if you have a computer setup that can easily support processing of the 4K video files, proxy editing can still be useful as it can reduce the amount of time you will have to spend on performing complex video editing tasks. Let’s take a look at some of the best video editors that support proxy editing.

1. Filmora

Price: Free version available, subscription plans start at $49.99 per year

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Download Win VersionDownload Mac Version

The wide range of video editing options, support for nearly all popular video file formats or quick and simple exporting process are only a few reasons why Filmora is one of the best video editors you can use this year. Creating proxy files in Filmora is not a difficult task, because the software generates them automatically for you. You just have to choose between the 1280x720p or 1920x1080p resolutions and Filmora will create proxies for all media files that are larger than the resolution you’ve selected. However, the amount of time Filmora is going to need to create proxies depends on your computer’s processing power, but also on the size and the number of the RAW files you imported into a project.

2. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Price: $20,99 per month, different subscription plans available

Compatibility: Windows, macOS

This is probably one of the best, if not the best non-linear video editing software ever created, so it is hardly surprising that you can easily create proxy files for all videos you use in a project you create in Adobe Premiere Pro. So, to create proxy files you just need to open the folder that contains those files from the Media Browser and then click on the Ingest button. You should then click on the wrench tool and pick the Create Proxies option from the drop-down menu located next to the Ingest option. Afterward, you should select one of the available resolution presets and proceed to import the footage into the project. However, before you can start editing with proxies you have to click on the Toggle Proxy button.

3. Final Cut Pro X

Price: Free trial available, $299,99

Compatibility: macOS

Transcoding media with FCPX doesn’t require too much effort, as the software offers a couple of options that make the editing process faster. You can opt to generate optimized media files by transcoding the original video clips into Apple ProRes 422 codec format that shortens the amount of time needed for rendering and provides excellent quality of color that is required for compositing. The proxy media files will also be created by transcoding the videos to Apple ProRes 422 codec format that retains original aspect ratio and frame rate of the video clips you transcoded. It is also worth noting that FCPX transcodes all mp3 files you import into a project to MOV audio files.

4. Vegas Pro

Price: Subscription plans start from $249,00

Compatibility: Windows

This video editor is often overlooked in conversations about the most powerful video editing apps, but the tools it offers are powerful enough to enable you to edit videos at a professional level. Creating proxy files in Vegas Pro is remarkably easy, as you just have to import the files into a new project, select each file you want to transcode and then choose the Create Video Proxy option from the right-click menu. Just keep in mind that you must create proxy files before you do any actual editing because otherwise, the transcoding process is not going work.

5. Blender

Price: Free

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

Blender is a 3D modeling and VFX software that lets you track objects or use 3D painting tools among numerous other options. Even though creating proxies with this app is not a particularly complicated process, you still have to be familiar with Blender in order to make full use of its transcoding options. The software allows you to generate proxy files whose size is only 25% of the video’s original size, although you can also create proxies that have 50% and 75% of the video’s original size. After you’ve adjusted the transcoding settings you should simply click on the Rebuild Proxy and Timecode Indices button.

6. Shotcut

Price: Free

Compatibility: Windows, macOS, Linux

Despite the fact that this cross-platform video editor supports 4K and ProRes files that can cause it to lag at times, creating proxies in Shotcut is a highly technical process. In case you decide to make a proxy file by yourself, you will have to export a version of the file that is two or four times smaller than the original. You must also remember that you have to go through the entire process of creating proxies before you make any edits. The trick to creating proxies in Shotcut is to make a project file with the larger version of the video, then replace the larger version of the file with a smaller version of that same video file, before you actually start editing. Once you’ve completed the editing process, you can then once again add the larger source file to the project and export your video in high resolution.

7. Lightworks

Price: Free trial available, subscription plans start at $24,99 per month

Compatibility: Linux, macOS, Windows

The process of creating proxies in Lightworks is rather simple since you just have to import the video files you’d like to edit into the software and make sure they are selected before you right-click on them. Once the right-click menu appears on the screen you should click on the Media submenu and select the Make Proxies option. The amount of time Lightworks is going to need to generate the proxy files depends on the number of the source files and their size. You can then proceed to add the proxies to the timeline, edit them and Lightworks will automatically use the source files instead of proxies during the rendering process.

