Create Stunning Animations: Top Free and Paid 3D Software Recommendations

Best 3D Animation Software Free and Paid

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Are you in search of some of the best 3D animation software? There are several uses of the 3D animation software creator, like creating movies, creating characters, adding voiceovers to the characters, etc.

The 3D animation maker has a great deal to explore, which is fun. If you are familiar with 2D animation editors or love animation just for fun, you can try the free 3D animation software.

Although you can find a great number of animation software in the market, we can trust only a few of them completely. In this article, you can explore the best 3D animation software, which is free, paid, and trending on the popularity charts.

• Part1: Best Free 3D Animation Software
• Part2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

Recommended 3D Animation Software - Filmora

If you want more controls on 3D animation videos, here we recommend using Filmora .

You need to build a white plane to start making 3D animation with keyframes easily. Filmora offers six different types of keyframes to let your animation become smooth and natural.

Besides, auto color correction and audio mixer will upgrade your 3D animation video to a new level. You can also apply light flares effects to make amazing 3D animation. Now, free download it to have a try!

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

Below is a comparison table where you can find the best free 3D animation makers. Some 3D animation makers are easy to use. Take a look!

Price	OS	Pros	Features
Blender	Free	Windows, Linux, and macOS	Best 3d animation software; Active community globally	Powerful rendering support
Wings 3D	Free	Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X	Easy 3d animation software; Open source and completely free	Its interface is customizable
K-3D	Free	GNU/Linux, MacOS X, FreeBSD, Windows	Intuitive 3d animation maker; Node-based visualization pipeline.	Endless redo feature
Source Filmmaker	Free	Windows	Any games can be used in this animation maker	Game lovers will like it
Mixamo Maya	Free $225 per month $1,785 per year $5,085 every 3 years	Windows, MacOS and Linux Windows, MacOS and Linux	Vivid and high-quality animated 3D characters Time Editor to edit animation faster; You can collect motion capture data	Belong to adobe family Easy to use Motion graphics
Cinema 4D	$61.19 per month $734.40 per year	Windows, MacOS and Linux	Intuitive interface to make 3D animation	Fluid workflow to start editing for beginners
Houdini	$1,995/year	Windows, MacOs	Powerful VEX to make excellent 3D animations	Quick guide for learners
ZBrush MotionBuilder	$39.95 per month $2,045 per year $5,830 every 3 year	Windows Vista and MacOs Windows and Linux	Ideal for 3D amination. Adjust animation in moments .	Amazing sculpting tools. Simple to make adjustment.

Part 1: Best Free 3D Animation Software

1. Blender

Pros:

• Both manual and auto-tracking
• Camera restoration is powerful
• Curve editor and dope sheets
• Customize layout and interface

An open-source professional, free 3D animation software, Blender is used to host various applications like visual effects, animated feature films, video games, and more. The Blender supports the entire 3D tree, including rigging, modeling, animating, simulating, compositing, rendering, and tracking motion. The features of Blender are:

Features:

• CPU, GPU, VR rendering support.
• Masking and textured brushes for 3D painting.
• Add-ons and customized tools with Python scripting
• Bridge fill, edge slide, grid, inset.

2. Wings 3D

Pros:

• Various modeling tools to make 3D effects.
• Completely free for use for commercial usage.
• Include a forum to communicate with users.

An easy-to-use, unconventional sector modeler, Wings 3D is a powerful 3D animation software. Whether you are a commercial 3D animation creator or a non-professional, Wings 3D is a free and open-source 3D animation software. The features of Winds 3D include:

Features:

• Customized interface.
• Support for materials and lights.
• Built-in AutoUV mapping facility

3.K-3D

Pros:

• Intuitive interface to make 3D effects
• Can always go back to undo operations
• Free-to-use

One of the best 3D animation software is K-3D. K-3D features a procedural engine plugin for its content. It is a free 3D animation software that supports polygonal modeling. A visual pipeline architecture combines the flexible plugins that make the K-3D software a powerful and versatile tool. The features include:

Features:

• Consistent and intuitive.
• Consist of basic tools for animation, patches, curves, and NURVS.
• Parametric workflow.
• It can be run on Windows, macOS X, Linux, and FreeBSD.

4.Source Filmmaker

Pros :

• The virtual movie set with lights, actors, props, and cameras.
• Create your movies and add features as per your requirement.
• Manages the entire workflow needed to make a movie into one single system.

This 3D animation software lets you make a movie inside the game engine Source. Wondering how? It is because whatever assets are present in the game, the Source Filmmaker uses them. So, the game’s assets are used by SFM in the film and vice versa. The features of this movie-making tool include:

Features:

• Renders power of a modern gaming PC.
• Whatever you see in the game is what you get in the movie.
• Completely free to download

5**_._**Mixamo

Pros:

• Download multiple animations at one go.
• Fast character and animation browsing.

With a straightforward and faster workflow, the Mixamo 3D software’s newest user experience and interface make it too easy to instantly find, create, organize, and share assets and animation. The features of this 3D animation software include:

Features:

• User experience is streamlined.
• Fully customizable animation packs.
• The faster and more accurate search function.

Part 2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

6**_._**Maya

Pros:

• Perfect accuracy and control.
• Create flying logos, title sequences, branding, etc.
• Higher performance in a high fidelity environment

If you want to create or develop games, 3D scenes, movies, or characters, Maya is one of the best 3D animation software tools available. Although a paid software, Maya 3D animation creator does complete justice to its various coloring, animating, and modeling features.

Maya LT - Create 3D characters and environments for your indie game with a more cost-effective tool based on production-proven 3D products. Buy now! The features are:

Features:

• 30 days of a free trial
• Uncomplicated software
• Create complex technical effects
• High-level animation edits

7**_._**Cinema 4D

Pros:

• Dissect complete scenes
• Customized with a huge range of assets

A faster 3D animation software tool than Maya, Cinema 4D offers a gentle curve for learning but does not cover all like Maya. The high-speed feature makes the Cinema 4D software desirable in television, advertisements, and various motion graphics. The features are:

Features:

• Extensive library of preset scenes, material, and objects
• Develop concepts without time modeling

8.Houdini

Pros:

• Time-space motion path handles
• Support import and export to a range of formats
• Robust built-in rendering solution

Developed by the Toronto-based Side Effects Software, Houdini covers every major part that a 3D animation software should do. This 3D animation maker was adapted by the PRISMS group of procedural generation software tools. Houdini’s keen focus on procedural generation differentiates it from other 3D animation creators. The features of this 3D animation software are:

Features:

• Powerful and accessible 3D animation experience
• Rigging animate characters
• Add Character FX like fur, hair, etc.

9.ZBrush

Pros:

• A fantastic selection of sculpting tools.
• Easy to handle millions of polygons.

ZBrush 4 offers a smart technique to communicate your work with a director or online. Saved camera angles can be switched using a timeline. This improves productivity or creates intricate turntable animations. Animate between morph targets and model positions to check UV maps and facial expressions. Watch your model move with ZSpheres. Layer animation can animate between textures and PolyPaint variants. Import music or use ZBrush to create a demo reel with exact animation synchronization. The timeline interface features auto magnification, jump cuts, and relaxation. The timeline features let you present your work effectively. ZBrush is a modeling and sculpting application for organic structures.

Features:

• Several things can be animated, including layers, subtool visibility, backdrop colors, poly frame display, ZSpheres, camera angles, subdivision levels, and more.
• Your mesh animation can be exported to Modo in MDD format.
• Streamlines and expedites the movement of the face.

9.MotionBuilder:

Pros:

• Develop captivating animations for the characters.
• Participate in activities that require teamwork.
• Modify the animations in an instant.

MotionBuilder is a very specialized animation software that lets you work with 3D animation. The program is only available in a paid version, and the user interface is in two languages. You can save time by using the app to apply moves that have already been used to new characters. The animations can be watched in real-time. MotionBuilder can also be used with other Autodesk programs like Maya, 3ds Max, and others.

Features:

• Move your characters in a manner that is consistent with reality.
• Easily make adjustments and adjustments to animations.

Conclusion

This is the list of the free and paid best 3D animation software. So, whenever you are confused and need any assistance regarding 3D animation software, go through this article and find the right solution. Undoubtedly, Filmora is one of the best tools for 3D animation. With a range of features like ease of interface access, preset animation effects, multiple tracks to add various videos, and more, a complete package ensures a great 3D animation software usage tool. Just a little trial and error can make you perfect.

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

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Are you in search of some of the best 3D animation software? There are several uses of the 3D animation software creator, like creating movies, creating characters, adding voiceovers to the characters, etc.

The 3D animation maker has a great deal to explore, which is fun. If you are familiar with 2D animation editors or love animation just for fun, you can try the free 3D animation software.

Although you can find a great number of animation software in the market, we can trust only a few of them completely. In this article, you can explore the best 3D animation software, which is free, paid, and trending on the popularity charts.

• Part1: Best Free 3D Animation Software
• Part2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

Recommended 3D Animation Software - Filmora

If you want more controls on 3D animation videos, here we recommend using Filmora .

You need to build a white plane to start making 3D animation with keyframes easily. Filmora offers six different types of keyframes to let your animation become smooth and natural.

Besides, auto color correction and audio mixer will upgrade your 3D animation video to a new level. You can also apply light flares effects to make amazing 3D animation. Now, free download it to have a try!

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

Below is a comparison table where you can find the best free 3D animation makers. Some 3D animation makers are easy to use. Take a look!

Price	OS	Pros	Features
Blender	Free	Windows, Linux, and macOS	Best 3d animation software; Active community globally	Powerful rendering support
Wings 3D	Free	Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X	Easy 3d animation software; Open source and completely free	Its interface is customizable
K-3D	Free	GNU/Linux, MacOS X, FreeBSD, Windows	Intuitive 3d animation maker; Node-based visualization pipeline.	Endless redo feature
Source Filmmaker	Free	Windows	Any games can be used in this animation maker	Game lovers will like it
Mixamo Maya	Free $225 per month $1,785 per year $5,085 every 3 years	Windows, MacOS and Linux Windows, MacOS and Linux	Vivid and high-quality animated 3D characters Time Editor to edit animation faster; You can collect motion capture data	Belong to adobe family Easy to use Motion graphics
Cinema 4D	$61.19 per month $734.40 per year	Windows, MacOS and Linux	Intuitive interface to make 3D animation	Fluid workflow to start editing for beginners
Houdini	$1,995/year	Windows, MacOs	Powerful VEX to make excellent 3D animations	Quick guide for learners
ZBrush MotionBuilder	$39.95 per month $2,045 per year $5,830 every 3 year	Windows Vista and MacOs Windows and Linux	Ideal for 3D amination. Adjust animation in moments .	Amazing sculpting tools. Simple to make adjustment.

