11 Best Free AVI Editors: Desktop, Online, and Mobile

Video editing has become an integral part of modern content creation, from professional filmmakers and video producers to social media enthusiasts and educators. As video editing tools and techniques continue to evolve, the choice of video format plays a crucial role in shaping the editing process and the quality of the final product. Among the myriad of video formats available, AVI (Audio Video Interleave) has long held a prominent place in the world of digital media.

In this article, we delve into the nuances of editing AVI files, examining both their advantages and drawbacks when compared to other video formats. AVI, a format introduced by Microsoft in 1992, has endured through the years, and while it may not be the default choice for all video editing needs, it remains a viable option for a wide range of scenarios.

Throughout the article, we will explore top 11 AVI editors, highlighting their pros and cons. We’ll also learn how to edit AVI files . 

In conclusion, the choice to edit AVI files should be made with a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and it should be driven by the specific needs of your video editing project, your intended distribution platforms, and your available resources. Whether AVI proves to be the ideal format for your project or whether you opt for other video formats, the ultimate goal remains the same: to create compelling, high-quality video content that resonates with your audience.

Editing AVI Files: Advantages and Drawbacks Compared to Other Video Formats

AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is a popular video format that has been around for quite some time. When it comes to video editing, AVI files have their own set of advantages and drawbacks when compared to other video formats. Let’s explore these pros and cons to help you understand when and why you might choose to edit AVI files or opt for other formats.

Advantages of Editing AVI Files:

• Wide Compatibility: One of the primary advantages of AVI files is their compatibility with a wide range of media players and video editing software. This means you can edit AVI files using various programs without worrying about format compatibility issues.
• Lossless Compression: AVI files often use lossless compression, which means they maintain the original video and audio quality without significant degradation. This is particularly important when editing movies that require minimal quality loss.
• Editing Flexibility: AVI files are known for their ability to handle multiple video and audio streams, making them suitable for complex editing tasks. You can edit and manipulate different elements within the file without compromising quality.
• Minimal Processing Time: Due to their simplicity, AVI files typically require less processing time during editing, resulting in faster rendering and export times. This can be a significant advantage when working on tight deadlines.
• Legacy Format: AVI files have been in use for a long time, and many older video files are still in this format. Being able to edit AVI files ensures compatibility with legacy content that you may need to work on or preserve.

Drawbacks of Editing AVI Files:

• Large File Sizes: AVI files can have larger file sizes compared to more modern video formats like MP4 or H.264. This can be a drawback when dealing with limited storage space or slow internet connections for sharing files.
• Limited Metadata: AVI files often lack extensive metadata support, which can make it challenging to organize and manage your video library efficiently. More modern formats offer better metadata options.
• Inefficient Compression: While AVI files can use lossless compression, they are not as efficient in terms of compression as some newer formats. This inefficiency can lead to larger file sizes, which may not be ideal for online streaming or storage.
• Compatibility with Modern Devices: Some modern devices and platforms may not offer native support for AVI files. This means you may need to convert AVI files to more widely accepted formats for playback on these devices.
• Limited Codec Options: AVI files are not known for their support of advanced video codecs. If you’re looking for the latest and most efficient video codecs for compression and quality, other formats like MP4 or MKV may be more suitable.
• Quality Loss in Repeated Editing: While AVI files are known for maintaining quality during initial editing, repeated editing cycles can lead to cumulative quality loss. This is a concern when making multiple edits to the same AVI file.

In conclusion, editing AVI files offers advantages like compatibility, lossless compression, and editing flexibility, making them suitable for various scenarios. However, drawbacks such as large file sizes, limited metadata, and inefficient compression should be considered when choosing the format for your video editing projects. Depending on your specific needs, you may opt for AVI or explore other video formats that better align with your editing and distribution requirements. Ultimately, the choice of format should be based on the nature of your project, your intended audience, and your editing software’s capabilities.

Desktop AVI Editors

1. HitFilm Express

HitFilm Express is a professional-grade video editing software that offers a wide array of features, making it suitable for both beginners and advanced users. In addition to its capabilities as an AVI video editor, it provides advanced compositing and visual effects tools. Its user-friendly interface simplifies complex editing tasks, and it supports various video formats, including AVI.

Main Features:

• Professional-grade video editing.
• Built-in green screen and visual effects tools.
• Keyframing for advanced animations.
• Multi-track editing.

Pros:

• Advanced video editing and compositing features.
• Free access to numerous visual effects and transitions.
• Support for 4K video editing.
• Active user community for tutorials and support.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve for beginners.
• Requires a powerful computer for smooth operation.