8. HitFilm Express

Price: Free

Compatibility: macOS, Windows

Once you create a new project and import all video clips you want to use in that project into the editor you should just go to the Assets menu that is located in the Media panel and click on the Make Proxy option. You will be able to continue editing while the transcoding process is still in progress, and after the source files are transcoded they will be replaced by proxies. However, making adjustments to a proxy version of a composite shot will invalidate that proxy file, which is why it is important to make all edits on that shot before you create its proxy.

Conclusion

Reducing the size of video clips you use in your projects is going to save you a lot of time during the video editing process. Each video editing software we featured in this article allows its users to generate proxy files effortlessly. Which video editor are you going to be using for proxy video editing? Leave a comment below and let us know.

author avatar

Max Wales

Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Max Wales

Express Yourself, But Better: The Advantages of Final Cut Pro

Why Final Cut Pro Beats Final Cut Express

author avatar

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Boring and unexciting videos may turn off your mode. You need something special or wonderful that could turn you on and make your memories worth watching.

To let users give a new look to their pictures and videos, Apple Inc. released its first video editing software Final Cut Express in 2003. Over the next few years, various improvements were made in its updated versions.

Final-Cut-Express

However, after multiple inconveniences, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 and launched its new version Final Cut Pro with advanced video editing features. Final Cut Pro was customized for video editing professionals with advanced knowledge of video editing. It is available for just $299.99 with 90 days free trial.

Some alternatives to Final Cut Express are also available in the market such as Final Cut Pro of crouse, iMovie, a low-end alternative, and Filmora, popular among beginners and pros. Let’s look at these tools individually in this article.

Part 1: What is Final Cut Express?

Final Cut Express was a video editing software designed by Apple Inc. for advanced editing of digital and HD videos. It was a consumer version of Final Cut Pro liked by professional photographers, due to its better capabilities than iMovie.

Final Cut Express used to have many features like two-way color correction, dynamic RT, Chroma key, 99 audio tracks, split-screen, and picture-in-picture effects, motion path keyframing, 23 compositing modes, and opacity keyframing.

It also allowed the users to keyframe the filters and perform slide and blade edits. Eight years after its release, Apple discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 in favor of Final Cut Pro X.

fina-cut-express-update

Part 2: Is Final Cut Express Still Available?

No, concurrent with the launch of Final Cut Pro X on June 21, 2011, Final Cut Express was discontinued and removed from the Apple online store.

You might be wondering what prompted Apple to do this. Well, the primary cause of the discontinuation of Final Cut Express was that Apple Inc. wanted to launch an advanced video editing software Final Cut Pro.

Besides, despite several attempts to improve the software’s performance, Final Cut Express kept on causing multiple inconveniences. The company eventually decided to discontinue Final Cut Express and introduce a new product to meet the ever-evolving needs of its customers.

As Final Cut Express withdrawal from the stage, many other editors still update to this day. For example, Filmora, an editor trusted by many beginners and pros, updates every month. Click download to try it for free!

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 3: Major Differences between Final Cut Pro and Final Cut Express

Both Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro were two high-performance, user-friendly, and advanced video editing software developed by Apple Inc. Both had amazing features and were liked by professional photographers, filmmakers, and editors. However, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011.

Today, Final Cut Pro incorporates all features of Final Cut Express plus some additional functions added by Apple Inc. later.

Given below are some of the key differences between these two software:

Final Cut Pro Final Cut Express
The software is currently available on Apple Store and is supported by all iOS devices. The software was discontinued in 2011 and can no longer be downloaded from Apple Store.
Effectiveness is guaranteed as the user will receive application updates. Untrusted and unreliable software because no application updates are available.
Original version with advanced features The consumer version of Final Cut Pro with limited features
The application performance keeps improving with new versions The application performance kept on declining due to downgraded features
Heavyweight editing tools for better results Simple editing tools
Costs $299 Costs $199
Recommended for experts and professionals Recommended for beginners
Requires a system with better hardware and enhanced performance Compatible with systems with less-advanced hardware

Part 4: iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro, Which is the Best?

