12 BEST Premiere Pro Plugins In 2024 [FREE & Paid]
Incorporating plugins like FireCut, Motion Array, and mKeynote into Adobe Premiere Pro streamlines the editing process, saving time and boosting the quality of your projects on both Windows and Mac. By leveraging these tools, you expedite your workflow and achieve superior results swiftly.
Ever find yourself wondering how to push your video edits from "good" to "wow"? Well, Adobe Premiere Pro extensions and plugins are additional software components that can be installed to add new features, effects, transitions, and workflows to Adobe Premiere Pro. These plugins can greatly expand the capabilities of Premiere Pro, which lets users to achieve more sophisticated and specialized editing tasks that might not be possible with the software's built-in features alone. Some add cool effects, some make color correcting easier, and others help with audio, animations, or even making your workflow smoother.
Think of plugins like your favorite seasoning—without it, your dish might taste fine, but with it, you'll bring out the best flavors. In Premiere Pro, plugins can spice up your projects, making them more visually appealing and professional. Whether you're just getting your feet wet or you've been editing for a while but want to up your game, understanding plugins is a must.
Picking the Right Plugin
Now, not all plugins are created equal, and what works for one editor might not suit another. It all depends on what type of videos you intend to make, the tools you use and your level of experience. Here are a few of my tips on picking the right ones:
Know Your Needs: Before diving into the vast sea of plugins, pinpoint what you need. Is color grading your Achilles' heel? Or maybe you need fancy transitions? Identifying your needs will narrow down your search.
Compatibility Check: Ensure the plugin you're eyeing plays nicely with your version of Premiere Pro. Most plugin websites will list compatibility information, so keep an eye out for that.
Try Before You Buy: Many plugins offer trial versions. Use them. It's the best way to see if a plugin fits your workflow without committing your hard-earned cash.
Community Wisdom: Check out forums, Reddit, or YouTube reviews. Hearing from real users can give you insights that product pages might not.
How To Install Any Of The Following Plugins On Premiere Pro
Installing these plugins can seem a bit technical, but don't worry; it's simpler than it sounds. I'll break it down for you.
Find Your Plugin: First off, you need to find the plugin you want to install. There are loads of places online to find Premiere Pro plugins, from Adobe's own marketplace to third-party websites. Once you've found your plugin, download it. It'll usually come in a .zxp file.
Using Adobe's Creative Cloud Desktop App: The easiest way to install some plugins is directly through Adobe's Creative Cloud desktop app. For this, you'll navigate to the 'Stock & Marketplace' tab, then to 'Plugins', and from there, you can manage your plugins.
Command-Line Tools for the Tech-Savvy: For more tech-savvy users or specific plugin files, Adobe offers command-line tools for installation, like the Unified Plugin Installer Agent (UPIA) and ExMan. You'd download the ZXP file of the plugin, then use the command line to install it. This process is a bit more involved and requires some basic command-line knowledge. You'll be navigating to your downloaded file's location and running a command to install it.
Post-Installation: Once you've installed your plugin, you might wonder where it went. If you can't immediately find your new plugin or extension within Premiere Pro, Adobe recommends visiting the 'My Exchange' section of their website. This area provides detailed information on where to find and how to use your newly installed plugins.
Troubleshooting: If you encounter any issues during the installation, Adobe's help pages and forums are a treasure trove of information and solutions. Moreover, the plugin provider's website or support team can be invaluable resources.
Recently released at the end of 2023, Motion Array's plugins became popular within a matter of weeks since they were offered for free. Exclusive to all members of Motion Array, these plugins bring a lot to the table, especially if you're dipping your toes into the world of video editing with Premiere Pro and want to up your game without getting tangled in overly technical details. Let's break down what these plugins can do for you, especially if you're starting to find your footing.
Background Removal In 1 click
First off, dealing with backgrounds. Ever wanted to remove or change the background of your video without spending hours figuring it out? The keying plugins are your go-to. Here's why:
They make removing green screens a breeze. You know, the same technology big movie studios use to create those fantastic scenes. Now, it's accessible to you.
