If you’ve been with VSDC for a while, you might have noticed the changes we’ve been gradually implementing to the interface for the past couple of years. Our end goal is to provide a more intuitive, feature-rich workspace for video creators. This time, we’re thrilled to introduce two more innovations: a new effect library format and group object editing. In addition to that, VSDC has received two new transition effects and Bezier curves – the unparalleled technology that allows for modeling smoother animation.

Without further ado, let’s have a better look at the new features.

Paint Brush transition (free)

The Paint Brush transition is a popular effect that imitates brush strokes gradually covering your footage with a coat of paint, or revealing the next scene from under a coat of paint – depending on the direction you select.

The Paint Brush transition comes with the free version of VSDC 6.8 and brings a set of customization tools, such as the ability to change the brush movement direction, stroke angle, brush width, and opacity level. Keep in mind that you can apply this effect to objects too, including titles, shapes, and images. To see more examples, read our dedicated tutorial.

Shattered Glass transition (Pro)

Unlike Paint Brush, the Shattered Glass effect is only available in the Pro version because, by default, it requires hardware acceleration (which is a premium feature) to be activated. As the name suggests, this transition creates an illusion of shattering glass and helps you achieve a strong dramatic effect.

As always, it is within your power to make the effect look exactly the way you want. Using the Properties window, you can adjust the shape and the number of shattered pieces, the type of fracturing, the impact point, and even the impact force – all with high precision.To learn more, read a detailed guide to working with the Shattered Glass effect.

Bezier curve editing

Used in major professional video editing platforms, Bezier curves have become a part of the VSDC toolset. For those unfamiliar with the term, this unique technology allows for easily controlling animation velocity over time and creating smoother transitions. In other words, rather than having the same speed for the duration of the entire animation or transition, you’re now able to adjust the curve and change speed at any selected point.

Furthermore, Bezier curves overhaul the free shape tool, so you can create more complex shapes with less effort.

Group object editing

The following update is designed for those working with a large number of files. Starting version 6.8, group object editing becomes available in VSDC. This means you can select multiple objects on the timeline and change their parameters simultaneously working with them as a group.

Notice that if the objects are of the same type – say, two text objects or a duplicated effect – you can change any parameter in the selected group. However, if the objects in the group are of different types, you can only change common settings or basic settings – the latter case is true if you’re working with shapes, images, and videos.

Effect templates window

Finally, the video effect library has received a major facelift and now can be accessed from the new Templates window. Compared to the old version of the Video effects menu, its key advantage is that the templates can be manually rearranged by the creators. For example, you’ll be able to group effects to your own convenience and drag them from the library directly to the scene.

As a bonus, some effects in the new library have received new templates, and we’re planning to continue their expansion. Plus, you’ll be able to create your own templates and add them to the library for faster, more convenient access. To see new templates, hit the Update button in the bottom left corner.

It's time to download VSDC 6.8

Excited about the new version? Then go ahead and download VSDC 6.8 from our official website. Should you have any questions, feel free to email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or send us a direct message on Facebook.

If you’re new to video editing, you may have stumbled upon the expression “non-linear video editing” or “NLE” which stands for “non-linear editor”. Don’t let the terminology confuse you because NLE is what most offline video editors are.

What does a non-linear video editor mean?

A non-linear video editor is a video editor that allows for placing audio and video files on multiple tracks using any desired sequence. This means files don’t have to start strictly one after another: they can be overlapped and used simultaneously in the same scene.

Virtually all offline video editors are non-linear. Some of the most popular free ones are VSDC, iMovie, and Davinci Resolve. Some of the most popular paid ones are Adobe Premiere, Vegas Pro, and Final Cut Pro.

The best way to fully understand what non-linear video editing looks like, is by comparing it to linear video editing.

What is the difference between linear and non-linear editing?

One would say, the biggest difference between linear and non-linear editing is the number of tracks on the timeline. And they’d be right: linear video editors have just one track; non-linear video editors have multiple tracks.

The linear editing approach was originally used years ago, when making a movie involved using physical tapes. A filmmaker would have to literally cut out the unwanted pieces of the original tape, take what’s left, and put it together in a new sequence to create a story. And because you could only put pieces together one after another, this method was called linear.

Even when the industry started to evolve, and it became possible to use digital cameras, some of the first video editors used the same linear approach. Take Movie Maker. Movie Maker had just one video track and one audio track. This means you could only put pieces of video in a direct sequence and use just one soundtrack at a time.

Unlike linear video editors, non-linear editing software allows you to use multiple video tracks and audio tracks. This means files can be overlapped and overlaid. For example, you can place two videos one under another on the timeline and they will be displayed simultaneously during the playback. This is how the side-by-side and picture-in-picture effects work.

