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Editors' Review
+CyberLink PowerDirector 13 Ultra is a pro-level video production and editing suite that is well within the grasp of talented amateurs. PowerDirector specializes in speed, especially in 64-bit Windows systems. It creates themes, subtitles, slideshows, and 3D animated titles; supports end-to-end 4K and 3D; and bundles more than 100 video-editing tools and many extras, including unlimited free templates and other resources, in the DirectorZone. Version 13's improved MultiCam Editing auto-syncs more than 100 cameras. Other PowerDirector bundles are available, too.
Pros
Speed features: PowerDirector's blistering, 64-bit TrueVelocity four-video engine supports OpenGL and multiple graphics cards. Enabling shadow files of HD video downloads during the setup process speeds up editing but degrades previews, though the final video quality is unaffected.
User experience: PowerDirector's quick-launch screen let us choose the Full Feature Editor, Easy Editor, or Slideshow Creator. The Full Feature Editor packs a lot in an efficient, customizable layout topped by its four main tools: Capture, Edit, Produce, and Burn Disc. Rooms display content: Media Room, Particle Room, and so on.
Extras: The Ultra suite bundles many tools and extras, including SmartSound for audio tracks, Apple's QuickTime, and a menu of Magic Tools for quick fixes.
Cons
Download: PowerDirector 13's 6GB RAR file took a while to download and required third-party software to extract. Installation (and reinstallation) may be easier with the boxed CD edition.
Extra Startup entries: Choosing QuickTime's automatic Apple software update option adds an entry to your Startup Menu that can delay booting.
Bottom Line
CyberLink PowerDirector 13 Ultra is sophisticated and fun to use, and most similar tools can't compete with its great speed and features.
Editors' note: This is a review of the full version of CyberLink PowerDirector 13. The trial version has limited functionality.
Publisher's Description
+Powered by the 64-bit TrueVelocity engine, CyberLink PowerDirector 13 provides unparalleled speed in rendering HD videos -- including support for the latest 4K UltraHD and H.265/HEVC formats. PowerDirector provides the easiest and most flexible design tools to design and customize your transition and title effects. Flexible design tools - PowerDirector supports 100-track multicam editing, to always capture the best shot. The flexible design tools allow you to create and customize your own transitions, title and PiP effects. Easy yet powerful - The Easy Editor lets beginners create awesome videos on the first try. For experienced editors, PowerDirector comes with thousands of fully customizable effects and tools. Stylish built-in effects and templates -- PowerDirector includes over 500 video effects, animated themes, title effects, transition effects, particle effects and PiP objects to instantly create stylish videos. The Ultimate version also includes over $650 value premium effects & templates. Cloud connected -- Includes 10GB of CyberLink Cloud service for one year, so you can easily back up your video projects and templates. Create on-the-go with PowerDirector Mobile and access over 480,000 free templates & tutorials from DirectorZone.com. Unparalleled speed & Latest Format Support- PowerDirector is powered by world's fastest video rendering engine TrueVelocity 4. PowerDirector supports the latest video formats, such as 4K, XAVC-S and H.265/HEVC. When you are ready to produce your videos, use the format most suitable for TV, media player, or mobile device.
What's new in this version:
Cloud Tools, Fully Customizable Design Tools, Over 60 New Features, Effects and Templates and Much More! Unleash your creativity with PowerDirector 13's customizable design tools - create your personalized transition, titles and disc menu, and edit up to 100 multicam clips with the most powerful video editing software! Need more effects and templates? PowerDirector includes over 50 new effects and templates to polish your video creations. When your creation is done, you can backup your projects ... See all new features »