With a few clicks, you can isolate your subject, get rid of unwanted backgrounds, or even swap in a new scenic view. Whether it's a dark alley or a sunny beach, you're covered.
Now, onto the fun part: visual effects. This is where your videos get that 'wow' factor. The toolkit offers a variety of effects that can transform your project from basic to breathtaking. Here's a quick rundown:
Light flares and flames for adding drama or warmth to your scenes.
Particle effects, pixelation, and droplets for that creative flair. Think of adding magical sparks to a scene or mimicking a rainy window effect.
Ideal Use Case
But what types of videos benefit the most from these plugins? Honestly, if you're working on anything from YouTube content to short films, or even presentations that need that extra pizzazz, these tools are for you. They're especially useful if you're aiming for a high-end look or a distinctive style that sets you apart.
I've been using these plugins in nearly all my projects. They're that good. And while I have my favorites, like the visual effects suite for its sheer creativity boost, I also have some that I use more sparingly. It's all about having the right tools for the right job. For instance, keying plugins are my go-to for any project where I need to work with green screens or want to experiment with different backgrounds.
So, you've got this Nonmotion Graphics Library Extension. Sounds fancy, but what does it actually do? Imagine having a massive access to over 1,600 graphics elements ready to use. We're talking about stuff that can really make your videos pop, all without needing to create anything from scratch.
Nonmotion Graphics Extension Features
1600+ Ready For Use Graphics Elements: This is like having an endless supply of Lego blocks. Whatever you're building, you've got the pieces.
After Effects CC 2018 and above: You'll need at least this version of After Effects. It's pretty standard, so no worries there.
Handy Extension Included: This means you get a tool that makes accessing and using all these graphics as easy as pie.
Supported any Resolution: Whether you're editing a video for Instagram or a 4K movie, this plugin has your back.
No Plugin Required: Forget about downloading anything extra. This extension is all you need.
Responsive Design: Your graphics look good on any device. Handy, right?
Html Library Included: This is your catalog of all the graphics, making it easy to find what you need.
Now, who is this for? If you're working on projects that need a visual oomph—think YouTube videos, social media content, or even presentations—this plugin is a solid choice. It gives you a professional look without the need to learn graphic design.
Let's talk about the vibe of your projects. This plugin is ideal for videos that need to stand out visually, whether it's through dynamic intros, eye-catching titles, or slick transitions. If your content is heavy on visuals, like tutorials, product reviews, or even short films, you'll find this toolkit a time-saver.
This technically isn't a plugin, but rather an extension which can be downloaded for free with Envato Elements (assuming you're already a member). But basically, what it does is it visualizes effects in Premiere Pro, especially if you're on CC 2020 or above. Let me break it down for you, especially if Premiere Pro is already your go-to for video editing but you find yourself often lost in the sea of effects.
Core Features Explained
Compatibility: First things first, it works seamlessly with Premiere Pro CC 2020 and newer versions. This means you get to use the latest features without any hassle.
PremiumBuilder Extension Tool: Included in this package, it's a game-changer for managing effects. Think of it as your personal assistant for finding and applying effects quickly.
What's Inside?
Visualized Effects: Ever scrolled endlessly to find an effect? Not anymore. All effects are visualized, making it easier to find and apply them to your composition, no matter the size.
Resizable Compositions: Whether you're working on a small project or a cinematic masterpiece, this extension scales with your composition.
Tutorials: Stuck on something? The included tutorials, complete with voiceovers, are like having a mentor over your shoulder.
PremiumBuilder Extension Features
Home Button: A quick way to get back to square one, saving you time.
Minimize/Maximize: Adjust the extension window with a click, keeping your workspace tidy.
Add to Favourite Category: Love an effect? Save it in your favorites for speedy access later.
Side Menu Button On/Off: Control your workspace's layout with the flexibility to toggle the side menu.
Search Functionality: Find any effect in seconds, either by browsing everything or narrowing down within a category.
