The magic thing about Mac is that with the right software it takes your creativity to the whole new level – from hobby to profession, from amateur to pro. Think Photoshop, QuickTime, or MIDI sequencing programs. For millions of artists and designers, these tools became, well.. the reason to do art and design.
- Premiere Rush is the all-new, all-in-one video editor that makes editing and sharing online videos fast and easy. It works on all your devices, it's simple to use, and it'll transform the way you create. Whether you're into video editing for YouTube or any other online video channel, Premiere.
- The Video Editor includes: Live preview, luma waveform, chroma vectorscope and histogram displays. Audio mixing, syncing, scrubbing and waveform visualization. Up to 32 slots for adding video, images, audio, scenes, masks and effects. Speed control, adjustment.
- Whether you're using a Mac or an iOS device, it's never been easier to make it in the movies. Just choose your clips, then add titles, music, and effects. IMovie even supports 4K video.
- Record a screen video or import one from your Apple device and start editing. You can crop, trim, or cut your video, add audio tracks, and combine multiple videos into one. With Capto's intuitive workflow, you'll learn the ropes instantly. Easy video sharing is another big perk.
Video editors for macOS are a haven for creatives, allowing to transform a bunch of visuals into a professional looking movie. Even with little or no experience, you can do anything from slicing your videos to color tuning to animating in a fraction of time.
OpenShot™ was created in 2008, in an effort to build a free, simple, open-source video editor for Linux. It is now available on Linux, Mac, and Windows, has been downloaded millions of times, and continues to grow as a project!
Which is the best video editing software for macOS?
What's important, you don't have to give an arm and a leg for it. The software industry is buzzing with video editing tools that are cost-effective. And if you know where to look, you'll even come across those that will cost you nothing.
Here are some of the hand-picked video editors, both paid and free, that deserve your attention. Pick your fave, weed out the rest, and enjoy your movie-making time.
Best free video editor for Mac
iMovie
Apple's very own movie editing software is a great place to start. For any Mac user who wants to put together a short movie or just learn the ropes in video editing, iMovie is a no-brainer solution. Sleek design, quick performance, and ease of use – these are the key superpowers iMovie is often praised for.
Although it's pretty basic, the iMovie toolkit has everything an amateur videographer needs. You can play with color correction, combine multiple videos, add titles, and do some basic audio editing.
Xp virtual machine virtualbox. Because the app is integrated with iPhoto and iTunes, you won't have to import any files – they are already there.
Since recently iMovie also supports 4K video editing on a Mac, which allows you to create movies at a stunning resolution. You can download iMovie for free from the Mac App Store.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Apple devices.
- Intuitive interface.
- Multiple video sharing options (Mail Drop, YouTube, Vimeo).
Cons:
- A limited number of video formats supported.
- Every media file is stored on the device, which leads to excessive disk space usage.
Lightworks
If you think you can't do professional video shooting with free software, you haven't tried Lightworks, a video editor for Mac that's packed with tons of high-end features. Because Lightworks comes as two licenses, Free and Pro, some of these advanced features could be the part of a paid plan. But worry not, you get just enough to create a high-quality movie.
The editing toolkit covers three-way color correction, real-time effects, multi-camera editing, and many other tools you rarely get for free. You can work with high-resolution 5K footage and handle a variety of file formats – perfect functionality on the input side.
Export is limited to 720p HD, so if you need a powerful outlet for your videos, the free version won't be the right fit. Otherwise, you can grab it for free on Lightworks.
Pros:
- Available on all major operating systems.
- Numerous tools for professional use.
Cons:
- Export is limited and you need to upgrade to Pro to get extra functionality ($24.99 per monthly license).
Video Editing Software For Mac
DaVinci Resolve
This one is the king of color matching and grading. With a huge variety of built-in-effects for color editing, DaVinci Resolve is a godsend for the artistic soul.
The app was originally built as a color correction tool and gradually evolved into a full-featured macOS video editor. Just as Lightworks, it's available as both free and paid package. Both versions cover four modules: color correction, audio effects, editing, and visual effects.
DaVinci Resolve is a perfect choice for those who need avideo editor for 'serious work.' The app handles 4K resolution and is suitable for large projects – you can work on thousands of clips and tracks simultaneously. If the free version functionality works for you, you can download DaVinci Resolve on Apple Mac Store or Blackmagic Design.
On the downsize, collaboration tools that allow shared video editing aren't available in the free version.
Pros:
- Good performance (10x improvement since the recent release).
- Superb color editing tools.
- Suitable for large-scale projects.
