The BEST video editing software for Mac in 2020! Here’s our review of the leading options, and our top picks for both free and paid Mac Video Editors right n. Which Mac is best for video editing? So, which Mac will be best for you? As we said at the start this depends on your needs. So, rather than tell you that the Mac Pro is the best (which, if money.
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Verdict: Openshot is an open source Mac video editing software. It may remind iMovie with its easy to use drag-and-drop interface. However, Openshot contains more features than iMovie, including an unlimited number of layers and sound mixing. This free video editor for Mac offers a good balance between advanced features and a simple interface. Apple MacBook Pro 13” Getting the best MacBook Pro for video editing doesn’t necessarily mean that you should get the largest one. The MacBook Pro lineup has two sizes, 13” and 15”, and even the smaller model is very competent when it comes to video editing.
Updated: September 02, 2020 | 15 min readBest Mac Specs For Video Editing
If you are a film-maker or regularly perform video editing, you need to look into specific specs of your computer to make sure it is powerful enough to sustain video editing software and high-resolution movies. In this article we will look into everything you need from a Mac as a media creator.
To sum it up, here’s the list of the best Macs for video editing in our review:
- Ultimate best:Mac Pro with 96GB RAM and an 12-core processor
- Best price/performance ratio: 27-inch iMac with 5K Retina display
- Best alternative: 16-inch MacBook Pro
- Best for beginners: Mac Mini with a 6-core Core i7 CPU and 32GB RAM
Why Use a Mac for Video Editing
Today, the variety of tech available for film-making is astonishing and can be a source of confusion. Out of all the options, why Apple?
The changes that have been introduced to MacBooks and iMacs in the past couple of years made them truly great tools for creators. Here are some of the important features that make them a good fit for video editing:
- Screen. Video editing requires a large, high-definition screen, and the 27-inch iMac is the perfect example of that. The 5K Retina display offers 500 nits display and 99% of the DCI-P3 color space, running at 60MHz.
- RAM. Film-making requires a lot of free memory and storage space even with the lightest software. With the basic 8GB you won’t get further than HD (720p), while 16GB will allow you to edit a Full HD (1080p) video. 32GB is ideal for Ultra HD 4K. Finally, 64GB is required for the most advanced editing tasks such as 8K, 3D modeling and animation.
- CPU. Professional video editors will benefit from a powerful multi-core processor such as i7 or i9. Recently, the number of cores in Intel processors has increased to as much as 28 with Intel Xeon W in a Mac Pro, which guarantees smoother sessions.
- Graphics. Most recent models of Mac Pro have gained an extensive array of graphics cards with up to 64GB of HMB2 memory in each of the two modules. For video editing, you’ll need a discrete graphics card with a separate memory slot.
- Storage. Despite a popular misconception, storage is not the same thing as RAM. For a comfortable process, you’re looking at 512GB minimum, and it must be a solid state drive (SSD), so older Macs are out of the picture right away. Luckily, iMacs offer up to 8TB of storage space.
- Ports. When editing a video, you’ll inevitably need to plug in multiple peripherals, whether it’s your camera, microphone or other gadgets. Apple computers are quite convenient in this sense—even a simple MacBook has four USB 3 ports, compared to a more advanced Mac Pro which can have up to 12 Thunderbolt/USB-C ports.
Best Mac For Video Editing Reddit
This is quite impressive, although not all Macs have an ideal combination of a big screen, large RAM and a powerful graphics and CPU. To choose the one that will suit your needs, consider the system requirements for your software, which is what we are getting into in the next section.
Recommended System Requirements
When choosing the best Mac for video editing, you need to identify what projects you are planning to work on. You should consider the type of footage, complexity of the job, output formats, as well as whether you will be editing online or offline. That last aspect is especially important as offline editing requires more storage space and time to complete an edit, though it is easier to access the files.
