Online Photo and Video Montage Tools: Ranked and Reviewed

Best Online Photo and Video Collage Makers in 2024

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Sometimes a single picture or a video can’t tell the entire story you’d like to share with your friends and colleagues. If you find yourself in a similar situation often, then you already know that you have to find a way to combine several still or moving images within a frame in order to tell your story properly.

Online photo and video collage makers offer a quick solution to this problem because they feature a number of collage templates that let you merge multiple videos or photos and create a visually impressive collage. Read on if you’re looking for an easy way to produce photo or video collages because in this article we are going to take you through some of the best online photo and video collage makers you can find on the Internet.

• Part 1: Best Free & Paid Online Video Collage Makers
• Part 2: Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Making Video Collages in a More Creative Way with Filmora Video Editor

Filmora now features the animated split-screen effect which will make your videos more interesting. Just drag and drop the clips that you want in the split-screen preview window.

---

You may also like:

• How to create video wall effects with Filmora
• How to create Jujutsu Kaisen TikTok Video

---

Best Online Video Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Platforms that exclusively offer video collage-making services are rare, and in most cases, you have to use a web-based video editor if you want to create video collages online.

In addition, the video editing platforms that do provide the video collage feature, offer only a limited amount of video editing tools, which is the reason why it is still better to use video editing software for PC or Mac computers if you want to make video collages professionally. However, there are still a few online destinations where you can combine several videos with ease.

1. Kapwing

Price: Free, $17 for a monthly subscription

Kapwing is undoubtedly one of the best online video editing platforms around because it offers a broad range of video editing tools. It video collage feature lets you combine GIFs, videos and photos which makes it a perfect choice for both professional social media content creators and novice video editors. The process of creating a video collage with Kapwing is remarkably easy, as you just have to upload the videos you want to combine and adjust their position on the screen. You can then enhance the colors in each video separately, use the Bring Forward and Send Backward options or fine-tune the playback speed of the videos in your collage. However, all video collages created with the free version of the platform are going to be watermarked and you must subscribe to the Pro version of Kapwing if you want to make watermark-free video collages.

2. Animoto

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start at $15 per month

Image from Internet

The huge selection of fully customizable templates Animoto offers enable you to create videos for a broad range of purposes. You simply have to decide if you want to make a new product launch video, real estate explainer video or step-based tutorial and then upload the materials you would like to use to create a new video. Animoto also lets you add text, photo, video or collage blocks in case the template you’ve selected doesn’t contain all the elements you want to feature in a video. So if you want to create video collages with Animoto you simply have to add as many collage blocks as you want and then import the footage you’d like to include in a video collage.

3. Kizoa

Price: Free, lifetime plans pricing start at $29.99

Yet another versatile online video editing platform that enables marketing professionals and video editing enthusiasts to create new videos in just a few simple steps. Kizoa’s collage maker grants you access to hundreds of templates you can customize to fit the demands of the project you’re currently working on. You can choose from still and animated templates that can be used for anything from wishing your friend happy holidays to putting together your fondest memories of the year together. However, choosing one of the available pricing plans is necessary if you want to make video collages with Kizoa on a constant basis.

4. FotoJet

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $3.33 per month

Even though FotoJet is primarily a platform for design and photo editing, it still enables its users to create video collages. However, you can only use photos to create video collages, which limits your options significantly. The process of making a new video collage is easy, as you just have to pick one of the available templates and proceed to upload the images you’d like to include in the collage you’re making. After customizing the template you can share your creations on social media, but keep in mind that the free version of the platform offers only limited capabilities.

5. VidDay

Price: pay per lenghth, start at $5 for 0-3 mins

VidDay enables you to create a new video collage in just three simple steps. You should start by specifying the occasion for which you’re creating a video, it can be anything from work anniversary to your best friend’s birthday. You will then be asked to add the dates and all other relevant information, and to upload the videos you’d like to include in the collage. The only downside is that the content you create with VidDay can’t be longer than two minutes and that you have to choose a subscription plan if you want to export your videos in 720p resolution.

---

Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid Options]

Unlike making a video collage, creating a photo collage is a much less technically demanding operation. Hence, performing this task with a web-based photo editor is much easier because the time you’ll have to spend waiting for the pictures to upload is considerably shorter than the amount of time you’ll have to spend on uploading videos. Here are some of the best online photo collage makers you can use to make awe-inspiring collages from your photos.

1. Wondershare Pix Studio

Price: Free, $5.99 per month billed yearly, $7.99 per month billed monthly.

Wondershare PixStudio is an all-in-one and powerful online graphic design maker for everyone. This online platform empowers anyone to create a beautiful design within a few steps. No professional skills required! By simply dragging and dropping the creative elements and templates, you are capable to release your imagination and convert it to stunning artwork.

2. Ribbet

Price: Free, $3.33 per month billed yearly, $6.99 per month billed monthly

Upon arriving at Ribbet’s homepage, you should click on the Create Collage option and once the collage editor window loads you can choose the template you like the most. These presets are divided into Basic, Grid, Big Photo and Jigsaw categories and once you find the one that you want to use you just have to click on it and proceed to upload the pictures from your computer or from your accounts on social media. Optionally, you can change the background color of the collage you’re making or adjust the Proportions, Spacing and other settings. Hit the Done button when ready and continue editing the photo collage you’ve created.

3. Canva

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $12.99 per month

Canva is a platform for graphic designers that offers an easy way to create visual content for social media. It also provides the opportunity for large teams of graphic designers to collaborate on projects. The platform’s photo editor features a huge collection of customizable collage templates you can use to promote different products or services. Skilled photo editors can use Canva to create authentic photo collages, since the importing photos and arranging them on a blank canvas is a straightforward process that requires a minimum amount of time. When done, you can save your photo collages to your computer, share them on social media or store them on Google Drive.

4. Photo Joiner

Price: Free

You can create a photo collage with Photo Joiner even if you have no previous experience. You just have to open the platform’s photo collage editor and then specify how many images your collage should contain. Keep in mind that Photo Joiner allows you to add the maximum of eight pictures to a photo collage, which can limit your options if you’re trying to create a collage that contains ten or more photos. You can adjust the size and the aspect ratio for each image you add to a collage and you can also change the size and the color of the picture borders.

5. piZAP

Price: Free trial available, $2.99 per month billed annually, $2.99 per month billed annually

The large selection of templates and a broad spectrum of photo editing features make piZAP one of the best online collage makers. Furthermore, this online photo editor features a built-in library of stock images, so that you can make photo collages even if you don’t have your own material. There are a lot of different photo collage templates available that enable you to make a new photo collage effortlessly.

The piZAP platform is an excellent alternative to pricy photo editing software products because it enables its users to manipulate images at a professional level. Nonetheless, you must create an account on this platform and choose a subscription plan before you can start editing your photos with this online tool.

6. Fotor

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $8.99 per month

After signing into your account on the Fotor platform you will be able to choose from Classic Collage, Artistic Collage, Funky Collage, and Photo Stitching categories. Clicking on either of these categories enables you to access a number of different templates you can customize in accordance with your needs. The maximum number of photos you can include in a classic photo collage is limited to just ten. You’ll also have the option to resize the pictures, fine-tune the borders or change the color and the texture of the template you selected. Some templates from each of the collage categories are going to be watermarked if you are using the free version of Fotor.

7. PhotoCollage

Price: Free

This is a simple and yet a powerful photo collage maker that lets you arrange your images freely. You can just drag and drop the pictures you’d like to use in a photo collage from a folder on your computer and arrange them manually. The Template folder offers a huge collection of photo collage templates, which enables you to create a new collage in just a few minutes. The PhotoCollage platform also has the text option in case you want to add a text layer to collage you’re making. The Shape and Size, Border or Filters settings can all be used to enhance a collage and make it more visually appealing.

8. PicMonkey

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start from $7.99 per month

PicMonkey has been among the best design and photo editing platforms for nearly a decade. That is why it is hardly surprising that creating a collage with PicMonkey is a quick and simple process. You can choose from hundreds of collage templates you can easily customize, so you just have to select the one you like and decide whether you want to keep the images that are already included in the template or replace them with the pictures you created. Keep in mind that you must select a subscription plan in order to be able to save or share your photo collages.

9. Photovisi

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $4.99 per month

Making a new photo collage with Photovisi is a fun process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. Start by browsing through the online photo collage maker’s library of templates, and click on the one that you want to use. Once the template opens you can upload the pictures from your computer or from Facebook and Instagram. You’ll also be able to add new shapes and text layers to the template or change its background. Each visual or textual element you decide to include in your photo collage can be edited so that it fits the visual style of the collage perfectly. The watermark is going to be added to all your creations if you decide to use the free version of Photovisi.

10. Adobe Spark

Price: Free, $9.99 per month for the full version

Impressing your followers on social media with the content you share won’t be difficult if you decide to create that content with Adobe Spark. There are hundreds of templates available for various kinds of social media posts, so to create a photo collage you should just pick a template. You can change the layout of the template if you want to alter its original design and you can upload images from your computer or use the Adobe Stock option. The best part is that you can apply filters to all photos you add to a photo collage and make their colors more vivid.

11. Photo Collage Maker

Price: $5.56 for a single image

Photo Collage Maker lets you choose from more than 250 photo collage templates that are suitable for virtually any purpose. The number of pictures you can include in a photo collage can vary from just two to more than 75 and it depends on the template you choose. You can also automatically desaturate all the images in a photo collage by clicking on the B&W/Color icon or change the background with a single click. Photo Collage Maker doesn’t offer any border options, so you can’t really control the spacing between the images. Downloading a 1-megapixel file from this platform is going to cost you $5.56.

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Conclusion

Combining multiple photos or videos and making collages that are going to attract a lot of attention on social media has never been easier. Hopefully the online collage makers, we included in this article will help you create photo and video collages that are going to impress your friends and colleagues.

In fact, through multiple updates, now we made it super easy to make a collage video with Filmora. Rather than making a photo collage, why not make a video collage?

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Sometimes a single picture or a video can’t tell the entire story you’d like to share with your friends and colleagues. If you find yourself in a similar situation often, then you already know that you have to find a way to combine several still or moving images within a frame in order to tell your story properly.

Online photo and video collage makers offer a quick solution to this problem because they feature a number of collage templates that let you merge multiple videos or photos and create a visually impressive collage. Read on if you’re looking for an easy way to produce photo or video collages because in this article we are going to take you through some of the best online photo and video collage makers you can find on the Internet.

• Part 1: Best Free & Paid Online Video Collage Makers
• Part 2: Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Making Video Collages in a More Creative Way with Filmora Video Editor

Filmora now features the animated split-screen effect which will make your videos more interesting. Just drag and drop the clips that you want in the split-screen preview window.

---

You may also like:

• How to create video wall effects with Filmora
• How to create Jujutsu Kaisen TikTok Video

---

Best Online Video Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Platforms that exclusively offer video collage-making services are rare, and in most cases, you have to use a web-based video editor if you want to create video collages online.

In addition, the video editing platforms that do provide the video collage feature, offer only a limited amount of video editing tools, which is the reason why it is still better to use video editing software for PC or Mac computers if you want to make video collages professionally. However, there are still a few online destinations where you can combine several videos with ease.

1. Kapwing

Price: Free, $17 for a monthly subscription

Kapwing is undoubtedly one of the best online video editing platforms around because it offers a broad range of video editing tools. It video collage feature lets you combine GIFs, videos and photos which makes it a perfect choice for both professional social media content creators and novice video editors. The process of creating a video collage with Kapwing is remarkably easy, as you just have to upload the videos you want to combine and adjust their position on the screen. You can then enhance the colors in each video separately, use the Bring Forward and Send Backward options or fine-tune the playback speed of the videos in your collage. However, all video collages created with the free version of the platform are going to be watermarked and you must subscribe to the Pro version of Kapwing if you want to make watermark-free video collages.

2. Animoto

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start at $15 per month

Image from Internet

The huge selection of fully customizable templates Animoto offers enable you to create videos for a broad range of purposes. You simply have to decide if you want to make a new product launch video, real estate explainer video or step-based tutorial and then upload the materials you would like to use to create a new video. Animoto also lets you add text, photo, video or collage blocks in case the template you’ve selected doesn’t contain all the elements you want to feature in a video. So if you want to create video collages with Animoto you simply have to add as many collage blocks as you want and then import the footage you’d like to include in a video collage.

3. Kizoa

Price: Free, lifetime plans pricing start at $29.99

Yet another versatile online video editing platform that enables marketing professionals and video editing enthusiasts to create new videos in just a few simple steps. Kizoa’s collage maker grants you access to hundreds of templates you can customize to fit the demands of the project you’re currently working on. You can choose from still and animated templates that can be used for anything from wishing your friend happy holidays to putting together your fondest memories of the year together. However, choosing one of the available pricing plans is necessary if you want to make video collages with Kizoa on a constant basis.

4. FotoJet

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $3.33 per month

Even though FotoJet is primarily a platform for design and photo editing, it still enables its users to create video collages. However, you can only use photos to create video collages, which limits your options significantly. The process of making a new video collage is easy, as you just have to pick one of the available templates and proceed to upload the images you’d like to include in the collage you’re making. After customizing the template you can share your creations on social media, but keep in mind that the free version of the platform offers only limited capabilities.

