HitFilm Express - Detailed Review
Media Tools
HitFilm Express - Product Overview
Introduction to HitFilm Express
HitFilm Express is a free video editing and visual effects software developed by FXhome, a UK-based company. This tool is particularly renowned for its extensive capabilities in creating professional-grade visual effects.Primary Function
The primary function of HitFilm Express is to provide users with a comprehensive suite of tools for video editing and visual effects. It allows users to edit videos, add various effects, and compose both 2D and 3D layers. This makes it an ideal choice for those looking to create high-quality videos with advanced visual effects.Target Audience
HitFilm Express is targeted at a diverse range of users, including beginners, film students, self-media creators, and aspiring content creators. It is especially popular among younger creators who often work solo on their projects and need a versatile tool that offers both editing and visual effects capabilities. The software also appeals to more experienced users, including YouTubers and independent filmmakers, who value its advanced features.Key Features
Visual Effects Library
HitFilm Express boasts an extensive library of over 400 visual effects and presets, including color correction, distortions, gradients, fills, lights, and flares. This makes it highly versatile for creating a wide range of effects.Animation Tools
The software includes advanced animation tools that allow users to create and edit audio and video transitions, as well as composite shots with multiple animation tools.Compositing
HitFilm Express offers powerful compositing tools that support both 2D and 3D layer-based compositing, enabling users to create seamless and realistic visual effects.Basic Editing
Users can perform basic edits such as adding animated captions, trimming video clips, and adjusting audio. The software also supports multiple track editing and the application of transitions and text with various fonts and sizes.Media Organization
The software allows users to import and organize various media files, including video, images, audio, and 3D camera tracking data, into a Media panel for easy access.Additional Features
Recent updates include a voice recorder for direct voiceover recording, support for the H.265 codec, and the ability to remove unused assets and lock video and audio timelines in sync.User Resources
FXhome provides a range of tutorials, user guides, and a supportive community through their forums and YouTube channel, making it easier for users to get the most out of the software. Overall, HitFilm Express is a powerful and user-friendly tool that caters to a wide range of creative needs, from basic video editing to advanced visual effects. HitFilm Express - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of HitFilm Express is designed to be intuitive, flexible, and highly customizable, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced users.Interface Components
The interface is composed of Menus, Containers, and Panels. The top menubar provides organized access to various functions and settings of the software. Containers are rectangular sections that organize multiple Panels, each of which contains tools dedicated to specific functionalities. You can resize containers, drag panels between them, and open or close panels as needed.Customization
One of the standout features of HitFilm Express is its customizability. Users can rearrange the layout to suit their working habits by moving windows around, docking them, or turning them into floating panels. The software also offers preset workspaces, such as Audio, Colorist, and Compositing, which reorder the windows to optimize the interface for specific tasks. You can create and save your own custom workspaces, making it easy to switch between different tasks without having to reconfigure the interface each time.Ease of Use
HitFilm Express is praised for its ease of use. Even users who are not adept at video editing can use it effectively. The interface is broadly similar to other video editing tools, so if you’ve used a video editor before, you’ll find it relatively easy to get started. There are also numerous video tutorials available to help users master the software.User Experience
The overall user experience is enhanced by the software’s stability and feature-rich environment. HitFilm Express offers high-grade animation options, advanced tracking features, and excellent visual and sound effects, making it a valuable tool for indie filmmakers and amateurs. The software supports both Windows and Mac, and its multi-platform compatibility ensures a smooth experience across different operating systems.Additional Features
The software includes advanced features like tracking the movement of objects in videos, which allows users to add new objects that follow the same motion pattern. It also supports integration with other tools like Boris and Imagineer Systems. While some features are available as add-ons, the core functionality is comprehensive enough to handle complex edits without these additional tools.Conclusion
In summary, HitFilm Express offers a user-friendly, highly customizable interface that is easy to use and packed with features that make video editing and visual effects creation accessible and enjoyable. HitFilm Express - Key Features and Functionality
HitFilm Express Overview
HitFilm Express is a comprehensive video editing and visual effects software that offers a wide range of features, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced filmmakers. Here are the main features and how they work:Video Editing Basics