Part 1: Best Free 3D Animation Software

1. Blender

Pros:

• Both manual and auto-tracking
• Camera restoration is powerful
• Curve editor and dope sheets
• Customize layout and interface

An open-source professional, free 3D animation software, Blender is used to host various applications like visual effects, animated feature films, video games, and more. The Blender supports the entire 3D tree, including rigging, modeling, animating, simulating, compositing, rendering, and tracking motion. The features of Blender are:

Features:

• CPU, GPU, VR rendering support.
• Masking and textured brushes for 3D painting.
• Add-ons and customized tools with Python scripting
• Bridge fill, edge slide, grid, inset.

2. Wings 3D

Pros:

• Various modeling tools to make 3D effects.
• Completely free for use for commercial usage.
• Include a forum to communicate with users.

An easy-to-use, unconventional sector modeler, Wings 3D is a powerful 3D animation software. Whether you are a commercial 3D animation creator or a non-professional, Wings 3D is a free and open-source 3D animation software. The features of Winds 3D include:

Features:

• Customized interface.
• Support for materials and lights.
• Built-in AutoUV mapping facility

3.K-3D

Pros:

• Intuitive interface to make 3D effects
• Can always go back to undo operations
• Free-to-use

One of the best 3D animation software is K-3D. K-3D features a procedural engine plugin for its content. It is a free 3D animation software that supports polygonal modeling. A visual pipeline architecture combines the flexible plugins that make the K-3D software a powerful and versatile tool. The features include:

Features:

• Consistent and intuitive.
• Consist of basic tools for animation, patches, curves, and NURVS.
• Parametric workflow.
• It can be run on Windows, macOS X, Linux, and FreeBSD.

4.Source Filmmaker

Pros :

• The virtual movie set with lights, actors, props, and cameras.
• Create your movies and add features as per your requirement.
• Manages the entire workflow needed to make a movie into one single system.

This 3D animation software lets you make a movie inside the game engine Source. Wondering how? It is because whatever assets are present in the game, the Source Filmmaker uses them. So, the game’s assets are used by SFM in the film and vice versa. The features of this movie-making tool include:

Features:

• Renders power of a modern gaming PC.
• Whatever you see in the game is what you get in the movie.
• Completely free to download

5**_._**Mixamo

Pros:

• Download multiple animations at one go.
• Fast character and animation browsing.

With a straightforward and faster workflow, the Mixamo 3D software’s newest user experience and interface make it too easy to instantly find, create, organize, and share assets and animation. The features of this 3D animation software include:

Features:

• User experience is streamlined.
• Fully customizable animation packs.
• The faster and more accurate search function.

Part 2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

6**_._**Maya

Pros:

• Perfect accuracy and control.
• Create flying logos, title sequences, branding, etc.
• Higher performance in a high fidelity environment

If you want to create or develop games, 3D scenes, movies, or characters, Maya is one of the best 3D animation software tools available. Although a paid software, Maya 3D animation creator does complete justice to its various coloring, animating, and modeling features.

Maya LT - Create 3D characters and environments for your indie game with a more cost-effective tool based on production-proven 3D products. Buy now! The features are:

Features:

• 30 days of a free trial
• Uncomplicated software
• Create complex technical effects
• High-level animation edits

7**_._**Cinema 4D

Pros:

• Dissect complete scenes
• Customized with a huge range of assets

A faster 3D animation software tool than Maya, Cinema 4D offers a gentle curve for learning but does not cover all like Maya. The high-speed feature makes the Cinema 4D software desirable in television, advertisements, and various motion graphics. The features are:

Features:

• Extensive library of preset scenes, material, and objects
• Develop concepts without time modeling

8.Houdini

Pros:

• Time-space motion path handles
• Support import and export to a range of formats
• Robust built-in rendering solution

Developed by the Toronto-based Side Effects Software, Houdini covers every major part that a 3D animation software should do. This 3D animation maker was adapted by the PRISMS group of procedural generation software tools. Houdini’s keen focus on procedural generation differentiates it from other 3D animation creators. The features of this 3D animation software are:

Features:

• Powerful and accessible 3D animation experience
• Rigging animate characters
• Add Character FX like fur, hair, etc.

9.ZBrush

Pros:

• A fantastic selection of sculpting tools.
• Easy to handle millions of polygons.

ZBrush 4 offers a smart technique to communicate your work with a director or online. Saved camera angles can be switched using a timeline. This improves productivity or creates intricate turntable animations. Animate between morph targets and model positions to check UV maps and facial expressions. Watch your model move with ZSpheres. Layer animation can animate between textures and PolyPaint variants. Import music or use ZBrush to create a demo reel with exact animation synchronization. The timeline interface features auto magnification, jump cuts, and relaxation. The timeline features let you present your work effectively. ZBrush is a modeling and sculpting application for organic structures.

Features:

• Several things can be animated, including layers, subtool visibility, backdrop colors, poly frame display, ZSpheres, camera angles, subdivision levels, and more.
• Your mesh animation can be exported to Modo in MDD format.
• Streamlines and expedites the movement of the face.

9.MotionBuilder:

Pros:

• Develop captivating animations for the characters.
• Participate in activities that require teamwork.
• Modify the animations in an instant.

MotionBuilder is a very specialized animation software that lets you work with 3D animation. The program is only available in a paid version, and the user interface is in two languages. You can save time by using the app to apply moves that have already been used to new characters. The animations can be watched in real-time. MotionBuilder can also be used with other Autodesk programs like Maya, 3ds Max, and others.

Features:

• Move your characters in a manner that is consistent with reality.
• Easily make adjustments and adjustments to animations.

Conclusion

This is the list of the free and paid best 3D animation software. So, whenever you are confused and need any assistance regarding 3D animation software, go through this article and find the right solution. Undoubtedly, Filmora is one of the best tools for 3D animation. With a range of features like ease of interface access, preset animation effects, multiple tracks to add various videos, and more, a complete package ensures a great 3D animation software usage tool. Just a little trial and error can make you perfect.

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

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Are you in search of some of the best 3D animation software? There are several uses of the 3D animation software creator, like creating movies, creating characters, adding voiceovers to the characters, etc.

The 3D animation maker has a great deal to explore, which is fun. If you are familiar with 2D animation editors or love animation just for fun, you can try the free 3D animation software.

Although you can find a great number of animation software in the market, we can trust only a few of them completely. In this article, you can explore the best 3D animation software, which is free, paid, and trending on the popularity charts.

• Part1: Best Free 3D Animation Software
• Part2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

Recommended 3D Animation Software - Filmora

If you want more controls on 3D animation videos, here we recommend using Filmora .

You need to build a white plane to start making 3D animation with keyframes easily. Filmora offers six different types of keyframes to let your animation become smooth and natural.

Besides, auto color correction and audio mixer will upgrade your 3D animation video to a new level. You can also apply light flares effects to make amazing 3D animation. Now, free download it to have a try!

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

Below is a comparison table where you can find the best free 3D animation makers. Some 3D animation makers are easy to use. Take a look!

Price	OS	Pros	Features
Blender	Free	Windows, Linux, and macOS	Best 3d animation software; Active community globally	Powerful rendering support
Wings 3D	Free	Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X	Easy 3d animation software; Open source and completely free	Its interface is customizable
K-3D	Free	GNU/Linux, MacOS X, FreeBSD, Windows	Intuitive 3d animation maker; Node-based visualization pipeline.	Endless redo feature
Source Filmmaker	Free	Windows	Any games can be used in this animation maker	Game lovers will like it
Mixamo Maya	Free $225 per month $1,785 per year $5,085 every 3 years	Windows, MacOS and Linux Windows, MacOS and Linux	Vivid and high-quality animated 3D characters Time Editor to edit animation faster; You can collect motion capture data	Belong to adobe family Easy to use Motion graphics
Cinema 4D	$61.19 per month $734.40 per year	Windows, MacOS and Linux	Intuitive interface to make 3D animation	Fluid workflow to start editing for beginners
Houdini	$1,995/year	Windows, MacOs	Powerful VEX to make excellent 3D animations	Quick guide for learners
ZBrush MotionBuilder	$39.95 per month $2,045 per year $5,830 every 3 year	Windows Vista and MacOs Windows and Linux	Ideal for 3D amination. Adjust animation in moments .	Amazing sculpting tools. Simple to make adjustment.

Part 1: Best Free 3D Animation Software

1. Blender

Pros:

• Both manual and auto-tracking
• Camera restoration is powerful
• Curve editor and dope sheets
• Customize layout and interface

An open-source professional, free 3D animation software, Blender is used to host various applications like visual effects, animated feature films, video games, and more. The Blender supports the entire 3D tree, including rigging, modeling, animating, simulating, compositing, rendering, and tracking motion. The features of Blender are:

Features:

• CPU, GPU, VR rendering support.
• Masking and textured brushes for 3D painting.
• Add-ons and customized tools with Python scripting
• Bridge fill, edge slide, grid, inset.

2. Wings 3D

Pros:

• Various modeling tools to make 3D effects.
• Completely free for use for commercial usage.
• Include a forum to communicate with users.

An easy-to-use, unconventional sector modeler, Wings 3D is a powerful 3D animation software. Whether you are a commercial 3D animation creator or a non-professional, Wings 3D is a free and open-source 3D animation software. The features of Winds 3D include:

Features:

• Customized interface.
• Support for materials and lights.
• Built-in AutoUV mapping facility

3.K-3D

Pros:

• Intuitive interface to make 3D effects
• Can always go back to undo operations
• Free-to-use

One of the best 3D animation software is K-3D. K-3D features a procedural engine plugin for its content. It is a free 3D animation software that supports polygonal modeling. A visual pipeline architecture combines the flexible plugins that make the K-3D software a powerful and versatile tool. The features include:

Features:

• Consistent and intuitive.
• Consist of basic tools for animation, patches, curves, and NURVS.
• Parametric workflow.
• It can be run on Windows, macOS X, Linux, and FreeBSD.

4.Source Filmmaker

Pros :

• The virtual movie set with lights, actors, props, and cameras.
• Create your movies and add features as per your requirement.
• Manages the entire workflow needed to make a movie into one single system.

This 3D animation software lets you make a movie inside the game engine Source. Wondering how? It is because whatever assets are present in the game, the Source Filmmaker uses them. So, the game’s assets are used by SFM in the film and vice versa. The features of this movie-making tool include:

Features:

• Renders power of a modern gaming PC.
• Whatever you see in the game is what you get in the movie.
• Completely free to download

5**_._**Mixamo

Pros:

• Download multiple animations at one go.
• Fast character and animation browsing.

With a straightforward and faster workflow, the Mixamo 3D software’s newest user experience and interface make it too easy to instantly find, create, organize, and share assets and animation. The features of this 3D animation software include:

Features:

• User experience is streamlined.
• Fully customizable animation packs.
• The faster and more accurate search function.

Part 2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

6**_._**Maya

Pros:

• Perfect accuracy and control.
• Create flying logos, title sequences, branding, etc.
• Higher performance in a high fidelity environment

If you want to create or develop games, 3D scenes, movies, or characters, Maya is one of the best 3D animation software tools available. Although a paid software, Maya 3D animation creator does complete justice to its various coloring, animating, and modeling features.

