Adobe Premiere Elements Movie Editing Software

Premiere Elements, Adobe's consumer video-editing app, has been a favorite of ours for several years. It's creative, friendly, easy to use and cross-platform, allowing video novices to edit with. Adobe Premiere Elements has video-editing tools that meet many needs. You can split long clips to manage them better and preview or trim clips to keep only the precious moments. You can also configure clip properties, such as speed, direction, and duration. Get a popular video editing software for your Windows PC with Adobe Premiere Elements. Adobe Premiere Elements is a paid software by Adobe Systems which lets you do video editing like no other. Adobe Premiere Elements can handle unlimited video and audio tracks which also supports many third party plug-ins.

1. Adobe Video Editing Software
2. Adobe Premiere Editing Software
3. Movie Editing Software For Mac
4. Adobe Premiere Elements Movie Editing Software For Mac

• I have also included lower on the page, my recommendations for easiest to use video editing software although there are some other choices for easy video editing software here. If you are looking for best prosumer product at a reasonable price then Magix Video Pro X is my choice and you can read about it here: Magix Video Pro X review.
• Adobe Premiere Elements Premiere Elements is an easy-to-use video editor with lots of effects and guidance, but it trails some of the competition in speed, flexibility, and support for new content.

Last week, my hands-on review of Adobe Photoshop Elements 2021 revealed a powerful image-editing program at a very affordable price. This week, I am taking a look at Adobe Premiere Elements 2021, which provides a way for still photographers to meet their clients' video requests without deeply immersing themselves into the complexity of high-end Adobe Premiere Pro video editing. Accelerated GPU (graphics processing unit) performance means faster high-quality playback of effects and improved performance when cropping video. New video editing features include the ability to select a specific object or area of your video and effortlessly apply an effect that tracks throughout the video.

The MSRP for Adobe Premiere Elements 2021 is $99.99 for new users or $79.99 to upgrade. Bundled with Adobe Photoshop Elements photo editor, the cost is $149.99 for new users; $119.99 to upgrade.

New Additions to Premiere Elements 2021

It's always interesting to see what the engineers have to add to programs that have been around for many years, as with Premiere Elements. As mentioned above, the 2021 version includes the ability to easily select an object or an area of a video and apply one of the many prebuilt effects to the selection or to its invert. Premiere then tracks the selection through the video, applying the effect through time and space. For example, you can select an area of the video (I chose a butterfly), invert the mask and apply an effect to the background (I chose the New Blue Cartoonr effect). Running the video, the butterfly flutters around in its natural state and the background remains with the special effect.

There are 25 Guided Edits available in Premiere Elements. Two new Guided Edits in the 2021 version include the ability to create double effects with videos. For example, you can superimpose a video over a still photograph, or use a still silhouette to frame a video behind it. The other one is a large library of animated matte overlays that you can apply over a video to highlight the entire video, select scenes, or use as transitions.

There are also 21 new music tracks available in the latest Premiere Elements with updated musical styles, GPU-accelerated performance boosts, and automatic catalog backup of albums, keywords, tags, people, events and more so your work will never be lost.

User Friendly Guides

For a still photographer unfamiliar with video editing, there is a learning curve to understand not only the tools, but even the terms for the tools and techniques. But the interface in Premiere Elements is clean and logical, and the guided edits make it easy to perform basic video operations. Users familiar with Photoshop Elements, or previous users of Premiere Elements will be editing in short order. It is generally easy to perform simple edits, such as trimming the beginning and end of videos, adding a transition between clips, and adding music. However, it will take some experience and trial and error to understand and execute the steps the program wants you to take to complete more sophisticated tasks, even to complete the guided edits, to your satisfaction. As with any sophisticated still or video editing program, the more familiar you are with it and the more often you use it, the friendlier it will become.

What I Like About Premiere Elements 2021

The new ability to select an object within a video and apply an effect to it or to its surroundings with just a few clicks, then have that that effect track through the video is a wonder to behold. With the right video input, even if it is only a short section of a clip, it is a real attention getter. As is the ability to add animated matte overlays or double exposure effects to entire videos or shorter clips. The library of matte overlays is extensive, but I wish that there was the ability to add my own still photos for the double effects.

Speed increases are always welcome, and the ability of Premiere 2021 to show high-quality playback of many effects without having to render the timeline is a great new feature. Hopefully in time this ability will be available for all of the effects.