5. VidDay

Price: pay per lenghth, start at $5 for 0-3 mins

VidDay enables you to create a new video collage in just three simple steps. You should start by specifying the occasion for which you’re creating a video, it can be anything from work anniversary to your best friend’s birthday. You will then be asked to add the dates and all other relevant information, and to upload the videos you’d like to include in the collage. The only downside is that the content you create with VidDay can’t be longer than two minutes and that you have to choose a subscription plan if you want to export your videos in 720p resolution.

---

Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid Options]

Unlike making a video collage, creating a photo collage is a much less technically demanding operation. Hence, performing this task with a web-based photo editor is much easier because the time you’ll have to spend waiting for the pictures to upload is considerably shorter than the amount of time you’ll have to spend on uploading videos. Here are some of the best online photo collage makers you can use to make awe-inspiring collages from your photos.

1. Wondershare Pix Studio

Price: Free, $5.99 per month billed yearly, $7.99 per month billed monthly.

Wondershare PixStudio is an all-in-one and powerful online graphic design maker for everyone. This online platform empowers anyone to create a beautiful design within a few steps. No professional skills required! By simply dragging and dropping the creative elements and templates, you are capable to release your imagination and convert it to stunning artwork.

2. Ribbet

Price: Free, $3.33 per month billed yearly, $6.99 per month billed monthly

Upon arriving at Ribbet’s homepage, you should click on the Create Collage option and once the collage editor window loads you can choose the template you like the most. These presets are divided into Basic, Grid, Big Photo and Jigsaw categories and once you find the one that you want to use you just have to click on it and proceed to upload the pictures from your computer or from your accounts on social media. Optionally, you can change the background color of the collage you’re making or adjust the Proportions, Spacing and other settings. Hit the Done button when ready and continue editing the photo collage you’ve created.

3. Canva

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $12.99 per month

Canva is a platform for graphic designers that offers an easy way to create visual content for social media. It also provides the opportunity for large teams of graphic designers to collaborate on projects. The platform’s photo editor features a huge collection of customizable collage templates you can use to promote different products or services. Skilled photo editors can use Canva to create authentic photo collages, since the importing photos and arranging them on a blank canvas is a straightforward process that requires a minimum amount of time. When done, you can save your photo collages to your computer, share them on social media or store them on Google Drive.

4. Photo Joiner

Price: Free

You can create a photo collage with Photo Joiner even if you have no previous experience. You just have to open the platform’s photo collage editor and then specify how many images your collage should contain. Keep in mind that Photo Joiner allows you to add the maximum of eight pictures to a photo collage, which can limit your options if you’re trying to create a collage that contains ten or more photos. You can adjust the size and the aspect ratio for each image you add to a collage and you can also change the size and the color of the picture borders.

5. piZAP

Price: Free trial available, $2.99 per month billed annually, $2.99 per month billed annually

The large selection of templates and a broad spectrum of photo editing features make piZAP one of the best online collage makers. Furthermore, this online photo editor features a built-in library of stock images, so that you can make photo collages even if you don’t have your own material. There are a lot of different photo collage templates available that enable you to make a new photo collage effortlessly.

The piZAP platform is an excellent alternative to pricy photo editing software products because it enables its users to manipulate images at a professional level. Nonetheless, you must create an account on this platform and choose a subscription plan before you can start editing your photos with this online tool.

6. Fotor

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $8.99 per month

After signing into your account on the Fotor platform you will be able to choose from Classic Collage, Artistic Collage, Funky Collage, and Photo Stitching categories. Clicking on either of these categories enables you to access a number of different templates you can customize in accordance with your needs. The maximum number of photos you can include in a classic photo collage is limited to just ten. You’ll also have the option to resize the pictures, fine-tune the borders or change the color and the texture of the template you selected. Some templates from each of the collage categories are going to be watermarked if you are using the free version of Fotor.

7. PhotoCollage

Price: Free

This is a simple and yet a powerful photo collage maker that lets you arrange your images freely. You can just drag and drop the pictures you’d like to use in a photo collage from a folder on your computer and arrange them manually. The Template folder offers a huge collection of photo collage templates, which enables you to create a new collage in just a few minutes. The PhotoCollage platform also has the text option in case you want to add a text layer to collage you’re making. The Shape and Size, Border or Filters settings can all be used to enhance a collage and make it more visually appealing.

8. PicMonkey

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start from $7.99 per month

PicMonkey has been among the best design and photo editing platforms for nearly a decade. That is why it is hardly surprising that creating a collage with PicMonkey is a quick and simple process. You can choose from hundreds of collage templates you can easily customize, so you just have to select the one you like and decide whether you want to keep the images that are already included in the template or replace them with the pictures you created. Keep in mind that you must select a subscription plan in order to be able to save or share your photo collages.

9. Photovisi

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $4.99 per month

Making a new photo collage with Photovisi is a fun process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. Start by browsing through the online photo collage maker’s library of templates, and click on the one that you want to use. Once the template opens you can upload the pictures from your computer or from Facebook and Instagram. You’ll also be able to add new shapes and text layers to the template or change its background. Each visual or textual element you decide to include in your photo collage can be edited so that it fits the visual style of the collage perfectly. The watermark is going to be added to all your creations if you decide to use the free version of Photovisi.

10. Adobe Spark

Price: Free, $9.99 per month for the full version

Impressing your followers on social media with the content you share won’t be difficult if you decide to create that content with Adobe Spark. There are hundreds of templates available for various kinds of social media posts, so to create a photo collage you should just pick a template. You can change the layout of the template if you want to alter its original design and you can upload images from your computer or use the Adobe Stock option. The best part is that you can apply filters to all photos you add to a photo collage and make their colors more vivid.

11. Photo Collage Maker

Price: $5.56 for a single image

Photo Collage Maker lets you choose from more than 250 photo collage templates that are suitable for virtually any purpose. The number of pictures you can include in a photo collage can vary from just two to more than 75 and it depends on the template you choose. You can also automatically desaturate all the images in a photo collage by clicking on the B&W/Color icon or change the background with a single click. Photo Collage Maker doesn’t offer any border options, so you can’t really control the spacing between the images. Downloading a 1-megapixel file from this platform is going to cost you $5.56.

---

Conclusion

Combining multiple photos or videos and making collages that are going to attract a lot of attention on social media has never been easier. Hopefully the online collage makers, we included in this article will help you create photo and video collages that are going to impress your friends and colleagues.

In fact, through multiple updates, now we made it super easy to make a collage video with Filmora. Rather than making a photo collage, why not make a video collage?

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Sometimes a single picture or a video can’t tell the entire story you’d like to share with your friends and colleagues. If you find yourself in a similar situation often, then you already know that you have to find a way to combine several still or moving images within a frame in order to tell your story properly.

Online photo and video collage makers offer a quick solution to this problem because they feature a number of collage templates that let you merge multiple videos or photos and create a visually impressive collage. Read on if you’re looking for an easy way to produce photo or video collages because in this article we are going to take you through some of the best online photo and video collage makers you can find on the Internet.

• Part 1: Best Free & Paid Online Video Collage Makers
• Part 2: Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Making Video Collages in a More Creative Way with Filmora Video Editor

Filmora now features the animated split-screen effect which will make your videos more interesting. Just drag and drop the clips that you want in the split-screen preview window.

---

You may also like:

• How to create video wall effects with Filmora
• How to create Jujutsu Kaisen TikTok Video

---

Best Online Video Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Platforms that exclusively offer video collage-making services are rare, and in most cases, you have to use a web-based video editor if you want to create video collages online.

In addition, the video editing platforms that do provide the video collage feature, offer only a limited amount of video editing tools, which is the reason why it is still better to use video editing software for PC or Mac computers if you want to make video collages professionally. However, there are still a few online destinations where you can combine several videos with ease.

1. Kapwing

Price: Free, $17 for a monthly subscription

Kapwing is undoubtedly one of the best online video editing platforms around because it offers a broad range of video editing tools. It video collage feature lets you combine GIFs, videos and photos which makes it a perfect choice for both professional social media content creators and novice video editors. The process of creating a video collage with Kapwing is remarkably easy, as you just have to upload the videos you want to combine and adjust their position on the screen. You can then enhance the colors in each video separately, use the Bring Forward and Send Backward options or fine-tune the playback speed of the videos in your collage. However, all video collages created with the free version of the platform are going to be watermarked and you must subscribe to the Pro version of Kapwing if you want to make watermark-free video collages.

2. Animoto

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start at $15 per month

Image from Internet

The huge selection of fully customizable templates Animoto offers enable you to create videos for a broad range of purposes. You simply have to decide if you want to make a new product launch video, real estate explainer video or step-based tutorial and then upload the materials you would like to use to create a new video. Animoto also lets you add text, photo, video or collage blocks in case the template you’ve selected doesn’t contain all the elements you want to feature in a video. So if you want to create video collages with Animoto you simply have to add as many collage blocks as you want and then import the footage you’d like to include in a video collage.

3. Kizoa

Price: Free, lifetime plans pricing start at $29.99

Yet another versatile online video editing platform that enables marketing professionals and video editing enthusiasts to create new videos in just a few simple steps. Kizoa’s collage maker grants you access to hundreds of templates you can customize to fit the demands of the project you’re currently working on. You can choose from still and animated templates that can be used for anything from wishing your friend happy holidays to putting together your fondest memories of the year together. However, choosing one of the available pricing plans is necessary if you want to make video collages with Kizoa on a constant basis.

4. FotoJet

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $3.33 per month

Even though FotoJet is primarily a platform for design and photo editing, it still enables its users to create video collages. However, you can only use photos to create video collages, which limits your options significantly. The process of making a new video collage is easy, as you just have to pick one of the available templates and proceed to upload the images you’d like to include in the collage you’re making. After customizing the template you can share your creations on social media, but keep in mind that the free version of the platform offers only limited capabilities.

5. VidDay

Price: pay per lenghth, start at $5 for 0-3 mins

VidDay enables you to create a new video collage in just three simple steps. You should start by specifying the occasion for which you’re creating a video, it can be anything from work anniversary to your best friend’s birthday. You will then be asked to add the dates and all other relevant information, and to upload the videos you’d like to include in the collage. The only downside is that the content you create with VidDay can’t be longer than two minutes and that you have to choose a subscription plan if you want to export your videos in 720p resolution.

---

Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid Options]

Unlike making a video collage, creating a photo collage is a much less technically demanding operation. Hence, performing this task with a web-based photo editor is much easier because the time you’ll have to spend waiting for the pictures to upload is considerably shorter than the amount of time you’ll have to spend on uploading videos. Here are some of the best online photo collage makers you can use to make awe-inspiring collages from your photos.

1. Wondershare Pix Studio

Price: Free, $5.99 per month billed yearly, $7.99 per month billed monthly.

Wondershare PixStudio is an all-in-one and powerful online graphic design maker for everyone. This online platform empowers anyone to create a beautiful design within a few steps. No professional skills required! By simply dragging and dropping the creative elements and templates, you are capable to release your imagination and convert it to stunning artwork.

2. Ribbet

Price: Free, $3.33 per month billed yearly, $6.99 per month billed monthly

Upon arriving at Ribbet’s homepage, you should click on the Create Collage option and once the collage editor window loads you can choose the template you like the most. These presets are divided into Basic, Grid, Big Photo and Jigsaw categories and once you find the one that you want to use you just have to click on it and proceed to upload the pictures from your computer or from your accounts on social media. Optionally, you can change the background color of the collage you’re making or adjust the Proportions, Spacing and other settings. Hit the Done button when ready and continue editing the photo collage you’ve created.

3. Canva

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $12.99 per month

Canva is a platform for graphic designers that offers an easy way to create visual content for social media. It also provides the opportunity for large teams of graphic designers to collaborate on projects. The platform’s photo editor features a huge collection of customizable collage templates you can use to promote different products or services. Skilled photo editors can use Canva to create authentic photo collages, since the importing photos and arranging them on a blank canvas is a straightforward process that requires a minimum amount of time. When done, you can save your photo collages to your computer, share them on social media or store them on Google Drive.

4. Photo Joiner

Price: Free

You can create a photo collage with Photo Joiner even if you have no previous experience. You just have to open the platform’s photo collage editor and then specify how many images your collage should contain. Keep in mind that Photo Joiner allows you to add the maximum of eight pictures to a photo collage, which can limit your options if you’re trying to create a collage that contains ten or more photos. You can adjust the size and the aspect ratio for each image you add to a collage and you can also change the size and the color of the picture borders.

5. piZAP

Price: Free trial available, $2.99 per month billed annually, $2.99 per month billed annually

The large selection of templates and a broad spectrum of photo editing features make piZAP one of the best online collage makers. Furthermore, this online photo editor features a built-in library of stock images, so that you can make photo collages even if you don’t have your own material. There are a lot of different photo collage templates available that enable you to make a new photo collage effortlessly.

The piZAP platform is an excellent alternative to pricy photo editing software products because it enables its users to manipulate images at a professional level. Nonetheless, you must create an account on this platform and choose a subscription plan before you can start editing your photos with this online tool.

6. Fotor

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $8.99 per month

After signing into your account on the Fotor platform you will be able to choose from Classic Collage, Artistic Collage, Funky Collage, and Photo Stitching categories. Clicking on either of these categories enables you to access a number of different templates you can customize in accordance with your needs. The maximum number of photos you can include in a classic photo collage is limited to just ten. You’ll also have the option to resize the pictures, fine-tune the borders or change the color and the texture of the template you selected. Some templates from each of the collage categories are going to be watermarked if you are using the free version of Fotor.

