As video creators ourselves, we know how important it is to have powerful yet easy-to-use video editing software. When we made the switch from PC to Mac, we spent countless hours researching the top options to find the best video editing tools tailored for the macOS.
Through trial and error with numerous platforms, we’ve settled on our top picks for Mac video editing software in 2023. From user-friendly apps for beginners to more advanced software for professionals, these Mac video editors have everything you need to turn your footage into slick, engaging videos.
Whether you’re looking to add some quick edits and transitions or dive deep into color correcting and audio editing, here are the video editing tools for Mac that we recommend this year.
1. iMovie
An approachable option for beginners.
If you’re just getting started with video editing, iMovie is a great entry-level option that comes free with every Mac. While it may not have the advanced capabilities of paid software, iMovie still packs some helpful basic features.
The user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate. You can import footage from your Mac, iOS devices, and common video cameras to start piecing together a video timeline. We like that iMovie has various preset themes and video styles you can quickly apply to give your footage some polish.
While reviewing and arranging clips on the timeline, you can make basic trims, add transitions, insert music from the built-in soundtracks, and apply filters like black and white. If you want to get a bit more creative, you can use the precision editor to fine-tune audio and video levels on your clips. There’s even a picture-in-picture effect to overlay extra footage.
When it comes time to export your video, you can share directly to popular platforms like YouTube and Vimeo. For beginners getting started with lightweight editing, iMovie has all the key ingredients in its free Mac app.
2. Final Cut Pro
A powerful solution for pros
If you’re ready to step things up to professional-grade video editing, Final Cut Pro is Apple’s premium software aimed at serious creators. As the go-to choice for many videographers, filmmakers, and YouTubers alike, Final Cut packs immense editing horsepower.
Unlike iMovie which keeps options limited for simplicity, Final Cut Pro has an extensive collection of advanced tools for handling detailed projects. The customizable interface lets you set up multiple windows perfect for multi-screen editing. You can incorporate various angles and footage simultaneously into complex timelines with tons of tracks.
We especially like the magnetic timeline which lets you quickly snap clips into the order you want them to appear. You can apply color corrections to get the cinematic look through features like color wheels, curves, and hue vs saturation graphs. The large library of audio and video effects empowers you to craft unique styles for your videos.
For collaborating with others, Final Cut enables editing video in formats up to 8K resolution across platforms. This flexibility makes it a favorite of creative agencies and production houses. While it doesn’t have beginner-focused templates like iMovie, Final Cut Pro has fine-tuned controls to take your editing skills to new levels.
3. DaVinci Resolve
An affordable middle ground.
Positioned in between entry-level and professional platforms, DaVinci Resolve hits the sweet spot of powerful performance at an affordable price. As an alternative to Final Cut, it’s our favorite balanced option for semi-pro creators.
The free version of DaVinci Resolve packs professional-caliber color correction tools that high-end Hollywood films use. You can achieve stunning visual tweaks through grading options like HDR wheels, curves, qualifiers, and the unique facial recognition tracker. This makes the paid Studio version more geared for studios that need multi-cam editing.
We like that DaVinci has expanded from hardcore color grading into a capable editor through the Edit and Cut pages. The familiar layouts help Premiere Pro switchers feel right at home. Unique Flow trim lets you quickly extend or shorten clips fluidly on the timeline.
For basic editing needs, the free DaVinci Resolve delivers incredible value. If you need more cloud collaboration and output mastering, the paid Studio upgrade takes you to the next level at just $295. Overall, DaVinci hits a nice balance for creators ready go beyond entry-level software.
4. Adobe Premiere Pro & After Effects
For those already using popular Adobe programs like Photoshop or Illustrator, the ecosystem integrates nicely with Adobe Premiere Pro for versatile video production.
As part of Adobe Creative Cloud, Premiere lets you start crafting a video by designing title templates, logos, graphics, and more using familiar design tools. Rather than learning a whole new interface, your Adobe skills transfer directly into building amazing video content.
Premiere Pro works smoothly on Mac with support for the latest formats and codecs. We like the automatic sync of changes across projects when working with After Effects or Audition. The Essential Graphics panel also enables powerful motion graphic templates for impactful video elements.
On the whole, Adobe apps complement each other for bringing creative projects to life under one subscription. For existing Creative Cloud users, Premiere Pro feels like the perfect companion for videos. Of course, the main drawback is the monthly or annual cost which may not work for all budgets.
5. CapCut
You must be surprised why is there a TikTok video editor on the list of apps where only the best Mac editing software is meant to be listed. Well, hold on, I’ve your answers.
I’ve recently come across CapCut and started using it as my daily video editing app. Honestly, I’m blown away by the simplicity of the app and the ability to do things that required apps such as premier pro or final cut pro. The best thing about this TikTok video editor is that it’s completely free (other than some paid in-app elements, like templates etc.)
So, whenever I want to edit a video or make tiny adjustments, I only go for using CapCut and it just works. I’ve shared the same app in my list of best video editing apps for Android.
What are your video editing needs?
When selecting the best video editing software for your Mac, it’s important to weigh factors like pricing, ease of use, and features. Hopefully breaking down these top picks gives you a better sense of what tool aligns closest with your needs.
As you advance in your video skills over time, it may make sense to experiment with different editors. Many offer free trials to test drive before buying. Don’t be afraid to venture beyond the entry-level basics into more advanced territory.
Having used all these platforms extensively ourselves, we’re happy to offer any guidance about making the leap. Reach out anytime with questions as you level up your video editing pursuits this year!