As video editing become more sophisticated, there is new attention given to the audio accompanying the images. The new audio tracks have their own sub-menu in the audio effects icon. There are categories for them such as jazz, folk, acoustic and others. They behave differently than the music tracks in some ways, including the ability to automatically bring the track in and close it out at the end. As always, you'll want more options from which to choose.

What I Don't Like

When applying effects in previous versions you could add a mask. The new precise selections ability along with motion tracking provides a moving mask that applies an effect to an object or area you designate in the initial frame. When the area stays in the same relative position in all of the frames, this masking and tracking works very well, particularly if you apply some feathering to better blend the mask into the background. However, when the masked object moves erratically, or outside of the original boundaries of the mask, the tracking in this version unable to follow. You can compensate for this by pausing playback and adjusting the mask for the new position, but this quickly becomes tedious. Even with high contrast subjects, better tracking is needed.

I was disappointed when I installed Premiere Elements 2021 on my Windows machine at home to find the playback to be uneven and bouncy. Checking the system requirements of the program against my system, I saw that Premiere requires a 6^th generation or better Intel processor to run on a Windows or Mac platform. My iMac at home met the spec so I used it. If you're on Windows, check your System>About in the Window 10 Settings to ensure your processor is 6^th generation or later.

How It Compares to Other Easy Video Editing Software

There is stiff competition in the video editing marketplace. Enthusiast-level programs, some at lower cost, such as CyberLink PowerDirector, Corel VideoStudio, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate, and Magix Movie Edit Pro offer robust video and audio editing tools and with features such as color grading, 360-degree VR support, and more sophisticated motion tracking. One advantage of Adobe Premiere Elements is the ability to smoothly transition from it to Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe After Effects if video editing become something that truly captures your imagination.

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Adobe Photoshop Elements 2021: A Hands-On Review

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A hands-on review of Adobe Photoshop Elements 2021 reveals a powerful image-editing program at a very affordable price. Though it is designed to be a simple platform for hobbyists, 'memory keepers' and digital scrapbookers who enjoy creating photo and video keepsakes of life events for family and friends, it's relevant, in my opinion, for anyone with a camera. (Bundled with..
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Videos are everywhere.

From dominating total internet traffic to YouTube being the second most popular website.

Videos are quite addictive too (no doubt, I find it so tough to come out of the YouTube black hole).

But what makes a video standout apart from engaging content? And how can you elevate the quality of your video from rock-bottom to sky-high?

Answer: using video editing software.

As the name suggests, a video editing software helps you improve your videos by adding effects, improving lighting, trimming unnecessary content, enhancing sound quality, etc.

In short, it's an indispensable tool if you're a serious video maker.

Now the trickiest part for most of the people is to choose the right video editing tool for themselves, and more often they end up buying the wrong one.

I used the five most prominent video editing applications and organized them from best to worst according to their capabilities.

By the time you end up reading this post, you'll have a clear idea of which tool you should put your money on.

So without any further ado, let's get started.

DEVICE COMPATIBILITY

Mac and Windows

Adobe Video Editing Software

Windows

Mac and Windows

FREE TRIAL?

Yes

Mac os free software. Yes

Yes

MONEY BACK GUARANTEE

Available

Available

Available

Since I'm an entry-level user, I wanted a tool which is easy to learn and use or at least has an adequate amount of learning materials.

And luckily, most of the tools have a user-friendly interface and consist of numerous built-in tutorials.

Next, I wanted to see the number of editing option each program has and if there's any limitation on the total number of video tracks you can edit.

Then I dug a little deeper for some advanced aspects like 3D and VR video editing, 4K video compatibility and ability to share videos on social media straight from the app without leaving or minimizing it.

The entire review is based on these metrics (plus a few more). So let's see how each tool performed.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is the number one favorite of professional editors, YouTubers, and filmmakers. The ability to perform almost all the editing tasks and the positive press from many users help to give Adobe an edge in the market. However, with a steeper learning curve for newcomers, it does require watching through tutorials to learn the basic functions.

Adobe Premiere Pro Pros

#1 Unlimited Video Editing

The software doesn't impose any restriction on the maximum number of videos you can edit.

#2 Edit 3D and VR clips

Premiere Pro allows working with 3D objects, and the ability to edit 180 or 360/VR footage.

#3 Edit 4K and 8K videos

Premiere Pro completely supports 4K and 8K resolution videos.