All these video editing software, iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro are developed by Apple Inc. with different features and functions. However, they have different target audiences and offer diverse pricing plans according to the user’s needs.

The following table offers a detailed comparison of iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro to help you choose the best one for advanced video editing.

No. Parameter of Comparison iMovie Final Cut Express Final Cut Pro
1 Target Audience It is aimed at home users and who are beginners with no video editing skills It is ideal for a bit advanced users with moderate knowledge of video editing It is a professional product and targets professional photographers and video editors.
2 Features Automated video editing video support Audio & music editing HD & 4K Video color settings Crop & rotate video clip Stabilization Video effects & transitions Timeline Photo & music import Pre-built themes & backdrops simultaneously Two-way color correction Dynamic RT Chroma key 99 audio tracks Split-screen Picture-in-picture effects Motion path keyframing 23 compositing modes Opacity keyframing Moving & Trimming Clips Multicam Editing 360 Degree VR Editing Effects VR Headset Playback Advanced Color Grading HDR Video Support Motion Graphics Templates Asset Management Plug-Ins
3 Interface User-friendly and easy to understand Complicated for beginners Very complicated
4 Skill Set Required Beginner Moderate Advanced
5 Advanced Sharing Yes No No
6 Text Implementation Limited Tools Limited Tools Advanced tools for easy text customization
7 Compatible OS Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later, 64-bit processor
8 Workflow Advanced Moderate Advanced
9 Supported HD Format 1080 1080 UHD 4K
10 iCloud sync Yes No No
9 Operating Speed Fast due to limited tools Fast due to limited tools Moderate due to advanced tools and effects
10 Advanced Effects Presets Presets with moderate effects An array of advanced effects
11 Plugins and Integrations Limited Limited Several third-party plugins
12 Color Correction Features Focus on Image Improvement Small editing of pictures Total customization to match the footage tone
13 Pricing Free of Cost $199 90 days free trial then $299.99

Part 5: Best Alternative to Final Cut Express

Now, as Final Cut Express is no longer available, you may want to try the other two editors of Apple. While iMovie mainly targeted beginners, Final Cut Express and Pro targeted users with moderate to advanced knowledge of video editing.

For those beginners who wanted to make professional-looking videos without any editing skills, Wondershare launched Filmora as an alternative to Final Cut Express and Pro.

This user-friendly made video editing as simple as ABC. From offering multiple hand-picked effects to advanced editing options, Filmora allows you to range markers, perfect your audio, group timeline clips, and perform detailed color correction with auto-correction and color wheels for free.

Key Features

  • Advanced video editing options;
  • 300+ free handcrafted effects
  • User-friendly video editing tools; and
  • Video conversion options to multiple formats.

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Boring and unexciting videos may turn off your mode. You need something special or wonderful that could turn you on and make your memories worth watching.

To let users give a new look to their pictures and videos, Apple Inc. released its first video editing software Final Cut Express in 2003. Over the next few years, various improvements were made in its updated versions.

Final-Cut-Express

However, after multiple inconveniences, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 and launched its new version Final Cut Pro with advanced video editing features. Final Cut Pro was customized for video editing professionals with advanced knowledge of video editing. It is available for just $299.99 with 90 days free trial.

Some alternatives to Final Cut Express are also available in the market such as Final Cut Pro of crouse, iMovie, a low-end alternative, and Filmora, popular among beginners and pros. Let’s look at these tools individually in this article.

Part 1: What is Final Cut Express?

Final Cut Express was a video editing software designed by Apple Inc. for advanced editing of digital and HD videos. It was a consumer version of Final Cut Pro liked by professional photographers, due to its better capabilities than iMovie.

Final Cut Express used to have many features like two-way color correction, dynamic RT, Chroma key, 99 audio tracks, split-screen, and picture-in-picture effects, motion path keyframing, 23 compositing modes, and opacity keyframing.

It also allowed the users to keyframe the filters and perform slide and blade edits. Eight years after its release, Apple discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 in favor of Final Cut Pro X.

fina-cut-express-update

Part 2: Is Final Cut Express Still Available?

No, concurrent with the launch of Final Cut Pro X on June 21, 2011, Final Cut Express was discontinued and removed from the Apple online store.

