Top Free Software for Adding Text to Videos: Shotcut, Canva, and ScreenRec

When it comes to adding text to your videos, there are several free software options available that can help you enhance your content. Whether you're looking for a quick and simple solution or one with more advanced features, there's a free video editing software that can meet your needs. In this article, we will explore three top choices: Shotcut, Canva, and ScreenRec. These tools offer various methods to add, customize, and enhance text in your videos.

Shotcut: Versatile and Feature-Rich

Shotcut is a versatile free video editor available for both Windows and Linux. It's an alternative to more expensive video editing software and is designed for users who want more than just basic text additions. With Shotcut, you can add text to your videos and customize it with over 100 fonts, colors, and styles.

One of the key benefits of Shotcut is its simplicity, even despite its advanced capabilities. Here’s how to get started:

Download and install Shotcut. Open your video file in the editor. Go to the 'Text' tab and click on 'Add Text.' Write your text, choose a font, color, and style, and place it where you want it on the video. Note: Shotcut also allows you to add music and effects, as well as trim and crop your videos without leaving the app.

Moreover, Shotcut does not have any watermarks, making it an ideal choice for professional use without any limitations.

Canva: Graphic Design Meets Video Editing

Canva is a popular graphic design tool that has expanded into the video editing space. While it’s not specifically designed for video editing, Canva offers a variety of pre-made templates that are perfect for adding text to your videos. Canva is an excellent choice if you want a quick and simple solution without the need for advanced editing skills.

To use Canva for video text:

Create an account or sign in to Canva. Search for a video text or similar template. Customize the template by adding your text, choosing a font, and selecting colors. Export your design as a video and import it into your video editing software or directly into your project.

Canva’s drag-and-drop interface makes it easy to use, and it’s accessible on both desktop and mobile devices, making it versatile for different environments.

ScreenRec: Screen Recording with Text

ScreenRec is a free screen recording software that also allows you to add captions and annotations to your recordings. If you plan to create video tutorials or screen recordings, ScreenRec is an excellent choice.

To add text to your ScreenRec videos:

Download and install ScreenRec. Record your screen or video content. Once the recording is complete, go to the 'Edit' tab. Click on 'Add Text' and write your text, choose the font, color, and position. Save and export your video with the added text.

ScreenRec is user-friendly, and the lack of watermarks in its free version makes it a practical choice for professional use. Additionally, you can add notes and annotations, making it highly useful for educational and informational purposes.

Combining the strengths of Canva, Shotcut, and ScreenRec, you can easily find the best tool for your specific needs. Whether you're aiming for a quick and simple solution or more advanced features, these free video editors can help you add engaging text to your videos. So, which one will you choose?