#4 Built-in social media sharing feature

Adobe Premiere Editing Software

Exporting videos to a computer or other device is easy, as is the ability to share on different social media channels directly.

#5 Cloud Storage

As part of Adobe's Creative Cloud Plan, you enjoy 100GB-10TB (based on the subscription plan).

#6 Works on Mac and Windows computers

While not available for mobile devices, the software runs on both Windows or Mac.

Keep in mind some users maybe struggle to reach the system requirements.

Adobe Premiere Pro Cons

#1 Poor Customer Support

Premiere Pro is a strong product, weakened by poor customer support sucks. The 'Live Chat' support that can take 15-30 minutes just to start the conversation.

#2 Limit of two computers with a single license

For users who own multiple devices, this can prove an issue, as you can't run the software simultaneously on both the machines.

Adobe Premiere Pro Pricing Plans

Premiere Pro is the only application with monthly subscription plans. This means you spend only a small upfront but must continue to pay over time.

Single app plan starts from $20.99/month (billed annually) for 100GB of cloud storage. Macbook air numbers. All app plan costs $52.99/month (billed annually) for 100GB of cloud space and including all Adobe CC apps.

For students or teachers, Adobe offers an 'All Apps' plan for $19.99/month (billed annually).

Do I recommend Adobe Premiere Pro?

For professional video editing, Adobe Premiere Pro makes videos look outstanding.

Using Adobe's tutorials can make it more accessible for beginners, and there are thousands of free tutorials online.

The overall cost, over time, becomes higher but the robust features and cloud storage make it well worth the cost.

2. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate

Often considered as an Adobe Premiere Pro alternative, Corel VideoStudio Ultimate offers much the same set of features with singular pricing and easier editing options.

VideoStudio Ultimate Pros

#1 Unlimited Video editing

With no limit on the total number of videos, the only cap is for the total number of audio tracks (max. 8).

#2 Edit 360/VR clips and 3D objects

VideoStudio offers the ability to work with 3D objects and edit VR/360 clips.

#3 4K Video compatibility

4K video can be easily imported, however, 8K video is not currently available.

#4 Built-in sharing feature

Easily share your videos on Facebook and upload them to platforms like YouTube, Flickr, and Vimeo.

#5 Extended trial and refund period

Corel lets you test VideoStudio for a whole month, and if you buy the product and are not satisfied with the performance, you still have 30-days to return for a full refund.

VideoStudio Ultimate Cons

#1 Windows Only

Corel is only available for Windows (7,8 and 10). There's no Mac compatibility.

#2 One device per license

VideoStudio, you can use it only on a single computer per license.

#3 Slow customer support

Corel are incredibly slow with resolving customer complaints, with some email requests taking over 24 hours for a response. However, their live chat option is quicker, and the customer agents are very polite and helpful.

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate Pricing Plans

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate pricing is very straightforward at $99.99.

For those who have previous versions of VideoStudio Ultimate, the cost to upgrade is just $79.99.

Do I recommend Corel VideoStudio Ultimate?

For Windows users, VideoStudio Ultimate is useful to both novices and professionals.

The broad range of editing options and effects make the cost negligible. However, non-compatibility with Mac is a big disadvantage.

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Premiere Elements is another Adobe product very similar to Premiere Pro, with some features different.

Adobe Premiere Elements Pros

#1 Unlimited Video Editing

You can edit unlimited videos on Adobe Premiere Elements, all for a one-off payment.

#2 Supports 4K videos

4K recording is becoming standard for both DSLR and phone recorded footage. Adobe Premiere Elements is able to edit 4K videos, however it does not support 8K videos.

#3 Share videos directly from the software

Premiere Elements has the function of sharing videos on your favorite social media app without leaving or minimizing the software.

#4 Compatible with Mac and Windows

Even without mobile app availability for Premiere Elements, it does work on both Mac and Windows.

#5 Extended trial period

You can try Premiere Elements for 30 days for free (compared with Premiere Pro which only has a week trial).

Adobe Premiere Elements Cons

#1 3D & VR editing is absent

One clear setback of Premiere Elements is the inability to work with 3D objects or to edit 360/VR videos.

#2 Works only on two devices with a single license

Just like Premiere Pro, you can use Premiere Elements only on two devices on a single license.

#3 Weak Customer Support sucks

As with Adobe Premiere Pro the customer service and support leaves a lot to be desired.