7. PhotoCollage

Price: Free

This is a simple and yet a powerful photo collage maker that lets you arrange your images freely. You can just drag and drop the pictures you’d like to use in a photo collage from a folder on your computer and arrange them manually. The Template folder offers a huge collection of photo collage templates, which enables you to create a new collage in just a few minutes. The PhotoCollage platform also has the text option in case you want to add a text layer to collage you’re making. The Shape and Size, Border or Filters settings can all be used to enhance a collage and make it more visually appealing.

8. PicMonkey

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start from $7.99 per month

PicMonkey has been among the best design and photo editing platforms for nearly a decade. That is why it is hardly surprising that creating a collage with PicMonkey is a quick and simple process. You can choose from hundreds of collage templates you can easily customize, so you just have to select the one you like and decide whether you want to keep the images that are already included in the template or replace them with the pictures you created. Keep in mind that you must select a subscription plan in order to be able to save or share your photo collages.

9. Photovisi

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $4.99 per month

Making a new photo collage with Photovisi is a fun process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. Start by browsing through the online photo collage maker’s library of templates, and click on the one that you want to use. Once the template opens you can upload the pictures from your computer or from Facebook and Instagram. You’ll also be able to add new shapes and text layers to the template or change its background. Each visual or textual element you decide to include in your photo collage can be edited so that it fits the visual style of the collage perfectly. The watermark is going to be added to all your creations if you decide to use the free version of Photovisi.

10. Adobe Spark

Price: Free, $9.99 per month for the full version

Impressing your followers on social media with the content you share won’t be difficult if you decide to create that content with Adobe Spark. There are hundreds of templates available for various kinds of social media posts, so to create a photo collage you should just pick a template. You can change the layout of the template if you want to alter its original design and you can upload images from your computer or use the Adobe Stock option. The best part is that you can apply filters to all photos you add to a photo collage and make their colors more vivid.

11. Photo Collage Maker

Price: $5.56 for a single image

Photo Collage Maker lets you choose from more than 250 photo collage templates that are suitable for virtually any purpose. The number of pictures you can include in a photo collage can vary from just two to more than 75 and it depends on the template you choose. You can also automatically desaturate all the images in a photo collage by clicking on the B&W/Color icon or change the background with a single click. Photo Collage Maker doesn’t offer any border options, so you can’t really control the spacing between the images. Downloading a 1-megapixel file from this platform is going to cost you $5.56.

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Conclusion

Combining multiple photos or videos and making collages that are going to attract a lot of attention on social media has never been easier. Hopefully the online collage makers, we included in this article will help you create photo and video collages that are going to impress your friends and colleagues.

In fact, through multiple updates, now we made it super easy to make a collage video with Filmora. Rather than making a photo collage, why not make a video collage?

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Sometimes a single picture or a video can’t tell the entire story you’d like to share with your friends and colleagues. If you find yourself in a similar situation often, then you already know that you have to find a way to combine several still or moving images within a frame in order to tell your story properly.

Online photo and video collage makers offer a quick solution to this problem because they feature a number of collage templates that let you merge multiple videos or photos and create a visually impressive collage. Read on if you’re looking for an easy way to produce photo or video collages because in this article we are going to take you through some of the best online photo and video collage makers you can find on the Internet.

• Part 1: Best Free & Paid Online Video Collage Makers
• Part 2: Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Making Video Collages in a More Creative Way with Filmora Video Editor

Filmora now features the animated split-screen effect which will make your videos more interesting. Just drag and drop the clips that you want in the split-screen preview window.

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You may also like:

• How to create video wall effects with Filmora
• How to create Jujutsu Kaisen TikTok Video

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Best Online Video Collage Makers [Free & Paid]

Platforms that exclusively offer video collage-making services are rare, and in most cases, you have to use a web-based video editor if you want to create video collages online.

In addition, the video editing platforms that do provide the video collage feature, offer only a limited amount of video editing tools, which is the reason why it is still better to use video editing software for PC or Mac computers if you want to make video collages professionally. However, there are still a few online destinations where you can combine several videos with ease.

1. Kapwing

Price: Free, $17 for a monthly subscription

Kapwing is undoubtedly one of the best online video editing platforms around because it offers a broad range of video editing tools. It video collage feature lets you combine GIFs, videos and photos which makes it a perfect choice for both professional social media content creators and novice video editors. The process of creating a video collage with Kapwing is remarkably easy, as you just have to upload the videos you want to combine and adjust their position on the screen. You can then enhance the colors in each video separately, use the Bring Forward and Send Backward options or fine-tune the playback speed of the videos in your collage. However, all video collages created with the free version of the platform are going to be watermarked and you must subscribe to the Pro version of Kapwing if you want to make watermark-free video collages.

2. Animoto

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start at $15 per month

Image from Internet

The huge selection of fully customizable templates Animoto offers enable you to create videos for a broad range of purposes. You simply have to decide if you want to make a new product launch video, real estate explainer video or step-based tutorial and then upload the materials you would like to use to create a new video. Animoto also lets you add text, photo, video or collage blocks in case the template you’ve selected doesn’t contain all the elements you want to feature in a video. So if you want to create video collages with Animoto you simply have to add as many collage blocks as you want and then import the footage you’d like to include in a video collage.

3. Kizoa

Price: Free, lifetime plans pricing start at $29.99

Yet another versatile online video editing platform that enables marketing professionals and video editing enthusiasts to create new videos in just a few simple steps. Kizoa’s collage maker grants you access to hundreds of templates you can customize to fit the demands of the project you’re currently working on. You can choose from still and animated templates that can be used for anything from wishing your friend happy holidays to putting together your fondest memories of the year together. However, choosing one of the available pricing plans is necessary if you want to make video collages with Kizoa on a constant basis.

4. FotoJet

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $3.33 per month

Even though FotoJet is primarily a platform for design and photo editing, it still enables its users to create video collages. However, you can only use photos to create video collages, which limits your options significantly. The process of making a new video collage is easy, as you just have to pick one of the available templates and proceed to upload the images you’d like to include in the collage you’re making. After customizing the template you can share your creations on social media, but keep in mind that the free version of the platform offers only limited capabilities.

5. VidDay

Price: pay per lenghth, start at $5 for 0-3 mins

VidDay enables you to create a new video collage in just three simple steps. You should start by specifying the occasion for which you’re creating a video, it can be anything from work anniversary to your best friend’s birthday. You will then be asked to add the dates and all other relevant information, and to upload the videos you’d like to include in the collage. The only downside is that the content you create with VidDay can’t be longer than two minutes and that you have to choose a subscription plan if you want to export your videos in 720p resolution.

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Best Online Photo Collage Makers [Free & Paid Options]

Unlike making a video collage, creating a photo collage is a much less technically demanding operation. Hence, performing this task with a web-based photo editor is much easier because the time you’ll have to spend waiting for the pictures to upload is considerably shorter than the amount of time you’ll have to spend on uploading videos. Here are some of the best online photo collage makers you can use to make awe-inspiring collages from your photos.

1. Wondershare Pix Studio

Price: Free, $5.99 per month billed yearly, $7.99 per month billed monthly.

Wondershare PixStudio is an all-in-one and powerful online graphic design maker for everyone. This online platform empowers anyone to create a beautiful design within a few steps. No professional skills required! By simply dragging and dropping the creative elements and templates, you are capable to release your imagination and convert it to stunning artwork.

2. Ribbet

Price: Free, $3.33 per month billed yearly, $6.99 per month billed monthly

Upon arriving at Ribbet’s homepage, you should click on the Create Collage option and once the collage editor window loads you can choose the template you like the most. These presets are divided into Basic, Grid, Big Photo and Jigsaw categories and once you find the one that you want to use you just have to click on it and proceed to upload the pictures from your computer or from your accounts on social media. Optionally, you can change the background color of the collage you’re making or adjust the Proportions, Spacing and other settings. Hit the Done button when ready and continue editing the photo collage you’ve created.

3. Canva

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $12.99 per month

Canva is a platform for graphic designers that offers an easy way to create visual content for social media. It also provides the opportunity for large teams of graphic designers to collaborate on projects. The platform’s photo editor features a huge collection of customizable collage templates you can use to promote different products or services. Skilled photo editors can use Canva to create authentic photo collages, since the importing photos and arranging them on a blank canvas is a straightforward process that requires a minimum amount of time. When done, you can save your photo collages to your computer, share them on social media or store them on Google Drive.

4. Photo Joiner

Price: Free

You can create a photo collage with Photo Joiner even if you have no previous experience. You just have to open the platform’s photo collage editor and then specify how many images your collage should contain. Keep in mind that Photo Joiner allows you to add the maximum of eight pictures to a photo collage, which can limit your options if you’re trying to create a collage that contains ten or more photos. You can adjust the size and the aspect ratio for each image you add to a collage and you can also change the size and the color of the picture borders.

5. piZAP

Price: Free trial available, $2.99 per month billed annually, $2.99 per month billed annually

The large selection of templates and a broad spectrum of photo editing features make piZAP one of the best online collage makers. Furthermore, this online photo editor features a built-in library of stock images, so that you can make photo collages even if you don’t have your own material. There are a lot of different photo collage templates available that enable you to make a new photo collage effortlessly.

The piZAP platform is an excellent alternative to pricy photo editing software products because it enables its users to manipulate images at a professional level. Nonetheless, you must create an account on this platform and choose a subscription plan before you can start editing your photos with this online tool.

6. Fotor

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $8.99 per month

After signing into your account on the Fotor platform you will be able to choose from Classic Collage, Artistic Collage, Funky Collage, and Photo Stitching categories. Clicking on either of these categories enables you to access a number of different templates you can customize in accordance with your needs. The maximum number of photos you can include in a classic photo collage is limited to just ten. You’ll also have the option to resize the pictures, fine-tune the borders or change the color and the texture of the template you selected. Some templates from each of the collage categories are going to be watermarked if you are using the free version of Fotor.

7. PhotoCollage

Price: Free

This is a simple and yet a powerful photo collage maker that lets you arrange your images freely. You can just drag and drop the pictures you’d like to use in a photo collage from a folder on your computer and arrange them manually. The Template folder offers a huge collection of photo collage templates, which enables you to create a new collage in just a few minutes. The PhotoCollage platform also has the text option in case you want to add a text layer to collage you’re making. The Shape and Size, Border or Filters settings can all be used to enhance a collage and make it more visually appealing.

8. PicMonkey

Price: Free trial available, pricing plans start from $7.99 per month

PicMonkey has been among the best design and photo editing platforms for nearly a decade. That is why it is hardly surprising that creating a collage with PicMonkey is a quick and simple process. You can choose from hundreds of collage templates you can easily customize, so you just have to select the one you like and decide whether you want to keep the images that are already included in the template or replace them with the pictures you created. Keep in mind that you must select a subscription plan in order to be able to save or share your photo collages.

9. Photovisi

Price: Free, pricing plans start at $4.99 per month

Making a new photo collage with Photovisi is a fun process that can be completed in just a few easy steps. Start by browsing through the online photo collage maker’s library of templates, and click on the one that you want to use. Once the template opens you can upload the pictures from your computer or from Facebook and Instagram. You’ll also be able to add new shapes and text layers to the template or change its background. Each visual or textual element you decide to include in your photo collage can be edited so that it fits the visual style of the collage perfectly. The watermark is going to be added to all your creations if you decide to use the free version of Photovisi.

10. Adobe Spark

Price: Free, $9.99 per month for the full version

Impressing your followers on social media with the content you share won’t be difficult if you decide to create that content with Adobe Spark. There are hundreds of templates available for various kinds of social media posts, so to create a photo collage you should just pick a template. You can change the layout of the template if you want to alter its original design and you can upload images from your computer or use the Adobe Stock option. The best part is that you can apply filters to all photos you add to a photo collage and make their colors more vivid.

11. Photo Collage Maker

Price: $5.56 for a single image

Photo Collage Maker lets you choose from more than 250 photo collage templates that are suitable for virtually any purpose. The number of pictures you can include in a photo collage can vary from just two to more than 75 and it depends on the template you choose. You can also automatically desaturate all the images in a photo collage by clicking on the B&W/Color icon or change the background with a single click. Photo Collage Maker doesn’t offer any border options, so you can’t really control the spacing between the images. Downloading a 1-megapixel file from this platform is going to cost you $5.56.

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Conclusion

Combining multiple photos or videos and making collages that are going to attract a lot of attention on social media has never been easier. Hopefully the online collage makers, we included in this article will help you create photo and video collages that are going to impress your friends and colleagues.

In fact, through multiple updates, now we made it super easy to make a collage video with Filmora. Rather than making a photo collage, why not make a video collage?

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

From Chrome OS to Linux: A Beginner’s Guide to Installation (2023 Edition)

How to Install Linux on Chromebook

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chromebooks are an excellent choice for educational institutions or businesses that require their employees to have constant access to the Internet. Even though these devices are a perfect tool that can accompany you on business trips and enable you to answer important emails or have access to crucial information stored on the cloud, performing more demanding tasks, like video editing, is still a challenge. However, it is far from impossible, although you may have to take a few extra steps before running a video editing software on your Chromebook.

Chrome OS is a Linux based environment and for that reason, Chromebook owners who would like to use professional editing software on their Chromebooks can install a Linux OS that will enable them to use programs such as Lightworks that are perfectly suited for high-end video editing. There are two different ways to install Linux on a Chromebook, you can either do it using Gallium OS or ChrUbuntu or in a Chroot environment using Crouton. Each of these methods is relatively easy and we will take you through the process step by step. Here’s how you can install Linux on your Chromebook.

• Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook
• Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu
• Part 4: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software

Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook

The first step of the process of installing the Linux OS is the decision itself, and you need to have all the necessary information before you decide to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook.

• Make sure that the version of Chromebook you have is capable of supporting a Linux OS. Your device must be equipped with an ARM or Intel chip in order to be able to run the version of Linux OS you want to install. Although both chips will allow you to go through the process, running closed source software such the Steam is only possible with Intel chips.
• Regardless of which method of installing Linux OS you choose, you will have to switch to the Developer Mode, a special built-in function that allows you to install the unapproved operating system, among other things.
• Now that you are aware of the requirements and risks, you will have to backup all the files you have on your Chromebook because once you switch to the Developer Mode all the information stored locally will be erased. You can save the files on another computer or on the cloud depending on how much data you need to move and which one is more convenient for you.

Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook

After you have stored all your data safely, your Chromebook is ready for the beginning of the installation process of the secondary operating system. You will have to perform a series of actions that will allow you to start the installation, starting from accessing the Developer Mode.

1. Acessing the developer mode

The first step of the process is to reboot your system, while your Chromebook is on. In order to do so hold Escape and Refresh keys on your keyboard and then hit the power button. Once your device is back online you will find yourself in the recovery mode, and you will see a message telling you to insert a recovery disc. Instead of inserting the disc, hold Ctrl+D and wait for OS verification menu to appear on the screen. At this point, if you are still having second thoughts about this process, you can hit the spacebar to return to recovery mode, or press Enter to proceed. Hitting Enter will delete all the data stored on your device and take you into the Developer Mode. Once your Chromebook lets you know that you are now in the Developer Mode, reboot the system and install a fresh version of the Chrome OS. Insert your login information and follow the instructions until you are looking at the Chrome OS desktop.

2. Installing Chroot

At this stage of the process, your Chromebook is ready for the installation of the Crouton environment. Crouton is a series of scripts that makes running a Linux OS much easier, especially for inexperienced users. In order to download Crouton, go to GitHub and find the download link, detailed instructions or extensions that can add more functionality to your OS. Once the installation file or files are in the Download folder, your next step is to access the Chromebook’s terminal a feature called ‘Crosh’. The fastest way to do this is to hold CTRL + ALT keys and then hit the T key. This action will cause the Chrome window to appear on the screen, and you will need to type the ‘shell’ command without using quotation marks. Afterwards, enter the following command: ‘sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce’ and if you want to install extensions you will have to add ‘xfce,extension’ command at the end.

Press the Enter key and wait for the system to start setting up the Chroot. This process may take a while, so it is important to be patient, but more importantly, do not interfere with it in any way. Installation of your secondary OS is now on the way, and you may be asked to insert your login data, like your Gmail username and password. Wait patiently until the process is over and then return to shell and enter this command: ‘sudo enter-chroot startxfce4’. Your screen will go black for a while, but after the black screen is gone your Chromebook will be in the freshly installed Linux OS.

3. Optimizing your new OS

You may have to optimize your new OS in order to improve the experience of using it. Enabling your keyboard’s brightness and volume keys inside the new OS can be done easily by holding CTRL+ALT+T and then typing shell once you’ve accessed Chrome OS’s shell and hit Enter. Issue the following command: ‘sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton-r precise-t keyboard–u’ and then press Enter again. Removing the screen saver or installing more extensions may also be a good way to enable more options in the new OS. Most importantly, you can now download and install the video editing software you want to use for editing your footage.

4. Remove Chroot from your Chromebook

If for some reason you want to uninstall Linux from your Chromebook, simply reboot the system and press the spacebar when the ‘OS verification is off’ message appears on the screen. In this manner, you will exit the Developer Mode and all locally stored data, including all installed environments, will be deleted.

Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu

An alternative option is available for Chromebook users that have Intel based devices like recently released Haswell models. The ChrUbuntu can be installed on the USB stick or external hard-drive or directly to the local memory of your Chromebook. Even though ARM-based machines can also use ChrUbuntu it isn’t advisable because they may perform poorly due to slower processor speeds and less RAM power. Unlike Chroot, ChrUbuntu will not allow you to switch between operating systems without a reboot, and if the system is stored locally, you may need to go through the full system recovery.

1. Preparation for the installation

Like with the previous method you will have to go into the Developer Mode and make sure that you have access to a WiFi connection. When you are asked to provide your login details, instead of entering them press Ctrl+Alt+Forward and then type ‘chronos’ and press Enter. The next step will require you to issue the following command: ‘curl -L -O http://goo.gl/9sgchs ; sudo bash 9sgchs’ and then once more hit Enter. Again press Enter after the information about the installation is displayed on the screen and then you will be asked to decide how much space you want to allocate for Linux installation. Experts say that 9GB is the upper limit. After you’ve made your choice press Enter.

2. Installing ChrUbuntu

Once the partitioning of your hard-drive is completed, you will have to repeat the first several steps from typing ‘chronos’ to pressing enter when information about the installation is displayed on the screen. The installation process is now in progress and you will be occasionally asked to select a few settings, make sure you always click on default. At the end of the installation process, you will have to choose the location where GRUB should be installed, please select /dev/sda, because the failure to do so may interrupt the installation.

Once the installation is completed, restart your Chromebook to finalize the process, and when you see the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification press Ctrl+L to access Linux or Ctrl+D boot into Chrome OS.

3. Uninstall ChrUbuntu

Removing ChrUbuntu is a relatively painless process that can be completed with just a few simple commands. If the OS is stored locally the only way to erase it is to perform a full system recovery. While all your data located on the cloud will re-sync with your Chromebook, the data stored locally will be deleted, which is why it is important to backup all the important files before starting a system recovery process. The fastest and easiest way to perform a system recovery is by creating a recovery disk from your device. Insert ‘chrome://imageburner’ in your browser’s address bar, and carefully read and follow the instructions.

This Linux removal method will also require you to have a USB stick with a minimum of 4GB of storage space. After you created the disk, you can go into the Recovery Mode, by holding Esc and Refresh buttons simultaneously and then pressing the Power button. In the Recovery Mode, you will be asked to insert the recovery disk and the process will be on the way.

Part 4: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using Gallium OS

If neither Chroot nor ChrUbuntu work for you, using Gallium OS may be the right choice. The Gallium is Xbuntu-based OS that is equipped with touchpad mouse drivers among other advantages it offers over other operating systems. The installation process isn’t complicated, although it may require more effort than installing Crouton.

1. Preparation for the installation

In order to be aware of all the preparation steps, you need to take, you must first find out your device’s Hardware ID number and you can obtain this information by navigating to Chrome://System, Hardware Class within the Chrome OS. Hardware Compatibility page will provide the information regarding the CPU’s family, which can be crucial for the OS’ performance. You can run the installation either from an ISO image on an external USB drive or from the Chrome OS command line using Chrx. We will describe how to install Gallium OS from the Chrome OS command line because the other option doesn’t allow you to dual-boot your Chromebook.

2. Enabling the Legacy Mode

Like previously described, enter the Developer Mode and when the ‘ OS verification is OFF’ notification appears on the screen proceed to enable the Legacy Mode. You can do this by holding CTRL+D keys to enable the Chrome OS to boot in the Developer Mode. After you’ve successfully made this step, press CTRl+ALT+T to access the ‘Crosh’ terminal and then type ‘shell’. At the ‘chronos/localhost/$ issue the following command: ‘sudo crossystem dev_boot_legacy=1’. Update and install all the necessary firmware by running the Firmware Utility Script.

3. Installation process

If you choose to install Gallium OS through Chrome OS command line using Chrx that will enable you to dual-boot your Chromebook, you should start by booting the device into Chrome OS and configuring networking. The next step you’ll need to take is switching to a virtual terminal by holding Ctrl+Alt+F2, and then you should log in as user chronos without a password. Once you’ve completed this step issue the following command: ‘curl -O https://chrx.org/go && sh go’ and follow the on-screen instructions to repartition your hard-drive and install the Gallium OS. Once the installation is over reboot the device and press Ctrl+L when the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification appears on the screen to boot Gallium OS or hold Ctrl+D to access Chrome OS. After the Gallium OS is successfully installed on your Chromebook you can start using programs such as Skype or Lightworks.

Which Method is the Best?

Each of the options to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook we described has its advantages and disadvantages. It is our opinion that the Crouton method is the easiest and the fastest. Furthermore, this method enables you to switch between your primary and secondary OS without the need to reboot the device and the Downloads folder makes working in both environments much easier.

On the other hand, other methods require more knowledge about the Linux OS installation process and switching between OS’ is not that simple. If you are looking for an easy way to dual-boot your Chromebook that best way to do it is to install Linux as a Chroot using Crouton.

Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software: Lightworks

Price: $24.99/month, although free versions of the software are also available.

What we like: A powerful video and audio editor perfectly suited for the production of professional video content.

What we don’t like: The software isn’t easy to use and inexperienced editors will find it difficult to use at first.

Lightworks Resolve may not be as popular as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, but that doesn’t mean that this video editing software isn’t as capable as its more popular counterparts.

The software is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux OS, which makes it a perfect choice for Chromebook users that have a Linux OS installed on their devices. Lightworks features literally every editing tool imaginable and for that reason, it is a perfect choice for editing videos you would like to upload to Vimeo or YouTube or high-end professional projects. This editing software offers plenty of transitions and visual effects that will help its users to create seamless jumps between shots and visually impressive videos.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chromebooks are an excellent choice for educational institutions or businesses that require their employees to have constant access to the Internet. Even though these devices are a perfect tool that can accompany you on business trips and enable you to answer important emails or have access to crucial information stored on the cloud, performing more demanding tasks, like video editing, is still a challenge. However, it is far from impossible, although you may have to take a few extra steps before running a video editing software on your Chromebook.

Chrome OS is a Linux based environment and for that reason, Chromebook owners who would like to use professional editing software on their Chromebooks can install a Linux OS that will enable them to use programs such as Lightworks that are perfectly suited for high-end video editing. There are two different ways to install Linux on a Chromebook, you can either do it using Gallium OS or ChrUbuntu or in a Chroot environment using Crouton. Each of these methods is relatively easy and we will take you through the process step by step. Here’s how you can install Linux on your Chromebook.

• Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook
• Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu
• Part 4: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software

Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook

The first step of the process of installing the Linux OS is the decision itself, and you need to have all the necessary information before you decide to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook.

• Make sure that the version of Chromebook you have is capable of supporting a Linux OS. Your device must be equipped with an ARM or Intel chip in order to be able to run the version of Linux OS you want to install. Although both chips will allow you to go through the process, running closed source software such the Steam is only possible with Intel chips.
• Regardless of which method of installing Linux OS you choose, you will have to switch to the Developer Mode, a special built-in function that allows you to install the unapproved operating system, among other things.
• Now that you are aware of the requirements and risks, you will have to backup all the files you have on your Chromebook because once you switch to the Developer Mode all the information stored locally will be erased. You can save the files on another computer or on the cloud depending on how much data you need to move and which one is more convenient for you.

Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook

After you have stored all your data safely, your Chromebook is ready for the beginning of the installation process of the secondary operating system. You will have to perform a series of actions that will allow you to start the installation, starting from accessing the Developer Mode.

1. Acessing the developer mode

The first step of the process is to reboot your system, while your Chromebook is on. In order to do so hold Escape and Refresh keys on your keyboard and then hit the power button. Once your device is back online you will find yourself in the recovery mode, and you will see a message telling you to insert a recovery disc. Instead of inserting the disc, hold Ctrl+D and wait for OS verification menu to appear on the screen. At this point, if you are still having second thoughts about this process, you can hit the spacebar to return to recovery mode, or press Enter to proceed. Hitting Enter will delete all the data stored on your device and take you into the Developer Mode. Once your Chromebook lets you know that you are now in the Developer Mode, reboot the system and install a fresh version of the Chrome OS. Insert your login information and follow the instructions until you are looking at the Chrome OS desktop.

2. Installing Chroot

At this stage of the process, your Chromebook is ready for the installation of the Crouton environment. Crouton is a series of scripts that makes running a Linux OS much easier, especially for inexperienced users. In order to download Crouton, go to GitHub and find the download link, detailed instructions or extensions that can add more functionality to your OS. Once the installation file or files are in the Download folder, your next step is to access the Chromebook’s terminal a feature called ‘Crosh’. The fastest way to do this is to hold CTRL + ALT keys and then hit the T key. This action will cause the Chrome window to appear on the screen, and you will need to type the ‘shell’ command without using quotation marks. Afterwards, enter the following command: ‘sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce’ and if you want to install extensions you will have to add ‘xfce,extension’ command at the end.

Press the Enter key and wait for the system to start setting up the Chroot. This process may take a while, so it is important to be patient, but more importantly, do not interfere with it in any way. Installation of your secondary OS is now on the way, and you may be asked to insert your login data, like your Gmail username and password. Wait patiently until the process is over and then return to shell and enter this command: ‘sudo enter-chroot startxfce4’. Your screen will go black for a while, but after the black screen is gone your Chromebook will be in the freshly installed Linux OS.

3. Optimizing your new OS

You may have to optimize your new OS in order to improve the experience of using it. Enabling your keyboard’s brightness and volume keys inside the new OS can be done easily by holding CTRL+ALT+T and then typing shell once you’ve accessed Chrome OS’s shell and hit Enter. Issue the following command: ‘sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton-r precise-t keyboard–u’ and then press Enter again. Removing the screen saver or installing more extensions may also be a good way to enable more options in the new OS. Most importantly, you can now download and install the video editing software you want to use for editing your footage.