Cons:
- Limited filters (lens flare/blur, film grain).
- Limited collaboration and workflow tools.
OpenShot
If you're looking for an open source video editor, OpenShot is one of the best in its category. With a team of developers constantly working on the improvements, the app is a functional solution for both newbies and advanced users. Trim and slice your videos, add 3D animations, and experiment with video effects. You can even integrate waveforms into newly created videos.
The set-up process is a weak spot, though. For instance, to use 3D animation and animated titles, you should first install Blender, an open-source 3D creation suite.
You can try this open source video editor for free by downloading it from OpenShot website.
Pros:
- User-friendly interface.
- Frequent updates and improvements.
Cons:
- Third-party tools needed.
- Can be baggy at times.
Best video editors to buy for macOS
Adobe Premiere
Adobe video editing software comes in two flavors, based on different proficiency levels. As the names speak for themselves, Adobe Premiere Elements is a basic consumer-level editor, while Adobe Premiere Pro CC is the best choice for experienced videographers.
Adobe Premiere Elements: If the goal is to sharpen your teeth at video editing, without spending over $100 on software, that's where you should begin. Even with limited functionality, this app is one of the best cross-platform solutions. The editor comes with a smart Organizer app, Candid Moments for capturing still images, and lots of other pro-level features.
You can buy Premiere Elements on Adobe – the full license costs $99.99 and there's a free 30-day trial for new users.
Pros:
As an Airdrop alternative for Mac and iOS, it does what Airdrop does on files sync, transferring photo, music, video, ringtone, podcast, audiobook, ebook, iTunes U etc from Mac or Windows PC to iPhone iPad and vice versa. Compared to Airdrop and other similar alternatives to Airdrop, the is superior on aspects below:. But why not turn to an Airdrop alternative that's even simpler? Download airdrop for mac. Download Airdrop Alternative to Transfer Anything from iDevice to Mac/PC, and Vice VersaIf you are seeking a software that matches to Airdrop greatly, is absolutely the most fitting one.
- Built-in asset manager.
- User-friendly interface.
- Available in one package with Photoshop Elements for $119.99.
Cons:
Best Mac For Video Editing
- No support for 3D video editing.
Adobe Premiere Pro CC: A continuously evolving video maker, this software caters to the needs of the most demanding videographers. So if you have an idea for a big-screen movie, Premiere Pro CC can handle that. Compatibility with all major video formats, 3D support, and 8K editing – these advanced features clearly set the pro version apart.
If you want to get serious about video editing, get the pro version on Adobe – the plans start from $20.99 per month.
Pros:
- New enhancements added automatically.
- Well-suited for professional use.
Cons:
- Requires a solid knowledge of video editing.
CameraBag Pro
Free or paid, many video editing tools for Mac share the same problem. While large software packages are too heavy, single-purpose apps for filtering and editing have limited functionality. For such cases, you need CameraBag Pro – the golden mean.
Packed with 200+ presets, adjustments, and filter sets, the app is still light and simple in use. From basic color correction to advanced batch processing, the toolkit is impressive. And it's equally good for pros and newbies.
You can use CameraBag Pro as a part of Setapp subscription or you can purchase it separately for $49 on Nevercenter.
Pros:
- Slick interface.
- Adjustable settings.
- Available on Setapp.
Cons:
- Limited website instructions.
Capto
If you're looking for an easy way to create a video tutorial, you don't need no education. You need Capto. One of the best screen recording and video editing tools for beginners, this video editor does the job painlessly.
Record a screen video or import one from your Apple device and start editing. It's that easy. You can crop, trim, or cut your video, add audio tracks, and combine multiple videos into one. With Capto's intuitive workflow, you'll learn the ropes instantly.
Easy video sharing is another big perk. Once you're done with editing, upload your video anywhere, from shared services to platforms like Tumblr, Facebook, or YouTube.
With a Setapp subscription, you'll get Capto starting at $9.99 per month. If you want to buy the app separately, grab in on Global Delight for $29.99.
Pros:
- Perfect for recording video tutorials.
- Customizable screen recording.
- Rich sharing options.
- Available on Setapp.
Cons:
- Limited audio editing.
Final Cut Pro X
Designed for professional post-production, Final Cut Pro X is a big player in the world of video editing. Apart from such superb features as clip grouping and automatic audio syncing, the platform entails powerful media organization: you can organize visuals and audio in smart collections, enable content auto-analysis, and apply custom keywords. A decent choice for videographers who work with lots of footage.