Adobe Premiere Elements Pricing Plans

Adobe Premiere Elements is available for a one-time payment of $99.99 (note that is does not include any cloud storage.)

Do I recommend Adobe Premiere Elements?

Premiere Elements is a perfect fit for beginners or casual video hobbyists. It is easy to learn, and extensive learning materials found online make it even easier.

The fast that is a one-off buy, means no ongoing costs associated with this product.

4. Pinnacle Studio Ultimate

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is another Corel product and is positioned as a higher-end product targeting professional video editors.

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Pros

#1 Unlimited Video editing

Pinncale Studio Ultimate version eliminates any limitations on the amount of videos you can edit.

#2 3D and VR/360° editing

You can add 3D titles to your videos and trim, merge, and add titles to your 360 videos. The software also allows you to convert VR videos into standard videos.

#3 Compatible with 4K videos

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate supports both Ultra HD and 4K videos but does not work with 8K videos.

#4 Upload videos directly on social sites

The software lets you upload videos straight to Facebook or video platforms like YouTube and Vimeo.

#5 30-day trial and return policy

Like all Corel products, you get a 30-day trial paired up with a 30-day return policy guaranteeing a 100% refund.

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Cons

#1 Only for Windows computers

Just like VideoStudio Ultimate, Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is also a Windows-only software, and it requires 64-bit versions of Windows 7, 8 or 10.

#2 Can't use the software on more than one computer

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate program cannot be used on more than one PC with a single user license.

#3 Sluggish customer service

The customer service of Corel is not very responsive, and it took them more than 24 hours to answer my email. But, using their live chat option can be much more helpful.

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate Pricing Plans

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate is a one-time payment product of $99.95. For customers upgrading to the latest version, you'll pay only $74.95.

Do I recommend Pinnacle Studio Ultimate?

Pinnacle Studio Ultimate, exclusively for Windows, offers a professional level tool with an affordable price and user-friendly interface.

5. Apple Final Cut Pro X

Final Cut Pro X, a pro app from Apple, is an exclusive Mac OS software.

Despite Apple's focus on quality, Final Cut Pro X misses many key features that you expect from a full-fledged video editing tool.

Final Cut Pro X pros

#1 Unlimited video editing

Final Cut Pro X does not limit the number of videos you can edit in the software.

#2 3D and VR editing enabled

Final Cut Pro X includes a complete toolset to work with 3D objects and edit 360° video clips.

#3 Compatible with 4K videos

4K video editing is available with Final Cut Pro X, however it currently does not seem to support 8K videos.

#4 Generous user license policy

Apple lets you run Final Cut Pro X on as many devices as you want as long as you are the account user.

Final Cut Pro X cons

#1 No built-in sharing feature

While you can upload your videos directly on YouTube and Vimeo, you can't share on social media sites directly within the app.

#2 Compatible only with Mac

Final Cut Pro X is an Apple exclusive product and works only on Mac.

#3 Vague refund policy

For a refund, you need to contact the Mac App Store, and it's not clear whether Apple returns all your money and if there is a time period of applying for a refund.

#4 Slow and tiring customer support

Apple doesn't provide dedicated customer support for Final Cut Pro X.

Yes, there's an online community and a help page, but there's no specific email support form or email address listed on their website.

Final Cut Pro X pricing plans

Final Cut Pro X is yet another tool with a one-off price tag, and it costs $299.99, which is at the more expensive end for editing software.

Movie Editing Software For Mac

Do I recommend Final Cut Pro X?

If you're a Mac user, yes, otherwise Final Cut Pro X is of no use for you.

Conclusion

One of the most vital assets of making a professional looking video is video editing software. And I'm sure, by now you will have made your mind about which editing tool is perfect for you.

But if you're still not sure, here's a quick recap for you.

The best all-around option for professional or semi-professional users is Adobe Premiere Pro or Pinnacle Studio Ultimate. Both these applications have boatloads of editing options enabling you to add any effect to your videos (whether basic or advanced) under the sun.

If you're a beginner or primary level user who is in quest of a tool that takes only a few days to learn and renders the same tool-set as a pro editing software, then look no further than Adobe Premiere Elements or Corel VideoStudio Ultimate.

And finally, for Mac users, Final Cut Pro X is tailor-made for you guys.

Now I want to turn it over to you:

Adobe Premiere Elements Movie Editing Software For Mac

Let me know what kind of user you are (entry level, semi-professional, or professional) and which tool you think will serve your needs best.