4. Remove Chroot from your Chromebook

If for some reason you want to uninstall Linux from your Chromebook, simply reboot the system and press the spacebar when the ‘OS verification is off’ message appears on the screen. In this manner, you will exit the Developer Mode and all locally stored data, including all installed environments, will be deleted.

Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu

An alternative option is available for Chromebook users that have Intel based devices like recently released Haswell models. The ChrUbuntu can be installed on the USB stick or external hard-drive or directly to the local memory of your Chromebook. Even though ARM-based machines can also use ChrUbuntu it isn’t advisable because they may perform poorly due to slower processor speeds and less RAM power. Unlike Chroot, ChrUbuntu will not allow you to switch between operating systems without a reboot, and if the system is stored locally, you may need to go through the full system recovery.

1. Preparation for the installation

Like with the previous method you will have to go into the Developer Mode and make sure that you have access to a WiFi connection. When you are asked to provide your login details, instead of entering them press Ctrl+Alt+Forward and then type ‘chronos’ and press Enter. The next step will require you to issue the following command: ‘curl -L -O http://goo.gl/9sgchs ; sudo bash 9sgchs’ and then once more hit Enter. Again press Enter after the information about the installation is displayed on the screen and then you will be asked to decide how much space you want to allocate for Linux installation. Experts say that 9GB is the upper limit. After you’ve made your choice press Enter.

2. Installing ChrUbuntu

Once the partitioning of your hard-drive is completed, you will have to repeat the first several steps from typing ‘chronos’ to pressing enter when information about the installation is displayed on the screen. The installation process is now in progress and you will be occasionally asked to select a few settings, make sure you always click on default. At the end of the installation process, you will have to choose the location where GRUB should be installed, please select /dev/sda, because the failure to do so may interrupt the installation.

Once the installation is completed, restart your Chromebook to finalize the process, and when you see the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification press Ctrl+L to access Linux or Ctrl+D boot into Chrome OS.

3. Uninstall ChrUbuntu

Removing ChrUbuntu is a relatively painless process that can be completed with just a few simple commands. If the OS is stored locally the only way to erase it is to perform a full system recovery. While all your data located on the cloud will re-sync with your Chromebook, the data stored locally will be deleted, which is why it is important to backup all the important files before starting a system recovery process. The fastest and easiest way to perform a system recovery is by creating a recovery disk from your device. Insert ‘chrome://imageburner’ in your browser’s address bar, and carefully read and follow the instructions.

This Linux removal method will also require you to have a USB stick with a minimum of 4GB of storage space. After you created the disk, you can go into the Recovery Mode, by holding Esc and Refresh buttons simultaneously and then pressing the Power button. In the Recovery Mode, you will be asked to insert the recovery disk and the process will be on the way.

Part 4: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using Gallium OS

If neither Chroot nor ChrUbuntu work for you, using Gallium OS may be the right choice. The Gallium is Xbuntu-based OS that is equipped with touchpad mouse drivers among other advantages it offers over other operating systems. The installation process isn’t complicated, although it may require more effort than installing Crouton.

1. Preparation for the installation

In order to be aware of all the preparation steps, you need to take, you must first find out your device’s Hardware ID number and you can obtain this information by navigating to Chrome://System, Hardware Class within the Chrome OS. Hardware Compatibility page will provide the information regarding the CPU’s family, which can be crucial for the OS’ performance. You can run the installation either from an ISO image on an external USB drive or from the Chrome OS command line using Chrx. We will describe how to install Gallium OS from the Chrome OS command line because the other option doesn’t allow you to dual-boot your Chromebook.

2. Enabling the Legacy Mode

Like previously described, enter the Developer Mode and when the ‘ OS verification is OFF’ notification appears on the screen proceed to enable the Legacy Mode. You can do this by holding CTRL+D keys to enable the Chrome OS to boot in the Developer Mode. After you’ve successfully made this step, press CTRl+ALT+T to access the ‘Crosh’ terminal and then type ‘shell’. At the ‘chronos/localhost/$ issue the following command: ‘sudo crossystem dev_boot_legacy=1’. Update and install all the necessary firmware by running the Firmware Utility Script.

3. Installation process

If you choose to install Gallium OS through Chrome OS command line using Chrx that will enable you to dual-boot your Chromebook, you should start by booting the device into Chrome OS and configuring networking. The next step you’ll need to take is switching to a virtual terminal by holding Ctrl+Alt+F2, and then you should log in as user chronos without a password. Once you’ve completed this step issue the following command: ‘curl -O https://chrx.org/go && sh go’ and follow the on-screen instructions to repartition your hard-drive and install the Gallium OS. Once the installation is over reboot the device and press Ctrl+L when the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification appears on the screen to boot Gallium OS or hold Ctrl+D to access Chrome OS. After the Gallium OS is successfully installed on your Chromebook you can start using programs such as Skype or Lightworks.

Which Method is the Best?

Each of the options to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook we described has its advantages and disadvantages. It is our opinion that the Crouton method is the easiest and the fastest. Furthermore, this method enables you to switch between your primary and secondary OS without the need to reboot the device and the Downloads folder makes working in both environments much easier.

On the other hand, other methods require more knowledge about the Linux OS installation process and switching between OS’ is not that simple. If you are looking for an easy way to dual-boot your Chromebook that best way to do it is to install Linux as a Chroot using Crouton.

Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software: Lightworks

Price: $24.99/month, although free versions of the software are also available.

What we like: A powerful video and audio editor perfectly suited for the production of professional video content.

What we don’t like: The software isn’t easy to use and inexperienced editors will find it difficult to use at first.

Lightworks Resolve may not be as popular as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, but that doesn’t mean that this video editing software isn’t as capable as its more popular counterparts.

The software is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux OS, which makes it a perfect choice for Chromebook users that have a Linux OS installed on their devices. Lightworks features literally every editing tool imaginable and for that reason, it is a perfect choice for editing videos you would like to upload to Vimeo or YouTube or high-end professional projects. This editing software offers plenty of transitions and visual effects that will help its users to create seamless jumps between shots and visually impressive videos.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chromebooks are an excellent choice for educational institutions or businesses that require their employees to have constant access to the Internet. Even though these devices are a perfect tool that can accompany you on business trips and enable you to answer important emails or have access to crucial information stored on the cloud, performing more demanding tasks, like video editing, is still a challenge. However, it is far from impossible, although you may have to take a few extra steps before running a video editing software on your Chromebook.

Chrome OS is a Linux based environment and for that reason, Chromebook owners who would like to use professional editing software on their Chromebooks can install a Linux OS that will enable them to use programs such as Lightworks that are perfectly suited for high-end video editing. There are two different ways to install Linux on a Chromebook, you can either do it using Gallium OS or ChrUbuntu or in a Chroot environment using Crouton. Each of these methods is relatively easy and we will take you through the process step by step. Here’s how you can install Linux on your Chromebook.

• Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook
• Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu
• Part 4: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software

Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook

The first step of the process of installing the Linux OS is the decision itself, and you need to have all the necessary information before you decide to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook.

• Make sure that the version of Chromebook you have is capable of supporting a Linux OS. Your device must be equipped with an ARM or Intel chip in order to be able to run the version of Linux OS you want to install. Although both chips will allow you to go through the process, running closed source software such the Steam is only possible with Intel chips.
• Regardless of which method of installing Linux OS you choose, you will have to switch to the Developer Mode, a special built-in function that allows you to install the unapproved operating system, among other things.
• Now that you are aware of the requirements and risks, you will have to backup all the files you have on your Chromebook because once you switch to the Developer Mode all the information stored locally will be erased. You can save the files on another computer or on the cloud depending on how much data you need to move and which one is more convenient for you.

Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook

After you have stored all your data safely, your Chromebook is ready for the beginning of the installation process of the secondary operating system. You will have to perform a series of actions that will allow you to start the installation, starting from accessing the Developer Mode.

1. Acessing the developer mode

The first step of the process is to reboot your system, while your Chromebook is on. In order to do so hold Escape and Refresh keys on your keyboard and then hit the power button. Once your device is back online you will find yourself in the recovery mode, and you will see a message telling you to insert a recovery disc. Instead of inserting the disc, hold Ctrl+D and wait for OS verification menu to appear on the screen. At this point, if you are still having second thoughts about this process, you can hit the spacebar to return to recovery mode, or press Enter to proceed. Hitting Enter will delete all the data stored on your device and take you into the Developer Mode. Once your Chromebook lets you know that you are now in the Developer Mode, reboot the system and install a fresh version of the Chrome OS. Insert your login information and follow the instructions until you are looking at the Chrome OS desktop.

2. Installing Chroot

At this stage of the process, your Chromebook is ready for the installation of the Crouton environment. Crouton is a series of scripts that makes running a Linux OS much easier, especially for inexperienced users. In order to download Crouton, go to GitHub and find the download link, detailed instructions or extensions that can add more functionality to your OS. Once the installation file or files are in the Download folder, your next step is to access the Chromebook’s terminal a feature called ‘Crosh’. The fastest way to do this is to hold CTRL + ALT keys and then hit the T key. This action will cause the Chrome window to appear on the screen, and you will need to type the ‘shell’ command without using quotation marks. Afterwards, enter the following command: ‘sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce’ and if you want to install extensions you will have to add ‘xfce,extension’ command at the end.

Press the Enter key and wait for the system to start setting up the Chroot. This process may take a while, so it is important to be patient, but more importantly, do not interfere with it in any way. Installation of your secondary OS is now on the way, and you may be asked to insert your login data, like your Gmail username and password. Wait patiently until the process is over and then return to shell and enter this command: ‘sudo enter-chroot startxfce4’. Your screen will go black for a while, but after the black screen is gone your Chromebook will be in the freshly installed Linux OS.

3. Optimizing your new OS

You may have to optimize your new OS in order to improve the experience of using it. Enabling your keyboard’s brightness and volume keys inside the new OS can be done easily by holding CTRL+ALT+T and then typing shell once you’ve accessed Chrome OS’s shell and hit Enter. Issue the following command: ‘sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton-r precise-t keyboard–u’ and then press Enter again. Removing the screen saver or installing more extensions may also be a good way to enable more options in the new OS. Most importantly, you can now download and install the video editing software you want to use for editing your footage.

4. Remove Chroot from your Chromebook

If for some reason you want to uninstall Linux from your Chromebook, simply reboot the system and press the spacebar when the ‘OS verification is off’ message appears on the screen. In this manner, you will exit the Developer Mode and all locally stored data, including all installed environments, will be deleted.

Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu

An alternative option is available for Chromebook users that have Intel based devices like recently released Haswell models. The ChrUbuntu can be installed on the USB stick or external hard-drive or directly to the local memory of your Chromebook. Even though ARM-based machines can also use ChrUbuntu it isn’t advisable because they may perform poorly due to slower processor speeds and less RAM power. Unlike Chroot, ChrUbuntu will not allow you to switch between operating systems without a reboot, and if the system is stored locally, you may need to go through the full system recovery.

1. Preparation for the installation

Like with the previous method you will have to go into the Developer Mode and make sure that you have access to a WiFi connection. When you are asked to provide your login details, instead of entering them press Ctrl+Alt+Forward and then type ‘chronos’ and press Enter. The next step will require you to issue the following command: ‘curl -L -O http://goo.gl/9sgchs ; sudo bash 9sgchs’ and then once more hit Enter. Again press Enter after the information about the installation is displayed on the screen and then you will be asked to decide how much space you want to allocate for Linux installation. Experts say that 9GB is the upper limit. After you’ve made your choice press Enter.

2. Installing ChrUbuntu

Once the partitioning of your hard-drive is completed, you will have to repeat the first several steps from typing ‘chronos’ to pressing enter when information about the installation is displayed on the screen. The installation process is now in progress and you will be occasionally asked to select a few settings, make sure you always click on default. At the end of the installation process, you will have to choose the location where GRUB should be installed, please select /dev/sda, because the failure to do so may interrupt the installation.

Once the installation is completed, restart your Chromebook to finalize the process, and when you see the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification press Ctrl+L to access Linux or Ctrl+D boot into Chrome OS.

3. Uninstall ChrUbuntu

Removing ChrUbuntu is a relatively painless process that can be completed with just a few simple commands. If the OS is stored locally the only way to erase it is to perform a full system recovery. While all your data located on the cloud will re-sync with your Chromebook, the data stored locally will be deleted, which is why it is important to backup all the important files before starting a system recovery process. The fastest and easiest way to perform a system recovery is by creating a recovery disk from your device. Insert ‘chrome://imageburner’ in your browser’s address bar, and carefully read and follow the instructions.

This Linux removal method will also require you to have a USB stick with a minimum of 4GB of storage space. After you created the disk, you can go into the Recovery Mode, by holding Esc and Refresh buttons simultaneously and then pressing the Power button. In the Recovery Mode, you will be asked to insert the recovery disk and the process will be on the way.

Part 4: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using Gallium OS

If neither Chroot nor ChrUbuntu work for you, using Gallium OS may be the right choice. The Gallium is Xbuntu-based OS that is equipped with touchpad mouse drivers among other advantages it offers over other operating systems. The installation process isn’t complicated, although it may require more effort than installing Crouton.