For new users, there's a downside – the learning curve is too steep. But if you know the ropes in movie editing, it shouldn't be too much trouble.
You can download Final Cut Pro X from the Mac App Store for $299.99.
Pros:
- Background rendering.
- User-friendly interface.
- Powerful color grading.
- Capabilities for media management.
Cons:
- Difficult to learn.
There's lots of Mac video editing software, and much of it is free. Pros and cons considered, there are no winners or losers in this race. It's all up to your skills, price preferences, and artistic taste. Take time, try out as many applications as you can and choose the best one for you.
If you need a consumer-level tool to get started, iMovie and Adobe Premiere Elements will make the right fit.
For those looking into advanced features like background rendering, Final Cut Pro X is a clear choice.
Capto and CameraBag Pro are great options for both amateurs and pros who want to create basic videos like tutorials or time lapses. Plus both apps are available on a single subscription with Setapp.
It could be a tough choice, but the mission is possible if you understand your needs and proficiency level. Hopefully, this list will match you up with the video editor of your dreams. Or at least a nice tool that helps you get the work done.
Meantime, prepare for all the awesome things you can do with Setapp.
And you can also use the HDR photo editor Pro version with US$99.00 with more HDR effect options, batching processing and selective de-ghosting features. If you just need to have a simplicity and ease of use HDR editor, Photomatix Essentials with US$39.00 should be your choice.
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- Requires a solid knowledge of video editing.
CameraBag Pro
Free or paid, many video editing tools for Mac share the same problem. While large software packages are too heavy, single-purpose apps for filtering and editing have limited functionality. For such cases, you need CameraBag Pro – the golden mean.
Packed with 200+ presets, adjustments, and filter sets, the app is still light and simple in use. From basic color correction to advanced batch processing, the toolkit is impressive. And it's equally good for pros and newbies.
You can use CameraBag Pro as a part of Setapp subscription or you can purchase it separately for $49 on Nevercenter.
Pros:
- Slick interface.
- Adjustable settings.
- Available on Setapp.
Cons:
- Limited website instructions.
Capto
If you're looking for an easy way to create a video tutorial, you don't need no education. You need Capto. One of the best screen recording and video editing tools for beginners, this video editor does the job painlessly.
Record a screen video or import one from your Apple device and start editing. It's that easy. You can crop, trim, or cut your video, add audio tracks, and combine multiple videos into one. With Capto's intuitive workflow, you'll learn the ropes instantly.
Easy video sharing is another big perk. Once you're done with editing, upload your video anywhere, from shared services to platforms like Tumblr, Facebook, or YouTube.
With a Setapp subscription, you'll get Capto starting at $9.99 per month. If you want to buy the app separately, grab in on Global Delight for $29.99.
Pros:
- Perfect for recording video tutorials.
- Customizable screen recording.
- Rich sharing options.
- Available on Setapp.
Cons:
- Limited audio editing.
Final Cut Pro X
Designed for professional post-production, Final Cut Pro X is a big player in the world of video editing. Apart from such superb features as clip grouping and automatic audio syncing, the platform entails powerful media organization: you can organize visuals and audio in smart collections, enable content auto-analysis, and apply custom keywords. A decent choice for videographers who work with lots of footage.
For new users, there's a downside – the learning curve is too steep. But if you know the ropes in movie editing, it shouldn't be too much trouble.
You can download Final Cut Pro X from the Mac App Store for $299.99.
Pros:
- Background rendering.
- User-friendly interface.
- Powerful color grading.
- Capabilities for media management.
Cons:
- Difficult to learn.
There's lots of Mac video editing software, and much of it is free. Pros and cons considered, there are no winners or losers in this race. It's all up to your skills, price preferences, and artistic taste. Take time, try out as many applications as you can and choose the best one for you.
If you need a consumer-level tool to get started, iMovie and Adobe Premiere Elements will make the right fit.
For those looking into advanced features like background rendering, Final Cut Pro X is a clear choice.
Capto and CameraBag Pro are great options for both amateurs and pros who want to create basic videos like tutorials or time lapses. Plus both apps are available on a single subscription with Setapp.
It could be a tough choice, but the mission is possible if you understand your needs and proficiency level. Hopefully, this list will match you up with the video editor of your dreams. Or at least a nice tool that helps you get the work done.
Meantime, prepare for all the awesome things you can do with Setapp.
And you can also use the HDR photo editor Pro version with US$99.00 with more HDR effect options, batching processing and selective de-ghosting features. If you just need to have a simplicity and ease of use HDR editor, Photomatix Essentials with US$39.00 should be your choice.
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