Maya LT - Create 3D characters and environments for your indie game with a more cost-effective tool based on production-proven 3D products. Buy now! The features are:

Features:

• 30 days of a free trial
• Uncomplicated software
• Create complex technical effects
• High-level animation edits

7**_._**Cinema 4D

Pros:

• Dissect complete scenes
• Customized with a huge range of assets

A faster 3D animation software tool than Maya, Cinema 4D offers a gentle curve for learning but does not cover all like Maya. The high-speed feature makes the Cinema 4D software desirable in television, advertisements, and various motion graphics. The features are:

Features:

• Extensive library of preset scenes, material, and objects
• Develop concepts without time modeling

8.Houdini

Pros:

• Time-space motion path handles
• Support import and export to a range of formats
• Robust built-in rendering solution

Developed by the Toronto-based Side Effects Software, Houdini covers every major part that a 3D animation software should do. This 3D animation maker was adapted by the PRISMS group of procedural generation software tools. Houdini’s keen focus on procedural generation differentiates it from other 3D animation creators. The features of this 3D animation software are:

Features:

• Powerful and accessible 3D animation experience
• Rigging animate characters
• Add Character FX like fur, hair, etc.

9.ZBrush

Pros:

• A fantastic selection of sculpting tools.
• Easy to handle millions of polygons.

ZBrush 4 offers a smart technique to communicate your work with a director or online. Saved camera angles can be switched using a timeline. This improves productivity or creates intricate turntable animations. Animate between morph targets and model positions to check UV maps and facial expressions. Watch your model move with ZSpheres. Layer animation can animate between textures and PolyPaint variants. Import music or use ZBrush to create a demo reel with exact animation synchronization. The timeline interface features auto magnification, jump cuts, and relaxation. The timeline features let you present your work effectively. ZBrush is a modeling and sculpting application for organic structures.

Features:

• Several things can be animated, including layers, subtool visibility, backdrop colors, poly frame display, ZSpheres, camera angles, subdivision levels, and more.
• Your mesh animation can be exported to Modo in MDD format.
• Streamlines and expedites the movement of the face.

9.MotionBuilder:

Pros:

• Develop captivating animations for the characters.
• Participate in activities that require teamwork.
• Modify the animations in an instant.

MotionBuilder is a very specialized animation software that lets you work with 3D animation. The program is only available in a paid version, and the user interface is in two languages. You can save time by using the app to apply moves that have already been used to new characters. The animations can be watched in real-time. MotionBuilder can also be used with other Autodesk programs like Maya, 3ds Max, and others.

Features:

• Move your characters in a manner that is consistent with reality.
• Easily make adjustments and adjustments to animations.

Conclusion

This is the list of the free and paid best 3D animation software. So, whenever you are confused and need any assistance regarding 3D animation software, go through this article and find the right solution. Undoubtedly, Filmora is one of the best tools for 3D animation. With a range of features like ease of interface access, preset animation effects, multiple tracks to add various videos, and more, a complete package ensures a great 3D animation software usage tool. Just a little trial and error can make you perfect.

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

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Are you in search of some of the best 3D animation software? There are several uses of the 3D animation software creator, like creating movies, creating characters, adding voiceovers to the characters, etc.

The 3D animation maker has a great deal to explore, which is fun. If you are familiar with 2D animation editors or love animation just for fun, you can try the free 3D animation software.

Although you can find a great number of animation software in the market, we can trust only a few of them completely. In this article, you can explore the best 3D animation software, which is free, paid, and trending on the popularity charts.

• Part1: Best Free 3D Animation Software
• Part2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

Recommended 3D Animation Software - Filmora

If you want more controls on 3D animation videos, here we recommend using Filmora .

You need to build a white plane to start making 3D animation with keyframes easily. Filmora offers six different types of keyframes to let your animation become smooth and natural.

Besides, auto color correction and audio mixer will upgrade your 3D animation video to a new level. You can also apply light flares effects to make amazing 3D animation. Now, free download it to have a try!

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

Below is a comparison table where you can find the best free 3D animation makers. Some 3D animation makers are easy to use. Take a look!

Price	OS	Pros	Features
Blender	Free	Windows, Linux, and macOS	Best 3d animation software; Active community globally	Powerful rendering support
Wings 3D	Free	Windows, Linux, Unix and Mac OS X	Easy 3d animation software; Open source and completely free	Its interface is customizable
K-3D	Free	GNU/Linux, MacOS X, FreeBSD, Windows	Intuitive 3d animation maker; Node-based visualization pipeline.	Endless redo feature
Source Filmmaker	Free	Windows	Any games can be used in this animation maker	Game lovers will like it
Mixamo Maya	Free $225 per month $1,785 per year $5,085 every 3 years	Windows, MacOS and Linux Windows, MacOS and Linux	Vivid and high-quality animated 3D characters Time Editor to edit animation faster; You can collect motion capture data	Belong to adobe family Easy to use Motion graphics
Cinema 4D	$61.19 per month $734.40 per year	Windows, MacOS and Linux	Intuitive interface to make 3D animation	Fluid workflow to start editing for beginners
Houdini	$1,995/year	Windows, MacOs	Powerful VEX to make excellent 3D animations	Quick guide for learners
ZBrush MotionBuilder	$39.95 per month $2,045 per year $5,830 every 3 year	Windows Vista and MacOs Windows and Linux	Ideal for 3D amination. Adjust animation in moments .	Amazing sculpting tools. Simple to make adjustment.

Part 1: Best Free 3D Animation Software

1. Blender

Pros:

• Both manual and auto-tracking
• Camera restoration is powerful
• Curve editor and dope sheets
• Customize layout and interface

An open-source professional, free 3D animation software, Blender is used to host various applications like visual effects, animated feature films, video games, and more. The Blender supports the entire 3D tree, including rigging, modeling, animating, simulating, compositing, rendering, and tracking motion. The features of Blender are:

Features:

• CPU, GPU, VR rendering support.
• Masking and textured brushes for 3D painting.
• Add-ons and customized tools with Python scripting
• Bridge fill, edge slide, grid, inset.

2. Wings 3D

Pros:

• Various modeling tools to make 3D effects.
• Completely free for use for commercial usage.
• Include a forum to communicate with users.

An easy-to-use, unconventional sector modeler, Wings 3D is a powerful 3D animation software. Whether you are a commercial 3D animation creator or a non-professional, Wings 3D is a free and open-source 3D animation software. The features of Winds 3D include:

Features:

• Customized interface.
• Support for materials and lights.
• Built-in AutoUV mapping facility

3.K-3D

Pros:

• Intuitive interface to make 3D effects
• Can always go back to undo operations
• Free-to-use

One of the best 3D animation software is K-3D. K-3D features a procedural engine plugin for its content. It is a free 3D animation software that supports polygonal modeling. A visual pipeline architecture combines the flexible plugins that make the K-3D software a powerful and versatile tool. The features include:

Features:

• Consistent and intuitive.
• Consist of basic tools for animation, patches, curves, and NURVS.
• Parametric workflow.
• It can be run on Windows, macOS X, Linux, and FreeBSD.

4.Source Filmmaker

Pros :

• The virtual movie set with lights, actors, props, and cameras.
• Create your movies and add features as per your requirement.
• Manages the entire workflow needed to make a movie into one single system.

This 3D animation software lets you make a movie inside the game engine Source. Wondering how? It is because whatever assets are present in the game, the Source Filmmaker uses them. So, the game’s assets are used by SFM in the film and vice versa. The features of this movie-making tool include:

Features:

• Renders power of a modern gaming PC.
• Whatever you see in the game is what you get in the movie.
• Completely free to download

5**_._**Mixamo

Pros:

• Download multiple animations at one go.
• Fast character and animation browsing.

With a straightforward and faster workflow, the Mixamo 3D software’s newest user experience and interface make it too easy to instantly find, create, organize, and share assets and animation. The features of this 3D animation software include:

Features:

• User experience is streamlined.
• Fully customizable animation packs.
• The faster and more accurate search function.

Part 2: Best Paid 3D Animation Software

6**_._**Maya

Pros:

• Perfect accuracy and control.
• Create flying logos, title sequences, branding, etc.
• Higher performance in a high fidelity environment

If you want to create or develop games, 3D scenes, movies, or characters, Maya is one of the best 3D animation software tools available. Although a paid software, Maya 3D animation creator does complete justice to its various coloring, animating, and modeling features.

Maya LT - Create 3D characters and environments for your indie game with a more cost-effective tool based on production-proven 3D products. Buy now! The features are:

Features:

• 30 days of a free trial
• Uncomplicated software
• Create complex technical effects
• High-level animation edits

7**_._**Cinema 4D

Pros:

• Dissect complete scenes
• Customized with a huge range of assets

A faster 3D animation software tool than Maya, Cinema 4D offers a gentle curve for learning but does not cover all like Maya. The high-speed feature makes the Cinema 4D software desirable in television, advertisements, and various motion graphics. The features are:

Features:

• Extensive library of preset scenes, material, and objects
• Develop concepts without time modeling

8.Houdini

Pros:

• Time-space motion path handles
• Support import and export to a range of formats
• Robust built-in rendering solution

Developed by the Toronto-based Side Effects Software, Houdini covers every major part that a 3D animation software should do. This 3D animation maker was adapted by the PRISMS group of procedural generation software tools. Houdini’s keen focus on procedural generation differentiates it from other 3D animation creators. The features of this 3D animation software are:

Features:

• Powerful and accessible 3D animation experience
• Rigging animate characters
• Add Character FX like fur, hair, etc.

9.ZBrush

Pros:

• A fantastic selection of sculpting tools.
• Easy to handle millions of polygons.

ZBrush 4 offers a smart technique to communicate your work with a director or online. Saved camera angles can be switched using a timeline. This improves productivity or creates intricate turntable animations. Animate between morph targets and model positions to check UV maps and facial expressions. Watch your model move with ZSpheres. Layer animation can animate between textures and PolyPaint variants. Import music or use ZBrush to create a demo reel with exact animation synchronization. The timeline interface features auto magnification, jump cuts, and relaxation. The timeline features let you present your work effectively. ZBrush is a modeling and sculpting application for organic structures.

Features:

• Several things can be animated, including layers, subtool visibility, backdrop colors, poly frame display, ZSpheres, camera angles, subdivision levels, and more.
• Your mesh animation can be exported to Modo in MDD format.
• Streamlines and expedites the movement of the face.

9.MotionBuilder:

Pros:

• Develop captivating animations for the characters.
• Participate in activities that require teamwork.
• Modify the animations in an instant.

MotionBuilder is a very specialized animation software that lets you work with 3D animation. The program is only available in a paid version, and the user interface is in two languages. You can save time by using the app to apply moves that have already been used to new characters. The animations can be watched in real-time. MotionBuilder can also be used with other Autodesk programs like Maya, 3ds Max, and others.