HitFilm Express allows you to import, trim, and combine video and audio clips. It supports multiple track editing, enabling you to work with several video and audio layers simultaneously. You can apply transitions, add text with various fonts, sizes, and other variables, and use basic editing tools like cutting and arranging clips.Advanced Visual Effects
One of the standout features of HitFilm Express is its extensive library of visual effects. You have access to over 400 effects and presets, including 3D compositing, motion tracking, and particle simulations. These tools allow you to create complex effects such as blaster impacts, portal designs, and lighting effects, making it ideal for sci-fi and action videos.Color Grading and Audio Adjustments
The software includes advanced tools for color grading, exposure adjustments, and audio editing. You can apply various film looks, gradients, fills, and light flares to enhance the visual quality of your videos. For audio, you can make detailed adjustments to ensure your soundtracks are polished.Animation and Compositing
HitFilm Express offers powerful animation tools, including keyframe animation, which allows you to create smooth transitions and animations. You can also perform 2D and 3D layer-based compositing, enabling the integration of 3D models and particle simulations into your videos. This feature is particularly useful for creating complex scenes like those in sci-fi movies.Motion Tracking
The motion tracking feature in HitFilm Express allows you to track the movement of objects within your footage. This can be used to add new objects that follow the same motion path or to restore the interface of devices in your videos, making them look realistic.Masking and Layering
The software includes masking and layering techniques that make it easy to replicate characters or create large groups of actors, similar to what is seen in war movies. This feature is highly beneficial for creating crowd scenes or duplicating actors.Voice Recording
A recent addition to HitFilm Express 16 is the voice recorder feature, which allows you to record your voice directly to an audio timeline. This is particularly useful for vloggers, YouTubers, and documentary filmmakers.Media Support and Export Options
HitFilm Express supports a broad range of media formats and resolutions, giving you flexibility in content creation. You can export your projects in various formats, including presets for platforms like Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. The software also allows you to create and save your own export presets and queue up multiple projects for export.AI Integration
While the sources do not specifically mention AI integration in the core features of HitFilm Express, the software’s advanced tools and automation in certain effects (like motion tracking and particle simulations) can be seen as leveraging complex algorithms that might be considered akin to AI-driven functionalities. However, there is no explicit mention of AI-driven tools within the software itself.User Interface and Community
HitFilm Express has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to organize and work with your media files. The software also benefits from a vibrant community and extensive tutorials, which help users learn and master the software.Conclusion
In summary, HitFilm Express is a powerful tool that combines video editing and visual effects capabilities, offering a wide range of features that cater to both beginners and advanced users, all without a significant cost. HitFilm Express - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
HitFilm Express has made significant strides in performance, particularly with recent updates. For instance, a major update improved the software’s performance by reducing lag and enhancing the speed of editing, especially when working with 4K files and multiple effects. This update made scrubbing through the timeline and general playback approximately two and a half times faster than before.
However, the free version of HitFilm Express lacks GPU acceleration, which can impact editing speeds and render times, especially when dealing with certain compressed formats like AVCHD, AVC-Intra, and 10-bit formats. This limitation restricts the number of effects that can be used efficiently in the free version.
Accuracy and Features
HitFilm Express is known for its ease of use and a user-friendly interface, making it accessible even for beginners. It includes advanced features such as academy award-winning planar tracking and support for composite shots, which are beneficial for VFX and compositing tasks.
However, there are some limitations in terms of advanced features. For example, the text editor in HitFilm Express is not as advanced as those in other software like Adobe products. It lacks features such as align tools and advanced paragraph options, making it more suited for basic text needs rather than complex motion graphics.
Rendering and Color Depth
HitFilm Express operates in various color bit depths, including 8-bit integer, 16-bit, and 32-bit float modes, which allows for higher fidelity images but can increase rendering times, especially on less powerful hardware. The software also supports multiple antialiasing types and shadow map sizes, which can be adjusted to balance quality and performance.
Limitations
- Multi-Cam Editor: HitFilm Express does not include a multi-cam editor, which is a significant feature for professional video editing.