1. Preparation for the installation

In order to be aware of all the preparation steps, you need to take, you must first find out your device’s Hardware ID number and you can obtain this information by navigating to Chrome://System, Hardware Class within the Chrome OS. Hardware Compatibility page will provide the information regarding the CPU’s family, which can be crucial for the OS’ performance. You can run the installation either from an ISO image on an external USB drive or from the Chrome OS command line using Chrx. We will describe how to install Gallium OS from the Chrome OS command line because the other option doesn’t allow you to dual-boot your Chromebook.

2. Enabling the Legacy Mode

Like previously described, enter the Developer Mode and when the ‘ OS verification is OFF’ notification appears on the screen proceed to enable the Legacy Mode. You can do this by holding CTRL+D keys to enable the Chrome OS to boot in the Developer Mode. After you’ve successfully made this step, press CTRl+ALT+T to access the ‘Crosh’ terminal and then type ‘shell’. At the ‘chronos/localhost/$ issue the following command: ‘sudo crossystem dev_boot_legacy=1’. Update and install all the necessary firmware by running the Firmware Utility Script.

3. Installation process

If you choose to install Gallium OS through Chrome OS command line using Chrx that will enable you to dual-boot your Chromebook, you should start by booting the device into Chrome OS and configuring networking. The next step you’ll need to take is switching to a virtual terminal by holding Ctrl+Alt+F2, and then you should log in as user chronos without a password. Once you’ve completed this step issue the following command: ‘curl -O https://chrx.org/go && sh go’ and follow the on-screen instructions to repartition your hard-drive and install the Gallium OS. Once the installation is over reboot the device and press Ctrl+L when the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification appears on the screen to boot Gallium OS or hold Ctrl+D to access Chrome OS. After the Gallium OS is successfully installed on your Chromebook you can start using programs such as Skype or Lightworks.

Which Method is the Best?

Each of the options to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook we described has its advantages and disadvantages. It is our opinion that the Crouton method is the easiest and the fastest. Furthermore, this method enables you to switch between your primary and secondary OS without the need to reboot the device and the Downloads folder makes working in both environments much easier.

On the other hand, other methods require more knowledge about the Linux OS installation process and switching between OS’ is not that simple. If you are looking for an easy way to dual-boot your Chromebook that best way to do it is to install Linux as a Chroot using Crouton.

Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software: Lightworks

Price: $24.99/month, although free versions of the software are also available.

What we like: A powerful video and audio editor perfectly suited for the production of professional video content.

What we don’t like: The software isn’t easy to use and inexperienced editors will find it difficult to use at first.

Lightworks Resolve may not be as popular as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, but that doesn’t mean that this video editing software isn’t as capable as its more popular counterparts.

The software is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux OS, which makes it a perfect choice for Chromebook users that have a Linux OS installed on their devices. Lightworks features literally every editing tool imaginable and for that reason, it is a perfect choice for editing videos you would like to upload to Vimeo or YouTube or high-end professional projects. This editing software offers plenty of transitions and visual effects that will help its users to create seamless jumps between shots and visually impressive videos.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Chromebooks are an excellent choice for educational institutions or businesses that require their employees to have constant access to the Internet. Even though these devices are a perfect tool that can accompany you on business trips and enable you to answer important emails or have access to crucial information stored on the cloud, performing more demanding tasks, like video editing, is still a challenge. However, it is far from impossible, although you may have to take a few extra steps before running a video editing software on your Chromebook.

Chrome OS is a Linux based environment and for that reason, Chromebook owners who would like to use professional editing software on their Chromebooks can install a Linux OS that will enable them to use programs such as Lightworks that are perfectly suited for high-end video editing. There are two different ways to install Linux on a Chromebook, you can either do it using Gallium OS or ChrUbuntu or in a Chroot environment using Crouton. Each of these methods is relatively easy and we will take you through the process step by step. Here’s how you can install Linux on your Chromebook.

• Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook
• Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu
• Part 4: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook
• Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software

Part 1: Preparing before installing Linux OS on Chromebook

The first step of the process of installing the Linux OS is the decision itself, and you need to have all the necessary information before you decide to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook.

• Make sure that the version of Chromebook you have is capable of supporting a Linux OS. Your device must be equipped with an ARM or Intel chip in order to be able to run the version of Linux OS you want to install. Although both chips will allow you to go through the process, running closed source software such the Steam is only possible with Intel chips.
• Regardless of which method of installing Linux OS you choose, you will have to switch to the Developer Mode, a special built-in function that allows you to install the unapproved operating system, among other things.
• Now that you are aware of the requirements and risks, you will have to backup all the files you have on your Chromebook because once you switch to the Developer Mode all the information stored locally will be erased. You can save the files on another computer or on the cloud depending on how much data you need to move and which one is more convenient for you.

Part 2: How to Install Linux as a Chroot Using Crouton on Chromebook

After you have stored all your data safely, your Chromebook is ready for the beginning of the installation process of the secondary operating system. You will have to perform a series of actions that will allow you to start the installation, starting from accessing the Developer Mode.

1. Acessing the developer mode

The first step of the process is to reboot your system, while your Chromebook is on. In order to do so hold Escape and Refresh keys on your keyboard and then hit the power button. Once your device is back online you will find yourself in the recovery mode, and you will see a message telling you to insert a recovery disc. Instead of inserting the disc, hold Ctrl+D and wait for OS verification menu to appear on the screen. At this point, if you are still having second thoughts about this process, you can hit the spacebar to return to recovery mode, or press Enter to proceed. Hitting Enter will delete all the data stored on your device and take you into the Developer Mode. Once your Chromebook lets you know that you are now in the Developer Mode, reboot the system and install a fresh version of the Chrome OS. Insert your login information and follow the instructions until you are looking at the Chrome OS desktop.

2. Installing Chroot

At this stage of the process, your Chromebook is ready for the installation of the Crouton environment. Crouton is a series of scripts that makes running a Linux OS much easier, especially for inexperienced users. In order to download Crouton, go to GitHub and find the download link, detailed instructions or extensions that can add more functionality to your OS. Once the installation file or files are in the Download folder, your next step is to access the Chromebook’s terminal a feature called ‘Crosh’. The fastest way to do this is to hold CTRL + ALT keys and then hit the T key. This action will cause the Chrome window to appear on the screen, and you will need to type the ‘shell’ command without using quotation marks. Afterwards, enter the following command: ‘sudo sh ~/Downloads/crouton -t xfce’ and if you want to install extensions you will have to add ‘xfce,extension’ command at the end.

Press the Enter key and wait for the system to start setting up the Chroot. This process may take a while, so it is important to be patient, but more importantly, do not interfere with it in any way. Installation of your secondary OS is now on the way, and you may be asked to insert your login data, like your Gmail username and password. Wait patiently until the process is over and then return to shell and enter this command: ‘sudo enter-chroot startxfce4’. Your screen will go black for a while, but after the black screen is gone your Chromebook will be in the freshly installed Linux OS.

3. Optimizing your new OS

You may have to optimize your new OS in order to improve the experience of using it. Enabling your keyboard’s brightness and volume keys inside the new OS can be done easily by holding CTRL+ALT+T and then typing shell once you’ve accessed Chrome OS’s shell and hit Enter. Issue the following command: ‘sudo sh -e ~/Downloads/crouton-r precise-t keyboard–u’ and then press Enter again. Removing the screen saver or installing more extensions may also be a good way to enable more options in the new OS. Most importantly, you can now download and install the video editing software you want to use for editing your footage.

4. Remove Chroot from your Chromebook

If for some reason you want to uninstall Linux from your Chromebook, simply reboot the system and press the spacebar when the ‘OS verification is off’ message appears on the screen. In this manner, you will exit the Developer Mode and all locally stored data, including all installed environments, will be deleted.

Part 3: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using ChrUbuntu

An alternative option is available for Chromebook users that have Intel based devices like recently released Haswell models. The ChrUbuntu can be installed on the USB stick or external hard-drive or directly to the local memory of your Chromebook. Even though ARM-based machines can also use ChrUbuntu it isn’t advisable because they may perform poorly due to slower processor speeds and less RAM power. Unlike Chroot, ChrUbuntu will not allow you to switch between operating systems without a reboot, and if the system is stored locally, you may need to go through the full system recovery.

1. Preparation for the installation

Like with the previous method you will have to go into the Developer Mode and make sure that you have access to a WiFi connection. When you are asked to provide your login details, instead of entering them press Ctrl+Alt+Forward and then type ‘chronos’ and press Enter. The next step will require you to issue the following command: ‘curl -L -O http://goo.gl/9sgchs ; sudo bash 9sgchs’ and then once more hit Enter. Again press Enter after the information about the installation is displayed on the screen and then you will be asked to decide how much space you want to allocate for Linux installation. Experts say that 9GB is the upper limit. After you’ve made your choice press Enter.

2. Installing ChrUbuntu

Once the partitioning of your hard-drive is completed, you will have to repeat the first several steps from typing ‘chronos’ to pressing enter when information about the installation is displayed on the screen. The installation process is now in progress and you will be occasionally asked to select a few settings, make sure you always click on default. At the end of the installation process, you will have to choose the location where GRUB should be installed, please select /dev/sda, because the failure to do so may interrupt the installation.

Once the installation is completed, restart your Chromebook to finalize the process, and when you see the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification press Ctrl+L to access Linux or Ctrl+D boot into Chrome OS.

3. Uninstall ChrUbuntu

Removing ChrUbuntu is a relatively painless process that can be completed with just a few simple commands. If the OS is stored locally the only way to erase it is to perform a full system recovery. While all your data located on the cloud will re-sync with your Chromebook, the data stored locally will be deleted, which is why it is important to backup all the important files before starting a system recovery process. The fastest and easiest way to perform a system recovery is by creating a recovery disk from your device. Insert ‘chrome://imageburner’ in your browser’s address bar, and carefully read and follow the instructions.

This Linux removal method will also require you to have a USB stick with a minimum of 4GB of storage space. After you created the disk, you can go into the Recovery Mode, by holding Esc and Refresh buttons simultaneously and then pressing the Power button. In the Recovery Mode, you will be asked to insert the recovery disk and the process will be on the way.

Part 4: How to Dual-Boot a Chromebook Using Gallium OS

If neither Chroot nor ChrUbuntu work for you, using Gallium OS may be the right choice. The Gallium is Xbuntu-based OS that is equipped with touchpad mouse drivers among other advantages it offers over other operating systems. The installation process isn’t complicated, although it may require more effort than installing Crouton.

1. Preparation for the installation

In order to be aware of all the preparation steps, you need to take, you must first find out your device’s Hardware ID number and you can obtain this information by navigating to Chrome://System, Hardware Class within the Chrome OS. Hardware Compatibility page will provide the information regarding the CPU’s family, which can be crucial for the OS’ performance. You can run the installation either from an ISO image on an external USB drive or from the Chrome OS command line using Chrx. We will describe how to install Gallium OS from the Chrome OS command line because the other option doesn’t allow you to dual-boot your Chromebook.

2. Enabling the Legacy Mode

Like previously described, enter the Developer Mode and when the ‘ OS verification is OFF’ notification appears on the screen proceed to enable the Legacy Mode. You can do this by holding CTRL+D keys to enable the Chrome OS to boot in the Developer Mode. After you’ve successfully made this step, press CTRl+ALT+T to access the ‘Crosh’ terminal and then type ‘shell’. At the ‘chronos/localhost/$ issue the following command: ‘sudo crossystem dev_boot_legacy=1’. Update and install all the necessary firmware by running the Firmware Utility Script.

3. Installation process

If you choose to install Gallium OS through Chrome OS command line using Chrx that will enable you to dual-boot your Chromebook, you should start by booting the device into Chrome OS and configuring networking. The next step you’ll need to take is switching to a virtual terminal by holding Ctrl+Alt+F2, and then you should log in as user chronos without a password. Once you’ve completed this step issue the following command: ‘curl -O https://chrx.org/go && sh go’ and follow the on-screen instructions to repartition your hard-drive and install the Gallium OS. Once the installation is over reboot the device and press Ctrl+L when the ‘OS Verification is Off’ notification appears on the screen to boot Gallium OS or hold Ctrl+D to access Chrome OS. After the Gallium OS is successfully installed on your Chromebook you can start using programs such as Skype or Lightworks.

Which Method is the Best?

Each of the options to install a Linux OS on your Chromebook we described has its advantages and disadvantages. It is our opinion that the Crouton method is the easiest and the fastest. Furthermore, this method enables you to switch between your primary and secondary OS without the need to reboot the device and the Downloads folder makes working in both environments much easier.

On the other hand, other methods require more knowledge about the Linux OS installation process and switching between OS’ is not that simple. If you are looking for an easy way to dual-boot your Chromebook that best way to do it is to install Linux as a Chroot using Crouton.

Part 5: Recommended Linux Video Editing Software: Lightworks

Price: $24.99/month, although free versions of the software are also available.

What we like: A powerful video and audio editor perfectly suited for the production of professional video content.

What we don’t like: The software isn’t easy to use and inexperienced editors will find it difficult to use at first.

Lightworks Resolve may not be as popular as Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, but that doesn’t mean that this video editing software isn’t as capable as its more popular counterparts.

The software is compatible with Mac, Windows, and Linux OS, which makes it a perfect choice for Chromebook users that have a Linux OS installed on their devices. Lightworks features literally every editing tool imaginable and for that reason, it is a perfect choice for editing videos you would like to upload to Vimeo or YouTube or high-end professional projects. This editing software offers plenty of transitions and visual effects that will help its users to create seamless jumps between shots and visually impressive videos.