To edit videos comfortably on a Mac, you will need at least 4GB of RAM. For heavier tasks, such as 4K editing, working with 3D, and 360° video editing, 8GB is the required minimum. Other demands include an up-to-date macOS, as well as an Intel HD Graphics 3000 or later. As the majority of editing programs support GPU rendering, CPU has become less important than it used to be.
Most of all, your storage needs will depend on the size of source footage you expect to work with. In general, your Mac will require three to four times the size of the source footage for your project.
The Best Macs for Video Editing
We have conducted thorough research and talked to professional video editors from our team to make a list of the best Macs to use for video production.
Mac Pro for Video Editing
As you have probably guessed already, Mac Pro is the ultimate Apple device for video editing and, probably, any other purpose. Starting at $5,999 for the most basic configuration, it’s a major investment. For an upgraded version that includes all of the most powerful, high-tech components you will pay as much as $51,399—this may seem shocking at first, but it’s not actually that different from what a PC manufacturer would charge for a computer of an equal level.
The Mac Pro offers the most in terms of every single specification—CPU, RAM, graphics, storage, you name it. The base model provides an 8-core Intel Xeon 3.5GHz processor with 32GB RAM, 256BG SSD and Radeon Pro 580X graphics card. This configuration has almost a limitless upgrade potential. However, a 12-core processor and 96GB of RAM seem optimal for video editing needs.
Mac Pro comes without a screen, which needs to be purchased separately. There is no point in buying Apple’s own display that is available at a price similar to that of an iMac Pro—you can get a cheaper model with almost identical benefits, such as Dell Ultrasharp U3219Q.
iMac Pro for Video Editing
With iMac Pro, you can enjoy the massive 27-inch screen and the exceptionally fast 8-core Intel Xeon W processor to edit 8K videos and create audio effects. The processor can be upgraded up to 18 cores for a smoother editing experience. Other base components include 256GB RAM, storage capabilities of up to 4TB, and the superb Radeon Pro Vega graphics card.
Overall, the most recent model of iMac Pro is the second best option for video editing after Mac Pro with all the specs being entirely on the level. It offers an additional advantage of a 5K retina display, eliminating the need to purchase it separately. However, bear in mind that the model hasn’t been updated in two years—look out for news from Apple to get a newer version.
iMac for Video Editing
The new 27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display is the third best computer for video editing. It has the most attractive price/performance ratio and enables editing 4K videos in full size with visible controls. We recommend this model to less dedicated video editors who are still aiming to produce top quality content but don’t use highly demanding software.
The base model is on the lower side of the price range, being only $1,799, but that is for less advanced specs. Serious editors will need to make a few custom changes:
- The RAM in a 27-inch iMac is only 8GB, which will need to be upgraded ideally to 32GB—an extra $600 right off the back. The top iMac has 128GB on-board memory.
- 3.1GHz 6-core i5 processor and an AMD Radeon Pro 5300 (4GB memory) are also not the perfect option and require improvement. We recommend getting a discrete graphics card with as much memory as you can afford.
- The default 256GB SSD can be replaced with a 512GB one for $300.
The final price comes out as approximately $5,000, nearing that of a Mac Pro. Professionals have to think of whether it’s really worth the hassle—you might as well just buy a device that has all the required tech built in. But is the base model enough for an amateur film-maker? That’s up to you to figure out.
MacBook Pro for Video Editing
If you’re looking for a portable computer that maintains those powerful video editing capabilities, MacBook Pro is a solid and reliable option.
If you've ever tried running Final Cut or Adobe Premiere on a generic Mac, you are most certainly familiar with the frequent crashes and kernel panics. This is not an issue with a MacBook Pro.
However, you need to be conscious of the fact that the power potential of a laptop is undeniably inferior to that of a desktop computer. The small scale of the device makes heat management a harder task, not to mention the size of the display which is significantly smaller in MacBooks than in iMacs.