You might be wondering what prompted Apple to do this. Well, the primary cause of the discontinuation of Final Cut Express was that Apple Inc. wanted to launch an advanced video editing software Final Cut Pro.

Besides, despite several attempts to improve the software’s performance, Final Cut Express kept on causing multiple inconveniences. The company eventually decided to discontinue Final Cut Express and introduce a new product to meet the ever-evolving needs of its customers.

As Final Cut Express withdrawal from the stage, many other editors still update to this day. For example, Filmora, an editor trusted by many beginners and pros, updates every month. Click download to try it for free!

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 3: Major Differences between Final Cut Pro and Final Cut Express

Both Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro were two high-performance, user-friendly, and advanced video editing software developed by Apple Inc. Both had amazing features and were liked by professional photographers, filmmakers, and editors. However, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011.

Today, Final Cut Pro incorporates all features of Final Cut Express plus some additional functions added by Apple Inc. later.

Given below are some of the key differences between these two software:

Final Cut Pro Final Cut Express
The software is currently available on Apple Store and is supported by all iOS devices. The software was discontinued in 2011 and can no longer be downloaded from Apple Store.
Effectiveness is guaranteed as the user will receive application updates. Untrusted and unreliable software because no application updates are available.
Original version with advanced features The consumer version of Final Cut Pro with limited features
The application performance keeps improving with new versions The application performance kept on declining due to downgraded features
Heavyweight editing tools for better results Simple editing tools
Costs $299 Costs $199
Recommended for experts and professionals Recommended for beginners
Requires a system with better hardware and enhanced performance Compatible with systems with less-advanced hardware

Part 4: iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro, Which is the Best?

All these video editing software, iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro are developed by Apple Inc. with different features and functions. However, they have different target audiences and offer diverse pricing plans according to the user’s needs.

The following table offers a detailed comparison of iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro to help you choose the best one for advanced video editing.

No. Parameter of Comparison iMovie Final Cut Express Final Cut Pro
1 Target Audience It is aimed at home users and who are beginners with no video editing skills It is ideal for a bit advanced users with moderate knowledge of video editing It is a professional product and targets professional photographers and video editors.
2 Features Automated video editing video support Audio & music editing HD & 4K Video color settings Crop & rotate video clip Stabilization Video effects & transitions Timeline Photo & music import Pre-built themes & backdrops simultaneously Two-way color correction Dynamic RT Chroma key 99 audio tracks Split-screen Picture-in-picture effects Motion path keyframing 23 compositing modes Opacity keyframing Moving & Trimming Clips Multicam Editing 360 Degree VR Editing Effects VR Headset Playback Advanced Color Grading HDR Video Support Motion Graphics Templates Asset Management Plug-Ins
3 Interface User-friendly and easy to understand Complicated for beginners Very complicated
4 Skill Set Required Beginner Moderate Advanced
5 Advanced Sharing Yes No No
6 Text Implementation Limited Tools Limited Tools Advanced tools for easy text customization
7 Compatible OS Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later, 64-bit processor
8 Workflow Advanced Moderate Advanced
9 Supported HD Format 1080 1080 UHD 4K
10 iCloud sync Yes No No
9 Operating Speed Fast due to limited tools Fast due to limited tools Moderate due to advanced tools and effects
10 Advanced Effects Presets Presets with moderate effects An array of advanced effects
11 Plugins and Integrations Limited Limited Several third-party plugins
12 Color Correction Features Focus on Image Improvement Small editing of pictures Total customization to match the footage tone
13 Pricing Free of Cost $199 90 days free trial then $299.99

Part 5: Best Alternative to Final Cut Express

Now, as Final Cut Express is no longer available, you may want to try the other two editors of Apple. While iMovie mainly targeted beginners, Final Cut Express and Pro targeted users with moderate to advanced knowledge of video editing.

For those beginners who wanted to make professional-looking videos without any editing skills, Wondershare launched Filmora as an alternative to Final Cut Express and Pro.

This user-friendly made video editing as simple as ABC. From offering multiple hand-picked effects to advanced editing options, Filmora allows you to range markers, perfect your audio, group timeline clips, and perform detailed color correction with auto-correction and color wheels for free.

