When it comes to video editing, Mac computers have garnered a strong reputation among creative professionals and enthusiasts. Apple's emphasis on design and creativity has made Macs a preferred choice over other platforms such as Windows, Chrome OS, or Linux PCs. While Apple itself offers renowned video editing software like Final Cut Pro for professionals and iMovie for consumers, the Mac ecosystem also boasts a wide selection of capable third-party video editors.
With our extensive experience in reviewing video editing software, we have analyzed numerous programs and version updates to determine the best options available for macOS. Our evaluation criteria include essential aspects such as the range of editing tools, user-friendly interfaces, diverse effects, output options, and overall performance. In this article, we will present a detailed introduction to the top 10 video editing software for Mac, empowering you to choose the one that best suits your creative needs and unleashes your full potential.
So whether you're an experienced content creator or just starting your video editing journey, the right software can make a world of difference. Stay tuned as we explore the top 10 video editing software for Mac, opening up a world of possibilities to enhance your videos and bring your creative vision to life.
These are the Top 10 Video Editing Software
iMovie
iMovie, a free and consumer-grade video editing software for Mac computers, offers a user-friendly platform for creating personal projects. Optimized specifically for Apple hardware, iMovie is well-suited for users seeking a straightforward editing solution that doesn't require extensive technical knowledge. In this article, we will explore the features and capabilities of iMovie, showcasing its suitability for home users, hobbyists, and iPhone enthusiasts.
Features:
User-Friendly Interface: iMovie boasts a beautifully simple interface that aligns with Apple's design ethos. Its trackless timeline interface, shared with Final Cut Pro, allows users to navigate the editing process with ease. The streamlined layout ensures a smooth editing experience, ideal for beginners or those looking for a hassle-free editing solution.
Essential Editing Tools: While iMovie may not offer the same advanced capabilities as professional-grade software, it provides essential editing tools to enhance your videos. Features such as chroma-keying (green screen compositing), color-matching, and audio adjustments allow users to refine their footage and achieve desired effects. Additionally, iMovie supports 4K video editing, enabling users to work with high-resolution content.
Creative Features: iMovie offers creative features to add visual flair to your videos. Generate titles, incorporate drag-and-drop transitions, and include motion graphics like 3D globes or travel maps to captivate your audience. The software also allows for picture-in-picture video and slow-motion/fast-forward effects, adding dynamic elements to your footage.
- Creative Features: iMovie offers creative features to add visual flair to your videos. Generate titles, incorporate drag-and-drop transitions, and include motion graphics like 3D globes or travel maps to captivate your audience. The software also allows for picture-in-picture video and slow-motion/fast-forward effects, adding dynamic elements to your footage.
Built-in Music and Sound Effects: With iMovie, you have access to a library of built-in music and sound effects, making it easy to enhance your videos with appropriate audio. The software also allows you to create Hollywood-style trailers, utilizing footage that you provide. This feature simplifies the process of producing engaging productions, especially for amateurs seeking guidance.
Seamless Integration with Apple Ecosystem: As an Apple product, iMovie seamlessly integrates with other Apple devices and services. This makes it an excellent choice for iPhone users, as it syncs effortlessly with the video capabilities of the device. Furthermore, iMovie offers direct exporting to platforms like YouTube and Vimeo at up to 4K resolution, ensuring your creations can be easily shared with the world.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Filmora
Filmora, developed by Wondershare, stands as one of the top choices for video editing software due to its user-friendly interface, low-cost options, and continually expanding library of impactful effects. With its sleek and pleasing interface, quick performance, and a wide range of stock content and templates, Filmora provides a seamless editing experience. In this article, we will delve into the features and benefits of Filmora, highlighting its suitability for hobbyists and YouTubers looking for an accessible yet powerful video editing solution.
Features:
- User-Friendly Interface and Performance: Filmora boasts a slick and clear interface that makes video editing a breeze. The intuitive drag-and-drop functionality allows users to easily arrange and manipulate their footage. Additionally, Filmora's speedy performance ensures efficient editing and rendering processes, saving users valuable time and frustration.