If you do wish to buy a MacBook Pro, go for the 16-inch version due to a better graphics card, a more powerful 2.6GHz 6-core i5 processor and RAM of up to 64GB. In addition, the starting capacity of the SSD is 512GB, which is exactly what you’re looking for. These components can be further improved at an additional cost, but the base model will come to $2,399.
Beginners can opt for a cheaper and lighter 13-inch option with a 2.0GHz processor. It’s a slower model that lacks integrated graphics, but this can be fixed with an upgrade to an eGPU. A new 13-inch MacBook Pro will cost $1,799.
Mac mini for Video Editing
This is the cheapest device produced by Apple that can be used for video editing, being only $799 for the basic model. With this option you get a selection of surprisingly good characteristics: 3.6GHz Quad-Core processor that can be upgraded to a 6-core one, a default SSD with 256GB memory that can go up to 2TB, and 8GB RAM that you can boost up to 64GB. The final product in this case will come at $3,099—still cheaper than an upgraded MacBook Pro.
Despite the fact that the slow graphics card is a typical disadvantage of a Mac Mini, it can easily be upgraded to a better eGPU. The small screen size can be compensated by an external display of high resolution.
Overall, beginners and film enthusiasts will find this laptop their best option due to affordability combined with reasonable specs and agility of the device.
How to Optimize your Mac for Video Editing?
If you've been video editing for a while you must have encountered problems with your Mac being slow and overloaded with tons of unneeded files or duplicated videos and images. As a highly resource-consuming process, video editing does require some extra steps towards minimizing memory overload and maximizing disk space. So, what can be done for more efficient work?
Whenever your Mac's performance lags— MacKeeper’s Memory Cleaner can help you get rid of that annoying spinning wheel. This way your Mac's RAM memory will be cleaned automatically with just a click. Another cool perk of the Memory Cleaner feature is that you can monitor which apps are the ones eating up the most RAM memory.
Besides, it's a good practice to track down old junk files, duplicates, and other files taking up your Mac's valuable space for no reason whatsoever. Here, MacKeeper’s Safe Cleanup and Duplicates Finder come to rescue. These comprehensive scanning tools delete duplicates, leftovers, caches, logs, and more. Safe Cleanup even empties the Trash! And that's all before you know it.
Simply put MacKeeper in charge of your Mac's cleanup and optimization and get extra time for video editing!
Wrapping Up
When making a decision, think about the level of video editing you want to undertake. The choice will differ for amateurs and professionals that use specialized software on an everyday basis.
A Mac Pro will return the investment fast if you make a living out of film-making. An iMac Pro or iMac with Retina 5K display are also great for professional video editors who are in need of a large screen. If you have a more dynamic lifestyle, MacBook Pro will be perfect for your needs. Finally, a Mac Mini is ideal for those who don’t run demanding software and simply edit videos as a hobby.
Depending on the types of tasks you usually do, you might need a particular set of computer specs. Therefore, before you buy a Mac, check the system requirements of the programs you’re planning to use. The most popular video editing software for Mac, Adobe Premiere and Final Cut, mention all the details on their websites.
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If you can’t choose which Apple’s model is the best Mac for video editing, read more about these top 6 laptops that will run Premiere Pro and Final Cut without lags.
What Is the Best Mac for Video Editing?
Defining the best computer for video editing and multimedia from the Apple line is not easy. Numerous variants need to be analyzed, each of them can have different hardware pieces, additionally, several received updates this year.
Regardless of your position and degree of financial freedom, I’ve gathered top 6 Macs that are good for basic and experienced video post production.
Best Macs for Video Editing In 2020
Look through these laptops and choose the one for your budget and video editing.
1. Apple iMac 27-inch Retina 5K Display
- Powerful 6-core i5 processor
- Clear 5K retina display
- Corporate ultra-thin design
- 2 Thunderbolt 3 high-speed ports
- Keyboard and mouse included
- Haven’t been found
Apple regularly updates its older versions, so the new iMac for video editing is nearly flawless, even comes close to what the Pro can do. The clear screen with awesome color rendition and high contrast ratio is worth a lot.
