Sony Movie Studio Platinum Suite 12

The latest consumer video editing software from Sony drops the "Vegas" brand from its name, but Sony Movie Studio Platinum 12 ($94.95 direct), still feels like a derivative of its pro-level Vegas Pro software rather than a product designed for consumers from the ground up. In my last go-round, Sony Movie Studio was among the least user-friendly and slowest editors I've tested. In the new version, Sony Creative has made progress in performance, and the program remains chock full of near-pro-level tools, including 3D and Blu-ray support. But Movie Studio hasn't come far along enough in usability to earn a high recommendation, nor has it kept up with competitors that offer new capabilities like 4K Super HD support.

• PROS
  Powerful, precise editing tools. 3D capability. DVD or Blu-ray, uploading to YouTube. Smooth preview for Picture in Picture. Good rendering speed. Loads of effects and transitions. Customizable interface. Integrated audio editing.
• CONSObtuse, outdated interface. Limited to 20 tracks.Occasional program crashes. No Picture in Picture presets.
• BOTTOM LINE
  Sony Movie Studio HD Platinum 11 offers 3D editing, accelerated performance, and near-professional-level control, but at the cost of near-pro-level degree of difficulty.