8 Best Video Editing Software for Mac [2024]

Whether you’re a seasoned professional, a passionate enthusiast, or just starting out, choosing the best video editing software makes the difference when creating stunning, high-quality content. The right app can unleash your creativity, streamline your workflow, and enable you to tell stories in visually engaging ways. In this article, we’ll explore the best video editing software options for Mac aimed at varying levels of expertise and needs.

The 8 best video editing software for Mac at a glance

How did we review these apps?

In our process of choosing the best video editor for Mac, we have carefully considered several factors to ensure that our recommendations are reliable for your creative projects. Below you’ll find the factors we’ve evaluated:

• User interface: The intuitiveness and cleanliness of the software’s UI, ensuring tools are easily accessible and workflows are seamless.
• Ease of use: How beginner-friendly software is each app, alongside the availability of tutorials or in-app guidance.
• Feature set: The range of editing tools, special effects, transitions, AI, and support for various file formats and resolutions.
• Performance: Speed and responsiveness during intensive tasks like rendering and exporting.
• Compatibility with macOS: Each software’s performance with the latest as well as slightly older versions of macOS to gauge versatility.
• Price: Directly comparing the cost against the features offered, we considered overall value for money, factoring in both upfront and subscription costs.
• Customer support: Adequate support resources such as manuals, forums, and customer service responsiveness were evaluated.
• Updates and upgrades: The frequency of updates and whether the developers are launching new features.

1. DaVinci Resolve

🥇 Best for: High-quality video production

⭐ Highlight: Advanced color grading and real-time team collaboration

✅ Pros:

• Professional-grade editing, color correction, and audio tools
• Clear, well-organized interface
• Unlimited video tracks and supports 4K XAVC-S format
• Uploads directly to YouTube

❌ Cons:

• Steep learning curve
• Requires robust system resources

DaVinci Resolve offers aspiring videographers and seasoned editors alike a top-tier, feature-rich editing experience. With motion graphics, 3D editing, and more, it’s a powerhouse used by professionals on major film projects. The free version grants substantial functionality, albeit with a learning curve and system requirements to match its high-end capabilities. Perfect for those committed to mastering the art of video editing on their Mac.

2. Final Cut Pro

🥇 Best for: Advanced users

⭐ Highlight: Optimized for macOS with advanced media organization tools

✅ Pros:

• Magnetic, trackless timeline for intuitive editing
• Strong organization with libraries, ratings, and tagging
• Multicam editing for complex projects
• Outstanding performance, especially on M1, M2, and M3 Macs
• Plug-in support expands creative possibilities

❌ Cons:

• Only runs on Apple hardware, limiting accessibility
• Less intuitive import and export than competitors
• Fewer options for collaboration compared to Adobe Premiere Pro

Final Cut Pro stands tall as a top-tier editing suite tailored for macOS users. Its revolutionary trackless timeline simplifies the creative process and melds power with performance for a seamless editing experience. With unparalleled organization tools and robust multicam capabilities, it’s a formidable tool for professional-grade video projects. Though not the most collaborative-friendly, its singular focus on productivity makes it a valuable asset for solo editors looking to push boundaries in video creation.

3. Apple iMovie

🥇 Best for: Beginners

⭐ Highlight: Pre-installed on Mac, simple and intuitive interface

✅ Pros:

• Intuitive, user-friendly interface
• Quality chroma-keying capabilities
• Exclusive support for iPhone recording features
• Impressive built-in movie templates

❌ Cons:

• No media tagging feature
• Limited to two video tracks

Apple iMovie shines as the go-to video editing software for Mac newbies thanks to its free availability and a solid range of editing tools wrapped in a beautifully simple interface. It allows you to create polished content without needing pro-level skills. iMovie’s standout features, such as the Storyboard and Trailers, help novices shape their videos with professional flair. While it lacks multi-cam and lacks the advanced features found in more professional software, it’s an excellent starting point, seamlessly paving the way toward using Apple’s Final Cut Pro for those seeking to level up their video-editing game.

4. Adobe Premiere Pro

🥇 Best for: Professional video editing and collaboration

⭐ Highlight: Industry standard with powerful editing tools and integrations

✅ Pros:

• Extensive library of effects
• Seamless integration with Adobe apps
• Advanced color grading and multicam support
• Robust collaboration features, such as integration with Frame.io
• Wide range of third-party plug-in support
• AI video editor

❌ Cons:

• The subscription model can be costly
• The steep learning curve for nonprofessionals
• Some features require additional Adobe applications

Adobe Premiere Pro is an industry leader in professional video editing on Mac computers. It shines with its vast array of effects, powerful tools for color correction, and the ability to handle complex projects with its multicam and VR editing capabilities. The clear and flexible interface bolsters productivity, though newcomers may find it daunting. A major selling point is the smooth interoperability with other Adobe software and third-party plug-ins, expanding creative possibilities. Be mindful of the recurring subscription fee and the likelihood that you’ll need to master additional applications to harness its full power. However, for professionals and dedicated enthusiasts, it’s an investment in top-tier production quality.

