There’s no lack of professional video editing software in the market. However, if you happen to be on a budget, you’re likely to run into a few challenges.
On the one hand, there are well-known professional players, such as Adobe and Cyberlink, delivering unparalleled performance along with a hefty price tag. On the other hand, there are tools like Davinci Resolve: free, yet depending heavily on GPU performance and requiring you to have a powerful computer with at least 4GB dedicated VRAM.
So, what would be the solution for creators on a budget whose computers aren’t wired for such resource-intensive software?
Meet VSDC, the video editor for those looking for an affordable tool that will run even on a low-end PC.
What Is VSDC?
VSDC is well-known as a free NLE for Windows that is both lightweight and feature-rich. It brings a non-linear timeline with unlimited tracks, tons of color correction tools, cinematic transition effects, motion tracking, convenient export profiles, and even 360 video editing.
Due to its full format compatibility and smooth processing of 120fps, VSDC is officially recommended by the GoPro team and considered one of the go-to options for action camera and drone owners. For an NLE, it’s also surprisingly undemanding: you can use VSDC with as little as 1-2GB of RAM (given that you aren’t trying to process hour-long 4K footage).
Although the majority of VSDC users appear to be happy with the free version, the project is monetized through the VSDC Pro subscription, which is available for $19.99 per year. The premium tier brings a few advanced features, such as motion tracking, hardware acceleration, masking, HSL Chroma Key, video stabilization, and cinematic transitions.
Let’s have a closer look at VSDC to see what it brings under the hood and what makes it worth trying.
Interface
VSDC has a modern dark-theme interface designed with beginner users in mind. There is a ribbon-style menu at the top and slide-in windows with additional settings for basic effects, properties, and object management.
The large preview panel is located in the center: to add files, you can either use shortcuts or just drag them directly to the scene. The timeline contains an unlimited number of video and audio tracks and allows you to use both the non-linear and linear file sequences based on the project you’re working on.
Depending on your working style, you can switch between 4 different workspace configurations, undock panels, and use markers on the timeline.
Color correction
Whether you’re a beginner or an …….