Starting a YouTube channel in the UK has never been easier, but editing videos professionally without paying can still be a challenge — especially if you want no watermarks on your final videos.
Luckily, there are several free video editing software options available in 2025 that offer great features for YouTubers, vloggers, and beginners — without watermark restrictions.

In this post, we’ll highlight the 7 best free video editors you can start using today.

Why Use Free Video Editing Software?

Free video editing tools are perfect for:

• Beginner YouTubers who don’t want to invest heavily upfront

• Small creators who want to test video editing before committing

• Vloggers looking for simple and fast editing workflows

• Students and hobbyists on a tight budget

The key is finding tools that are powerful, user-friendly, and free of watermarks.

7 Best Free Video Editors for YouTubers in the UK

1. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is widely considered the best free professional-grade editor.

Key Features:

• Advanced colour correction

• Multicam editing

• Motion graphics and VFX

• Audio editing tools (Fairlight)

Pros:
✅ Hollywood-level editing tools
✅ No watermarks
✅ Regular updates

Cons:
❌ High learning curve for complete beginners

2. HitFilm Express

HitFilm Express is perfect for YouTubers looking to create cinematic videos and cool effects.

Key Features:

• Visual effects (VFX)

• 3D video editing

• 400+ presets

• Audio and colour correction tools

Pros:
✅ Strong free version
✅ Great for action, gaming, and music videos

Cons:
❌ Optional paid add-ons available (but not required)

3. Shotcut

Shotcut is an open-source video editor that’s surprisingly powerful.

Key Features:

• Wide format support (4K, HD, etc.)

• Native timeline editing

• No import needed

• Audio mixing and filters

Pros:
✅ Completely free, open-source
✅ No ads or watermarks
✅ Lightweight for older PCs

Cons:
❌ Basic user interface

4. VSDC Free Video Editor

VSDC is great for Windows users who want a non-linear editor without paying a penny.

Key Features:

• Non-linear video editing

• Visual and audio effects

• Masking tools

• Colour correction

Pros:
✅ Feature-rich for free software
✅ Good for educational videos and tutorials

Cons:
❌ Windows-only (no Mac version)

5. OpenShot

OpenShot is one of the easiest video editors to learn for beginners.

Key Features:

• Simple drag-and-drop interface

• Unlimited layers for videos and audio

• Basic keyframe animations

Pros:
✅ Very easy to use
✅ Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Cons:
❌ May lag with larger, complex projects

6. Lightworks Free

Lightworks offers a free version that’s highly capable — and used on real film projects.

Key Features:

• Multi-format export

• Fast trimming and timeline editing

• Presets for YouTube and Vimeo

Pros:
✅ Professional-grade editing tools
✅ Good exporting options for social media

Cons:
❌ Max output limited to 720p in free version

7. Clipchamp (Built into Windows 11)

Clipchamp, now owned by Microsoft, is becoming a favourite for casual YouTubers.

Key Features:

• Templates for social media videos

• Drag-and-drop editing

• Stock footage and audio library

Pros:
✅ Pre-installed on many Windows 11 devices
✅ Very beginner-friendly
✅ No watermarks on exports

Cons:
❌ More limited advanced features compared to DaVinci or HitFilm

What to Look for in a Free Video Editor

When choosing your free software, consider:

• Watermark policy (check carefully!)

• Ease of use for your editing level

• Advanced features you may need as you grow

• Platform compatibility (Windows, Mac, Linux)

• Support for high-quality exports (1080p, 4K)

If you’re serious about growing a YouTube channel in 2025, starting with a free tool can save you hundreds of pounds in software costs.

Final Thoughts

Creating stunning YouTube videos doesn’t require expensive software anymore.
Whether you want to craft cinematic vlogs with DaVinci Resolve, edit fast and easy using Clipchamp, or experiment with special effects on HitFilm Express, there’s a free, watermark-free tool that fits your style.

Start editing today — your future subscribers are waiting!