Video Podcasting Software: The Best Editing Tools for All Budgets

As more and more podcast fans run into video podcasts, the need for high-quality visual content becomes key to standing out. 

The right equipment and editing can affect the final content of your show. You may be a seasoned podcaster looking to get into video podcasts, or maybe you are looking to launch your first-ever show, either way, you’ll find having the right software can help nail your final content.

This article breaks down the best video podcasting software for every budget. From easy-to-use free options to high-end tools packed with features, there's something for everyone.

Key Features to Look for in Video Podcasting Software

First and foremost, before you start looking at software and equipment, you’ll want to have a clear idea of your podcast format. Will you be a solo caster with just a front-view video? Will you have guests and show footage from multiple angles? Or will you be using B-Roll footage quite often to support the visuals of your podcast?

No matter the format, you’ll have to edit a visual and audio element, but knowing what you want your end video podcast to look like will help guide you in identifying which features you’ll need.

When picking video podcasting software, there are a few core features to consider that are relevant to all formats of shows. These can greatly affect your workflow and the final result of your podcast.

Ease of Use

It should go without saying, if you’ll be spending a lot of time editing, you’ll want software you understand and enjoy.  A user-friendly interface is especially important if you're new to podcasting. Now, everyone’s skills may be different, and what one creator says is easy-as-pie might not work for you. 

Have a look around and see which software is easy for you to learn, and is enjoyable to work with. This will save you time and frustration, helping you focus more on creating great content rather than struggling with complicated tools.

Audio Editing Tools

At the heart of it all, a video podcast is still a podcast, a medium where audio is the main focus. Look for software that offers great audio editing capabilities. Features like noise reduction, equalization, and audio syncing can elevate the quality of your podcast.

Video Editing Features

When it comes to what specific video editing tools you’ll want in your video podcasting software, it depends on what you want your show to look like. Tools for technical lighting depth adjustments, and multi-camera editing can add a professional touch to your podcast. Tools like caption creation, green screen, and transitions should be considered essential.  These features help keep visuals engaging and dynamic, which is crucial for audience retention.

In some cases, you might be looking for AI power tools like footage regeneration or expansion to correct a scene. You also might be interested in animation. Make a list before you start software hunting and identify what kind of scenes and footage you’d like in your show.

Export Options

The ability to export your podcast in various formats is essential. Make sure the software you choose allows you to export videos compatible with different platforms. This makes sharing your podcast across YouTube, social media, and other channels seamless.

Best Video Podcasting Software for Different Budgets

When it comes down to it, you don’t need to empty your funds just to launch a video podcast. You can produce one with a lot of the video podcast equipment and software you have freely available (your phone, your computer, and iMovie). But a little investment does go a long way in terms of quality, and the better the quality, the more potential your show has to grow.

Different podcasters have different needs and budgets. Here's a look at the best software options across various price points.

Budget-Friendly Options

If you're just starting out, and are easing your way into video podcasting, don’t take out a loan just to produce quality content. There are a few budget-friendly video podcast software options to get you started.

• iMovie: Available for free on Mac, iMovie offers a user-friendly interface with basic video and audio editing tools. It’s perfect for beginners.

• Descript or Riverside: Different plans available, very user-friendly and great for beginners. These offer you basic editing features as well as pre-built templates.

• OpenShot: OpenShot is an open-source video editor that’s highly intuitive. It’s available for free on Windows, Mac, and Linux. While it lacks some advanced features, it’s a great starting point for new podcasters.

Mid-Range Options

For those who need more advanced features, but are still not looking to spend too much, these mid-range software options offer a good balance:

• DaVinci Resolve: a professional-grade video editing, color correction, visual effects, and audio post-production software. It offers both a free version with extensive features and a paid Studio version with advanced tools. The software is even used by professionals in the film and television industry.

• Filmora: With a one-time purchase fee or an annual subscription, Filmora provides advanced editing features like text overlays, transitions, and various effects. It’s user-friendly and supported on both Mac and Windows.

• Adobe Premiere Elements: This is a stripped-down version of Adobe Premiere Pro, ideal for those who need sophisticated features without complexity. It offers excellent video and audio editing tools and is available for a one-time fee.

Premium Options

For serious podcasters willing to invest in top-tier tools, here are the high-end options:

• Adobe Premiere Pro: This industry-standard software offers advanced features for both video and audio editing. It’s perfect for content creators looking for complete control over their podcast’s production. The cloud subscription model also ensures you always have the latest updates.

• Final Cut Pro: Exclusive to Mac users, Final Cut Pro provides powerful video editing features, multi-cam editing, and a user-friendly interface. It’s a one-time purchase, making it a great long-term investment.

• Avid Media Composer: Widely used in the film industry, Avid Media Composer offers unparalleled video and audio editing tools. It’s pricey but provides the most features for those needing a professional-grade solution.

Tips for Choosing the Right Software

As you’ve probably figured, there are a lot of options out there for video podcasting software, Picking the right editing tools for you can feel a little overwhelming. Here are some things you may want to consider before committing to one. 

Assess Your Needs and Skills

We’ve already mentioned clarifying your podcast format, but there are some more things you may want to take a minute and consider. How much of a seasoned podcaster are you? And really, how deep into editing do you plan on getting? Will it be a few clips and captions, or would you like to transform your footage? Knowing that will let you decide how advanced audio and video editing features you’ll need. 

The other big question, is how much time do you have to (or do you want to) invest in editing your video podcast? Surely every recording needs a little tweaking, but beyond that? If you want to do it solo but are short on time, look for editing software with advanced AI tools to help streamline your editing. Otherwise, you may even want to consider hiring a video podcast producer to help you produce a top-notch show.

 Knowing your needs will guide you in choosing the most suitable software.

Consider Your Budget

Most expensive does not always mean the best, and you can produce incredible content with some more affordable tools. You want to match your budget and the features you need. If you really need all the tools and features a higher-end software offers, then definitely invest. But it happens so often that beginners invest in expensive tools, only to find they use the bare minimum features. There are plenty of budget-friendly options that provide excellent value. Make sure you get what you need at a price that fits your budget.

Read Reviews and Test Trials

Don’t commit to software without doing your homework. Read user reviews to get a sense of what others think. But take them each with a grain of salt, every editor has their own style and their own needs. To really find the right video podcast editing software, take advantage of the free trials. Most software offers at least a short one. Record a short 5-minute “podcast”, and play around with the tools and features to see if they meet your needs.

Final Thoughts of Video Podcast Software

Don’t ignore your software, choosing the right video podcasting software can help you create high-quality content. There’s software out there for every budget and every learner. Remember to assess your needs, consider your budget, and test out the software before committing. Investing in the right tools will go a long way in making your video podcast stand out.

If this video podcasting journey is starting to sound like a lot of work - from mapping out a concept and format to getting the right equipment and finally editing it all together, maybe you could use a hand. The Lower Street Video Podcasting team would love to help you make your podcast a reality, get in touch to learn how we could work together.