It almost fully reproduces the DCI-P3 color space used in the movies. The built-in Retina Display works at 60 MHz.
Being 1K bigger in size, it is an ideal 4K video editing computer, allowing you to change frames in full definition without hiding the controls. Its heart is the cutting-edge six-core Intel Core i5 processor with Turbo Boost capability above 4GHz that can process nearly everything at high speed.
Dedicated AMD Radeon Pro graphics processor with 4-8 GB of video memory will handle any rendering software easy. Other cool features are the 8GB of RAM and a large 1TB SSD Fusion drive. Memory can be extended too.
Considering Apple's brand industrial design, updated fillings, price-quality relationship, I can recommend this device as the best iMac for video editing.
- Read more about the best monitor for video editing.
2. Apple MacBook Pro 15-Inch
- Retina display of increased sharpness
- New processor
- Four Thunderbolt 3 ports
- Long battery life
- Non-4K screen
- SSD could be larger
- No standard ports
In case your job requires combining portability with the capability to handle complex video processing, Apple MacBook Pro i9 is your choice. The 15-inch versions are advisable for their discrete video cards: video editing in 4K or photo editing in RAW is ensured by the AMD Radeon Pro powerful graphics processor.
It alternates with the integrated Intel UHD graphics processor when performance can be reduced. Video editing on MacBook flaws smoothly on the high definition Retina screen that is very sharp with incredible colors. Additional monitor can be joined easily, too.
It includes a branded track and touchpad to flip through the software timeline. You will also like optimized stereo speakers. It combines 16GB of RAM with a 512GB SSD drive.
The installed battery can run for about 10 hours, offering superior performance by laptop standards. The sturdy case protects the 9th generation 8-core Intel processor from overheating and throttling.
The 15-inch version would be the best MacBook Pro for video editing for those who need to balance portability with decent image and power.
- Check out the best computers for video editing.
3. Apple iMac Pro
- 5K resolution display
- Powerful discrete video card
- Ability to expand hardware
- Double cooled case with 4 UCB-C ports
- Branded keyboard and mouse included
- High cost
- SSD volume could be larger
It’s not surprising that the brand’s leader in my lit too due to its quick processing and low delay. With iMac Pro video editing is possible in 8K format, sound effects can be adjusted smoothly at the fastest speed.
The 27-inch screen is large and crisp with a 5120x2880 definition and renders colors naturally thanks to the Retina panel. The standard version includes 8 Intel Xeon W cores, the maximum is 18, with the possibility of overclocking.
You can install recent Radeon Pro Vega 56 with 8GB or 64 with 16GB of memory. Either one performs great with software capable of GPU acceleration.
The 32GB of RAM and a voluminous 1TB solid state drive make professional video editing flawless. Numerous ports are very convenient, including Thunderbolt 3, plus Apple Magic keyboard and mouse.
- Read more about how much RAM do you need for video editing.
4. Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch
- Retina screen with True Tone feature
- Ability to connect a separate eGPU
- Ultra-compact design with 4 USB-C ports
- Super-fast SSD
- Could have more memory
- The screen isn`t 4K
- Integrated video card
When Intel engineered their 8th generation of processor, users got a new MacBook Pro 13 inch. This model has an outstanding True Tone Retina screen, famous for clear and natural picture, powerful speakers, and four fast Thunderbolt 3 inputs.
The Core i5 with 2.4 GHz base frequency is enhanced by 8GB of RAM. This should answer “Is the 13 inch MacBook Pro good for video editing” question, though 4K processing may be troublesome.
Despite the integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 655, the device can flawlessly run any modern video editing software. The CNC-Machined cover has a super-fast 512GB solid-state drive.
If work is mostly done not at home, you will benefit from Macbook Pro video editing with this mobile and portable but powerful machine that has 10-hour battery duration and a weight of 1.35 kg.