- Extensive Effects and Overlays: With Filmora, users have access to a vast library of effects, including motion blur, filters, animations, and transitions. The continuous addition of impactful effects enhances the creative possibilities and ensures that users can stay up to date with the latest trends in video editing. These effects can elevate the visual appeal of your videos and make them stand out.
Cost-Effective Solution: Filmora offers both subscription-based and perpetual license options, catering to different budget preferences. Regardless of the chosen plan, users gain access to stock media, templates, and effects, enriching their editing toolkit without breaking the bank. This affordability makes Filmora an attractive choice for hobbyists and aspiring content creators.
Advanced Features: Filmora packs a range of advanced features that contribute to its appeal. From speech-to-text functionality and speed ramping to auto reframing and video stabilizing, the software provides tools to enhance the overall quality of your videos. Additionally, the AI portrait mode enables users to manipulate the depth of field in the background, adding a professional touch to their footage.
Limitations: While Filmora excels in user-friendliness and affordability, it may lack some features found in more advanced software. For instance, it may not offer certain tools as effective as those of its competitors, and it lacks multicam editing and virtual reality capabilities. Additionally, Filmora does not include DVD menu or chapter authoring features.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
DaVince Resolve
DaVinci Resolve, developed by Blackmagic Design, is a powerful and professional-grade video editing software widely used in the film industry. Known for its exceptional color correction capabilities, DaVinci Resolve offers a range of editing tools and features to empower users in creating stunning visual masterpieces. In this article, we will explore the benefits and functionality of DaVinci Resolve, highlighting its prowess in color grading and audio tools.
Features:
Professional-Level Editing Tools: DaVinci Resolve provides users with a comprehensive set of editing tools for precise control over their projects. From basic trimming and cutting to advanced transitions and effects, the software offers a wealth of options to achieve the desired visual results. Its well-designed interface ensures a clear and efficient editing workflow, allowing users to navigate the complexities of the software with ease.
Exceptional Color Correction Capabilities: One of the standout features of DaVinci Resolve is its renowned color grading tools. Used by many blockbuster films, Oscar winners, TV shows, and commercials, the software offers some of the best color correction capabilities in the industry. Whether it's achieving accurate skin tones, enhancing contrast, or creating a specific mood through color manipulation, DaVinci Resolve excels in delivering professional-grade color grading results.
Audio Editing and Motion Graphics: DaVinci Resolve goes beyond video editing by offering integrated audio editing capabilities. Users can fine-tune audio tracks, apply effects, and ensure high-quality sound synchronization with their visuals. Additionally, the software includes motion graphics features, enabling users to add dynamic elements to their videos, further enhancing the visual storytelling.
Efficient Rendering Performance: With DaVinci Resolve, users can experience fast render performance, allowing for quicker project turnaround times. This is particularly beneficial when working on complex and high-resolution projects, as the software optimizes system resources to deliver efficient rendering speeds.
Limitations and Learning Curve: While DaVinci Resolve offers powerful capabilities, it does come with certain limitations. Output options are limited to SD, HD, or Ultra HD, which should suffice for most users. However, some advanced grading and tracking tools have restrictions in the free version, encouraging professional users to upgrade. Additionally, due to its complexity, DaVinci Resolve may require an investment of time and effort to fully grasp its extensive features and unconventional workflow conventions.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Adobe Premier Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro, a powerhouse among professional video editing applications, offers a comprehensive suite of features and tools that cater to the needs of seasoned editors. With its top-notch color grading, multicam editing, effects, VR editing, motion graphic templates, and speech-to-text tools, Premiere Pro has established itself as a go-to choice for professionals in the industry. In this article, we will explore the benefits and functionality of Adobe Premiere Pro, highlighting its suitability for professionals and enthusiasts looking for advanced video editing capabilities.
