Wondershare Filmora 9 is among the most elegant video editing software packages we've seen. It's mainly geared toward beginner, novice and casual users, however, and isn't recommended for more seasoned users. Most users will feel comfortable with this software, regardless of their skill level, and the end results look and sound fantastic. It has everything you need to make high-quality videos, but leaves out some of the advanced features we look for in this category, which is why we don't recommend it for advanced editors. If you're looking for a more feature-rich program, we recommend Adobe Premiere Elements.
The main window of the interface provides complete control over your video project. You can edit your project on a timeline. You can have a total of 100 video and 100 audio editing tracks, which is more than enough for any project. Sadly, Filmora has removed its storyboard mode, which was included in previous iterations. It is an odd omission since storyboard mode is a great place to make quick projects. It’s absence makes the software feel diminished, even though most will be fine with the regular editing track format. However, Filmora 9 has added other features, like 4K support, which more than makes up for it.
Anyone should be able to learn to use Wondershare Filmora. Its interface and workflow are among the easiest to grasp of all the video editing programs we reviewed. All the tools and features, like adding text and transitions, applying filters, and exporting, are accessible from the main window of the interface. You can learn to navigate Filmora in just a few minutes – whereas other programs can take hours, even with video tutorials.
Tools such as the chroma-key (green-screen), are accessed simply by double clicking on the clip when you’ve put it on your timeline. You also get some very simple-to-use color correction tool. It’s functional, but the filters it provides are more useful at getting the shade you want.
When you’re done creating your project in Filmora, you have a number of options to get it out into the world. When you export, you can create a simple video file and optimize it for playback on specific devices like smartphones, tablets and gaming systems. You also have the option to upload your project directly to video sharing sites like YouTube, Facebook and Vimeo, which is a great time saver for regularly posting your videos to social media. It also provides the option to burn your project to a DVD.
Because this software is geared toward the casual user, it lacks several of the tools we look for in most video editors. For example, you cannot create closed captions for the hearing impaired, import and edit 360-degree video, track moving objects or configure your audio for surround sound. While you can create DVDs with this software, you cannot add a menu to your disc.
One of the things this software lacks is an action cam module, which Filmora used to have before recent updates. Although you can still import the footage and perform add effects like fisheye correction, manipulate speed, freeze frame and stabilize shaky footage, the lack of a dedicated module for this type of footage is a let down.
Should you buy Wondershare Filmora?
If you’re just starting out with video editing, or just want a simple program that works, Wondershare Filmora might be what you’re looking for. It has the essential tools, and anyone can learn to use it easily. However, if you want more advanced tools for more complex projects, you should look at the video editing programs that are designed for more experienced editors.