Ollie Mattison

Ollie Mattison is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Ollie Mattison

10 Best Free Security Camera Software [2023 Reviews]

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

Figuring out which is the best security camera software is never easy. This is because most of the software you find online says it is free…until you download their software and it tries to charge you.

Here is a review of the best security camera software, and every single one has a free option. Share this article on social media if you find the right camera software for you.

But if you are new in this field, then you might want to know some basic technique terms introduced following, before we jump to choose the best security camera software.

What Is an IP Camera?

When people say, “IP camera,” they usually mean a camera that uses the Internet in some way so that it may do its job. A typical CCTV camera connects a camera to a computer via a wire. An IP camera can connect over the Internet.

Sometimes, the connection is remote. This means that the camera may be in one location and still be connected to another computer that is miles away.

However, many IP cameras are installed in a home and only travel a few feet/meters to the nearest computer. In short, an IP camera doesn’t need a local recording device because the signal can be sent over the Internet or with a Wi-Fi connection.

What Is Camera Software Used for?

Most people and businesses use camera software to connect their cameras to their computers or their Smartphones. This is often cheaper than buying dedicated recording hardware. The camera and its software are usually used to monitor camera feeds that are life, and to records them onto a hard drive or to the Cloud.

How Do You Pick the Best Security Camera Software?

In most cases, the best software is simply the software that works with your cameras, and that offers all the functions you need. Compatibility is the first concern, but you also want it to work well with your device. For example, if your cameras have a zoom function, but your software doesn’t allow zooming, then that piece of software is not the best one for you.

For example, if you are using Linux, then you want Linux security camera software. And, some people insist that their software allows them to monitor their cameras from their Smartphones. The great thing about free security camera software is that you can test it out first without the risk of losing your money.

If You Need to Edit Your Videos , Which Is the Best Video Editor?

Exporting or downloading content from your camera software is a messy job. You often need a good video editor and trimmer to make your video clips usable.

This is especially true when video recordings can go on for as long as 90 days at a time. If you are looking for a high-quality and flexible video editor, then Filmora is your only real and viable choice. Learn more from Wondershare Video Community .

Filmora takes users’ needs into consideration and comes up with a variety of useful features to make editing easy for people of different levels. Let’s have a look at the useful features of Filmora to better understand how powerful Filmora is.

• Auto Synchronization: This allows you to sync video and audio easily.
• Plenty of transitions, effects, elements make your videos more interesting.
• Audio Ducking: Automatically reduce the volume of the background music to make the dialogue stand out.
• Wondershare Drive: Upload video or project to Wondershare Drive and download it to complete anywhere you want.
• Motion Tracking: Attach an element to a moving object in your video easily with auto motion tracking.
• Keyframing: Customize animation by adding keyframes to change the position, rotation, scale, and opacity of a clip.
• Color Match: Match the color of selected clips to another frame from another clip.

10 Best Free Security Camera Software

Now let’s have a look at the 10 best free security camera software with very comprehensive choosing details.

1. NetCam Studio

There is a free version of NetCam Studio, but if you want something more powerful, then you can buy one of their licenses. These licenses allow you to use the software for as long as you like, and they will update the software for up to two years after purchase.

After the two-year period, you can keep the software running as normal, but if you want upgrades, then you will have to buy them. Upgrades shouldn’t be needed unless you buy a new piece of camera hardware and it requires a new type of camera software.

The NetCam Studio Features

If you go for the free version of NetCam Studio, then you get to use a camera feed from two sources. There is a watermark added to the camera images, and you get five-day notifications. There is also community support.

The paid features include up to 64 sources, no watermarks, 250-day notifications, and you get priority support. After the 250 days is up, you may buy upgrades in order to keep the notification system going.

Pros

The free version does not expire in any way besides the notifications

You are able to use this software with a wide variety of camera brands

Updates are frequent enough to tackle most system-breaking bugs

Cons

The interface needs updating to make it more user friendly

They need to better explain the “Add Source” procedure

Troubleshooting audio problems is very difficult

2. Security Eye

The reason Security Eye ranks so highly is that it is a professional piece of software that somebody decided should be free. It is not open source security camera software, but the developers have decided that it should be free. There used to be a free version where you would get 2 hours of free surveillance per day for free, but in 2019 the company removed its payment system. Will they keep it up or go back to paid subscriptions? Who knows, but you should get it while it is still free (if you can).

Security Eye Features

You can use a timer to determine when the video feed should start. You can capture images as JPEGs and then compress them. The system also allows you to receive alerts via a loudspeaker. It works with motion-detection devices too.

Pros

It comes with the Xvid MPEG-4 Codec

The full version has no nag screen or recording limit

The Security Eye interface is pretty modern for what is essentially a free piece of software

Cons

Demands 1GB of RAM and 2GB of HHD space

Requires at least an Intel Pentium 1.8 processor

The icons should be more intuitive

3. Perfect Surveillance

There are three types of free security camera software for you to choose from. There is one for IP cameras, one for web cameras, and there is a piece of viewing software that people may use if they do not have something like VLC video viewer installed.

Perfect Surveillance Features

Simple icons and a clear interface is a great benefits. Determine when the cameras start monitoring and set up your own layouts to suit your viewing style.

Pros

A simple program that works in a very uncomplicated manner

Most of its icons are intuitive to where you can guess what they do

The Perfect Surveillance system has motion detection and allows you to monitor up to 64 devices

Cons

Installing seems overly long and bloated

There are not enough instructions on how to get your cameras connected

They do not explain how to capture and export screenshots

4. iVideon

There are times when a piece of free software simply does its job good enough to warrant no complaints, and that is exactly what iVideon offers. There are plenty of ways it can be improved, but there is nothing about it that demands harsh criticism.

iVideon Features

One of its most advertised features is facial recognition, but it is not very accurate. It does allow for very good mobile usage. You can view live and recorded footage on your desktop or mobile device. It is also available for Mac OS X and Linux.

Pros

Online home use and access is completely full-featured and freeware

It has smart notifications and has its own desktop and mobile apps

it doesn’t take long to learn how to use the iVideon interface

Cons

Seems rather light on features

Installing and connecting cameras requires a better tutorial

Embedding live video on your website is trickier than it first seems

5. Xeoma

This program has plenty of features, but most of them are locked off to free users. It takes over too long to learn how to use the system, but it may be worth it if you have many cameras. The paid version has all sorts of perks from SMS texts to system health monitoring.

Xeoma Features

The lite version is the free version. It allows you to add four cameras with up to six modules in each chain. You can test out and use the lite version as long as you like, or you can get a free trial of the larger fully-featured program.

Pros

Record and monitor from four cameras

Updates are very frequent

This software works with mostly every type of camera

Cons

Around 90% of features are locked off to free users.

Xeoma is difficult to learn and set up

Connecting many cameras is difficult because the system is difficult to learn as a whole

6. Genius Vision

The Genius Vision system is a fairly advanced piece of software that is probably best used for businesses. If used at home, then there are many features that may never be used. It also works on mobile devices too.

Genius Vision Features

There are plenty of features to play with, including a massive array of settings to fit the many types of camera that this program can be used with. You can even support the company through Patreon and get more extensions on the program.

Pros

Works in-depth with many types of camera

The tools are very sophisticated and accurate

The drop-down menus are complicated while also being thoughtfully laid out

Cons

Getting paid upgrades is trickier than just buying on their website

Setting up the remote features is difficult

You have to figure out most of how to use the program based on which camera you have connected

7. Deskshare IP Camera Viewer

The Deskshare IP Camera Viewer company has a great piece of security camera software that they repackage into many different names and then give away on their website. They do this because the software comes with lots of unwanted bloatware that the company is paid to promote. The sad part is that many other websites will replace this bloatware with Trojan viruses, which means it is difficult to get a clean version of this program.

Deskshare IP Camera Viewer Features

Live recording, playback, and split-screen is all available. You can use up to 4 cameras at a time, and it works with 2200 different camera models. If your hardware allows it, then you can pan, tilt and zoom your camera.

Pros

It is compatible with many types of camera brand

You can set up floating surveillance windows if you want

Adjust the properties of each camera individually

Cons

Installing is very difficult to do correctly

Comes with bloatware and/or unwanted content

The IP software has the least features of all the Deskshare camera software

8. Anycam

The Anycam system is a very average piece of software, but it works with most any type of camera. The interface is basic but easy to use and easy to set up. You will discover that the free version is only limited in terms of record time, you can still use all its features.

Anycam Features

Anycam is mostly featureless. It works with motion-detection cameras. It allows for video recording and playback. Plus, you can watch a live feed. Other than that, there is very little you can do with this basic-but-effective piece of software.

Pros

The program seems to work with any type of camera

Anycam has a paid version where you only make a one-time payment and get free lifetime updates

Installing and setup is very easy

Cons

Trying to find specific events on the timeline is very fiddly

The free version only allows two cameras to be linked

The recording is very limited with the free version

9. ContaCam

In the strictest terms, this piece of software is not free. The developers ask you for a donation, but there is nothing forcing you to give them one. Plus, you can try the software, and then if it turns out to be brilliant, then you can always go back and donate to them.

ContaCam Features

Despite seeming very complicated, the interface is actually very self-explanatory. At first glance, it looks overly condensed and full of features, but each explains itself very well. You can configure the cameras very precisely to the point where you can even specify within which seconds it starts and stops.

Pros

A rather advanced piece of software

The interface layout is very condensed without being confusing

You can use web servers, the Internet, or intranet to receive live feeds

Cons

The interface has no aesthetic decoration at all

ContaCam takes a long time to learn through trial and error testing

The developers say this will never work with mobile devices

10. Agent DVR

The great thing about Agent DVR is that it is completely free because it is freeware. The sad part is that it was created by a developer who went on to finer things and left the program lodged on a few high-use servers. It is now being passed around freeware websites, which means it is sometimes difficult to find a clean version. Nevertheless, it is a fine piece of camera software that still works for many types of cameras.

Agent DVR Features

The Agent DVR software allows for video surveillance with a live feed, and for recording. You can use it with motion-detection software, and it still works for many different types of cameras. It uses a reliable SSL algorithm for its signal encryption, and it is very lightweight, which means it is not a big drain on your device’s CPU.

Pros

A very simple and lightweight piece of software

Works all the way back to Windows 7

It still works with motion detection systems

Cons

Agent DVR will become more obsolete as newer cameras appear over the coming years

Updates will never occur beyond Windows 10

The interface looks very dated compared to the modern camera software

Conclusion

As you can tell by this article, getting good security camera software is difficult because there is so much to choose from. Plus, installing is often an issue, as is companies trying to nag-free users into paying. There is also the issue of connecting cameras and the problem with tagged-on viruses and bloatware.

Nevertheless, there is plenty to try without having to pay, so that is a positive. What do you think?

Have any of these worked for you? Ask your friends on social media, start a discussion, and share this article to help others discover the best free security camera software.

Benjamin Arango

Benjamin Arango is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Benjamin Arango

The Ultimate Video Effects Guide: Transform Your Footage

Cool Video Editor: How to Add Cool Effects to Video

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

How to make a cool video? Besides creativities, you may also need a video editing software which allows you to add some cool video effects. Actually it’s much simpler than you might expect if you use cool video editor like Wondershare Filmora , which enables you to easily trim videos, add voice narration or a music sound track from your personal collection and add cool effects and give your plain old home videos the extra touch that makes them more special. In this article, we will introduce some cool video effects that you can use in Filmora as well as the step-by-step guide about how to add cool effects to videos for making a cool edit.

Part 1: Introducing 5 cool effects that you may be interested in

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

1. Mask: Filmora allows you add various image masks and shape mask to the image and video in the timeline, which will create a special effect. You can always add Mask effect to media when creating PIP videos.

2. Green Screen Effect: Green screen or chroma keying feature is used to key out colors from a subject of a photo or video and composite two images or videos together based on color chroma range.

3. Transition Effect: Transition video effect is used to be more visual and obvious when playing back one scene to another. Namely, it is what the scene showing between two clips. Filmora provides more than 200 transition effects, including the basic fade, bar, ripple & dissolve, 3D and slideshow transitions, you can also find the transition effects for special events such as birthday and wedding.

4. Overlays: A video overlay refers to an image or an animated video that appears over the background video. Filmora provides more than 110 overlays including frame overlay, bokeh blurs overlay, lens flares, old film, damaged film, TV static, and view finder overlays.

5. Filters: Filmora has a great collection of video filter effects and there are about 150 filters in it, including camera shake, distortion, Lomography, background blur, faux film and Instagram-like filters.

Besides these common cool video effects, Filmora Effects Store offers more possibilities. There are packs, sets and bundles covering gaming, media, beauty and fashion, action cam, education, lifestyle, VFX and special event. Check the blockbuster video effects video below to check how it works.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part 2: How to Add Cool Effects to Videos in Filmora [Tutorial]

With Filmora, you can also add some cool effects conveniently to improve your video with ease. After several clicks, your video will turn out to be a stunning masterpiece which is really fantastic to share with your family and friends on YouTube or Facebook. Now follow this step-by-step guide on how to edit videos with this cool software.

1 Import your videos

Install and launch Wondershare Filmora. Click New Project and then click the “Import” button to load your media files through its navigation import panel or directly drag and drop your files to the media library.

2 Add cool effects to your video

Now it’s time to add cool effects to your video. Just drop the video and audio files from the media library to the corresponding timelines. Then click the “Effect” button in the toolbar to switch to the “Effect” tab. Here you will see filters and overlays effects for you to choose.

To add transitions between two clips, or add an overlay or filter video effect to video, just go to the corresponding tab and drag and drop the target video effects to videos.