AEjuice's Iconic After Effects plugin now available for Premiere Pro. This pack includes almost 100 mini-packs, but here are the main ones included:
Glitch Kinetic Typography ($39 from $79)
This tool allows you to add dynamic, glitch-inspired text animations to your video. It's perfect for creating eye-catching titles or emphasizing certain messages with a techy, modern vibe.
Light Leaks ($49 from $99)
Light leaks give your videos a soft, warm glow, often seen in vintage films. This plugin lets you easily overlay these effects to add a touch of nostalgia or dreaminess.
Flat Icons ($19 from $39)
Incorporate simple, clean icons into your projects. Ideal for explainer videos or presentations, these icons can help convey your message visually without clutter.
Animate text with just a few clicks. This collection of presets can help make your titles and messages more engaging without needing to keyframe everything from scratch.
Slides - Vintage Collection ($49 from $99)
Create slideshow videos with a vintage flair. This pack is excellent for photo retrospectives or any project where you want a warm, nostalgic look.
Monster Transitions ($24 from $49)
Add fun, quirky transitions between your clips. These are perfect for adding character to your edits and keeping your audience engaged.
Shape Elements ($24 from $49) & Shape Elements 2 ($24 from $49)
These packs provide you with a variety of geometric shapes and animations. Use them to add polish to your motion graphics or to create interesting backgrounds.
This plugin would be ranked 3 on this list if it weren't for the high price tag. Some say that $99 for what's included is a bit to pay. I personally cannot agree since you do get alot for the price, but trust me, it's quite the package.
Features
95 Titles: These aren't your run-of-the-mill titles. They're designed to seamlessly blend into your projects, giving them a professional and polished look that screams quality.
8 Transitions: Smooth, sleek, and simple. These transitions are all about enhancing your video flow without overwhelming your content.
File Size: At just 19.5 MB, it's lightweight. Easy to download and won't hog your system's resources.
Compatibility Check
Before you get too excited, let's make sure you can actually use this plugin. You'll need:
macOS 10.15.7 or later
Motion 5.5.3 or Final Cut Pro 10.5.4
Got those? Great, you're all set to use this plugin.
Why Consider This Plugin?
Now, I know what you're thinking. "$109 is a bit steep, isn't it?" Well, yes and no. It's all about what you're getting for your investment. This plugin isn't just a random collection of effects. It's a carefully curated set that's built to meet Apple's high standards. Plus, with Justine Ezarik (iJustine) backing it, you know it's got to be good. She's a tech vlogger who really knows her stuff, especially when it comes to Apple products and design.
Easy to Use
Absolutely. If you're familiar with the basics of Premiere Pro, you'll find integrating these presets into your projects a breeze. Drag and drop functionality is the name of the game here, making it super user-friendly.
Recently released in 2023, this plugin has already gained popularity amongst several popular content creators including Ali Abdaal and more!
Key Features of FireCut
Automatically Remove Silences: Ever find yourself manually scrubbing through footage to cut out those awkward silences? FireCut does that automatically. It scans your video and snips out the silence, keeping the flow of your content engaging without the manual hassle.
Detect Chapters: Planning to create content with distinct sections or chapters? FireCut automatically detects potential chapter points in your video. This means you can easily organize your content into digestible segments, enhancing viewer engagement.
Remove Repetition: We've all been there—multiple takes of the same scene, trying to get it just right. FireCut identifies and removes these repetitive takes, leaving you with the best version of each scene. It's like having a first pass editor, cutting down your raw footage to the essentials.
Edit Multi-Track Videos: Working on a podcast or a multi-camera setup? FireCut handles multi-track videos with ease. It synchronizes and edits footage from different sources, making it perfect for podcasts, interviews, or any multi-angle content.
How FireCut Is One Of A Kind
For beginners and seasoned editors alike, FireCut offers a straightforward solution to the time-consuming parts of video editing. It's not just about speeding up the process; it's about making it more accessible. You don't need to be a pro to get professional results. FireCut automates the tedious tasks, so you can focus on the creative aspects of editing—like storytelling, pacing, and visual effects.