Features:

• Move your characters in a manner that is consistent with reality.
• Easily make adjustments and adjustments to animations.

Conclusion

This is the list of the free and paid best 3D animation software. So, whenever you are confused and need any assistance regarding 3D animation software, go through this article and find the right solution. Undoubtedly, Filmora is one of the best tools for 3D animation. With a range of features like ease of interface access, preset animation effects, multiple tracks to add various videos, and more, a complete package ensures a great 3D animation software usage tool. Just a little trial and error can make you perfect.

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

Shanoon Cox

Shanoon Cox is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Shanoon Cox

Best Online Audio Waveform Video Generators

You might have seen waves moving up and down in song lyrics, karaoke videos, podcasts, and other videos. Well, that’s what is known as waveform, in other words, audiogram. So, if you want to add an audio waveform to your videos, all you need is an audio waveform generator that will let you create fascinating animated waveforms for your videos.

The good news is that there are multiple audio waveform video generators to choose from. However, knowing that you will want only the best online waveform generator, we have hand-picked ten such online sound wave generators that will let you add animated waveform effortlessly.

In this article

01 Part 1: What is a Waveform Generator?

02 Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try!

03 Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Part 1: What is a Waveform Generator?

Now, to create a waveform to audio and add it to a video, you need an audio waveform generator. So, what’s a waveform generator? It’s a tool that will let you design an attractive waveform to any audio and add it to a video. You can look for soundwave generators online since they are a plethora of them.

Please note that some sound wave generators are available online for free, while for others, you will have to pay a small fee. Waveforms can be both low and high. It’s just that the higher waveforms will signify the louder sounds, and the lower waveforms will signify lower sounds. What’s more? Waveforms look really cool and can enhance the video quality!

Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try

#1 VEED.IO

Price: Free

If you want to create waveform video from audio for free, the first waveform generator that you should try is VEED.IO. This fantastic waveform generator adds animated waveforms to videos. And it is free to use. The supported formats are MKV, M4A, M4V, MOV, MP4, MPEG, OPUS, MPG4, and more! In addition, VEED.IO can convert videos to the same supported formats.

To talk about its features, it’s a free online waveform generator. It allows you to be creative and lets you customize your sound wave just the way you want. You can place the waveform anywhere on the video; it enables you to edit your videos, such as adding text, audio, images, etc.

To use VEED.IO, you will first have to visit the official website and upload your video by clicking on the Choose Videos option. Once done, generate the waveform by clicking on the Elements option. Finally, click on the Export option, and that’s it!

#2 Kapwing

Price: Free plan | Upgrade: $24.00 per month.

Next up is Kapwing. It’s a simple-to-use multimedia editor that allows you to generate waveforms. This tool supports FLAC, MP3, and other popular video formats. It can export in MP4, AVI, FLV, 3GP, and other popular video formats. You can customize the waveform, frame your canvas, add custom text, enhance the video quality, etc.

To start using Kapwing, you will have to upload the video you want to edit. Then, you will have to add a waveform. After that, you can position the waveform as you like. You can change the speed, style, and color of the waveform later. Finally, once the waveform is ready, you can click on the download option.

The best part about Kapwing is that it lets you control the waveform as you like. Moreover, once the waveform is completed, you can share it with anyone you want.

#4 WaveVisual

Price: Free

WaveVisual is a free waveform generator and is an online tool. This means that you will not have to download WaveVisual on your computer. It lets you upload files directly from Spotify as well. It supports WAV, MP3, and many other formats.

There are three easy steps to follow. You need to upload an audio file, else copy the Spotify song link and paste it here on WaveVisual. Then, customize the design to create your unique waveform. Finally, click on the download option. You can even add a background image to make your waveform look extraordinary.

#5 Audiogram

Price Free | Registration required

The next online waveform generator is Audiogram. It not only lets you add waveform to your audios, but you can use the same tool to create editable transcripts as well. This tool is an ideal option for music videos and podcasts. The tool provides you with a fantastic library that consists of multiple templates. It supports MP3, WAV, etc.

The good thing about Audiogram is that it lets you customize the waveform to suit your needs and wants. To use it, please visit getaudiogram.com. Then, upload your audio, choose a design for your waveform, and once done, download, export, and share it!

#6 EchoWave.io

Price: Free

EchoWave.io lets you add different styles of waveforms, such as bar, radial, and line. It accepts MP3 and WAV audio formats and is free to use. EchoWave.io takes away the hard work you might have otherwise done if you didn’t have a waveform generator. You can use it to add a visual component to your lyrical songs, live streams, podcasts, images, and more.

To add a waveform, visit the official website, click on the upload option to upload the audio, choose animation style for the waveform, adjust the waveform as per your style and finally, generate the video and hit the render button to download the waveform video.

#7 RenderForest

Price: Free

RenderForest is a one-of-a-kind platform where you will find customizable waveform templates. Here, you need to choose a template and upload your audio, and RenderForest will take care of the rest. You can even add animated typography to enhance the video-watching experience. It supports all top audio formats, such as MP3, FLAC, etc.

To start using it, click on the template that you like. Then, hit the create now option. You can add a photo, music name, artist name, and more. Then, add the music file and click on the download option to save the file.

You may also like best music visualizer makers .

#8 Motionbox Music Visualizer

Price: Free | Sign up is required

Motionbox Music Visualizer is a super easy tool to use. This tool is often used by voice actors, musicians, and podcasters to add waveforms, mainly because of its easy-to-understand interface. It supports FLAC, WMA, WAV, MP3, and other formats.

To use it, visit Motionbox Music Visualizer’s official website and upload your audio. After that, trim your audio and finally add the waveform visualizer. Just three easy steps, and your video with waveform will be generated.

#9 Specterr Music Visualizer

Price: Pro: $25.00/month | Unlimited: $75.00/month | Free with a watermark

Specterr Music Visualizer provides you with built-in visualizer presets to choose from. The tool is reliable and very easy to use. After you add the waveform to your audio, you will not even have to spend time downloading it. Instead, you can share it directly to your Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram account.

To get started, you will first have to select a preset. You will see multiple presets. Then, you need to upload an audio file. It accepts MP3 or WAV. Once done, you can customize the visualizer, and finally, click on the Export option to export the video.

#10 Recast Studio

Price: Free

If you have a podcast ready and want to add waveform to it, you should try Recast Studio. It allows you to add unique animated audio waveforms, which will eventually increase conversion and boost social engagement. In addition, it is easy to use and saves your time with its visualizer presets.

To use, you will have to upload the audio. It accepts MP3. Then, you need to clip the audio. After that, browse through the template section and pick your favorite. You can then customize the video to enhance its quality, such as changing the color of the waveform, adding images, editing texts, and more. Finally, download the video.

#11 Clipchamp

Price: Free | Sign up required

Clipchamp is a free online audio visualizer that you can add audio waveforms to your videos. You will not have to spend hours manually creating waveforms. It lets you browse through its multiple templates. You can just choose one for your music videos, podcasts, etc., add the animated visualizer and get it done.

Here’s how you can use it. You need to visit the official website and upload the audio file, MP3, or WAV that you want to edit. After that, you need to apply an audio visualizer. You can add background and effects, too, if you wish. After you are all done, export your video.

Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Audio entertainment has been around since time immemorial, and there’s no doubt about how big of an impact it has. However, when you add audio visualization, it enhances the listening experience by manifolds. Take podcasts, for example. They have become extremely popular.

In fact, there are currently more than 30 million podcast episodes running across the world. But when you combine audio visualization, it makes the audio even better. It becomes more engaging. Not that it sounds stand-alone can’t have an impact on the audience, but with audio visualization, it doubles itself when it comes to engagement and creating a lasting impression.

Conclusion

So, now you know about the top audio waveform video generators. You can choose one from the list we have mentioned and get started because your audios, such as lyrical music videos and podcasts, deserve the magical touch of an audio visualization. So, don’t miss out on it, and try an audio waveform generator today.

02 Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try!

03 Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Part 1: What is a Waveform Generator?

Now, to create a waveform to audio and add it to a video, you need an audio waveform generator. So, what’s a waveform generator? It’s a tool that will let you design an attractive waveform to any audio and add it to a video. You can look for soundwave generators online since they are a plethora of them.

Please note that some sound wave generators are available online for free, while for others, you will have to pay a small fee. Waveforms can be both low and high. It’s just that the higher waveforms will signify the louder sounds, and the lower waveforms will signify lower sounds. What’s more? Waveforms look really cool and can enhance the video quality!

Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try

#1 VEED.IO

Price: Free

If you want to create waveform video from audio for free, the first waveform generator that you should try is VEED.IO. This fantastic waveform generator adds animated waveforms to videos. And it is free to use. The supported formats are MKV, M4A, M4V, MOV, MP4, MPEG, OPUS, MPG4, and more! In addition, VEED.IO can convert videos to the same supported formats.

To talk about its features, it’s a free online waveform generator. It allows you to be creative and lets you customize your sound wave just the way you want. You can place the waveform anywhere on the video; it enables you to edit your videos, such as adding text, audio, images, etc.

To use VEED.IO, you will first have to visit the official website and upload your video by clicking on the Choose Videos option. Once done, generate the waveform by clicking on the Elements option. Finally, click on the Export option, and that’s it!

#2 Kapwing

Price: Free plan | Upgrade: $24.00 per month.

Next up is Kapwing. It’s a simple-to-use multimedia editor that allows you to generate waveforms. This tool supports FLAC, MP3, and other popular video formats. It can export in MP4, AVI, FLV, 3GP, and other popular video formats. You can customize the waveform, frame your canvas, add custom text, enhance the video quality, etc.

To start using Kapwing, you will have to upload the video you want to edit. Then, you will have to add a waveform. After that, you can position the waveform as you like. You can change the speed, style, and color of the waveform later. Finally, once the waveform is ready, you can click on the download option.

The best part about Kapwing is that it lets you control the waveform as you like. Moreover, once the waveform is completed, you can share it with anyone you want.

#4 WaveVisual

Price: Free

WaveVisual is a free waveform generator and is an online tool. This means that you will not have to download WaveVisual on your computer. It lets you upload files directly from Spotify as well. It supports WAV, MP3, and many other formats.

There are three easy steps to follow. You need to upload an audio file, else copy the Spotify song link and paste it here on WaveVisual. Then, customize the design to create your unique waveform. Finally, click on the download option. You can even add a background image to make your waveform look extraordinary.

#5 Audiogram

Price Free | Registration required

The next online waveform generator is Audiogram. It not only lets you add waveform to your audios, but you can use the same tool to create editable transcripts as well. This tool is an ideal option for music videos and podcasts. The tool provides you with a fantastic library that consists of multiple templates. It supports MP3, WAV, etc.