2. DaVinci Resolve

DaVinci Resolve is one of the best video editing and color correction software available in both free and paid versions. The free version offers robust AVI editing capabilities, making it an excellent choice for film makers and video enthusiasts. Beyond basic editing, it provides high-quality color grading tools, audio post-production features, and support for multi-user collaboration.

Main Features:

• Advanced color correction and grading.
• Fairlight audio post-production tools.
• Fusion visual effects integration.
• Collaborative workflow.

Pros:

• High-quality color grading and correction tools.
• Supports multiple video formats, including AVI.
• Professional audio post-production features.
• Collaboration and multi-user support.

Cons:

• Steeper learning curve, especially for color grading.
• Requires a powerful system for optimal performance.

3. Shotcut

Shotcut is an open-source and free AVI editor that focuses on simplicity and cross-platform compatibility. It’s suitable for users who require basic to intermediate video editing capabilities and supports various video codecs, including AVI. Its intuitive interface and customizable filters and transitions make it an accessible choice for those looking to edit AVI videos.

Main Features:

• Native timeline editing.
• Wide codec and format support.
• Advanced audio editing tools.
• 4K video editing support.

Pros:

• Cross-platform compatibility (Windows 7, 8, 10, Mac, Linux).
• Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
• Support for a wide range of video codecs.
• Customizable filters and transitions.

Cons:

• Limited advanced features compared to some other editors.
• Slower rendering speeds on older hardware.

4. Avidemux

Avidemux is a lightweight and straightforward video editor designed for quick and simple video editing tasks. While it lacks advanced features found in some other editors, it excels at basic video trimming, cutting, and filtering. Avidemux’s cross-platform compatibility and support for various video codecs, including AVI, make it a handy tool for quick edits.

Main Features:

• Video trimming and cutting.
• Video filtering and encoding.
• Batch processing of video files.
• Cross-platform compatibility.

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to use.
• Supports various video codecs.
• Basic video editing and filtering features.
• Available on multiple platforms.

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing capabilities.
• Outdated interface.

Online AVI Editors

5. Clipchamp

Clipchamp is a web-based video editor that provides a user-friendly, browser-based solution for basic video editing needs, including AVI files. It requires no software installation and supports various video formats. While it may not have advanced features, its simplicity and accessibility make it a go-to choice for quick online edits.

Main Features:

• Video trimming and cutting.
• Basic transitions and text overlay.
• Export options in different resolutions.

Pros:

• No software installation required.
• Easy-to-use interface.
• Supports various video formats, including AVI.
• Accessible from any device with an internet connection.

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing capabilities.
• Requires a stable internet connection.

6. VEED.IO

VEED.IO is a versatile and user-friendly online video editing platform that simplifies the process of video creation and editing. This web-based tool is designed to cater to a wide range of users, from content creators and marketers to educators and social media enthusiasts.

With VEED.IO, you can effortlessly edit, enhance, and create clips without the need for advanced technical skills or the hassle of downloading and installing software. Its intuitive and accessible interface allows you to get started quickly, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced video editors.

Main Features:

• Wide array of editing features
• Simple subtitles and captions
• Substantial format support

Pros:

• No need to download or install software.
• User-friendly and intuitive interface.
• Fast video trimming and cutting.
• Supports multiple video formats.

Cons:

• Limited features beyond basic trimming and cutting.
• Internet connection-dependent.

7. Kapwing

Kapwing is an online video editor with a broad range of features, including support for AVI files. While it may not offer advanced editing capabilities, it caters to basic to intermediate editing needs with its user-friendly interface and various templates. Kapwing also allows for cloud-based collaboration, making it suitable for team projects.

Main Features:

• Video trimming and cutting.
• Text and audio overlay.
• Subtitle addition.
• Cloud-based storage and collaboration.

Pros:

• No software installation required.
• User-friendly interface with a variety of templates.
• Supports multiple video formats, including AVI.
• Collaboration features for team editing.

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing features.
• Watermarked output in the free version.

8. Flixier

Flixier is a user-friendly, cloud-based video editing platform that empowers both beginners and professionals to create and edit videos with ease. This online video editor offers a range of features and tools that simplify the video editing process, eliminating the need for complex software installations and extensive technical expertise.

Main Features:

• Simple drag-and-drop interface.
• Variety of transitions and visual effects.
• Multi-track editing.
• Text overlays, graphics, and subtitles.
• Preview your edits in real-time.