Similarly, you can use more than one audio track. For example, you may want to add background music and include voice comments at the same time. To do that, you’ll need to place two different audio files on two different audio tracks, and this is only possible to implement if you’re using an NLE.

What are the advantages of non-linear video editing?

As you’ve probably already figured, the key advantage of non-linear video editing is the freedom of the creative process. Not only can you place multiple videos and images in the scene and display them as they are, but you can also overlay those videos and images together into a new composition.

The examples of such effects are numerous. In addition to those mentioned above, here are three more you’ve probably heard of:

• Video masking
• Double exposure
• Chroma keying

What is the best non-linear editing software?

Because most modern-day video editors are non-linear, the question that really stands is which video editor is the best. The answer to this question will vary based on your skill set, experience, goals, and your computer power.

Below, we’ll review some of the most popular non-linear video editors - both free and paid - so you can see the difference for yourself.

Free non-linear video editors

1. VSDC Free Video Editor (Windows)

VSDC is a free NLE designed for those who are familiar with the basic principles of video editing and willing to move forward to more advanced techniques. It boasts lots of stunning effects, customizable blur filters, a color correction toolset, and a powerful Chroma Key. Keep in mind that VSDC only works on Windows.

If you worry about the system requirements - because most NLEs are indeed quite demanding - worry not. Compared to other video editors, VSDC is the most lightweight one. You won’t need a powerful PC to use it and will be just fine with as little as 2GB of RAM.

The Pro version of VSDC includes a few features aimed at more professional-level users. It’s available at $19.99 per year and includes video masking, motion tracking, hardware acceleration, and audio waveform. However, as a beginner, you’ll most probably find the free version of VSDC more than sufficient for your needs.

2. iMovie (Mac)

iMovie is a default non-linear video editor that comes pre-installed on Mac computers. Of all video editors in this list, iMovie seems to have the simplest, most intuitive interface, yet the least feature flexibility. In other words, you may not be able to perform advanced tricks, such as video masking or a custom animated intro, but you’ll be able to quickly enhance your footage, add music, and apply effects like picture-in-picture.

Although you can’t use iMovie on Windows, you can use it on your iPhone and iPad. This is a noteworthy feature if you have multiple Apple devices, because this means you can start cutting out the unwanted footage on the go and perform post-production later on your computer.

Overall, iMovie is a great choice if you’re a beginner or an intermediate-level user. It includes a decent color correction functionality, Chroma Key, titles, a set of basic transitions and themes for slideshows and presentations.

3. Davinci Resolve (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Davinci Resolve is a professional-grade NLE used by indie filmmakers and Hollywood producers alike. Its free version is widely popular because of its outstanding color correction abilities and an abundance of convenient shortcuts - essential for those working with large amounts of footage on a daily basis.

The main downside of Davinci Resolve is that it requires quite a lot of resources, and you won’t be able to run it on a slow PC - the program is likely to crash. Although, keep in mind that if you’re serious about your video editing hobby, eventually, you may have to upgrade your computer anyway.

If you’re surprised by such a powerful NLE being available for free, there’s an upgrade available as well. Blackmagic Design, the company developing Resolve, offers a commercial version of the program known as DaVinci Resolve Studio. The aptly-named software is designed for filmmaking studios and supports resolution higher than HD, frame rate higher than 60fps, additional OpenX plugins, motion blur, and some other pro-level tools. The Studio version is available for a one-time payment of $299.

Paid non-linear video editors

1. Adobe Premiere Pro (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Adobe Premiere Pro is considered a de-facto standard in the world of post-production. It’s been dominating the market since 1991 when it was originally launched under the name of Adobe Premiere. According to some movie makers, many of the remaining software developers are simply trying to create their own versions of Adobe and repeat their success.

Premiere Pro has everything you may ever need for post-production: powerful hardware acceleration, ProRes HDR, a large set of transitions and special effects, video noise reduction, audio mixer, and integration with various plugins including the Borix FX library. That’s not to say that the tool never crashes or has zero flaws, but the truth is, they are the pioneers of digital video editing, and it’s hard to find something that’s missing compared to its alternatives.

Of course, such a powerhouse of an editor comes with a price tag. After a 30-day free trial, you can choose to pay $31.49 for a monthly subscription or $239.88 for an annual plan. Along with the subscription, you get 100GB of cloud storage, Premiere Rush, Adobe Portfolio, Adobe Fonts, and Adobe Spark.

2. Vegas Pro (Windows)

Vegas Pro (formerly Sony Vegas) is a post-production suite for Windows. It’s also aimed at professional-grade users and packed with professional-level tools. However, the interface, as well as the logic of this software, differ from what Adobe fans are used to.