The good thing about Audiogram is that it lets you customize the waveform to suit your needs and wants. To use it, please visit getaudiogram.com. Then, upload your audio, choose a design for your waveform, and once done, download, export, and share it!

#6 EchoWave.io

Price: Free

EchoWave.io lets you add different styles of waveforms, such as bar, radial, and line. It accepts MP3 and WAV audio formats and is free to use. EchoWave.io takes away the hard work you might have otherwise done if you didn’t have a waveform generator. You can use it to add a visual component to your lyrical songs, live streams, podcasts, images, and more.

To add a waveform, visit the official website, click on the upload option to upload the audio, choose animation style for the waveform, adjust the waveform as per your style and finally, generate the video and hit the render button to download the waveform video.

#7 RenderForest

Price: Free

RenderForest is a one-of-a-kind platform where you will find customizable waveform templates. Here, you need to choose a template and upload your audio, and RenderForest will take care of the rest. You can even add animated typography to enhance the video-watching experience. It supports all top audio formats, such as MP3, FLAC, etc.

To start using it, click on the template that you like. Then, hit the create now option. You can add a photo, music name, artist name, and more. Then, add the music file and click on the download option to save the file.

You may also like best music visualizer makers .

#8 Motionbox Music Visualizer

Price: Free | Sign up is required

Motionbox Music Visualizer is a super easy tool to use. This tool is often used by voice actors, musicians, and podcasters to add waveforms, mainly because of its easy-to-understand interface. It supports FLAC, WMA, WAV, MP3, and other formats.

To use it, visit Motionbox Music Visualizer’s official website and upload your audio. After that, trim your audio and finally add the waveform visualizer. Just three easy steps, and your video with waveform will be generated.

#9 Specterr Music Visualizer

Price: Pro: $25.00/month | Unlimited: $75.00/month | Free with a watermark

Specterr Music Visualizer provides you with built-in visualizer presets to choose from. The tool is reliable and very easy to use. After you add the waveform to your audio, you will not even have to spend time downloading it. Instead, you can share it directly to your Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram account.

To get started, you will first have to select a preset. You will see multiple presets. Then, you need to upload an audio file. It accepts MP3 or WAV. Once done, you can customize the visualizer, and finally, click on the Export option to export the video.

#10 Recast Studio

Price: Free

If you have a podcast ready and want to add waveform to it, you should try Recast Studio. It allows you to add unique animated audio waveforms, which will eventually increase conversion and boost social engagement. In addition, it is easy to use and saves your time with its visualizer presets.

To use, you will have to upload the audio. It accepts MP3. Then, you need to clip the audio. After that, browse through the template section and pick your favorite. You can then customize the video to enhance its quality, such as changing the color of the waveform, adding images, editing texts, and more. Finally, download the video.

#11 Clipchamp

Price: Free | Sign up required

Clipchamp is a free online audio visualizer that you can add audio waveforms to your videos. You will not have to spend hours manually creating waveforms. It lets you browse through its multiple templates. You can just choose one for your music videos, podcasts, etc., add the animated visualizer and get it done.

Here’s how you can use it. You need to visit the official website and upload the audio file, MP3, or WAV that you want to edit. After that, you need to apply an audio visualizer. You can add background and effects, too, if you wish. After you are all done, export your video.

Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Audio entertainment has been around since time immemorial, and there’s no doubt about how big of an impact it has. However, when you add audio visualization, it enhances the listening experience by manifolds. Take podcasts, for example. They have become extremely popular.

In fact, there are currently more than 30 million podcast episodes running across the world. But when you combine audio visualization, it makes the audio even better. It becomes more engaging. Not that it sounds stand-alone can’t have an impact on the audience, but with audio visualization, it doubles itself when it comes to engagement and creating a lasting impression.

Conclusion

So, now you know about the top audio waveform video generators. You can choose one from the list we have mentioned and get started because your audios, such as lyrical music videos and podcasts, deserve the magical touch of an audio visualization. So, don’t miss out on it, and try an audio waveform generator today.

02 Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try!

03 Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Part 1: What is a Waveform Generator?

Now, to create a waveform to audio and add it to a video, you need an audio waveform generator. So, what’s a waveform generator? It’s a tool that will let you design an attractive waveform to any audio and add it to a video. You can look for soundwave generators online since they are a plethora of them.

Please note that some sound wave generators are available online for free, while for others, you will have to pay a small fee. Waveforms can be both low and high. It’s just that the higher waveforms will signify the louder sounds, and the lower waveforms will signify lower sounds. What’s more? Waveforms look really cool and can enhance the video quality!

Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try

#1 VEED.IO

Price: Free

If you want to create waveform video from audio for free, the first waveform generator that you should try is VEED.IO. This fantastic waveform generator adds animated waveforms to videos. And it is free to use. The supported formats are MKV, M4A, M4V, MOV, MP4, MPEG, OPUS, MPG4, and more! In addition, VEED.IO can convert videos to the same supported formats.

To talk about its features, it’s a free online waveform generator. It allows you to be creative and lets you customize your sound wave just the way you want. You can place the waveform anywhere on the video; it enables you to edit your videos, such as adding text, audio, images, etc.

To use VEED.IO, you will first have to visit the official website and upload your video by clicking on the Choose Videos option. Once done, generate the waveform by clicking on the Elements option. Finally, click on the Export option, and that’s it!

#2 Kapwing

Price: Free plan | Upgrade: $24.00 per month.

Next up is Kapwing. It’s a simple-to-use multimedia editor that allows you to generate waveforms. This tool supports FLAC, MP3, and other popular video formats. It can export in MP4, AVI, FLV, 3GP, and other popular video formats. You can customize the waveform, frame your canvas, add custom text, enhance the video quality, etc.

To start using Kapwing, you will have to upload the video you want to edit. Then, you will have to add a waveform. After that, you can position the waveform as you like. You can change the speed, style, and color of the waveform later. Finally, once the waveform is ready, you can click on the download option.

The best part about Kapwing is that it lets you control the waveform as you like. Moreover, once the waveform is completed, you can share it with anyone you want.

#4 WaveVisual

Price: Free

WaveVisual is a free waveform generator and is an online tool. This means that you will not have to download WaveVisual on your computer. It lets you upload files directly from Spotify as well. It supports WAV, MP3, and many other formats.

There are three easy steps to follow. You need to upload an audio file, else copy the Spotify song link and paste it here on WaveVisual. Then, customize the design to create your unique waveform. Finally, click on the download option. You can even add a background image to make your waveform look extraordinary.

#5 Audiogram

Price Free | Registration required

The next online waveform generator is Audiogram. It not only lets you add waveform to your audios, but you can use the same tool to create editable transcripts as well. This tool is an ideal option for music videos and podcasts. The tool provides you with a fantastic library that consists of multiple templates. It supports MP3, WAV, etc.

The good thing about Audiogram is that it lets you customize the waveform to suit your needs and wants. To use it, please visit getaudiogram.com. Then, upload your audio, choose a design for your waveform, and once done, download, export, and share it!

#6 EchoWave.io

Price: Free

EchoWave.io lets you add different styles of waveforms, such as bar, radial, and line. It accepts MP3 and WAV audio formats and is free to use. EchoWave.io takes away the hard work you might have otherwise done if you didn’t have a waveform generator. You can use it to add a visual component to your lyrical songs, live streams, podcasts, images, and more.

To add a waveform, visit the official website, click on the upload option to upload the audio, choose animation style for the waveform, adjust the waveform as per your style and finally, generate the video and hit the render button to download the waveform video.

#7 RenderForest

Price: Free

RenderForest is a one-of-a-kind platform where you will find customizable waveform templates. Here, you need to choose a template and upload your audio, and RenderForest will take care of the rest. You can even add animated typography to enhance the video-watching experience. It supports all top audio formats, such as MP3, FLAC, etc.

To start using it, click on the template that you like. Then, hit the create now option. You can add a photo, music name, artist name, and more. Then, add the music file and click on the download option to save the file.

You may also like best music visualizer makers .

#8 Motionbox Music Visualizer

Price: Free | Sign up is required

Motionbox Music Visualizer is a super easy tool to use. This tool is often used by voice actors, musicians, and podcasters to add waveforms, mainly because of its easy-to-understand interface. It supports FLAC, WMA, WAV, MP3, and other formats.

To use it, visit Motionbox Music Visualizer’s official website and upload your audio. After that, trim your audio and finally add the waveform visualizer. Just three easy steps, and your video with waveform will be generated.

#9 Specterr Music Visualizer

Price: Pro: $25.00/month | Unlimited: $75.00/month | Free with a watermark

Specterr Music Visualizer provides you with built-in visualizer presets to choose from. The tool is reliable and very easy to use. After you add the waveform to your audio, you will not even have to spend time downloading it. Instead, you can share it directly to your Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram account.

To get started, you will first have to select a preset. You will see multiple presets. Then, you need to upload an audio file. It accepts MP3 or WAV. Once done, you can customize the visualizer, and finally, click on the Export option to export the video.

#10 Recast Studio

Price: Free

If you have a podcast ready and want to add waveform to it, you should try Recast Studio. It allows you to add unique animated audio waveforms, which will eventually increase conversion and boost social engagement. In addition, it is easy to use and saves your time with its visualizer presets.

To use, you will have to upload the audio. It accepts MP3. Then, you need to clip the audio. After that, browse through the template section and pick your favorite. You can then customize the video to enhance its quality, such as changing the color of the waveform, adding images, editing texts, and more. Finally, download the video.

#11 Clipchamp

Price: Free | Sign up required

Clipchamp is a free online audio visualizer that you can add audio waveforms to your videos. You will not have to spend hours manually creating waveforms. It lets you browse through its multiple templates. You can just choose one for your music videos, podcasts, etc., add the animated visualizer and get it done.

Here’s how you can use it. You need to visit the official website and upload the audio file, MP3, or WAV that you want to edit. After that, you need to apply an audio visualizer. You can add background and effects, too, if you wish. After you are all done, export your video.

Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Audio entertainment has been around since time immemorial, and there’s no doubt about how big of an impact it has. However, when you add audio visualization, it enhances the listening experience by manifolds. Take podcasts, for example. They have become extremely popular.

In fact, there are currently more than 30 million podcast episodes running across the world. But when you combine audio visualization, it makes the audio even better. It becomes more engaging. Not that it sounds stand-alone can’t have an impact on the audience, but with audio visualization, it doubles itself when it comes to engagement and creating a lasting impression.

Conclusion

So, now you know about the top audio waveform video generators. You can choose one from the list we have mentioned and get started because your audios, such as lyrical music videos and podcasts, deserve the magical touch of an audio visualization. So, don’t miss out on it, and try an audio waveform generator today.

02 Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try!

03 Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Part 1: What is a Waveform Generator?

Now, to create a waveform to audio and add it to a video, you need an audio waveform generator. So, what’s a waveform generator? It’s a tool that will let you design an attractive waveform to any audio and add it to a video. You can look for soundwave generators online since they are a plethora of them.