Features:
- Extensive Pro-Level Features: Premiere Pro delivers an extensive range of pro-level features, making it a versatile tool for demanding video editing tasks. With top-notch color grading capabilities, editors can achieve precise and professional-grade color correction. The software also supports multicam editing, allowing users to synchronize and switch between multiple camera angles seamlessly. Additionally, Premiere Pro offers a wide array of effects, motion graphic templates, and VR editing tools to enhance the visual storytelling.
- Seamless Integration with Adobe Products: As an Adobe product, Premiere Pro seamlessly integrates with other Adobe software, such as Photoshop, After Effects, and Adobe Audition. This integration enables users to enhance their projects with additional graphic elements, advanced visual effects, and professional-grade audio editing capabilities. The smooth interoperability between Adobe applications streamlines the editing workflow and enhances overall productivity.
- Clear and Flexible Interface: Premiere Pro features a clear and flexible interface that provides users with a high degree of control over their editing process. The interface allows for efficient organization and collaboration, enabling editors to manage their projects effectively. The software offers responsive speed and fast rendering, ensuring a smooth and efficient editing experience.
- Unlimited Multicam Angles and Stabilization Tool: With Premiere Pro, users have the advantage of unlimited multicam angles, enabling them to work with diverse footage and create dynamic visual compositions. Additionally, the software includes an excellent stabilization tool, which helps to correct shaky footage and produce professional-looking results.
- Limitations and Learning Curve: Premiere Pro's interface and feature set can be intimidating for non-professionals or those new to video editing. Some techniques may require additional applications, such as After Effects or Media Encoder, to fully utilize the software's capabilities. It's worth noting that Premiere Pro does not include sound effect samples, requiring users to source them separately.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Movavi Video Editor
Movavi Video Editor combines an easy-to-use interface with professional editing options, making it an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced video creators. With its extensive range of features, such as chroma key tool, animation effects, brightness and saturation adjustments, and audio editing capabilities, Movavi Video Editor offers a versatile platform for transforming your ideas into engaging videos. In this article, we will delve into the benefits and functionality of Movavi Video Editor, showcasing its user-friendly interface and powerful editing tools.
Features:
Easy-to-Understand User Interface: Movavi Video Editor features an intuitive user interface that makes video editing accessible to users of all skill levels. The program's layout and navigation are designed to be user-friendly, ensuring a smooth editing experience without unnecessary complexity. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned editor, Movavi Video Editor provides a seamless and hassle-free editing environment.
Professional Editing Options: Despite its user-friendly interface, Movavi Video Editor offers a range of professional editing options to enhance your videos. With the chroma key tool, users can replace the video background, opening up creative possibilities. The program also includes animation effects, allowing users to add dynamic elements to their videos. Additionally, Movavi Video Editor enables users to adjust brightness, saturation, and other visual parameters to achieve the desired look and feel.
Extensive Effects and Tools: Movavi Video Editor provides users with a built-in library of effects, including music, backgrounds, titles, transitions, and stickers. These resources allow users to add creative elements to their videos, enhancing their visual appeal. The program also offers motion tracking and picture-in-picture tools, enabling users to create professional-looking compositions.
Quick and Easy Movie Creation: Movavi Video Editor includes a quick movie creation tool, allowing users to assemble their footage and create engaging videos in no time. This feature streamlines the editing process, making it convenient for users who want to produce videos efficiently without compromising on quality.
Limitations and Rendering Speed: Movavi Video Editor may have some limitations, such as the absence of advanced trim modes and clip pre-trimming options. Additionally, the rendering speed of the program can be on the slower side compared to some other video editing software. Furthermore, it's worth noting that Movavi Video Editor is currently not compatible with Apple Silicon M1 processors.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Lightworks
Lightworks stands as a popular choice for those seeking a simple yet powerful video editing software on Mac. With its user-friendly interface, this software ensures ease of use without compromising the quality of the output. Whether you're a casual video editor or a professional, Lightworks provides an array of tools and effects to enhance your video editing experience. In this article, we will explore the benefits and functionality of Lightworks, showcasing its simplicity and impressive capabilities.