You can also right click your favorite effect and select apply. You will see the “Effect” Timeline appear below the video track. If you want to increase the effect duration, just mouse over the edge of the effect in timeline, and when the “double arrow” cursor appears, drag it to any length you want.

Detailed information about how to add a split-screen effect video, check our guide about how to make a split screen video here .

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

For steps of compositing a green screen video, check this video tutorial below:

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Besides that, you can add more cool effects provided by Video Editor. Just highlight the target media file, then go to Effects Tab. Yu can select and apply more cool effects like Tilt-Shift, Mosaic, and Face Off under Utitliy filters. These effects will help you turn your video clip into a work of art.

3 Export your videos

You can preview and watch your video by clicking the “Play” button before you export it. Go back and make some necessary adjustments. Then you can save and export the video to your computer in the “Format” tab. If you want to play video on mobile devices, go to the “Devices” tab and choose a device from the list. Of course, you can also directly burn it to DVD or post on YouTube or Vimeo.

Filmora features more than 300 video effects, elements and motion effects and 100+ text and title styles to choose. Besides adding cool video effects to video clips, you can also reverse, speed up or slow down the video to make a cool effect. You can also choose music sound from the built in music library and do some audio editing with the Audio Mixer or Audio Equalizer tool.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

As one of the best and easiest video editing software which comes with cool effects, Filmora can empower your imagination. Download this cool video editor with various effects and try it yourself!

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

How to make a cool video? Besides creativities, you may also need a video editing software which allows you to add some cool video effects. Actually it’s much simpler than you might expect if you use cool video editor like Wondershare Filmora , which enables you to easily trim videos, add voice narration or a music sound track from your personal collection and add cool effects and give your plain old home videos the extra touch that makes them more special. In this article, we will introduce some cool video effects that you can use in Filmora as well as the step-by-step guide about how to add cool effects to videos for making a cool edit.

Part 1: Introducing 5 cool effects that you may be interested in

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

1. Mask: Filmora allows you add various image masks and shape mask to the image and video in the timeline, which will create a special effect. You can always add Mask effect to media when creating PIP videos.

2. Green Screen Effect: Green screen or chroma keying feature is used to key out colors from a subject of a photo or video and composite two images or videos together based on color chroma range.

3. Transition Effect: Transition video effect is used to be more visual and obvious when playing back one scene to another. Namely, it is what the scene showing between two clips. Filmora provides more than 200 transition effects, including the basic fade, bar, ripple & dissolve, 3D and slideshow transitions, you can also find the transition effects for special events such as birthday and wedding.

4. Overlays: A video overlay refers to an image or an animated video that appears over the background video. Filmora provides more than 110 overlays including frame overlay, bokeh blurs overlay, lens flares, old film, damaged film, TV static, and view finder overlays.

5. Filters: Filmora has a great collection of video filter effects and there are about 150 filters in it, including camera shake, distortion, Lomography, background blur, faux film and Instagram-like filters.

Besides these common cool video effects, Filmora Effects Store offers more possibilities. There are packs, sets and bundles covering gaming, media, beauty and fashion, action cam, education, lifestyle, VFX and special event. Check the blockbuster video effects video below to check how it works.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part 2: How to Add Cool Effects to Videos in Filmora [Tutorial]

With Filmora, you can also add some cool effects conveniently to improve your video with ease. After several clicks, your video will turn out to be a stunning masterpiece which is really fantastic to share with your family and friends on YouTube or Facebook. Now follow this step-by-step guide on how to edit videos with this cool software.

1 Import your videos

Install and launch Wondershare Filmora. Click New Project and then click the “Import” button to load your media files through its navigation import panel or directly drag and drop your files to the media library.

2 Add cool effects to your video

Now it’s time to add cool effects to your video. Just drop the video and audio files from the media library to the corresponding timelines. Then click the “Effect” button in the toolbar to switch to the “Effect” tab. Here you will see filters and overlays effects for you to choose.

To add transitions between two clips, or add an overlay or filter video effect to video, just go to the corresponding tab and drag and drop the target video effects to videos.

You can also right click your favorite effect and select apply. You will see the “Effect” Timeline appear below the video track. If you want to increase the effect duration, just mouse over the edge of the effect in timeline, and when the “double arrow” cursor appears, drag it to any length you want.

Detailed information about how to add a split-screen effect video, check our guide about how to make a split screen video here .

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

For steps of compositing a green screen video, check this video tutorial below:

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Besides that, you can add more cool effects provided by Video Editor. Just highlight the target media file, then go to Effects Tab. Yu can select and apply more cool effects like Tilt-Shift, Mosaic, and Face Off under Utitliy filters. These effects will help you turn your video clip into a work of art.

3 Export your videos

You can preview and watch your video by clicking the “Play” button before you export it. Go back and make some necessary adjustments. Then you can save and export the video to your computer in the “Format” tab. If you want to play video on mobile devices, go to the “Devices” tab and choose a device from the list. Of course, you can also directly burn it to DVD or post on YouTube or Vimeo.

Filmora features more than 300 video effects, elements and motion effects and 100+ text and title styles to choose. Besides adding cool video effects to video clips, you can also reverse, speed up or slow down the video to make a cool effect. You can also choose music sound from the built in music library and do some audio editing with the Audio Mixer or Audio Equalizer tool.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

As one of the best and easiest video editing software which comes with cool effects, Filmora can empower your imagination. Download this cool video editor with various effects and try it yourself!

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

How to make a cool video? Besides creativities, you may also need a video editing software which allows you to add some cool video effects. Actually it’s much simpler than you might expect if you use cool video editor like Wondershare Filmora , which enables you to easily trim videos, add voice narration or a music sound track from your personal collection and add cool effects and give your plain old home videos the extra touch that makes them more special. In this article, we will introduce some cool video effects that you can use in Filmora as well as the step-by-step guide about how to add cool effects to videos for making a cool edit.

Part 1: Introducing 5 cool effects that you may be interested in

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

1. Mask: Filmora allows you add various image masks and shape mask to the image and video in the timeline, which will create a special effect. You can always add Mask effect to media when creating PIP videos.

2. Green Screen Effect: Green screen or chroma keying feature is used to key out colors from a subject of a photo or video and composite two images or videos together based on color chroma range.

3. Transition Effect: Transition video effect is used to be more visual and obvious when playing back one scene to another. Namely, it is what the scene showing between two clips. Filmora provides more than 200 transition effects, including the basic fade, bar, ripple & dissolve, 3D and slideshow transitions, you can also find the transition effects for special events such as birthday and wedding.

4. Overlays: A video overlay refers to an image or an animated video that appears over the background video. Filmora provides more than 110 overlays including frame overlay, bokeh blurs overlay, lens flares, old film, damaged film, TV static, and view finder overlays.

5. Filters: Filmora has a great collection of video filter effects and there are about 150 filters in it, including camera shake, distortion, Lomography, background blur, faux film and Instagram-like filters.

Besides these common cool video effects, Filmora Effects Store offers more possibilities. There are packs, sets and bundles covering gaming, media, beauty and fashion, action cam, education, lifestyle, VFX and special event. Check the blockbuster video effects video below to check how it works.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part 2: How to Add Cool Effects to Videos in Filmora [Tutorial]

With Filmora, you can also add some cool effects conveniently to improve your video with ease. After several clicks, your video will turn out to be a stunning masterpiece which is really fantastic to share with your family and friends on YouTube or Facebook. Now follow this step-by-step guide on how to edit videos with this cool software.

1 Import your videos

Install and launch Wondershare Filmora. Click New Project and then click the “Import” button to load your media files through its navigation import panel or directly drag and drop your files to the media library.

2 Add cool effects to your video

Now it’s time to add cool effects to your video. Just drop the video and audio files from the media library to the corresponding timelines. Then click the “Effect” button in the toolbar to switch to the “Effect” tab. Here you will see filters and overlays effects for you to choose.

To add transitions between two clips, or add an overlay or filter video effect to video, just go to the corresponding tab and drag and drop the target video effects to videos.

You can also right click your favorite effect and select apply. You will see the “Effect” Timeline appear below the video track. If you want to increase the effect duration, just mouse over the edge of the effect in timeline, and when the “double arrow” cursor appears, drag it to any length you want.

Detailed information about how to add a split-screen effect video, check our guide about how to make a split screen video here .

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

For steps of compositing a green screen video, check this video tutorial below:

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Besides that, you can add more cool effects provided by Video Editor. Just highlight the target media file, then go to Effects Tab. Yu can select and apply more cool effects like Tilt-Shift, Mosaic, and Face Off under Utitliy filters. These effects will help you turn your video clip into a work of art.

3 Export your videos

You can preview and watch your video by clicking the “Play” button before you export it. Go back and make some necessary adjustments. Then you can save and export the video to your computer in the “Format” tab. If you want to play video on mobile devices, go to the “Devices” tab and choose a device from the list. Of course, you can also directly burn it to DVD or post on YouTube or Vimeo.

Filmora features more than 300 video effects, elements and motion effects and 100+ text and title styles to choose. Besides adding cool video effects to video clips, you can also reverse, speed up or slow down the video to make a cool effect. You can also choose music sound from the built in music library and do some audio editing with the Audio Mixer or Audio Equalizer tool.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

As one of the best and easiest video editing software which comes with cool effects, Filmora can empower your imagination. Download this cool video editor with various effects and try it yourself!

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

Liza Brown

Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions

How to make a cool video? Besides creativities, you may also need a video editing software which allows you to add some cool video effects. Actually it’s much simpler than you might expect if you use cool video editor like Wondershare Filmora , which enables you to easily trim videos, add voice narration or a music sound track from your personal collection and add cool effects and give your plain old home videos the extra touch that makes them more special. In this article, we will introduce some cool video effects that you can use in Filmora as well as the step-by-step guide about how to add cool effects to videos for making a cool edit.

Part 1: Introducing 5 cool effects that you may be interested in

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

1. Mask: Filmora allows you add various image masks and shape mask to the image and video in the timeline, which will create a special effect. You can always add Mask effect to media when creating PIP videos.

2. Green Screen Effect: Green screen or chroma keying feature is used to key out colors from a subject of a photo or video and composite two images or videos together based on color chroma range.

3. Transition Effect: Transition video effect is used to be more visual and obvious when playing back one scene to another. Namely, it is what the scene showing between two clips. Filmora provides more than 200 transition effects, including the basic fade, bar, ripple & dissolve, 3D and slideshow transitions, you can also find the transition effects for special events such as birthday and wedding.

4. Overlays: A video overlay refers to an image or an animated video that appears over the background video. Filmora provides more than 110 overlays including frame overlay, bokeh blurs overlay, lens flares, old film, damaged film, TV static, and view finder overlays.

5. Filters: Filmora has a great collection of video filter effects and there are about 150 filters in it, including camera shake, distortion, Lomography, background blur, faux film and Instagram-like filters.

Besides these common cool video effects, Filmora Effects Store offers more possibilities. There are packs, sets and bundles covering gaming, media, beauty and fashion, action cam, education, lifestyle, VFX and special event. Check the blockbuster video effects video below to check how it works.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Part 2: How to Add Cool Effects to Videos in Filmora [Tutorial]

With Filmora, you can also add some cool effects conveniently to improve your video with ease. After several clicks, your video will turn out to be a stunning masterpiece which is really fantastic to share with your family and friends on YouTube or Facebook. Now follow this step-by-step guide on how to edit videos with this cool software.

1 Import your videos

Install and launch Wondershare Filmora. Click New Project and then click the “Import” button to load your media files through its navigation import panel or directly drag and drop your files to the media library.

2 Add cool effects to your video

Now it’s time to add cool effects to your video. Just drop the video and audio files from the media library to the corresponding timelines. Then click the “Effect” button in the toolbar to switch to the “Effect” tab. Here you will see filters and overlays effects for you to choose.

To add transitions between two clips, or add an overlay or filter video effect to video, just go to the corresponding tab and drag and drop the target video effects to videos.

You can also right click your favorite effect and select apply. You will see the “Effect” Timeline appear below the video track. If you want to increase the effect duration, just mouse over the edge of the effect in timeline, and when the “double arrow” cursor appears, drag it to any length you want.

Detailed information about how to add a split-screen effect video, check our guide about how to make a split screen video here .

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

For steps of compositing a green screen video, check this video tutorial below:

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

Besides that, you can add more cool effects provided by Video Editor. Just highlight the target media file, then go to Effects Tab. Yu can select and apply more cool effects like Tilt-Shift, Mosaic, and Face Off under Utitliy filters. These effects will help you turn your video clip into a work of art.

3 Export your videos

You can preview and watch your video by clicking the “Play” button before you export it. Go back and make some necessary adjustments. Then you can save and export the video to your computer in the “Format” tab. If you want to play video on mobile devices, go to the “Devices” tab and choose a device from the list. Of course, you can also directly burn it to DVD or post on YouTube or Vimeo.

Filmora features more than 300 video effects, elements and motion effects and 100+ text and title styles to choose. Besides adding cool video effects to video clips, you can also reverse, speed up or slow down the video to make a cool effect. You can also choose music sound from the built in music library and do some audio editing with the Audio Mixer or Audio Equalizer tool.

Download Mac Version ](https://tools.techidaily.com/wondershare/filmora/download/ )

As one of the best and easiest video editing software which comes with cool effects, Filmora can empower your imagination. Download this cool video editor with various effects and try it yourself!

Liza Brown

Liza Brown is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Liza Brown

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