Key Features

  • Advanced video editing options;
  • 300+ free handcrafted effects
  • User-friendly video editing tools; and
  • Video conversion options to multiple formats.

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Boring and unexciting videos may turn off your mode. You need something special or wonderful that could turn you on and make your memories worth watching.

To let users give a new look to their pictures and videos, Apple Inc. released its first video editing software Final Cut Express in 2003. Over the next few years, various improvements were made in its updated versions.

Final-Cut-Express

However, after multiple inconveniences, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 and launched its new version Final Cut Pro with advanced video editing features. Final Cut Pro was customized for video editing professionals with advanced knowledge of video editing. It is available for just $299.99 with 90 days free trial.

Some alternatives to Final Cut Express are also available in the market such as Final Cut Pro of crouse, iMovie, a low-end alternative, and Filmora, popular among beginners and pros. Let’s look at these tools individually in this article.

Part 1: What is Final Cut Express?

Final Cut Express was a video editing software designed by Apple Inc. for advanced editing of digital and HD videos. It was a consumer version of Final Cut Pro liked by professional photographers, due to its better capabilities than iMovie.

Final Cut Express used to have many features like two-way color correction, dynamic RT, Chroma key, 99 audio tracks, split-screen, and picture-in-picture effects, motion path keyframing, 23 compositing modes, and opacity keyframing.

It also allowed the users to keyframe the filters and perform slide and blade edits. Eight years after its release, Apple discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 in favor of Final Cut Pro X.

fina-cut-express-update

Part 2: Is Final Cut Express Still Available?

No, concurrent with the launch of Final Cut Pro X on June 21, 2011, Final Cut Express was discontinued and removed from the Apple online store.

You might be wondering what prompted Apple to do this. Well, the primary cause of the discontinuation of Final Cut Express was that Apple Inc. wanted to launch an advanced video editing software Final Cut Pro.

Besides, despite several attempts to improve the software’s performance, Final Cut Express kept on causing multiple inconveniences. The company eventually decided to discontinue Final Cut Express and introduce a new product to meet the ever-evolving needs of its customers.

As Final Cut Express withdrawal from the stage, many other editors still update to this day. For example, Filmora, an editor trusted by many beginners and pros, updates every month. Click download to try it for free!

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 3: Major Differences between Final Cut Pro and Final Cut Express

Both Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro were two high-performance, user-friendly, and advanced video editing software developed by Apple Inc. Both had amazing features and were liked by professional photographers, filmmakers, and editors. However, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011.

Today, Final Cut Pro incorporates all features of Final Cut Express plus some additional functions added by Apple Inc. later.

Given below are some of the key differences between these two software:

Final Cut Pro Final Cut Express
The software is currently available on Apple Store and is supported by all iOS devices. The software was discontinued in 2011 and can no longer be downloaded from Apple Store.
Effectiveness is guaranteed as the user will receive application updates. Untrusted and unreliable software because no application updates are available.
Original version with advanced features The consumer version of Final Cut Pro with limited features
The application performance keeps improving with new versions The application performance kept on declining due to downgraded features
Heavyweight editing tools for better results Simple editing tools
Costs $299 Costs $199
Recommended for experts and professionals Recommended for beginners
Requires a system with better hardware and enhanced performance Compatible with systems with less-advanced hardware

Part 4: iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro, Which is the Best?

All these video editing software, iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro are developed by Apple Inc. with different features and functions. However, they have different target audiences and offer diverse pricing plans according to the user’s needs.

The following table offers a detailed comparison of iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro to help you choose the best one for advanced video editing.