- Expressions and Scripting: Unlike some other software, HitFilm Express does not support expressions or scripting, which limits its use for creating templates with dynamic controls.
- Advanced Color Controls: Advanced exposure and color controls, such as color wheels, are only available through additional plugin purchases.
Conclusion
In summary, while HitFilm Express offers improved performance and useful features for VFX and compositing, it has several limitations, particularly in GPU acceleration, advanced text editing, and multi-cam editing capabilities. These limitations make it more suitable for specific types of projects rather than a comprehensive solution for all video editing needs.
HitFilm Express - Pricing and Plans
HitFilm Express Pricing Structure
HitFilm Express offers a flexible and user-friendly pricing structure that caters to a wide range of users, from beginners to professionals.
Free Version
- HitFilm Express is completely free to download and use in its basic form. This version includes a solid set of core features such as multi-track video editing, importing, trimming, and combining video and audio clips, applying transitions, adding text, and more.
- It also includes advanced features like color grading, exposure adjustments, audio tools, keyframing, motion tracking, and 3D support.
Add-On Packs
- While the free version is feature-rich, users can purchase additional add-on packs to enhance their editing capabilities. These packs start at $10 and include various themed collections such as the Starter Pack, Premium Formats, Audio-Visual Pack, Colorist Pack, Destruction Pack, and more.
- Purchasing these add-ons allows users to customize HitFilm Express to their specific needs without committing to the full Pro version.
HitFilm Pro
- For users who require all the advanced features and no limitations, HitFilm Pro is available for a one-time purchase of $349. This includes 12 months of free updates and access to all the features that are not available in the free version.
Donation Option
- During the download process, users have the option to make a donation. While this is not mandatory, making a donation can provide access to certain add-on packs, offering a way to save money compared to purchasing them separately.
Summary
In summary, HitFilm Express offers a free version with extensive features, optional add-on packs for additional functionality, and a paid Pro version for those who need the full suite of tools. This structure makes it accessible and flexible for users with varying needs and budgets.
HitFilm Express - Integration and Compatibility
HitFilm Express Overview
HitFilm Express is a versatile and free video editing software that offers significant integration and compatibility features, making it a valuable tool for videographers and editors.Platform Compatibility
HitFilm Express is cross-platform, meaning it is available for both Windows and macOS. For Windows, it supports versions such as Windows 10 (64-bit) and Windows 8 (64-bit). On the macOS side, it is compatible with macOS 11.0 Big Sur, macOS 10.15 Catalina, and macOS 10.14 Mojave.System Requirements
To run smoothly, HitFilm Express requires a 64-bit operating system, 4GB of RAM (with 8GB or more recommended), and a graphics processor with at least 1GB of video memory. For 4K UHD, 2GB or more of video memory is recommended.Integration with Other Tools
HitFilm Express does not natively support OpenFX plugins, which are exclusive to the Pro version. However, it does offer integration through other means:Ignite Express
This is a free collection of plugins that makes many of HitFilm’s effects available in other video editing software such as Premiere Pro, After Effects, Final Cut Pro X, and more. This allows users to access HitFilm effects within their preferred editing environment.File Format Compatibility
HitFilm Express supports a wide range of video and audio file formats, including QuickTime, AVCHD, AVI, MP4 (AVC/H264 & AAC), MPEG-1 & MPEG-2, MXF (DVCPro HD), and more. However, it does not support some newer formats like H.265 (though this has been added in version 16), XAVC/XAVC S, and certain MXF formats without transcoding. For unsupported formats, users can use a video converter to transcode the files into compatible formats.Workflow Integration
HitFilm Express allows for a seamless workflow within its own ecosystem:Editor and Compositor
Users can switch between the editor and compositor with ease, similar to changing tabs in a web browser. This unified workspace includes over 500 effects and supports layers, compositing, keyframing, animation, motion tracking, and 3D support.Additional Features
Voiceover Recording
A new feature in version 16 allows users to record voiceovers directly to the audio timeline, which is particularly useful for vloggers, YouTubers, and documentary filmmakers.Media Bin Management
Users can remove all unused assets from the Media bin, and video and audio timelines can be locked in sync, adding convenience to the editing process.Conclusion
In summary, HitFilm Express is highly compatible across different platforms and integrates well with various video editing workflows, making it a valuable free resource for both amateur and advanced videographers. HitFilm Express - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
FXhome Help Centre
This is the central hub for users with questions about any FXhome software, including HitFilm. Here, you can find FAQs, search for specific answers, and access detailed guides and tutorials.