- Check out what is the best Apple laptop.
5. Apple Mac Pro
- Ability to connect up to 6 monitors simultaneously
- You can expand hardware components
- Connecting up to 36 peripheral units
- Silent cooling system
- Monitor required
- Old CPU and GPU technologies
- No FireWire Connections
Apple Workstation is a professional video editing computer designed for specialists, who consider the highest power combined with flexibility very important. It is suitable for applications that use the biggest amount of processing cores and rendering like video editors, image editing softwares, 3D programs, etc.
Despite the updates being discontinued, it remains the best desktop computer for video editing with tremendous computational capability and speed. It has two AMD FirePro graphics processors.
You can install up to 64GB of RAM memory, up to 1TB of flash memory, update the graphics or up-level the processor (even to a 12-core one). This would let you effortlessly run a whole software set while simultaneously encoding a 4K video.
Doing professional work and being in need of extreme multiprocessing capabilities, undoubtedly purchase this best Mac for video editing considering its decreasing cost.
- Read more about the best video editing softwares.
6. Apple MacBook Air
- Retina screen
- Processor Turbo-overclocking up to 3.6 GHz
- Slim body and lightweight design
- Excellent battery life
- Built-in graphics processor
- RAM could be bigger
Since Apple has updated the frame and internal components, added the desirable features, using MacBook Air for video editing has become quite realistic for simple video color grading operations.
The laptop is quite light (1.35 kg) with a familiar keyboard. The miniature body fits a 13.3-inch Retina screen. At 2560x1600 definition, it shows a sharp image with realistic colors.
The 1.6 GHz dual-core Intel i5 processor can be overclocked to double its speed. The video editing won’t be flawless. Still, it handles simple editing and normal administrative work great.
The integrated Intel UHD 617 video card, 8GB of RAM, together with 128 or 256GB SSD ensure that. It has 2 USB-C ports plus an SD card slot, so transferring photos is convenient.
This laptop for video editing is under $1000 and has the benefit of working for up to 14 hours on a battery charge. For people with limited budget who search for a portable and inexpensive version of the MacBook, this is the best choice.
Top 6 Best Macs for Video Editing
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How to Choose Mac for Video Editing?
Video editing is a serious task for any OS. Certainly, this brand’s computers can do this job, but the difference is substantial between some vlog clips and a real movie.
Not working in the 4K format, you can afford to go around with a small laptop. For a specialist, the full-size desktop will forever remain superior in power.
CPU
For any video editing software, the processor plays the main role. My advice is to not go below the quad-core Intel Core i5 processor.
If you’re ready to invest, get a 6-8 core processor, because the expense greatly enhances performance. Being very limited in budget, you can still get a dual-core but performing complex jobs will be problematic.
Display
Those working with footage consider accurate color rendition of the highest importance and Apple Retina displays gained the best reputation in this. iMac and MacBook Pro have it and it’s a huge boost.
Such a display is known for crisp definition, natural colors, and wide viewing cones. Such features help to display the footage accurately and clearly, with no distortions, which ensures higher-quality video editing.
GPU
The second most influential component is the video card. The software is mostly capable of rendering through a graphics processor.
AMD hardware has gained popularity, so a middle- or higher-class Mac means a discrete GPU. Certain Pro models even have the AMD Fire Pro dual feature that concentrates on providing superior performance or combining integrated and discrete processors to optimize it.
RAM Capacity
The video editing process largely depends on the amount of RAM in your computer. The most time-consuming process is the export of the finished video.
For comfortable video editing on a Mac, you need at least 8GB of RAM (16GB is required for 4K editing, 3D work, and 360 ° video editing).
SSD Capacity
The speed and capacity of the internal drive will provide instant access to the material. Get at least a standard SSD drive. Better yet, the branded hybrid SSD. Its speed is several times higher than usual, both during recording and reading.
Ann Young
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