No. Parameter of Comparison iMovie Final Cut Express Final Cut Pro
1 Target Audience It is aimed at home users and who are beginners with no video editing skills It is ideal for a bit advanced users with moderate knowledge of video editing It is a professional product and targets professional photographers and video editors.
2 Features Automated video editing video support Audio & music editing HD & 4K Video color settings Crop & rotate video clip Stabilization Video effects & transitions Timeline Photo & music import Pre-built themes & backdrops simultaneously Two-way color correction Dynamic RT Chroma key 99 audio tracks Split-screen Picture-in-picture effects Motion path keyframing 23 compositing modes Opacity keyframing Moving & Trimming Clips Multicam Editing 360 Degree VR Editing Effects VR Headset Playback Advanced Color Grading HDR Video Support Motion Graphics Templates Asset Management Plug-Ins
3 Interface User-friendly and easy to understand Complicated for beginners Very complicated
4 Skill Set Required Beginner Moderate Advanced
5 Advanced Sharing Yes No No
6 Text Implementation Limited Tools Limited Tools Advanced tools for easy text customization
7 Compatible OS Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later, 64-bit processor
8 Workflow Advanced Moderate Advanced
9 Supported HD Format 1080 1080 UHD 4K
10 iCloud sync Yes No No
9 Operating Speed Fast due to limited tools Fast due to limited tools Moderate due to advanced tools and effects
10 Advanced Effects Presets Presets with moderate effects An array of advanced effects
11 Plugins and Integrations Limited Limited Several third-party plugins
12 Color Correction Features Focus on Image Improvement Small editing of pictures Total customization to match the footage tone
13 Pricing Free of Cost $199 90 days free trial then $299.99

Part 5: Best Alternative to Final Cut Express

Now, as Final Cut Express is no longer available, you may want to try the other two editors of Apple. While iMovie mainly targeted beginners, Final Cut Express and Pro targeted users with moderate to advanced knowledge of video editing.

For those beginners who wanted to make professional-looking videos without any editing skills, Wondershare launched Filmora as an alternative to Final Cut Express and Pro.

This user-friendly made video editing as simple as ABC. From offering multiple hand-picked effects to advanced editing options, Filmora allows you to range markers, perfect your audio, group timeline clips, and perform detailed color correction with auto-correction and color wheels for free.

Key Features

  • Advanced video editing options;
  • 300+ free handcrafted effects
  • User-friendly video editing tools; and
  • Video conversion options to multiple formats.

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Boring and unexciting videos may turn off your mode. You need something special or wonderful that could turn you on and make your memories worth watching.

To let users give a new look to their pictures and videos, Apple Inc. released its first video editing software Final Cut Express in 2003. Over the next few years, various improvements were made in its updated versions.

Final-Cut-Express

However, after multiple inconveniences, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 and launched its new version Final Cut Pro with advanced video editing features. Final Cut Pro was customized for video editing professionals with advanced knowledge of video editing. It is available for just $299.99 with 90 days free trial.

Some alternatives to Final Cut Express are also available in the market such as Final Cut Pro of crouse, iMovie, a low-end alternative, and Filmora, popular among beginners and pros. Let’s look at these tools individually in this article.

Part 1: What is Final Cut Express?

Final Cut Express was a video editing software designed by Apple Inc. for advanced editing of digital and HD videos. It was a consumer version of Final Cut Pro liked by professional photographers, due to its better capabilities than iMovie.

Final Cut Express used to have many features like two-way color correction, dynamic RT, Chroma key, 99 audio tracks, split-screen, and picture-in-picture effects, motion path keyframing, 23 compositing modes, and opacity keyframing.

It also allowed the users to keyframe the filters and perform slide and blade edits. Eight years after its release, Apple discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011 in favor of Final Cut Pro X.

fina-cut-express-update

Part 2: Is Final Cut Express Still Available?

No, concurrent with the launch of Final Cut Pro X on June 21, 2011, Final Cut Express was discontinued and removed from the Apple online store.

You might be wondering what prompted Apple to do this. Well, the primary cause of the discontinuation of Final Cut Express was that Apple Inc. wanted to launch an advanced video editing software Final Cut Pro.

Besides, despite several attempts to improve the software’s performance, Final Cut Express kept on causing multiple inconveniences. The company eventually decided to discontinue Final Cut Express and introduce a new product to meet the ever-evolving needs of its customers.

As Final Cut Express withdrawal from the stage, many other editors still update to this day. For example, Filmora, an editor trusted by many beginners and pros, updates every month. Click download to try it for free!

Download Win Version Download Mac Version

Part 3: Major Differences between Final Cut Pro and Final Cut Express

Both Final Cut Express and Final Cut Pro were two high-performance, user-friendly, and advanced video editing software developed by Apple Inc. Both had amazing features and were liked by professional photographers, filmmakers, and editors. However, Apple Inc. discontinued Final Cut Express in 2011.