As a pro-level tool, Vegas is designed to make collaborative editing easier. One particularly useful feature available in Vegas Pro is nested timelines. It doesn’t just allow you to completely reorganize the editing workflow, but it also lets you separate pieces of your project from the main timeline, and most importantly, share those pieces with your colleagues - without having to save them as separate projects. Feature-wise, there’s no lack of tools for both beginners and advanced users. One of Vegas' key advantages is the AI algorithms used to achieve flawless motion tracking, video stabilization, and color correction.

There are two ways to purchase Vegas Pro. You can opt for a monthly subscription or make a one-time purchase directly from the developer website. The former costs between $29.99 and $39.99, depending on the billing cycle you select; the latter costs $999 and comes with a year of free updates. You can order a physical version of the software too, if you want. 

3. Final Cut Pro (Mac)

Final Cut Pro is a non-linear video editor invented by Apple, and it has been the next step for those who have outgrown iMovie. Although Adobe Premiere works on macOS too, many Mac owners prefer using Final Cut Pro because of its interface, rendering speed, and price tag.

The truth is, both NLEs provide outstanding video editing platforms and can satisfy the needs of an experienced movie editor. Yet, according to many, Final Cut Pro appears to be more friendly for a beginner but slightly less sufficient for a professional. For example, the interface of Final Cut is based on the magnetic timeline and can be easily adjusted into a single-track platform, which is usually more convenient for an average user. Another advantage of Final Cut is that it allows you for using the program while exporting a file. It’s also known for faster rendering, whereas Adobe users often complain about rendering speed and the fact that Premiere Pro locks the program during export.

If you decide to purchase Final Cut Pro, your only option is a one-time $299.99 payment. Although it sounds like a lot, Final Cut Pro will be a cheaper editor than Premiere Pro in the long run because an annual subscription for the latter is about the same amount, yet it doesn’t let you continue using the software if you stop paying.

Wrapping-up

Let’s recap everything we’ve learned. First, virtually all offline video editors are non-linear video editors. Second, non-linear video editing means you’re able to use multiple tracks and overlay files. Finally, there’s no such thing as the best non-linear video editor. Many of them are excellent, and you should choose one based on your level of experience, your budget, and your computer specs.

Of all effects, there are two categories the VSDC community gets especially excited about: transition effects and text effects. It happens so that the new version brings updates to both categories. In addition, there are new workspace customization possibilities, including optimized file management and the long-awaited markers.

The best part? Most updates are available in the free version. Let’s review them one by one.

Paper burn effect (Pro version)

The paper burn transition effect creates a realistic illusion of a burning piece of paper that reveals the following scene. You can apply it to videos, however, it looks even more impressive when applied to a still image.

Like all effects in VSDC, the paper burn transition is fully customizable. You can adjust the color, size, direction, and intensity of the flame. As an alternative template for this transition, you can select freezing.

The cherry on top? If you activate time inversion for this transition, the effect gets reversed. For instance, instead of a burning piece of paper, you’ll get a piece of paper that is restored from being burnt.

Flow transformation effect (Pro version)

Those who frequently use the Glitch effect, are likely to be excited about the new transition effect called Flow transformation. With this option, the transition from one scene to another is achieved through a fractal-driven image distortion that varies depending on the template you select.

For example, you can create an effect of an object not just being distorted, but falling into a thousand pieces. With the time inversion, you can imitate the opposite process as well: when an object is being put back together from a thousand pieces.

The effect contains 4 main template types with variations. Those who like to experiment will be able to upload their own distortion patterns, customize the distortion, and create a custom transition.

Animated text effects

Finally, VSDC 6.7 includes three animated text effects: Recoloring, Shift position, and Glyph FX. Designed to help you get full control of how text symbols appear in the scene, they enable you to create Hollywood-level intros, scene openings, and captions.

The Recoloring effect allows for changing the color or the level of opacity of text symbols. For instance, by making the letters on the screen appear one after another (switch from being transparent to being non-transparent), you can easily create the popular Typewriter effect, or its inverted “Undo typing” version.

The Shift position effect allows for making text symbols move from one location to another on the screen. The Glyph FX effect allows for changing the appearance attributes of text symbols, such as their size, skew angle, or rotation.

You can apply these effects separately or combine them in a single composition. For example, if you want text symbols to change their color and location at the same time, you can apply Recoloring and Shift position to the same text object.

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VSDC Editor brings a more convenient workspace for creators

In addition to the new effects, the new version of VSDC includes markers and a few additional ways to organize your editing workspace. For example, there are 3 new workspace configurations designed for those who deal with a large number of project files, those who focus on color correction, and those who already enjoy the default editing space but want it to be a bit more organized.