Please note that some sound wave generators are available online for free, while for others, you will have to pay a small fee. Waveforms can be both low and high. It’s just that the higher waveforms will signify the louder sounds, and the lower waveforms will signify lower sounds. What’s more? Waveforms look really cool and can enhance the video quality!

Part 2: Best Online Waveform Generators You Should Try

#1 VEED.IO

Price: Free

If you want to create waveform video from audio for free, the first waveform generator that you should try is VEED.IO. This fantastic waveform generator adds animated waveforms to videos. And it is free to use. The supported formats are MKV, M4A, M4V, MOV, MP4, MPEG, OPUS, MPG4, and more! In addition, VEED.IO can convert videos to the same supported formats.

To talk about its features, it’s a free online waveform generator. It allows you to be creative and lets you customize your sound wave just the way you want. You can place the waveform anywhere on the video; it enables you to edit your videos, such as adding text, audio, images, etc.

To use VEED.IO, you will first have to visit the official website and upload your video by clicking on the Choose Videos option. Once done, generate the waveform by clicking on the Elements option. Finally, click on the Export option, and that’s it!

#2 Kapwing

Price: Free plan | Upgrade: $24.00 per month.

Next up is Kapwing. It’s a simple-to-use multimedia editor that allows you to generate waveforms. This tool supports FLAC, MP3, and other popular video formats. It can export in MP4, AVI, FLV, 3GP, and other popular video formats. You can customize the waveform, frame your canvas, add custom text, enhance the video quality, etc.

To start using Kapwing, you will have to upload the video you want to edit. Then, you will have to add a waveform. After that, you can position the waveform as you like. You can change the speed, style, and color of the waveform later. Finally, once the waveform is ready, you can click on the download option.

The best part about Kapwing is that it lets you control the waveform as you like. Moreover, once the waveform is completed, you can share it with anyone you want.

#4 WaveVisual

Price: Free

WaveVisual is a free waveform generator and is an online tool. This means that you will not have to download WaveVisual on your computer. It lets you upload files directly from Spotify as well. It supports WAV, MP3, and many other formats.

There are three easy steps to follow. You need to upload an audio file, else copy the Spotify song link and paste it here on WaveVisual. Then, customize the design to create your unique waveform. Finally, click on the download option. You can even add a background image to make your waveform look extraordinary.

#5 Audiogram

Price Free | Registration required

The next online waveform generator is Audiogram. It not only lets you add waveform to your audios, but you can use the same tool to create editable transcripts as well. This tool is an ideal option for music videos and podcasts. The tool provides you with a fantastic library that consists of multiple templates. It supports MP3, WAV, etc.

The good thing about Audiogram is that it lets you customize the waveform to suit your needs and wants. To use it, please visit getaudiogram.com. Then, upload your audio, choose a design for your waveform, and once done, download, export, and share it!

#6 EchoWave.io

Price: Free

EchoWave.io lets you add different styles of waveforms, such as bar, radial, and line. It accepts MP3 and WAV audio formats and is free to use. EchoWave.io takes away the hard work you might have otherwise done if you didn’t have a waveform generator. You can use it to add a visual component to your lyrical songs, live streams, podcasts, images, and more.

To add a waveform, visit the official website, click on the upload option to upload the audio, choose animation style for the waveform, adjust the waveform as per your style and finally, generate the video and hit the render button to download the waveform video.

#7 RenderForest

Price: Free

RenderForest is a one-of-a-kind platform where you will find customizable waveform templates. Here, you need to choose a template and upload your audio, and RenderForest will take care of the rest. You can even add animated typography to enhance the video-watching experience. It supports all top audio formats, such as MP3, FLAC, etc.

To start using it, click on the template that you like. Then, hit the create now option. You can add a photo, music name, artist name, and more. Then, add the music file and click on the download option to save the file.

You may also like best music visualizer makers .

#8 Motionbox Music Visualizer

Price: Free | Sign up is required

Motionbox Music Visualizer is a super easy tool to use. This tool is often used by voice actors, musicians, and podcasters to add waveforms, mainly because of its easy-to-understand interface. It supports FLAC, WMA, WAV, MP3, and other formats.

To use it, visit Motionbox Music Visualizer’s official website and upload your audio. After that, trim your audio and finally add the waveform visualizer. Just three easy steps, and your video with waveform will be generated.

#9 Specterr Music Visualizer

Price: Pro: $25.00/month | Unlimited: $75.00/month | Free with a watermark

Specterr Music Visualizer provides you with built-in visualizer presets to choose from. The tool is reliable and very easy to use. After you add the waveform to your audio, you will not even have to spend time downloading it. Instead, you can share it directly to your Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram account.

To get started, you will first have to select a preset. You will see multiple presets. Then, you need to upload an audio file. It accepts MP3 or WAV. Once done, you can customize the visualizer, and finally, click on the Export option to export the video.

#10 Recast Studio

Price: Free

If you have a podcast ready and want to add waveform to it, you should try Recast Studio. It allows you to add unique animated audio waveforms, which will eventually increase conversion and boost social engagement. In addition, it is easy to use and saves your time with its visualizer presets.

To use, you will have to upload the audio. It accepts MP3. Then, you need to clip the audio. After that, browse through the template section and pick your favorite. You can then customize the video to enhance its quality, such as changing the color of the waveform, adding images, editing texts, and more. Finally, download the video.

#11 Clipchamp

Price: Free | Sign up required

Clipchamp is a free online audio visualizer that you can add audio waveforms to your videos. You will not have to spend hours manually creating waveforms. It lets you browse through its multiple templates. You can just choose one for your music videos, podcasts, etc., add the animated visualizer and get it done.

Here’s how you can use it. You need to visit the official website and upload the audio file, MP3, or WAV that you want to edit. After that, you need to apply an audio visualizer. You can add background and effects, too, if you wish. After you are all done, export your video.

Part 3: Why Should You Use Audio Visualization?

Audio entertainment has been around since time immemorial, and there’s no doubt about how big of an impact it has. However, when you add audio visualization, it enhances the listening experience by manifolds. Take podcasts, for example. They have become extremely popular.

In fact, there are currently more than 30 million podcast episodes running across the world. But when you combine audio visualization, it makes the audio even better. It becomes more engaging. Not that it sounds stand-alone can’t have an impact on the audience, but with audio visualization, it doubles itself when it comes to engagement and creating a lasting impression.

Conclusion

So, now you know about the top audio waveform video generators. You can choose one from the list we have mentioned and get started because your audios, such as lyrical music videos and podcasts, deserve the magical touch of an audio visualization. So, don’t miss out on it, and try an audio waveform generator today.

Highlight Video Production Made Easy: Top Desktop and Mobile Apps

Best Highlight Video Makers

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

No one wants to see all the video clips and pictures of your vacation at an exotic destination, wedding ceremony, or birthday party. Making a quick video and snapping pictures of the important moments is a great way to preserve the memories for yourself. However, these videos and photos add up quickly, and showing them all off is cumbersome. Rest assured, everyone wants to see a highlight reel. Moreover, with the growing popularity of short-form video sharing platforms like Tik Tok and IGTV, people want to extract highlights from videos to share on their profiles.

Part 1: What is Highlight Reel Video?

A highlight reel is the collection of the best parts of a video where you can combine video clips and pictures to make it. But how do you make a highlight reel? Well, there are many highlight video makers available that one can use to create a highlight reel easily.

So, here are some of the best highlight video makers that you can use on Windows and Mac and on iOS or Android devices.

Part 2: Best Highlight Video Makers on Windows and Mac

1. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare’s Filmora Video Editor is a simple yet powerful video highlight reel maker available for Mac and Windows. It offers the standard trimming, transitions, overlays, and effects that are great for editing your videos to make highlight videos to share on social media and show your friends. It has an intuitive interface and has a huge range of features. The interface has a drag and drop option enabling you to quickly arrange, trim, and edit various media elements making it a breeze to create highlight videos.

Filmora supports all the modern video formats as well as HD and 4K video editing and output as well as includes several different free video effect presets. The version 10.4 and higher of this highlight video maker (for Windows) have some new features like auto highlight helping you automatically create a highlight video. Audio normalization that automatically normalizes the audio volume in your videos, and the scene detection features that allow you to separate video into clips. Try Filmora for free by downloading the latest version and experience these new features.

Pros

Simple and intuitive interface

Auto highlight feature to create highlighted video automatically

Layer multiple video clips

Scene detection for cutting large video quickly

Cons

Add-on feature pack is expensive

Slightly slow AMD processor

2. Windows 10 Photos App

The Photos App is in-built into Windows 10 which makes it fun and easy to enhance your videos and images. This free photo viewer and editor works with OneDrive that allows you to access all the photos and videos from any device.

The Photo App has competent editing and photo enhancements tools along with tools for organizing and editing videos to create highlight videos easily.

It has a story remix which makes it super easy to combine pictures and videos to create enticing highlight video with text, motion, duration, 3D effects, filters, and background music.

Story Remix works on Microsoft’s deep learning technology and AI to find relevant content and automatically create videos to edit and share. The choose a star feature allows you to create a movie focused on a person. You can also easily edit your video to highlight the best content with the trim feature. Once you are done with editing, your video is saved automatically, but you will need to export it to share on social media.

Pros

Simple interface

Integrates with OneDrive

Video highlight with soundtrack, text, and transitions

Cons

Lacks geometry correction

3. Hudl Premium Highlights

If you are a high school athlete looking to get a scholarship for higher education, the best way to pitch to application boards and professional coaches is to send them a video that highlights your skills. You can easily create highlight videos with Hudle Premium Highlights. It is one of the best paid highlight video makers for sports and is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Just log in to Hudle.com and click your highlights and choose create highlights. Give the name to your highlight video and add the video, photos, music, and title slides. You can easily filter the highlights by team and season and select the highlights adding them to your reel.

The Hudle Premium Highlight has a trim feature that allows you to easily edit the highlight reel. You can add spot shadow, text, or music and preview the reel. It also helps you flag sections of the videos by inserting notes or audio. Once you are done with creating a highlight reel, publish to save your work and post on social media or get a URL to share with the coaches.

Pros

Easy to use

Various features to make highlight videos.

Cons

Not enough customization available

4. Vibby

Vibby is a free lightweight web-based highlight video maker that allows you to easily highlight and show only parts of the video you want audiences to see. With this tool you can also add notes and comments on the selection portions, making the video more engaging.

Vibby has a simple user-friendly interface that helps you to highlight the most relevant parts of the video in just three steps. Just choose the YouTube, GoogleDrive, Dropbox, Twitch, and Vimeo videos you like, highlight the sections relevant to your topic and add notes, or questions for students to read. You can set specific timeframes for each highlight and tag people as well.

