If you’ve ever tried choosing between different video editing software programs, you probably already know how overwhelming it gets. Both applications indeed serve the purpose of video creation, but they each approach this task from very different perspectives. Here we will make a comparison of these video editing software applications.
Historically, Vegas Pro was developed by Sonic Foundry as a powerful audio editor, but later, when it came under Sony’s wide video editing suite, it too evolved into a video editing software. It was then acquired by MAGIX in 2016, but it has kept its origins, which is why its sound editing capabilities remain exceptional, surpassing those found in many other video-focused applications.
Corel VideoStudio, on the other hand, has a much longer history. Its roots go back to Ulead Systems in 1996. It is no doubt a veteran in the software world that still gets consistent annual updates. But in this video editing software comparison, we will see that it still faces challenges and criticisms from some of its users.
The Learning Curve
Magix Vegas
Most people’s first launch of Vegas Pro introduces them to a UI that feels overwhelming. You’ve got so many buttons, extensive menus, customizable panels, and so much more. This is great if you already know how to use the software, but for a newcomer, all these things make no intuitive sense.
For instance, tracks on the timeline aren’t rigidly confined to specific media types, an important point in this video editing software comparison. This allows you to place video clips or what might normally be considered an audio track. The freedom, while powerful, requires some adjustment, especially when switching from different video editing software, which can take several weeks or even months.
Corel VideoStudio
Corel VideoStudio takes you through the editing process using a step-by-step workflow. It’s even typically organized into stages like capture, edit, and share. This choice is probably Corel’s intention to make video editing accessible to many people regardless of technical expertise.
Of course, while this sounds nice for beginners, advanced editors reading this video editing software comparison should know that they might struggle with a streamlined interface if they want more granular controls or complex functions.
Hardware Demands
Magix Vegas
Vegas Pro is quite demanding. There is no doubt about that. This software requires a lot of system resources, particularly RAM. You could sometimes get away with using it on 8GB RAM, but if you’re working on any serious project, 16 GB is where you should be. Better yet, 32 GB will ensure smooth performance, especially with high-resolution footage.
In this video editing software comparison, if you’re planning on using Vegas Pro, you’ll need fast SSDs for media storage and a powerful dedicated graphics card to handle rendering and effects processing.
One thing that many people do if they’ve just had a long editing session is to restart the software before rendering. This can significantly improve stability and performance because it clears accumulated buffers and cache.
Corel VideoStudio
Between these two different video editing software programs, this one is more forgiving of system specifications. This is because it is designed to run efficiently on a wide range of hardware. You could even get away with using 4GB RAM, but the best option would be 8GB or more if you want a smooth experience. But this is just a video editing software comparison covering the edge cases.
Real-World Performance Issues
Magix Vegas
Although it's powerful, this software also has users who complain due to its unique set of challenges. For example, during both preview and final rendering, it’s common for users to report audio and video falling out of sync, or even seeing incorrect segments appear. Then there are those users who also encounter difficulties simply opening the application itself.
Corel VideoStudio
For Corel VideoStudio, there are some users who have experienced crashes. Their editors unexpectedly stopped working and closed out the application while they were working. This is an important point in this video editing software comparison because it can result in loss of work, or even an entire project if you’re not the type to save very often.
Format Support
Magix Vegas
Between these two different video editing software programs, Vegas Pro really shines in terms of the file formats it supports. It can handle virtually every type of media, including high-end professional and broadcast codecs that many readers of this video editing software comparison might never even encounter or need.
Corel VideoStudio
Corel VideoStudio focuses its format support on the widely used, consumer-level media types. It can handle common formats you’d expect from personal cameras, smartphones, and popular online platforms. This software has recently incorporated support for 8K resolution, but such high resolution can place too much strain on most typical hardware setups. The targeted approach to format compatibility is a smart design choice, aligning perfectly with the needs and equipment of its primary consumer audience.
Cost Considerations
Vegas Pro is, of course, the more expensive option in this video editing software comparison. It was traditionally offered through a perpetual license model (a one-time purchase for a specific version), but MAGIX has also introduced subscription options now. But regardless of the purchasing model, the price point reflects the inclusion of professional-grade tools and capabilities that aren’t there in other systems.
Corel VideoStudio is more budget-friendly. It is primarily available through a perpetual license, often with upgrade pricing for future releases. This value proposition is more attractive to casual or occasional editors who just want to create good-quality videos.
Bottom Line
This was really a video editing software comparison between a beginner-friendly option and an option for seasoned editors. However, these are two different video editing software programs, and the choice depends on your needs and expertise.
At SoftwareCW, we make it easier for you to find the right choice because you can compare the options in one place. We then offer authentic, instantly downloadable versions that you can trust. No delays, no trials. Download your video editor today and get started with confidence.