Features:
- User-Friendly Interface with Quality Output: Lightworks offers a simplified interface that is easy to navigate, making it an accessible option for users of all levels of expertise. Despite its simplicity, Lightworks does not compromise on the quality of the output. Whether you're editing videos for personal use or professional projects, Lightworks ensures that your final product maintains its visual integrity.
- Comprehensive Editing Tools: The free version of Lightworks includes a range of essential editing tools, such as video effects, multi-cam editing, and titling. The software also follows a multi-layered timeline approach, providing a comprehensive editing experience. Lightworks gives users access to a wide variety of impressive effects and royalty-free media directly from the timeline. Additionally, the software offers tutorial videos to assist users in mastering its features and functionalities.
Wide Range of Export Formats: Lightworks allows users to export their content to a wide range of formats, providing flexibility in sharing and distributing their edited videos. Whether you need to export for online platforms or specific devices, Lightworks ensures compatibility by offering various export options.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
WeVideo
WeVideo stands as one of the best video editing software for Mac when it comes to creating tutorial videos. With its vast collection of pre-made templates and beginner-friendly editing tools, WeVideo offers a user-friendly platform for users to create professional video tutorials, even if they are new to editing. In this article, we will explore the benefits and features of WeVideo, highlighting its template library, drag-and-drop effects, and cloud-based collaborative capabilities.
Features:
Extensive Template Library: WeVideo provides users with hundreds of pre-made templates specifically designed for tutorial videos. With categories ranging from How-To: Recipe to Hairstyling and Online Classes, users can easily find templates that suit their instructional needs. These templates include YouTube intros, outros, and a screen recorder for creating training videos and tech demos. By adding animated titles and background music, users can effortlessly create polished and professional video tutorials.
Beginner-Friendly Editing Tools: WeVideo offers a range of beginner-friendly editing tools, making the editing process accessible to users of all levels. With drag-and-drop effects and transitions that can be applied with a single click, users can easily enhance their videos. The software also includes a robust stock library with royalty-free videos, images, and music, providing a wealth of creative resources. Additionally, WeVideo features an instant resize tool, allowing users to quickly adapt their videos for various social media platforms.
Cloud-Based Collaborative Platform: WeVideo is a powerful, cloud-based collaborative video creation platform. With its wide adoption by businesses, consumers, educators, and students, WeVideo serves as a trusted video editing solution. Users can access and edit their videos from any computer or device, ensuring flexibility in workflow. The software also provides secure storage in the cloud, allowing users to store and access their content conveniently.
User Testimonials: Users of WeVideo have expressed positive feedback regarding its features and functionality. They appreciate its ease of use, professional-looking quality of completed videos, and the extensive library of images, videos, and music. Some users have noted challenges in publishing and navigating the platform, while others have mentioned the absence of specific features like a crop and rotate tool for green screen creations.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Apple Final Cut Pro
Apple Final Cut Pro stands as one of the pioneering nonlinear computer video editing programs. While it was once regarded as a daunting and complex software, a revamp in recent years has made it far more intuitive while retaining its position as one of the most powerful video editing applications available. With support for cutting-edge standards like 8K RED RAW, ProRes 422, VR, and wide-gamut color spaces, Final Cut Pro excels in features such as multicam editing, color grading, and intelligent motion tracking. In this article, we will explore the benefits and capabilities of Apple Final Cut Pro, highlighting its unique "trackless timeline" and advanced workflow features.
Features:
- Revolutionary Trackless Timeline: Apple Final Cut Pro utilizes a unique "trackless timeline" approach, which sets it apart from traditional video editing software. This unconventional but brilliant timeline allows for seamless editing and organization of media, providing a fresh and efficient editing experience.
- Superior Organization Tools: Final Cut Pro offers a comprehensive set of organization tools, including libraries, ratings, tagging, and auto analysis for faces and scenes. These features ensure efficient media management, making it easier for editors to locate and organize their assets for seamless editing workflows.
- Support for Advanced Features: With Final Cut Pro, users can take advantage of cutting-edge features like support for 360-degree footage and wide color spaces. The software empowers editors to create immersive VR videos and enhance the visual quality of their projects.
- Multicam Editing and Motion Graphics: Final Cut Pro boasts powerful multicam editing capabilities, allowing users to save time and create detailed versions of their distributable videos. The application also includes a variety of motion graphics templates, enabling editors to add engaging visual elements to their projects.
- Room for Plug-Ins: While Final Cut Pro is a closed-source program, it provides flexibility through the integration of various plug-ins. Editors can enhance their video editing experience by incorporating third-party plug-ins, adding innovative and productive capabilities to their workflow.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
OpenShot
OpenShot is a free and open-source video editing software designed for Mac users who prioritize simplicity. With its clean interface and limited feature set, OpenShot caters to first-time editors, allowing them to familiarize themselves with video editing without overwhelming them with unnecessary features. This article will explore the benefits and limitations of OpenShot, highlighting its user-friendly interface and comprehensive editing capabilities.
Features:
User-Friendly Interface: OpenShot offers a visually appealing and customizable interface, allowing users to personalize their editing environment. The streamlined view focuses on essential tools, making it easier for beginners to navigate and edit their videos efficiently.
Comprehensive Editing Tools: Despite its simplicity, OpenShot provides all the necessary tools for video editing. Users can manipulate clips in various ways, including scaling, trimming, rotation, cropping, and resizing. The software also offers a wide format support for video, audio, and image files.
Playful Emojis and Graphics: OpenShot includes playful emojis and graphics that can add a touch of creativity and flair to home videos, allowing users to personalize their projects and make them more engaging.
Limitations and Performance: OpenShot may encounter some frustrations due to certain features not working as expected, which can impact the editing experience. Additionally, the program's performance during previewing and editing large files or high-resolution videos may be less smooth compared to other software options.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
Shotcut
Shotcut is a free, cross-platform, and open-source video editing software that rivals commercial applications in terms of features and capabilities. With a sleek and professional interface, Shotcut offers a comprehensive set of tools for editing videos on Mac. This article will explore the advantages and disadvantages of Shotcut, highlighting its powerful features and usability.
Features:
- Impressive Feature Set: Shotcut boasts an extensive list of features, including support for a wide range of video files and formats, such as 4K, ProRes, and DNxHD. It also offers advanced audio support, various video effects, compositing, transitions, and a flexible user interface. Notably, Shotcut supports advanced features like 5.1 surround sound, three-way color correction, and a vast array of video and audio filters.
- Usability and Learning Curve: While Shotcut may initially seem less intuitive than commercial applications, it becomes easier to use with some familiarity. The software offers many standard video editing features, and there are official video tutorials available on the Shotcut website to help users get up to speed. Once users spend some time learning the interface, they can take full advantage of its capabilities.
Playful Emojis and Graphics: OpenShot includes playful emojis and graphics that can add a touch of creativity and flair to home videos, allowing users to personalize their projects and make them more engaging.
Limitations and Performance: OpenShot may encounter some frustrations due to certain features not working as expected, which can impact the editing experience. Additionally, the program's performance during previewing and editing large files or high-resolution videos may be less smooth compared to other software options.
Pros
- Hassle-free speech recognition for effortless conversion.
- Data security with no data saved on servers.
- Customizable options for personalized transcription.
- Multilingual support for diverse language needs.
- Easy copying, exporting, and printing options.
- Cost-free accessibility for budget-conscious users.
Cons
- Limited information on additional features or premium options.
In this article, we have explored ten of the best video editing software options for Mac users, providing detailed introductions for each. From industry-leading professional tools like Final Cut Pro and Adobe Premiere Pro to user-friendly options like iMovie and Filmora, there is a video editing software to suit every need and skill level. Each software has its own unique strengths and weaknesses, catering to different preferences and requirements. Whether you're a professional videographer, content creator, or enthusiastic beginner, you can find a video editing software on this list that will help you bring your creative vision to life.