Pros

Simple and easy user interface

Create highlight videos in three steps

Free to use

Cons

No cons found

5. Magisto

Magisto is one of the best video highlight reel makers allowing marketers, business professionals, and individuals to create enticing videos. Available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices, it includes a licensed music library from independent artists. Magisto offers a free seven-day trial, but it requires you to enter the credit card details. In the trial, you get access to all the features. One of the best features is the video highlight where you can convert your memorable videos and pictures into an unforgettable video highlighting the special moments.

What makes Magisto unique is its AI-powered solution that analyzes and edits your videos. You can also control the video speed so that your highlight reel can consist of various photos or video clips. You can add graphics, effects, and background music as well to add a layer of emotion to your videos.

Pros

Automatically build video highlight with AI technology

Compatible with mobile and web devices

7 days free trial

Cons

No phone support offered

No feature to edit photos

Best Highlight Video Maker App for iPhone and Android

If you are looking for the best video highlight reel maker for iPhone and Android devices, then Quik from GoPro is the one. The previous editions of Quik were free, but the new version requires payment to unlock all the features. However, you get a free trial as well to know about the features. This highlight video maker can pull out any media stored on your phone or tablet as well as from your GoPro cloud storage and automatically highlight the video in seconds, complete with royalty-free music and filters.

If you want to take control, you can do that easily. Select a theme, add the video and pictures you want to create the highlight with, trim your videos, pick a music track, add filters, and set a target length for the highlighted video. With Quik, you can filter by media type as well, so if you just need photos or just videos, you can select them easily that are grouped by date. Once you have created your highlighted video, transfer it wirelessly to your phone for easy sharing.

Part 3: Tips for Creating Highlight Video

There are many times you want to create an epic highlight reel. Here are few tips to help you create exciting and entertaining highlight reels.

Learn the event timeline

When you want to create a highlight video for any event, whether official or personal, study the event schedule beforehand. For instance, when filming a wedding, know when the bride will arrive when the couple exchanges rings and vows. If your highlight video is about a conference, it is essential to know when speakers will deliver the speech, etc.

Make a list of shots

Next, have a list of parts that you wish to capture so that you are more organized at the event. You can’t predict each moment but being ready will help you capture memorable moments.

Use the right equipment

You need to use proper equipment for the events to ensure the footage looks great in low light. Gather all your equipment before the event and make sure it is fully charged and functional. Carry the extra batteries and other tools as well.

You may also like: Download Instagram Highlights

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

No one wants to see all the video clips and pictures of your vacation at an exotic destination, wedding ceremony, or birthday party. Making a quick video and snapping pictures of the important moments is a great way to preserve the memories for yourself. However, these videos and photos add up quickly, and showing them all off is cumbersome. Rest assured, everyone wants to see a highlight reel. Moreover, with the growing popularity of short-form video sharing platforms like Tik Tok and IGTV, people want to extract highlights from videos to share on their profiles.

Part 1: What is Highlight Reel Video?

A highlight reel is the collection of the best parts of a video where you can combine video clips and pictures to make it. But how do you make a highlight reel? Well, there are many highlight video makers available that one can use to create a highlight reel easily.

So, here are some of the best highlight video makers that you can use on Windows and Mac and on iOS or Android devices.

Part 2: Best Highlight Video Makers on Windows and Mac

1. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare’s Filmora Video Editor is a simple yet powerful video highlight reel maker available for Mac and Windows. It offers the standard trimming, transitions, overlays, and effects that are great for editing your videos to make highlight videos to share on social media and show your friends. It has an intuitive interface and has a huge range of features. The interface has a drag and drop option enabling you to quickly arrange, trim, and edit various media elements making it a breeze to create highlight videos.

Filmora supports all the modern video formats as well as HD and 4K video editing and output as well as includes several different free video effect presets. The version 10.4 and higher of this highlight video maker (for Windows) have some new features like auto highlight helping you automatically create a highlight video. Audio normalization that automatically normalizes the audio volume in your videos, and the scene detection features that allow you to separate video into clips. Try Filmora for free by downloading the latest version and experience these new features.

Pros

Simple and intuitive interface

Auto highlight feature to create highlighted video automatically

Layer multiple video clips

Scene detection for cutting large video quickly

Cons

Add-on feature pack is expensive

Slightly slow AMD processor

2. Windows 10 Photos App

The Photos App is in-built into Windows 10 which makes it fun and easy to enhance your videos and images. This free photo viewer and editor works with OneDrive that allows you to access all the photos and videos from any device.

The Photo App has competent editing and photo enhancements tools along with tools for organizing and editing videos to create highlight videos easily.

It has a story remix which makes it super easy to combine pictures and videos to create enticing highlight video with text, motion, duration, 3D effects, filters, and background music.

Story Remix works on Microsoft’s deep learning technology and AI to find relevant content and automatically create videos to edit and share. The choose a star feature allows you to create a movie focused on a person. You can also easily edit your video to highlight the best content with the trim feature. Once you are done with editing, your video is saved automatically, but you will need to export it to share on social media.

Pros

Simple interface

Integrates with OneDrive

Video highlight with soundtrack, text, and transitions

Cons

Lacks geometry correction

3. Hudl Premium Highlights

If you are a high school athlete looking to get a scholarship for higher education, the best way to pitch to application boards and professional coaches is to send them a video that highlights your skills. You can easily create highlight videos with Hudle Premium Highlights. It is one of the best paid highlight video makers for sports and is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Just log in to Hudle.com and click your highlights and choose create highlights. Give the name to your highlight video and add the video, photos, music, and title slides. You can easily filter the highlights by team and season and select the highlights adding them to your reel.

The Hudle Premium Highlight has a trim feature that allows you to easily edit the highlight reel. You can add spot shadow, text, or music and preview the reel. It also helps you flag sections of the videos by inserting notes or audio. Once you are done with creating a highlight reel, publish to save your work and post on social media or get a URL to share with the coaches.

Pros

Easy to use

Various features to make highlight videos.

Cons

Not enough customization available

4. Vibby

Vibby is a free lightweight web-based highlight video maker that allows you to easily highlight and show only parts of the video you want audiences to see. With this tool you can also add notes and comments on the selection portions, making the video more engaging.

Vibby has a simple user-friendly interface that helps you to highlight the most relevant parts of the video in just three steps. Just choose the YouTube, GoogleDrive, Dropbox, Twitch, and Vimeo videos you like, highlight the sections relevant to your topic and add notes, or questions for students to read. You can set specific timeframes for each highlight and tag people as well.

Pros

Simple and easy user interface

Create highlight videos in three steps

Free to use

Cons

No cons found

5. Magisto

Magisto is one of the best video highlight reel makers allowing marketers, business professionals, and individuals to create enticing videos. Available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices, it includes a licensed music library from independent artists. Magisto offers a free seven-day trial, but it requires you to enter the credit card details. In the trial, you get access to all the features. One of the best features is the video highlight where you can convert your memorable videos and pictures into an unforgettable video highlighting the special moments.

What makes Magisto unique is its AI-powered solution that analyzes and edits your videos. You can also control the video speed so that your highlight reel can consist of various photos or video clips. You can add graphics, effects, and background music as well to add a layer of emotion to your videos.

Pros

Automatically build video highlight with AI technology

Compatible with mobile and web devices

7 days free trial

Cons

No phone support offered

No feature to edit photos

Best Highlight Video Maker App for iPhone and Android

If you are looking for the best video highlight reel maker for iPhone and Android devices, then Quik from GoPro is the one. The previous editions of Quik were free, but the new version requires payment to unlock all the features. However, you get a free trial as well to know about the features. This highlight video maker can pull out any media stored on your phone or tablet as well as from your GoPro cloud storage and automatically highlight the video in seconds, complete with royalty-free music and filters.

If you want to take control, you can do that easily. Select a theme, add the video and pictures you want to create the highlight with, trim your videos, pick a music track, add filters, and set a target length for the highlighted video. With Quik, you can filter by media type as well, so if you just need photos or just videos, you can select them easily that are grouped by date. Once you have created your highlighted video, transfer it wirelessly to your phone for easy sharing.

Part 3: Tips for Creating Highlight Video

There are many times you want to create an epic highlight reel. Here are few tips to help you create exciting and entertaining highlight reels.

Learn the event timeline

When you want to create a highlight video for any event, whether official or personal, study the event schedule beforehand. For instance, when filming a wedding, know when the bride will arrive when the couple exchanges rings and vows. If your highlight video is about a conference, it is essential to know when speakers will deliver the speech, etc.

Make a list of shots

Next, have a list of parts that you wish to capture so that you are more organized at the event. You can’t predict each moment but being ready will help you capture memorable moments.

Use the right equipment

You need to use proper equipment for the events to ensure the footage looks great in low light. Gather all your equipment before the event and make sure it is fully charged and functional. Carry the extra batteries and other tools as well.

You may also like: Download Instagram Highlights

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

No one wants to see all the video clips and pictures of your vacation at an exotic destination, wedding ceremony, or birthday party. Making a quick video and snapping pictures of the important moments is a great way to preserve the memories for yourself. However, these videos and photos add up quickly, and showing them all off is cumbersome. Rest assured, everyone wants to see a highlight reel. Moreover, with the growing popularity of short-form video sharing platforms like Tik Tok and IGTV, people want to extract highlights from videos to share on their profiles.

Part 1: What is Highlight Reel Video?

A highlight reel is the collection of the best parts of a video where you can combine video clips and pictures to make it. But how do you make a highlight reel? Well, there are many highlight video makers available that one can use to create a highlight reel easily.

So, here are some of the best highlight video makers that you can use on Windows and Mac and on iOS or Android devices.

Part 2: Best Highlight Video Makers on Windows and Mac

1. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare’s Filmora Video Editor is a simple yet powerful video highlight reel maker available for Mac and Windows. It offers the standard trimming, transitions, overlays, and effects that are great for editing your videos to make highlight videos to share on social media and show your friends. It has an intuitive interface and has a huge range of features. The interface has a drag and drop option enabling you to quickly arrange, trim, and edit various media elements making it a breeze to create highlight videos.

Filmora supports all the modern video formats as well as HD and 4K video editing and output as well as includes several different free video effect presets. The version 10.4 and higher of this highlight video maker (for Windows) have some new features like auto highlight helping you automatically create a highlight video. Audio normalization that automatically normalizes the audio volume in your videos, and the scene detection features that allow you to separate video into clips. Try Filmora for free by downloading the latest version and experience these new features.

Pros

Simple and intuitive interface

Auto highlight feature to create highlighted video automatically

Layer multiple video clips

Scene detection for cutting large video quickly

Cons

Add-on feature pack is expensive

Slightly slow AMD processor

2. Windows 10 Photos App

The Photos App is in-built into Windows 10 which makes it fun and easy to enhance your videos and images. This free photo viewer and editor works with OneDrive that allows you to access all the photos and videos from any device.

The Photo App has competent editing and photo enhancements tools along with tools for organizing and editing videos to create highlight videos easily.

It has a story remix which makes it super easy to combine pictures and videos to create enticing highlight video with text, motion, duration, 3D effects, filters, and background music.