Today, Final Cut Pro incorporates all features of Final Cut Express plus some additional functions added by Apple Inc. later.

Given below are some of the key differences between these two software:

Final Cut Pro Final Cut Express
The software is currently available on Apple Store and is supported by all iOS devices. The software was discontinued in 2011 and can no longer be downloaded from Apple Store.
Effectiveness is guaranteed as the user will receive application updates. Untrusted and unreliable software because no application updates are available.
Original version with advanced features The consumer version of Final Cut Pro with limited features
The application performance keeps improving with new versions The application performance kept on declining due to downgraded features
Heavyweight editing tools for better results Simple editing tools
Costs $299 Costs $199
Recommended for experts and professionals Recommended for beginners
Requires a system with better hardware and enhanced performance Compatible with systems with less-advanced hardware

Part 4: iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro, Which is the Best?

All these video editing software, iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro are developed by Apple Inc. with different features and functions. However, they have different target audiences and offer diverse pricing plans according to the user’s needs.

The following table offers a detailed comparison of iMovie, Final Cut Express, and Final Cut Pro to help you choose the best one for advanced video editing.

No. Parameter of Comparison iMovie Final Cut Express Final Cut Pro
1 Target Audience It is aimed at home users and who are beginners with no video editing skills It is ideal for a bit advanced users with moderate knowledge of video editing It is a professional product and targets professional photographers and video editors.
2 Features Automated video editing video support Audio & music editing HD & 4K Video color settings Crop & rotate video clip Stabilization Video effects & transitions Timeline Photo & music import Pre-built themes & backdrops simultaneously Two-way color correction Dynamic RT Chroma key 99 audio tracks Split-screen Picture-in-picture effects Motion path keyframing 23 compositing modes Opacity keyframing Moving & Trimming Clips Multicam Editing 360 Degree VR Editing Effects VR Headset Playback Advanced Color Grading HDR Video Support Motion Graphics Templates Asset Management Plug-Ins
3 Interface User-friendly and easy to understand Complicated for beginners Very complicated
4 Skill Set Required Beginner Moderate Advanced
5 Advanced Sharing Yes No No
6 Text Implementation Limited Tools Limited Tools Advanced tools for easy text customization
7 Compatible OS Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later Mac OS X 10.10.2 or later, 64-bit processor
8 Workflow Advanced Moderate Advanced
9 Supported HD Format 1080 1080 UHD 4K
10 iCloud sync Yes No No
9 Operating Speed Fast due to limited tools Fast due to limited tools Moderate due to advanced tools and effects
10 Advanced Effects Presets Presets with moderate effects An array of advanced effects
11 Plugins and Integrations Limited Limited Several third-party plugins
12 Color Correction Features Focus on Image Improvement Small editing of pictures Total customization to match the footage tone
13 Pricing Free of Cost $199 90 days free trial then $299.99

Part 5: Best Alternative to Final Cut Express

Now, as Final Cut Express is no longer available, you may want to try the other two editors of Apple. While iMovie mainly targeted beginners, Final Cut Express and Pro targeted users with moderate to advanced knowledge of video editing.

For those beginners who wanted to make professional-looking videos without any editing skills, Wondershare launched Filmora as an alternative to Final Cut Express and Pro.

This user-friendly made video editing as simple as ABC. From offering multiple hand-picked effects to advanced editing options, Filmora allows you to range markers, perfect your audio, group timeline clips, and perform detailed color correction with auto-correction and color wheels for free.

Key Features

  • Advanced video editing options;
  • 300+ free handcrafted effects
  • User-friendly video editing tools; and
  • Video conversion options to multiple formats.

author avatar

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Also read:

  • Title: New 2024 Approved Free Video FX Apps The Ultimate List for iOS and Android
  • Author: Amelia
  • Created at : 2024-04-29 19:46:11
  • Updated at : 2024-04-30 19:46:11
  • Link: https://ai-driven-video-production.techidaily.com/new-2024-approved-free-video-fx-apps-the-ultimate-list-for-ios-and-android/
  • License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
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New 2024 Approved Free Video FX Apps The Ultimate List for iOS and Android