Pros:

• Accessible to users of all skill levels.
• Cloud-based
• High-speed collaborative editing
• Fast and hassle-free exporting in various formats

Cons:

• Flixier relies on a stable internet connection.
• Advanced features and storage may require a subscription.

Mobile AVI Editors

9. PowerDirector

PowerDirector is a feature-packed mobile video editing app available for free on Android and iOS devices. It offers a user-friendly interface with advanced editing features, including multi-track editing, green screen effects (chroma key), and 4K video support. While some advanced features require a subscription, it’s a powerful choice for mobile video editing.

Main Features:

• Multi-track timeline editing.
• Video stabilization.
• Chroma key for green screen effects.
• Speed adjustment and reverse playback.

Pros:

• Intuitive and user-friendly interface.
• Advanced editing features, including multi-track editing.
• Built-in effects, transitions, and audio tools.
• 4K video support.

Cons:

• Watermarked exports in the free version.
• Some advanced features require a subscription.

10. Kinemaster

Kinemaster is a popular mobile video editing app available for both Android and iOS. It offers a multi-layered editing interface, precise audio control, and real-time recording. While the free version includes watermarking on exports, Kinemaster’s extensive feature set, including multi-layer video editing and built-in assets, appeals to mobile editors.

Main Features:

• Multi-layer video editing.
• Precise audio control and mixing.
• Instant preview of edits.
• Built-in assets and effects.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface with drag-and-drop functionality.
• Multiple layers for video and audio.
• Real-time video and audio recording.
• Export in various resolutions.

Cons:

• Watermarked exports in the free version.
• Some advanced features are locked behind a subscription.

11. InShot

InShot is a straightforward mobile video editing app designed for simplicity and ease of use. Available for Android and iOS, it offers basic video editing features like trimming, cutting, and merging. Users can add filters, effects, music, and even create collages or slideshows. While it may lack advanced editing capabilities, InShot is ideal for quick mobile edits and social media sharing.

Main Features:

• Video trimming and cutting.
• Music and sound effects integration.
• Filters and effects.
• Collage and slideshow creation.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface with straightforward controls.
• Basic video editing features like trimming, cutting, and merging.
• Filters, effects, and music integration.
• Direct sharing to social media platforms.

Cons:

• Watermarked exports in the free version.
• Limited advanced editing capabilities.

Conclusion

In the realm of video editing, the choice of video format plays a pivotal role in the overall editing experience and the quality of the final output. AVI (Audio Video Interleave) is one such format that has its own unique set of advantages and drawbacks when compared to other video formats. Understanding these pros and cons is essential for making informed decisions about when to opt for AVI files and when to explore alternative formats.

The advantages of editing AVI files are evident in their wide compatibility with various media players and editing software, making them a versatile choice for video editing tasks. Their lossless compression ensures that the original video and audio quality are preserved, making AVI files a preferred format for projects that demand minimal quality loss. Furthermore, AVI’s ability to handle multiple video and audio streams provides editing flexibility, allowing users to manipulate different elements within the file without compromising quality. Additionally, AVI’s efficiency in processing time can be a valuable asset when working under tight deadlines. Lastly, the legacy status of AVI as a long-standing format ensures compatibility with older video content, a crucial consideration for archival and restoration purposes.

However, it’s important to weigh these advantages against the drawbacks of editing AVI files. Large file sizes can be a significant concern, especially when dealing with limited storage space or slow internet connections for sharing files. The limited metadata support in AVI files can hinder efficient organization and management of your video library compared to formats with more extensive metadata options. In terms of compression efficiency, AVI files are not as effective as some modern video formats like MP4 or H.264, leading to larger file sizes that may not be ideal for online streaming or storage. Compatibility with modern devices and platforms can also be a challenge, as some may not offer native support for AVI files, requiring conversion to more widely accepted formats. Furthermore, AVI files are not known for their support of advanced video codecs, which may be essential for achieving optimal compression and quality in certain scenarios. Lastly, repeated editing cycles of AVI files can lead to cumulative quality loss, a concern when making multiple edits to the same file.

In conclusion, the decision to edit AVI files should be based on a careful evaluation of your specific needs, project requirements, and intended distribution platforms. While AVI offers compatibility, lossless compression, and editing flexibility, it comes with drawbacks like large file sizes, limited metadata support, and inefficient compression. Depending on the nature of your project, the target audience, and your editing software’s capabilities, you may choose AVI or explore other video formats that align more closely with your objectives. Ultimately, a well-informed choice of video format can significantly impact the success of your video editing projects, ensuring both efficiency in editing and the quality of the final product.