Story Remix works on Microsoft’s deep learning technology and AI to find relevant content and automatically create videos to edit and share. The choose a star feature allows you to create a movie focused on a person. You can also easily edit your video to highlight the best content with the trim feature. Once you are done with editing, your video is saved automatically, but you will need to export it to share on social media.

Pros

Simple interface

Integrates with OneDrive

Video highlight with soundtrack, text, and transitions

Cons

Lacks geometry correction

3. Hudl Premium Highlights

If you are a high school athlete looking to get a scholarship for higher education, the best way to pitch to application boards and professional coaches is to send them a video that highlights your skills. You can easily create highlight videos with Hudle Premium Highlights. It is one of the best paid highlight video makers for sports and is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Just log in to Hudle.com and click your highlights and choose create highlights. Give the name to your highlight video and add the video, photos, music, and title slides. You can easily filter the highlights by team and season and select the highlights adding them to your reel.

The Hudle Premium Highlight has a trim feature that allows you to easily edit the highlight reel. You can add spot shadow, text, or music and preview the reel. It also helps you flag sections of the videos by inserting notes or audio. Once you are done with creating a highlight reel, publish to save your work and post on social media or get a URL to share with the coaches.

Pros

Easy to use

Various features to make highlight videos.

Cons

Not enough customization available

4. Vibby

Vibby is a free lightweight web-based highlight video maker that allows you to easily highlight and show only parts of the video you want audiences to see. With this tool you can also add notes and comments on the selection portions, making the video more engaging.

Vibby has a simple user-friendly interface that helps you to highlight the most relevant parts of the video in just three steps. Just choose the YouTube, GoogleDrive, Dropbox, Twitch, and Vimeo videos you like, highlight the sections relevant to your topic and add notes, or questions for students to read. You can set specific timeframes for each highlight and tag people as well.

Pros

Simple and easy user interface

Create highlight videos in three steps

Free to use

Cons

No cons found

5. Magisto

Magisto is one of the best video highlight reel makers allowing marketers, business professionals, and individuals to create enticing videos. Available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices, it includes a licensed music library from independent artists. Magisto offers a free seven-day trial, but it requires you to enter the credit card details. In the trial, you get access to all the features. One of the best features is the video highlight where you can convert your memorable videos and pictures into an unforgettable video highlighting the special moments.

What makes Magisto unique is its AI-powered solution that analyzes and edits your videos. You can also control the video speed so that your highlight reel can consist of various photos or video clips. You can add graphics, effects, and background music as well to add a layer of emotion to your videos.

Pros

Automatically build video highlight with AI technology

Compatible with mobile and web devices

7 days free trial

Cons

No phone support offered

No feature to edit photos

Best Highlight Video Maker App for iPhone and Android

If you are looking for the best video highlight reel maker for iPhone and Android devices, then Quik from GoPro is the one. The previous editions of Quik were free, but the new version requires payment to unlock all the features. However, you get a free trial as well to know about the features. This highlight video maker can pull out any media stored on your phone or tablet as well as from your GoPro cloud storage and automatically highlight the video in seconds, complete with royalty-free music and filters.

If you want to take control, you can do that easily. Select a theme, add the video and pictures you want to create the highlight with, trim your videos, pick a music track, add filters, and set a target length for the highlighted video. With Quik, you can filter by media type as well, so if you just need photos or just videos, you can select them easily that are grouped by date. Once you have created your highlighted video, transfer it wirelessly to your phone for easy sharing.

Part 3: Tips for Creating Highlight Video

There are many times you want to create an epic highlight reel. Here are few tips to help you create exciting and entertaining highlight reels.

Learn the event timeline

When you want to create a highlight video for any event, whether official or personal, study the event schedule beforehand. For instance, when filming a wedding, know when the bride will arrive when the couple exchanges rings and vows. If your highlight video is about a conference, it is essential to know when speakers will deliver the speech, etc.

Make a list of shots

Next, have a list of parts that you wish to capture so that you are more organized at the event. You can’t predict each moment but being ready will help you capture memorable moments.

Use the right equipment

You need to use proper equipment for the events to ensure the footage looks great in low light. Gather all your equipment before the event and make sure it is fully charged and functional. Carry the extra batteries and other tools as well.

You may also like: Download Instagram Highlights

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

No one wants to see all the video clips and pictures of your vacation at an exotic destination, wedding ceremony, or birthday party. Making a quick video and snapping pictures of the important moments is a great way to preserve the memories for yourself. However, these videos and photos add up quickly, and showing them all off is cumbersome. Rest assured, everyone wants to see a highlight reel. Moreover, with the growing popularity of short-form video sharing platforms like Tik Tok and IGTV, people want to extract highlights from videos to share on their profiles.

Part 1: What is Highlight Reel Video?

A highlight reel is the collection of the best parts of a video where you can combine video clips and pictures to make it. But how do you make a highlight reel? Well, there are many highlight video makers available that one can use to create a highlight reel easily.

So, here are some of the best highlight video makers that you can use on Windows and Mac and on iOS or Android devices.

Part 2: Best Highlight Video Makers on Windows and Mac

1. Wondershare Filmora Video Editor

Wondershare’s Filmora Video Editor is a simple yet powerful video highlight reel maker available for Mac and Windows. It offers the standard trimming, transitions, overlays, and effects that are great for editing your videos to make highlight videos to share on social media and show your friends. It has an intuitive interface and has a huge range of features. The interface has a drag and drop option enabling you to quickly arrange, trim, and edit various media elements making it a breeze to create highlight videos.

Filmora supports all the modern video formats as well as HD and 4K video editing and output as well as includes several different free video effect presets. The version 10.4 and higher of this highlight video maker (for Windows) have some new features like auto highlight helping you automatically create a highlight video. Audio normalization that automatically normalizes the audio volume in your videos, and the scene detection features that allow you to separate video into clips. Try Filmora for free by downloading the latest version and experience these new features.

Pros

Simple and intuitive interface

Auto highlight feature to create highlighted video automatically

Layer multiple video clips

Scene detection for cutting large video quickly

Cons

Add-on feature pack is expensive

Slightly slow AMD processor

2. Windows 10 Photos App

The Photos App is in-built into Windows 10 which makes it fun and easy to enhance your videos and images. This free photo viewer and editor works with OneDrive that allows you to access all the photos and videos from any device.

The Photo App has competent editing and photo enhancements tools along with tools for organizing and editing videos to create highlight videos easily.

It has a story remix which makes it super easy to combine pictures and videos to create enticing highlight video with text, motion, duration, 3D effects, filters, and background music.

Story Remix works on Microsoft’s deep learning technology and AI to find relevant content and automatically create videos to edit and share. The choose a star feature allows you to create a movie focused on a person. You can also easily edit your video to highlight the best content with the trim feature. Once you are done with editing, your video is saved automatically, but you will need to export it to share on social media.

Pros

Simple interface

Integrates with OneDrive

Video highlight with soundtrack, text, and transitions

Cons

Lacks geometry correction

3. Hudl Premium Highlights

If you are a high school athlete looking to get a scholarship for higher education, the best way to pitch to application boards and professional coaches is to send them a video that highlights your skills. You can easily create highlight videos with Hudle Premium Highlights. It is one of the best paid highlight video makers for sports and is compatible with Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices.

Just log in to Hudle.com and click your highlights and choose create highlights. Give the name to your highlight video and add the video, photos, music, and title slides. You can easily filter the highlights by team and season and select the highlights adding them to your reel.

The Hudle Premium Highlight has a trim feature that allows you to easily edit the highlight reel. You can add spot shadow, text, or music and preview the reel. It also helps you flag sections of the videos by inserting notes or audio. Once you are done with creating a highlight reel, publish to save your work and post on social media or get a URL to share with the coaches.

Pros

Easy to use

Various features to make highlight videos.

Cons

Not enough customization available

4. Vibby

Vibby is a free lightweight web-based highlight video maker that allows you to easily highlight and show only parts of the video you want audiences to see. With this tool you can also add notes and comments on the selection portions, making the video more engaging.

Vibby has a simple user-friendly interface that helps you to highlight the most relevant parts of the video in just three steps. Just choose the YouTube, GoogleDrive, Dropbox, Twitch, and Vimeo videos you like, highlight the sections relevant to your topic and add notes, or questions for students to read. You can set specific timeframes for each highlight and tag people as well.

Pros

Simple and easy user interface

Create highlight videos in three steps

Free to use

Cons

No cons found

5. Magisto

Magisto is one of the best video highlight reel makers allowing marketers, business professionals, and individuals to create enticing videos. Available for Mac, Windows, iOS, and Android devices, it includes a licensed music library from independent artists. Magisto offers a free seven-day trial, but it requires you to enter the credit card details. In the trial, you get access to all the features. One of the best features is the video highlight where you can convert your memorable videos and pictures into an unforgettable video highlighting the special moments.

What makes Magisto unique is its AI-powered solution that analyzes and edits your videos. You can also control the video speed so that your highlight reel can consist of various photos or video clips. You can add graphics, effects, and background music as well to add a layer of emotion to your videos.

Pros

Automatically build video highlight with AI technology

Compatible with mobile and web devices

7 days free trial

Cons

No phone support offered

No feature to edit photos

Best Highlight Video Maker App for iPhone and Android

If you are looking for the best video highlight reel maker for iPhone and Android devices, then Quik from GoPro is the one. The previous editions of Quik were free, but the new version requires payment to unlock all the features. However, you get a free trial as well to know about the features. This highlight video maker can pull out any media stored on your phone or tablet as well as from your GoPro cloud storage and automatically highlight the video in seconds, complete with royalty-free music and filters.

If you want to take control, you can do that easily. Select a theme, add the video and pictures you want to create the highlight with, trim your videos, pick a music track, add filters, and set a target length for the highlighted video. With Quik, you can filter by media type as well, so if you just need photos or just videos, you can select them easily that are grouped by date. Once you have created your highlighted video, transfer it wirelessly to your phone for easy sharing.

Part 3: Tips for Creating Highlight Video

There are many times you want to create an epic highlight reel. Here are few tips to help you create exciting and entertaining highlight reels.

Learn the event timeline

When you want to create a highlight video for any event, whether official or personal, study the event schedule beforehand. For instance, when filming a wedding, know when the bride will arrive when the couple exchanges rings and vows. If your highlight video is about a conference, it is essential to know when speakers will deliver the speech, etc.

Make a list of shots

Next, have a list of parts that you wish to capture so that you are more organized at the event. You can’t predict each moment but being ready will help you capture memorable moments.

Use the right equipment

You need to use proper equipment for the events to ensure the footage looks great in low light. Gather all your equipment before the event and make sure it is fully charged and functional. Carry the extra batteries and other tools as well.

You may also like: Download Instagram Highlights

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

The Best Free Security Camera Programs: 2023 Reviews and Ratings

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

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

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Also read: