Do you find yourself frustrated by the limitations of free video editing software? Most free systems don't have the tools necessary to create high-quality renderings. Or if they do, you can't export your video without a watermark. The best solution is to upgrade to paid video editing software, but it can be hard to know where to start.
Two of the most prominent video editing companies are Cyberlink and Adobe. These creators have many different products with different levels of feature editing. I've taken a look at the latest versions of Cyberlink PowerDirector and Adobe Premiere Elements, the top editing software options from both companies.
Both of the programs have easy-to-use interfaces loaded with video and audio editing tools. They also both come with enough resources for both beginners and professionals to use. But they do have some key differences that could make or break a purchase.
Overview of Cyberlink and Adobe
Adobe and Cyberlink both have a variety of video editing products available. These features are found in Cyberlink PowerDirector 16 Ultra and Adobe Premiere Elements 15.
Shared Features
Unique Cyberlink Features
Unique Adobe Features
Pricing
Cyberlink
Cyberlink has outfitted the PowerDirector software with a few different pricing options. There's a free trial available to let you experiment with the interface and determine whether the tools will work for you.
The basic PowerDirector software costs $139.99 for a single license. This gives you access to the base video and audio editing tools. You also get 10 GB of cloud storage to back up your projects.
The Ultra package gives you 25 GB of cloud storage for one year and costs $279.99.
The Ultimate package comes with 50 GB of cloud storage. In addition to the baseline features, it also comes with advanced video editing features. This version also lets you import professionally-formatted videos, making it a great option for the pros. It can be purchased for $399.99.
The Director Suite comes with the basic PowerDirector software. It also includes PhotoDirector, AudioDirector, ColorDirector, unlimited premium plug-in access, and unlimited access to effects and content packs. There's 100 GB of cloud storage. The price is $299.99.
Adobe
Adobe Premiere Elements is available on a monthly and annual subscription basis. You may be able to get permanent licenses to use the software as well.
There are two pricing options. The basic software costs $99.99. There's also a bundle available at $149.99 that combines Premiere Elements and Photoshop Elements.
Winner: Cyberlink
Cyberlink wins because of the multiple pricing options that let you choose the feature set that fits your needs best. However, for a simpler pricing structure and cheaper overall purchase, the better choice is Premiere Elements.
Number of Users
Cyberlink
The Cyberlink software cannot be used on multiple computers simultaneously. This means that multiple individuals cannot work on projects through a single purchase. Even if they're working on different projects, the system won't allow it.
With that said, the software purchase is not restricted to any one device. As long as only one individual uses it, you can install the program and work on projects on unlimited computers.
Adobe
When you make a basic Premiere Elements purchase with Adobe, there is a limit to the number of devices the software can be installed on. You must limit your download to two computers. But there are packages that will allow for multiple users and more devices.
One of the biggest selling points of Premiere Elements is that you can have simultaneous project work. This means that multiple people can use the program at the same time through one subscription. In addition, you can share projects between multiple users.
Winner: Adobe
The Premiere Elements software is specifically designed to be used by teams, while the Cyberlink software is made more for individual editors. This means that Premiere Elements works best for those who have large video editing teams in their businesses, or who are working on large cinematic projects with multiple editors.
Resources
Cyberlink
Cyberlink has guidelines and tips in the software itself. In addition, the online support center gives you immediate access to:
Phone support is also available should you have any issues with your purchase or the software itself.
You can get one-on-one live chat support. Before you're connected to a support member, the website guides you through a series of questions to narrow down the issue you're having. This ensures that you're connected to an individual equipped to help.
Adobe
Adobe offers a number of different resources to help both beginners and professionals learn to navigate the software. In addition to guidance inside the interface itself, there's also an online knowledge center.
When you access the knowledge center, you can see the following:
You can also join the community forums.
Support can be found from Adobe through live chat services, phone customer support, and a help ticketing system.
Winner: Cyberlink
Cyberlink's streamlined chat services help you connect to someone who can help on a faster basis. The ability to check on the status of your support tickets is also super helpful. Both of these companies have detailed knowledge centers and support tools, though.
See Full Review of - Cyberlink | Adobe
Pros and Cons of Cyberlink
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Cons
Pros and Cons of Adobe
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Cons
Final Thoughts: Which Is Better?
Both of these systems are solid video editing programs that give you everything you need to do basic video creation. They both have easy-to-use interfaces that allow beginners and experts alike to create films. The right one for you is mostly a matter of what features and pricing structure you prioritize most highly.
Adobe Premiere Elements works best for people working on team projects. It's often favored by companies creating marketing tools or presentations, though some professional film editors use it for cinematic experiences as well. The subscription-based pricing includes project sharing capabilities.
Cyberlink PowerDirector is best optimized for individuals who want a robust video software that they own permanently. With one payment, you have license to use the program for a lifetime. There's one user per license. Because of the number of cinema-based tools, this software is often used by film students and amateur directors.
