Top 10 Popular Editing Applications With Premium Features Available for Free
In today’s digital world, content creation is at an all-time high. Whether it’s editing photos for Instagram, creating TikTok videos, or designing visuals for a business, having the right tools can make all the difference. Premium editing applications often come with advanced features, but the cost can be a hurdle for many users.
Good news: several popular editing applications offer their premium versions for free or have limited-time access to pro features without charge. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 editing apps that provide free access to premium functionalities, helping you create professional-grade content without spending a dime.
1. CapCut
Overview: CapCut is a versatile video editor known for its simplicity and advanced features. It’s ideal for creating short videos, especially for platforms like TikTok and Instagram Reels. The app is free and includes many features that competitors lock behind paywalls.
Premium Features for Free:
- No watermark on exports.
- AI-based effects and transitions.
- Access to advanced text animations and filters.
- Free cloud storage for projects.
Why It’s Great: You don’t need a subscription to access its most useful features. The app is constantly updated with trending tools, making it a favorite for creators.
Best For: Short-form video creators.
2. Canva
Overview: Canva is a graphic design app that’s widely popular for its drag-and-drop interface and professional templates. It offers a free version that includes premium tools for editing photos, creating designs, and building presentations.
Premium Features for Free:
- Access to a library of professional templates.
- Free background remover tool.
- Collaboration tools for teams.
- Extensive stock photo and element collection.
Why It’s Great: Canva’s free plan is packed with features that are enough for most creators, whether you’re a student, small business owner, or content creator.
Best For: Graphic design, social media posts, and marketing materials.
3. InShot
Overview: InShot is a user-friendly video and photo editing app. It’s particularly great for editing vertical videos for social media platforms. The free version offers many features that feel premium.
Premium Features for Free:
- Music and sound effects library.
- Professional transitions and video effects.
- High-resolution exports without watermark.
Why It’s Great: Even without upgrading, the app offers high-quality tools for trimming, splitting, and adding filters to videos.
Best For: Video editing on the go.
4. PicsArt
Overview: PicsArt is a photo and video editor packed with fun tools like stickers, AI-powered effects, and templates. While it offers a premium subscription, the free version includes many of its top-tier features.
Premium Features for Free:
- AI-enhanced photo effects.
- Advanced text tools and fonts.
- Free access to some exclusive templates and overlays.
Why It’s Great: PicsArt’s free tools are powerful enough for creating professional-looking edits with minimal effort.
Best For: Artistic photo and video edits.
5. VN Video Editor
Overview: VN Video Editor is a professional-grade app that is entirely free. It offers advanced video editing tools that you typically find in paid apps.
Premium Features for Free:
- Multi-layer editing and keyframe animation.
- Customizable transitions and video effects.
- No watermark on exports.
Why It’s Great: VN doesn’t compromise on features, making it perfect for professional editors who need high-end tools without paying a subscription.
Best For: Long-form and professional video editing.
6. Snapseed
Overview: Snapseed, developed by Google, is a powerful photo editing app that offers advanced editing tools for free. It’s one of the most popular apps among photographers.
Premium Features for Free:
- Healing tool for removing unwanted objects.
- Precise control over brightness, contrast, and curves.
- RAW photo editing.
Why It’s Great: Snapseed has no hidden costs, and all features are accessible without requiring a subscription.
Best For: Photo editing for photography enthusiasts.
7. LightX
Overview: LightX is a photo editor that combines basic and advanced tools. It includes a range of filters, effects, and a powerful background remover.
Premium Features for Free:
- Free access to high-end filters.
- Background removal and object cut-out tools.
- Color splash effects.
Why It’s Great: While the premium version exists, the free version doesn’t hold back on providing essential tools for professional edits.
Best For: Creative photo edits and collages.
8. KineMaster
Overview: KineMaster is a robust video editor with professional features. While its premium subscription removes watermarks, you can still use most of its advanced tools for free.
Premium Features for Free:
- Multi-layer editing.
- Advanced video effects like chroma key.
- Audio editing tools.
Why It’s Great: The free version is great for beginners and intermediate creators who need powerful tools without committing to a subscription.
Best For: Professional video projects.
9. Adobe Express
Overview: Adobe Express is Adobe’s answer to quick and easy photo and video editing. While its premium subscription unlocks additional features, the free version includes a surprising number of pro tools.
Premium Features for Free:
- Access to thousands of free templates.
- Drag-and-drop video editing tools.
- Basic branding options like logo addition.
Why It’s Great: Adobe Express combines Adobe’s quality with an easy-to-use interface, even for beginners.
Best For: Quick design and video projects.
10. Fotor
Overview: Fotor is a comprehensive photo editing app that also doubles as a design tool. Its free version includes tools for creating collages, editing photos, and designing graphics.
Premium Features for Free:
- AI photo enhancement.
- Free access to templates and design elements.
- Basic HDR effects.
Why It’s Great: The app balances simplicity with professional-grade tools, making it suitable for everyone from casual users to professionals.
Best For: All-in-one photo editing and design.
How to Get the Most Out of These Apps
- Explore Tutorials: Most of these apps have built-in tutorials or online resources to help you master their tools.
- Experiment with Tools: Don’t stick to the basics. Try filters, effects, and features you wouldn’t usually use to discover what works best for your projects.
- Combine Apps: Use multiple apps to maximize your creative potential. For instance, use Snapseed for detailed edits and Canva for design.
Final Thoughts
Editing apps don’t have to break the bank. The 10 apps listed here prove that you can access professional-grade tools for free or with limited restrictions. Whether you’re editing a video, enhancing a photo, or designing content for social media, these apps deliver powerful results without costing you a dime. So, why wait? Start exploring these apps and unlock your creative potential today.