This list isn't complete without mentioning Boris FX! One of the most iconic plugins out there, especially Mocha Pro. It's a powerhouse for adding those slick, movie-quality effects to your projects, like planar motion tracking, rotoscoping, object removal, and much more. Think of it as your secret weapon for making your videos look award-winning, just like those Oscar-nominated films we all love.
Mocha Pro is a plugin that works magic in visual effects and post-production. Whether you're aiming to manipulate motion, remove unwanted objects, or stabilize shaky footage, Mocha Pro has got you covered.
Key Features Explained
Using Mocha Pro feels like you have an extra set of hands, especially when tackling the more tedious parts of editing. And who wouldn't want that? It's all about making your workflow as smooth as possible so you can focus on the fun parts of creating. Plus, knowing you're using the same tool that helped craft the VFX for movies like Dune? That's just icing on the cake.
Rotoscoping Enhancements
Organic Roto: Ever tried drawing over objects frame by frame? Mocha's latest update makes this less of a chore. It introduces a more natural way to select points, making your roto work feel like it's part of the original footage.
Shape Management: Got complex shapes? Easily break them down into simpler layers or adjust their edges quicker than before. This means less headache when dealing with intricate objects.
Tracking Updates
Smarter Tracking: Combine tracks from different layers for a cleaner, more efficient workflow. Plus, moving groups of track points feels more intuitive, saving you time and effort.
Enhanced Navigation: Jump to the end or beginning of your tracks faster, making the editing process smoother.
Rendering Boosts
Object Removal Made Easy: Need to get rid of something from a static shot? Now you can do it without the hassle of tracking it first. A real time-saver for those pesky unwanted elements.
ROI Cropping in Insert Module: This update makes manipulating the region of interest on surfaces a breeze, allowing for more precise adjustments.
Export Improvements
Streamlined Data Generation: Directly generate tracking data in Nuke OFX plugin and After Effects with just a click. This is especially handy when you're working with a single layer, simplifying the workflow significantly.
Ever heard about a plugin that can magically make your video look cleaner and more polished by reducing all that annoying noise? Let's break it down into something a bit easier to digest.
What Does This Plugin Do?
Feature-Sensitive Spatial Filtering: Imagine you have a painting with some unwanted splatters here and there. This part of the plugin acts like a precise eraser, targeting only those splatters without smudging the actual painting. It intelligently figures out which parts of your video are noise (those random speckles and unwanted grainy bits) and smooths them out, all while keeping the important details crisp and intact.
Time-Based Optical Flow Methods: Now, think about how a flipbook works, showing you a moving image as you quickly flip through the pages. This plugin component examines your video in a similar way, but instead of just flipping pages, it looks at how objects move from one frame to the next. It then uses this information to further reduce noise, especially in those parts of your video where everything is in motion, ensuring the movement looks as smooth as silk.
Main Features
Intelligent Noise Reduction: Automatically distinguishes between noise and detail to clean up your video.
Preserves Important Details: Keeps the sharpness of your main subjects intact while removing unwanted grain.
Smooth Movement: Analyzes and enhances motion, making everything flow more naturally.
If you've ever found yourself toggling between your Adobe projects and your browser, searching for the perfect asset, you know how much of a workflow killer that can be. The Storyblocks plugin for Adobe Creative Cloud aims to streamline this process. Think of it as your personal asset assistant, right within Adobe Premiere Pro (or any Adobe Creative Cloud application, really).
How Does It Work?
Direct Access in Adobe: With this plugin, you're able to search, preview, and download from Storyblocks' extensive library without ever leaving your editor. This means you can stay in your creative flow, without the interruption of jumping over to a browser tab.
Speed Up Video Creation: Ever been in the zone, editing away, and realized you need that perfect shot or the right piece of music? With everything accessible directly in your editor, sourcing assets becomes seamless. Plus, custom templates and music recommendations are right there to spark your creativity or give you that initial push for a new project.
Iterate with Confidence: Here’s a biggie - unlimited downloads from a diverse, royalty-free library. This means you can try out different content, iterate on your video concepts, and not worry about running out of downloads or dealing with licensing issues. It’s all covered under a comprehensive license.