5. CyberLink PowerDirector 365

🥇 Best for: Intermediate editors & enthusiasts

⭐ Highlight: Extensive visual effects and templates, AI integration

✅ Pros:

• Fast project rendering for efficient workflow
• User-friendly interface with intuitive design
• Includes a wealth of effects and AI tools for creativity
• Features multicam and motion tracking capabilities
• Provides screen recording functionality

❌ Cons:

• The vast number of options can be overwhelming for beginners
• Higher learning curve compared to more basic editing software

CyberLink PowerDirector 365 stands out with its comprehensive set of tools tailored for imaginative video creation. Users can explore a suite that encompasses Mask, PiP, Title Designers, and a generous array of templates. It also includes significant audio manipulation capabilities and advanced color correction. Designed to be accessible despite its professional-grade features, it accommodates an array of formats and outputs for versatility, positioning itself as a pivotal tool in a Mac user’s video editing arsenal.

6. HitFilm

🥇 Best for: Aspiring filmmakers and VFX artists

⭐ Highlight: 2D/3D compositing, VFX, and integrated training videos

✅ Pros:

• Comprehensive VFX toolkit with professional-grade tools
• True 3D space for motion graphics and visual effects
• Excellent online tutorials and a supportive community

❌ Cons:

• The steep learning curve for beginners
• High system requirements for optimal performance

HitFilm stands out as a robust option on Mac for users who want to delve into the realms of video editing and VFX without the hefty price tag. Its strong suite of professional-grade tools allows for the creation of stunning visual effects and motion graphics in true 3D space—features usually reserved for pricier software. While the breadth of functionality is impressive, new users may find the learning curve a bit daunting. However, the wealth of online tutorials and a supportive community help ease the onboarding process.

7. Lightworks

🥇 Best for: Both novice and seasoned video editors

⭐ Highlight: Multi-point editing with advanced trimming tools

✅ Pros:

• Intuitive user interface suitable for all skill levels
• Robust video and audio editing capabilities
• Advanced color correction and visual effects options
• Cross-platform compatibility, including Mac, Windows, and Linux
• Strong community support with a plethora of learning resources

❌ Cons:

• The free version has limitations on output formats
• It can be resource-intensive, requiring a powerful Mac for optimal performance

Lightworks offers an impressive array of video editing tools that cater to a wide range of users, from beginners to professional filmmakers. Its drag-and-drop interface streamlines workflow, while its comprehensive suite of editing features makes it possible to achieve a high level of polish and precision in video projects. Although it’s rich in features, Lightworks remains accessible, with a version to suit varying experience levels and needs. For Mac users who balance the intricacies of video editing with the desire for a straightforward, user-friendly experience, Lightworks stands out as a versatile choice.

8. Adobe Premiere Rush

🥇 Best for: Mobile editing & social media creators

⭐ Highlight: Cross-device syncing and simple mobile editing

✅ Pros:

• User-friendly interface that is easy to navigate
• Offers cloud storage for project flexibility and seamless Premiere Pro compatibility
• Fast rendering and performance underlined by quick, automatic editing capabilities
• Direct publishing options to social media platforms make it ideal for content creators

❌ Cons:

• Limited selection of transitions and no advanced editing tools such as chroma key
• Export options are restricted; unable to select the file type and codec

Adobe Premiere Rush is a streamlined video editing software designed for speed and efficiency. Ideal for social media creators and vloggers, Rush offers basic but sufficient editing tools such as titles, effects, and audio editing to produce visually engaging content rapidly. Its simplicity aligns perfectly with today’s fast-paced content creation needs, allowing creators to shoot, edit, and share directly from their Mac or mobile device. With its quick performance and ease of use, Premiere Rush is exemplary for projects that require a speedy turnaround with a professional touch. However, it may not fulfill the requirements of more advanced editors looking for depth in features.

Conclusion

In this exploration of the best video editing software for Mac, we’ve encountered tools catering to various editing needs. Each has its niche, from the industry-standard Final Cut Pro with its robust professional features to Adobe Premiere Pro’s cross-platform versatility and the beginner-friendly iMovie. DaVinci Resolve stands out with its powerful color correction abilities, while Lightworks brings a wealth of customizability that is suited for advanced users.

👉 Learn more: 21 Best Mac Apps in 2024 (Free & Paid)

As you consider which software to use, remember that a MacBook with Apple Silicon chips can significantly enhance your video editing experience. If the price of a new machine seems daunting, RefurbMe offers a savvy solution.

Via RefurbMe, you have access to a wide array of refurbished MacBooks that are both budget-friendly and perform on par with new models—warranty included. Our comparison tool eases the search, ensuring you find a MacBook perfect for your video editing ambitions without the premium cost.

See below for all available M-chip-powered MacBooks in real time. 👇

MacBook Air 13.3" M1

256GB SSD
Apple M1 with 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU
8GB memory • Space Gray
with Touch Id • 2020 release

Good condition, by Amazon

$574

new $999 -43%

View deal

MacBook Air 13.3" M1

256GB SSD
Apple M1 with 8-core CPU, 7-core GPU
8GB memory • Silver
with Touch Id • 2020 release

Excellent condition, by Amazon

$619

new $999 -38%

View deal

MacBook Pro 13.3" M1

256GB SSD
Apple M1 with 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU
8GB memory • Space Gray
with Touch Bar • 2020 release

Good condition, by Amazon

$624

new $1,299 -52%

View deal

Compare all Refurbished MacBook with Apple Silicon Chip

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