Live Chat Bot
The FXhome website offers a live chat bot that can answer basic questions or connect you with a real member of staff if you need further assistance.
Community Page
The FXhome community page is a valuable resource where you can find information and support from other users. This includes forums, user-generated content, and tips from experienced users.
Additional Resources
User Manuals and Guides
Comprehensive user manuals are available for both HitFilm Express and HitFilm Pro. These manuals cover everything from activation and setup to advanced features and troubleshooting.
Onboarding Videos
After downloading and activating the software, you can watch onboarding videos to get started quickly. These videos provide a step-by-step introduction to the software’s interface and key features.
Tutorials and Videos
There are numerous tutorials available online, including YouTube videos that provide detailed step-by-step guides for beginners. For example, the “Complete HitFilm Express Tutorial For Beginners” covers various aspects of video editing in HitFilm.
Add-On Packs and Features
For users of HitFilm Express, there are add-on packs available that can enhance the software’s capabilities. These packs include additional effects, themes, and features that can be tested before purchase.
Activation and Account Support
Activation Issues
If you encounter issues during the activation process, you can find your hardware ID and serial code in the Options window under the Activation tab. This information can be useful when contacting technical support.
Account Registration
For those who did not purchase the software directly from FXhome, you can create an account and register your serial code to activate the software.
These resources are designed to ensure that you have all the support you need to effectively use HitFilm Express or HitFilm Pro, whether you are a beginner or an experienced user.
HitFilm Express - Pros and Cons
Pros of HitFilm Express
User-Friendly Interface
HitFilm Express boasts a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for both beginners and experienced users to navigate. The software includes a clean and organized layout, with features like integrated timelines that allow you to edit in one tab and make compositions in another without needing to load other software.
Extensive VFX Library
One of the standout features of HitFilm Express is its extensive library of visual effects, including fires, explosions, lightning, and more. These effects are highly customizable, allowing users to adjust settings to their liking. The software also offers powerful rotoscoping tools that are easy to use and surpass those found in other free software like DaVinci Resolve.
Advanced Animation Tools
HitFilm Express includes numerous advanced animation tools that enable users to create and edit audio and video transitions without the need for composite footage. These tools facilitate 2D and 3D layer-based compositing, making it a versatile option for various editing needs.
4K Support and High-Quality Formats
The software supports 4K video and offers UHD support, allowing users to work with high-quality footage from various sources, including high-end cameras and smartphones. It also features a RAM preview that ensures supreme quality formats.
No Watermarks in Free Version
Unlike many free video editing software, HitFilm Express does not add watermarks to your videos unless you use effects from add-on packs that you haven’t purchased. This makes it a great option for those who need professional-looking videos without the hassle of watermarks.
Guided Editing and Tutorials
HitFilm Express provides a wealth of tutorial videos and guided editing tools, making it easier for new users to get started. The software also includes features like auto stabilizer tools that use AI to stabilize shaky footage, saving a significant amount of time.
Cons of HitFilm Express
Stability Issues
One of the major drawbacks of HitFilm Express is its instability. Users have reported frequent crashes when opening projects, dragging videos to the timeline, changing workspace layouts, and previewing videos. This instability affects both Windows and Mac versions.
Rendering Speed
The rendering speed of HitFilm Express is slower compared to other video editing software like Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, and VideoProc Vlogger. This is partly because it does not fully utilize the dedicated graphics card, leading to high CPU usage.
Limited Features in Free Version
While HitFilm Express offers a lot of useful features for free, it has some limitations. Users may need to purchase add-on packs to access advanced features such as Boris FX 3D Objects, Imagineer Mocha HitFilm tracking, HDR import, and 360 View Panel. If these add-ons are used without purchase, a watermark will be applied to the video.