Who Gets Access?: This gem is available to Storyblocks for Business and Pro plan members through Adobe's marketplace. If you're serious about making videos, this could be a game-changer for you.
Sapphire plugins are a multi-functional tool for video editing in Premiere Pro. If you're starting to get a grip on the basics, like launching the plugin and fiddling around with a few settings, then you're in for a treat. Let's unpack what Sapphire plugins offer and how they can up your video editing game.
Over 270 Effects and 3000+ Presets
What This Means: Think of presets as pre-made edits and effects. With over 3000 to choose from, you've got a vast library at your fingertips. Whether you need a vintage look or futuristic glitches, it's all there.
Why It's Cool: Saves you time. Instead of creating effects from scratch, you can apply one of these presets and tweak it if needed. It's like having a head start in a race.
Powerful Effect and Transition Builder
In Simple Terms: This is your playground for creating custom effects and transitions. You're not just stuck with what's provided; you can mix and match to create something unique.
Benefits: It pushes your creative boundaries. Playing around with different combinations can result in something uniquely yours, making your project stand out.
Integrated Tracking and Masking with Mocha
What Is It?: Mocha is a tool for tracking movement in your video clips, allowing you to apply effects that follow objects around. Masking lets you hide or reveal parts of a clip.
Why It Matters: It adds a professional touch. For instance, if you want to blur out a license plate or have text move with a person, Mocha makes it possible without a headache.
Superior Image Quality, Control, and Render Speed
The Lowdown: Sapphire plugins don't just offer a bunch of effects; they ensure these effects look top-notch in your videos. Plus, they give you control over how these effects behave and work hard to not slow down your editing process.
The Takeaway: You save time and stress. High-quality renders that don't take ages mean you can focus more on the creative side of editing rather than waiting around.
This tool is pretty straightforward but packs a punch in delivering that nostalgic film aesthetic. Let’s break down what FilmConvert offers and how it can elevate your projects.
Supports Major Camera Brands
What It Means: FilmConvert works with footage from nearly all the big names like Panasonic, DJI, ARRI, Canon, GoPro, Nikon, Sony, and Blackmagic. This is great because it means no matter what camera you're using, you’re covered.
Why It’s Helpful: Consistency in your edits. Regardless of the camera used for filming, you can achieve a uniform look across your project.
Amazing Camera Profiles
The Gist: These profiles adjust the plugin's settings to match the characteristics of your camera’s footage. This ensures the film look applies accurately.
Benefit: It's like having a custom setting for each camera, which means the colors and grains match perfectly, making your footage look as authentic as possible.
6K Grain Scans
Simple Explanation: FilmConvert includes high-quality grain scans, up to 6K resolution. These add texture and depth to your video, mimicking the appearance of real film.
Why This Rocks: It adds that organic, tactile feel to your videos, making them more engaging and visually appealing.
19 Types of Film Stocks
What This Offers: You get to choose from 19 different film stock emulations. This variety allows you to mimic the look of specific types of old-school film.
The Cool Part: This feature gives you the flexibility to match the mood and tone of your project with the right film aesthetic.
Ability to Create 3D Luts
Breaking It Down: LUTs (Look-Up Tables) are a way to apply color grading across your footage. FilmConvert lets you create these in 3D, which means more precise color adjustments.
The Advantage: You can save your custom color grades and apply them to any project, ensuring consistency and saving time in your editing process.
Last but not least is the MKBHD plugin for Premiere Pro (amongst other programs).
Ever wondered how MKBHD, one of the top tech bloggers, gets his videos to look so slick and professional? Let's break down the Ultimate Channel Toolbox, a plugin that's packed with the same smart tools and tricks he uses. This is for anyone who's got the basics down but wants to level up their video editing game.
Key Features at a Glance
Handpicked Tools: We're talking about a collection of editing tools that MKBHD himself finds invaluable. They're all about efficiency and quality.
Streamlined for Ease: The plugin's design focuses on simplicity. Even if you're not a pro, you can use these tools without breaking a sweat.