And that’s not all! The Object explorer now includes a search field, so you can quickly find files or groups of files in the project. The Resource window has been redesigned as well. Starting the new version, it enables you to select multiple files simultaneously, export files in groups, and delete those files you’re not using.

Remember to download VSDC 8.2 from our official website, and feel free to email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions.

Updating VSDC during the holiday season has become a tradition, and this year will not be an exception. We’re thrilled to introduce VSDC 6.6 packed with over a dozen new features designed to spark joy and creativity. We hope that the brand-new Chroma Key toolset, the Optical flow reframing mode, a quick-and-fun way to add masks to a face in a video, the particle effect, and the enhanced free shape feature will keep you busy for a while.

Without further ado, let’s take a closer look at these updates.

Create video postcards in no time using upgraded Chroma Key

Of all new features, Chroma Key has received the biggest overhaul. Both versions – VSDC free and VSDC Pro got updated and now there is not just one but three background remover modes to choose from:

• HSL chroma key color (Pro)
• YUV chroma key color (Free)
• By chromakey mask (Free)

Experienced video creators are familiar with the challenge of removing background colors from a video with poorly lighted areas or tiny, thin objects like strings or hair. That’s why these new modes were designed with one goal in mind: to help you cope with that task effortlessly.

If you want the fastest and most precise way to remove colors from the video – consider using the HSL color space. Instead of picking a single color that needs to be removed, it enables you to select a range of color tones located close to each other on the Hue, Saturation, and Brightness spectrum. This approach allows you to get rid of the entire video background even if there is a tone difference.

Those using the free version of VSDC, get an updated YUV mode which is now capable of removing a video background more precisely due to additional colors and the Adaptive alfa settings.

Finally, we’ve implemented a completely new approach to remove colors from a video. It is called “By chromakey mask”. This mode suggests that you upload an image to the project and use it as a “chromakey mask”: the software will compare colors in the image and in the video and remove the matching ones.

Get festive wearing animated face masks

Another new tool to make you excited is called Face landmarks. It allows you to quickly place a pre-designed mask on a face using a face detection and tracking algorithm. When you apply the Face landmarks effect, VSDC places several control points on the face – each point assigned to a particular face area: left eye, right eye, forehead, and so on. Next, based on the location of these points, VSDC places a pre-designed image that will follow face movements – just like in Instagram or Snapchat.

There are a few ready-made mask collections already available to you, but you can upload your own images and use them as a face mask as well. This is just the first version of the Face landmarks effect, and we’re determined to expand its functionality. Stay tuned!

Capture magic in slow motion with new reframing modes

The following mighty update will bring joy to the slow-motion video fans. If you’ve ever tried to achieve a perfect slow-motion effect, you probably noticed that the more you reduce the playback speed, the choppier the video gets. This is a common issue easily explained by a drastic frame reduction: the lower the speed is, the fewer frames are displayed per second and the bigger the gaps between frames are.

With the new reframing modes called Blending and Optical flow, stutter becomes an issue of the past. Both will help you quickly achieve a smooth slow-mo effect: the former – by duplicating and overlapping frames; the latter – by using AI to create the missing frames from scratch. Naturally, Optical flow is more efficient, yet it’s also more resource-demanding. You can see how it works in the video below:

Let it snow with the Particle video effect

Particles is a new eye-catching effect located in the “Nature” section of the Video effects menu. It enables you to create an illusion of falling particles, such as leaves or snowflakes. Like most VSDC effects, this one is highly customizable, which means you’ll be able to change the size of the particles, the “wind” direction, the speed they are falling at, and their location in the scene: background, foreground, or mid-distance view.

There are several templates for this effect already available, but you can also upload your own images and use them as particles.

Other important updates

There are a few more features we’d like to include in this post. Some of them might be slightly less noticeable but they are also long-awaited and exciting updates:

1. AV1 (or AOMedia Video 1) is now in the list of supported formats
2. Video transitions can now be made much smoother due to the Alpha channel
3. Whenever you change video playback speed, you’ll be able to change audio tempo as well
4. Subpixel resolution is now available in the free version of VSDC
5. Video effect rendering has been optimized to increase speed and reduce memory usage
6. You can now zoom in on a scene by holding down the Ctrl key and scrolling up on the mouse wheel

To top it off, the free shape feature got a serious upgrade, too. We couldn’t find a better way to demonstrate it than by recreating the annoying orange effect. Enjoy watching it!

Download the latest version of VSDC here and feel free to shoot us an email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the VSDC team,

Ho ho ho!