If you're looking for a video editor that supports image overlays with object tracking, here are some powerful options—both free and paid—that excel at pinning or tracking graphics to moving targets:
Top Picks for Image Overlay with Object Tracking
DaVinci Resolve (Free & Studio)
- Latest version: Resolve 20, released 28 May 2025, includes AI features like improved Magic Mask, depth map, multi-layer compositing, and optical flow tools—ideal for advanced tracking and overlays en.wikipedia.org.
- Comes with integrated Fusion for compositing and motion tracking, widely used in film and VFX en.wikipedia.org.
- Free version includes many capabilities; Studio version unlocks full AI tracking features and higher resolutions en.wikipedia.org.
CyberLink PowerDirector (Windows)
- Praised for its ease of use and strong motion tracking tools www.cyberlink.com.
- Recommended for beginners to intermediate users looking for professional results with a gentler learning curve www.techradar.com.
Final Cut Pro (Mac)
- The Object Tracker (Magnetic Mask) makes it simple to isolate and overlay elements—no green screen needed www.theverge.com.
- Note: Still evolving; object tracking is functional but can be somewhat limited www.techradar.comwww.theverge.com.
Shotcut (Free, Cross-Platform)
- Fully open-source with built-in motion tracking, overlay layers, keyframes, compositing, and rotoscoping tools en.wikipedia.org.
Online Tool: Kapwing
- Web-based editor allowing you to pin images or text to moving objects—no installation required and suitable for quick, short edits www.kapwing.com.
Other Options Mentioned in Tracking Software Lists
- Includes Adobe After Effects, Premiere Pro (with tracking via plugins), HitFilm Express, VSDC, Filmora, Kdenlive, Vegas Pro—these were noted in general motion tracking tool round-ups www.videoproc.com.
Quick Comparison
| Software | Platform | Motion Tracking & Overlay Capability | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| DaVinci Resolve 20 | Windows / macOS / Linux | Advanced AI, Fusion integration | Professional VFX & editing |
| PowerDirector | Windows | Easy-to-use tracking | Beginners to prosumers |
| Final Cut Pro 11 | macOS | Magnetic Mask object isolation | Mac users, straightforward workflow |
| Shotcut | Cross-platform | Basic built-in tracking & compositing | Free/open-source flexibility |
| Kapwing | Browser-based | Easy pinning without installation | Quick edits, no software install |
Product Recommendation: DaVinci Resolve Studio
If you want the most robust object tracking and overlay tools, DaVinci Resolve Studio is a top-tier choice, combining editing, compositing, and AI-driven tracking in one package:
All‑in‑one professional editing + VFXBlackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Studio
£252.00CVP.com + others
★★4.7
User‑friendly motion tracking solutionCyberlink PowerDirector 2025 Ultra
£79.99CyberLink + others
★★5.0Ask about thisChatGPT chooses products independently. Learn more
- Blackmagic Design DaVinci Resolve Studio – Advanced tracking, high-resolution output, integrated Fusion compositing.
- Cyberlink PowerDirector 2025 Ultra – Easy learning curve, effective motion tracking, especially good for Windows users new to motion overlays.
Recommendation Summary
- For professional-grade tracking and compositing:
DaVinci Resolve (Studio edition) is unmatched. The free version is already powerful, but Studio adds crucial AI and high-res capability. - For ease of use and fast results:
CyberLink PowerDirector offers a balance of intuitive interface and solid tracking tools. - If you're on Mac and want to stay in the Apple ecosystem:
Final Cut Pro is capable—but note the tracking features are functional yet still maturing. - Want a free, cross-platform option:
Shotcut is a solid choice with built-in tracking and compositing. - Just need something quick and online:
Kapwing works great for simple pinning tasks with minimal setup.