Export Errors
Some users have experienced export errors, which can be intrusive and require saving, exiting the software, and re-entering it to resolve the issue. This can be frustrating, especially after extensive editing sessions.
Transition Effects Limitation
HitFilm Express is noted to have a limited number of transition effects, which can be a drawback for users who rely heavily on transitions to enhance their videos.
Learning Curve
Although the interface is generally user-friendly, there is a learning curve associated with using HitFilm Express, especially for those new to video editing. However, this is somewhat expected given the depth of features available.
By weighing these pros and cons, users can make an informed decision about whether HitFilm Express meets their video editing needs.
HitFilm Express - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of HitFilm Express
- Extensive Visual Effects Library: HitFilm Express boasts over 400 visual effects and presets, making it a standout for VFX enthusiasts. It includes tools for color correction, distortions, gradients, fills, lights, and flares, as well as advanced compositing tools for both 2D and 3D layer-based compositing.
- Animation and Compositing Tools: The software offers numerous advanced animation tools, including keyframe animation, motion tracking, and the ability to combine 3D layers, models, and particle simulations. This makes it highly versatile for creating complex animations and composites.
- Voiceover Recording: HitFilm Express version 16 introduced a voiceover recording feature, allowing users to record voiceovers directly into the audio timeline, which is particularly useful for vloggers, YouTubers, and documentary filmmakers.
- Support for Advanced Formats: It supports the H.265 codec, enabling efficient compression and the use of video files from smartphones, drones, and cameras without the need for transcoding.
Potential Alternatives
OpenShot
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: OpenShot is available on Windows, Mac, and Linux, making it a good option for users across different operating systems. It offers unlimited tracks, video effects, a title editor, and 3D animations, but lacks the extensive VFX library of HitFilm Express.
- User Interface and Features: OpenShot has a simpler interface and is more geared towards basic video editing needs, including slow motion and time effects, and a drag-and-drop support system. However, it does not match HitFilm Express in terms of advanced VFX and compositing capabilities.
Adobe Premiere Pro
- Professional-Grade Editing: Adobe Premiere Pro is a more advanced video editing software that offers a wide range of features, including multi-camera editing, advanced color grading, and integration with other Adobe tools. While it is more powerful, it is not free and requires a subscription.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Premiere Pro is available on both Windows and Mac, making it a versatile option for professional editors who need advanced features and seamless integration with other Adobe products.
Blender
- 3D Modeling and Animation: Blender is a free, open-source software that excels in 3D modeling, animation, and rendering. While it can be used for video editing, its primary focus is on 3D content creation, making it a great alternative for those who need advanced 3D capabilities.
- Community and Resources: Blender has a large and active community, providing extensive resources and tutorials, which can be very beneficial for beginners and advanced users alike.
Filmora
- User-Friendly Interface: Filmora is known for its user-friendly interface and is a good option for beginners. It offers a range of effects, transitions, and color adjustments, but it does not have the same level of VFX and compositing capabilities as HitFilm Express.
- Affordability: Filmora is more affordable than some professional-grade software and offers a free version with some limitations, making it a viable alternative for those on a budget.
HitFilm Express - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about HitFilm Express
Q: How do I activate HitFilm Express?
To activate HitFilm Express, you need to create an account or log in if you already have one. When you launch the software, you will see an “ACTIVATE & UNLOCK” screen. Click on this, and if you don’t have an account, select “CREATE AN ACCOUNT” to fill out the necessary information. Once you’ve created your account, relaunch HitFilm Express, log in, and follow the on-screen instructions to complete the activation process.
Q: What are the system requirements for running HitFilm Express?
HitFilm Express requires a 64-bit version of Windows 8 or Windows 10, or macOS 11.0 Big Sur, macOS 10.15 Catalina, or macOS 10.14 Mojave. You need at least 4 GB of RAM (8 GB or more recommended), an Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processor (or AMD equivalent), and a graphics processor with at least 1 GB of video memory (2 GB or more for 4K UHD). Additionally, ensure your graphics card drivers are up-to-date.
