Best Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker [Top Editors]

Windows Movie Maker was one of the most reliable video editors before. However, since Microsoft stopped supporting it, the software can't give its full capabilities anymore. So, if you are looking for an excellent alternative to the program to edit videos, then this article is for you. We are here to give you all the best paid and free video editors you can operate as a replacement for Windows Movie Maker. Aside from that, we will also give you enough insight on how to choose the best editor to access. Without anything else, read this post and explore the best Windows Movie Maker alternatives.

Part 1. 5 Free Alternatives to Windows Movie Maker

Searching for the best alternative to Windows Movie Maker that you can access for free? Then, you can check this section as we give all the information you need.

1. AVAide Video Converter

One of the most exceptional video editors you can use to replace Windows Movie Maker is AVAide Video Converter. This video editor can offer all the best basic and advanced features you can use to enhance and improve your videos. You can use the video cropper, trimmer, rotator, filters, effects, and more. You can even rely on this program in terms of converting your video to other video formats, like MP4, MKV, WMV, M4V, MOV, etc. You can also download this editor on your Mac and Windows, making it more convenient for all users. With that, if you want the most powerful editor, feel free to install AVAide Video Converter.

2. HitPaw Video Converter

Another free software you can rely on to edit video is HitPaw Video Converter. It is an ideal program if you want to edit videos using basic video editing functions. It is because the program can offer various tools, such as cropper, merger, rotator, speed controller, add a watermark, and more. The only drawback here is that it lacks advanced editing features.

3. VideoPad Video Editor

Are you looking for an editor who can offer advanced and basic editing functions? In that case, look no further than VideoPad Video Editor. It can provide almost all necessary features to create a professional-grade video output. The best part here is that it can offer a simple and elegant layout, making it suitable for all users, especially non-professionals.

4. CapCut Video Editor

CapCut is another free alternative to Windows Movie Maker that you can access on your computer. What we like about this program is that you can access numerous stock videos, images, and audio. You can also get audio and video effects, ensuring that you can improve your videos based on your preferences. The best part here is that you can save your final output to a higher video quality, allowing you to have a better viewing experience. The only problem here is that when using its free version, the CapCut watermark will be included in your saved video.

5. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve can also offer its free version if your main focus is to color grade your videos. Plus, it can offer almost all the advanced video editing features you need for creating an appealing video output. You can attach audio background, transitions, insert multiple tracks, and more. However, you must be skilled enough to navigate its features since some of the tools are challenging to operate and locate.

Part 2. 5 Paid Windows Movie Maker Alternatives

Do you want to use a subscription-based video editor as an alternative to Windows Movie Maker? Then, you can get all the programs you need from this section.

1. Adobe Premiere Rush

If you want to use a paid video editor that can still offer a straightforward user interface, then we recommend using Adobe Premiere Rush. What makes it ideal is that you can operate various advanced features. You can also directly upload/insert the edited video to YouTube and Facebook. The only drawback here is that the subscription plan is a little bit pricey.

2. Wondershare Filmora

Wondershare Filmora is another perfect video editor you can access on your Windows and Mac for creating exceptional video output. There are various functions you can use to edit your videos. You can crop MP4 videos and other videos. You can change the video color, attach music, images, and other media files. Plus, you can also save the final output to a higher quality for up to 4K. Thus, subscribe to this platform and start creating your masterpiece.

3. Lightworks

Another high-end video dating platform you can use as an alternative to Windows Movie Maker is Lightworks. This program lets you insert multiple tracks on the timeline, allowing you to deal with numerous video files at once. In addition to that, you can also attach another audio file to the timeline, which is ideal if you want to add subtitles, separate text, background music, and more. It can even provide customizable effects, which makes it convenient for all types of users.

4. Adobe Premiere Elements

If you want a Windows Movie Maker alternative for Windows 10, 11, 8, or other OS versions, you can try using Adobe Premiere Elements. This program is capable of providing all the advanced editing features you will need to create a professional video. Another great thing you can get here is its various media templates, allowing you to customize your masterpiece based on your needs. What's more, you can add transitions, merge videos, adjust video playback speed, and more. The only disadvantage here is that it has a slow rendering process, which consumes much time.

5. Movavi Video Editor

For our last video editor that can replace Windows Movie Maker, you can try using Movavi Video Editor. Even though this tool is subscription-based, you can still navigate all of its features without encountering any difficulties. What's more, you can also use various elements, such as stock videos, stickers, images, and more. You can even access more functions such as cutter, cropper, rotator, etc. With that, if you want to check its overall potential, it would be best to get its subscription plan and start editing your videos.

Part 3. How to Choose the Best Windows Movie Maker Alternative

Are you unsure of how to choose the best video editor as an alternative to Windows Movie Maker? If so, you can read all the breakdowns below to get enough insights on how to pick the best video editor for you.

• Always check the user interface of the editor. If you are a beginner, choose the editor that has a straightforward layout.
• Check all the video editing features the program can offer.
• If you have a low-spec computer, ensure that the program is not resource-intensive.
• If you prefer using a video editor without spending, use a free program.
• Consider your budget when accessing a subscription-based editor.
• You can check various reviews on the internet about a certain video editor to see other users' experiences.

By Sylvie Hyde on Aug 25, 2025