Q: Do I need an internet connection to use HitFilm Express?
Yes, an internet connection is required for online activation and to access web services. However, offline activation is possible, but you will not have access to web services in this mode.
Q: Can I use HitFilm Express on multiple computers?
HitFilm Express can be activated on a single computer at a time. If you need to transfer the software to another computer, you must first deactivate it on the old computer. For HitFilm Pro, you can have up to three concurrent activations.
Q: What features are included in the free version of HitFilm Express?
The free version of HitFilm Express includes core editing and 3D compositing tools, multiple track support, transitions, text tools, and a variety of effects such as color grading, exposure adjustments, and creative options like film looks and light flares. It also supports voice recording, H.265 codec, and motion tracking. However, some advanced features and add-ons require a purchase.
Q: How do I export my projects in HitFilm Express?
In demo mode, you can only export up to 30 seconds and only to YouTube. After activating HitFilm Express, you gain access to additional export options, including various formats like .MOV Quicktime, AVC/H.264, Apple Pro Res 422, and more. You can also purchase add-on packs to enable premium formats like AVCHD and Dolby AC3.
Q: Can I use third-party plugins with HitFilm Express?
Third-party plugins are not supported in the demo mode of HitFilm Express. However, once activated, you can use some third-party plugins, but certain features like Boris 3D Objects and Mocha HitFilm are only available in the Pro version or through additional purchases.
Q: How do I update my graphics card drivers for HitFilm Express?
For Windows users, it is crucial to keep your graphics card drivers up-to-date. Check the website of your graphics card manufacturer (NVIDIA, AMD, or Intel) regularly for the latest drivers. For Mac users, the drivers are built into the OS and do not need to be updated separately.
Q: What if my media files do not match the project settings in HitFilm Express?
If the properties of your media files differ from the sequence settings you chose, HitFilm Express will prompt you to adjust the sequence settings to match the footage. It is generally recommended to select “no” to this prompt to avoid unnecessary changes to your project settings.
Q: Are there any tutorials or resources available for learning HitFilm Express?
Yes, there are extensive resources available. HitFilm offers over 50 hours of free video tutorials on their YouTube channel, and you can also refer to the user guide and help links within the software for quick access to relevant information.
Q: Can I donate to get additional features in HitFilm Express?
When downloading HitFilm Express, you have the option to make a donation, which can include additional add-on packs. This can be a cost-effective way to access more features without purchasing them separately.
HitFilm Express - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of HitFilm Express
HitFilm Express is a versatile and powerful video editing and visual effects software that caters to a wide range of users, particularly indie filmmakers, amateurs, and aspiring content creators.Key Features
Advanced Tracking and Screen Simulation
The software allows users to track the movement of objects in their videos, enabling the addition of new elements that follow the same motion pattern. This feature is also useful for replacing the interfaces of gadgets or devices in footage.
Sky Replacement Tool
Users can change the backdrop of their videos, transforming dull scenes into more engaging ones, such as turning a flat plain into a mountain range or a winter sky into a sunset.
Masking and Layering
This technique simplifies the creation of large groups of characters, similar to the Stormtrooper army in Star Wars. It allows actors to be duplicated quickly and efficiently.
3D Models
HitFilm Express supports the import and animation of 3D models, enabling users to create complex scenes like those featuring the AT-AT walkers from Star Wars.
Sci-Fi Visual Effects
The software is well-suited for creating sci-fi action sequences, including effects like Iron Man’s heads-up display and animations using muzzle flash and portal effects.
User Benefits
HitFilm Express is particularly beneficial for several types of users:Indie Filmmakers and Amateurs
It provides a comprehensive set of tools for video editing and visual effects, making it an excellent choice for those who want to create high-quality videos without the need for professional editing services.
Solo Creators
Many users, especially those in small towns or without a team, find HitFilm Express invaluable as it offers all the necessary tools for editing, VFX, and even importing 3D models, along with extensive educational tutorials.
YouTubers and Content Creators
The software is popular among YouTubers and content creators who need advanced visual effects and editing capabilities without the high cost of professional software.