Whether you're editing cinematic footage or TikTok content, using a Mac unlocks a smooth, stable, and performance-optimized editing workflow. But with dozens of options available, what's the best video editing software for Mac in 2025?
What Makes a Video Editor Great on macOS?
Mac users expect fluid design, intuitive interfaces, and GPU-accelerated performance. The best video editors for Mac should:
- Be optimized for macOS Ventura and above
- Support Apple Silicon (M1/M2/M3) for faster rendering
- Offer pro-level tools without needing third-party plugins
- Integrate smoothly with Apple workflows (like AirDrop, iCloud, and Handoff)
Comparison Table: Best macOS Video Editors
Top Video Editing Software for Mac in 2025
Adobe Premiere Pro (Best All-Around Professional Editor for Mac)
Why choose it:
Adobe Premiere Pro remains the gold standard in professional editing, now fully optimized for Apple Silicon. With its powerful editing tools, effects, and seamless integration with the Adobe ecosystem (After Effects, Audition, Photoshop), it’s perfect for YouTubers, agencies, and filmmakers.
Pros:
- Cross-platform (Mac and Windows)
- Excellent performance on M1/M2 Macs
- Industry-standard timeline and export tools
- AI tools for auto-transcription, reframing, and audio cleanup
Cons:
- Subscription-only
- Slight learning curve
Who it’s for:
Freelancers, creators, and agencies who need cross-device flexibility and robust features.
DaVinci Resolve (Best Free Professional-Grade Editor for Mac)
Why choose it:
DaVinci Resolve is an all-in-one platform combining editing, color grading, audio mixing, and VFX. It runs beautifully on macOS and takes full advantage of Apple GPUs, especially for color grading and high-resolution playback.
Pros:
- Generous free version
- Hollywood-grade color grading tools
- Optimized for M1/M2 chips
- One-time upgrade option (Studio)
Cons:
- Heavier learning curve than beginner tools
- Requires a strong GPU for full functionality
Who it’s for:
Editors working on YouTube content, short films, or commercial projects who need advanced grading and audio tools.
CapCut Desktop (Best for Social Media Creators on Mac)
Why choose it:
CapCut has become a go-to editor for creators making short-form content. The desktop version for Mac offers timeline editing, sound effects, and AI tools like auto-captions and facial tracking—all for free.
Pros:
- Free with no watermark
- Perfect for TikTok, Reels, Shorts
- AI-powered editing tools
- Syncs with mobile CapCut app
Cons:
- Limited export controls
- Not ideal for long-form editing
Who it’s for:
Beginner editors and social-first creators who want fast, viral-ready videos.
iMovie (Best Free Beginner Software for Mac)
Why choose it:
iMovie is the perfect entry point for Mac users new to video editing. Pre-installed on most devices, it’s lightweight, clean, and integrates seamlessly with Photos, iCloud, and iPhone.
Pros:
- 100% free
- Storyboard templates
- AirDrop and iCloud support
- Voiceovers, transitions, and titles
Cons:
- Limited features for pros
- No support for advanced color grading
Who it’s for:
Students, hobbyists, and beginners who want to create fast and easy edits.
Wondershare Filmora (Best for Beginners Who Want More)
Why choose it:
Filmora brings drag-and-drop simplicity with just enough pro features to grow with you. The Mac version includes motion tracking, built-in templates, and export presets for YouTube and TikTok.
Pros:
- Easy-to-use interface
- Supports 4K, screen recording, and motion tracking
- Available as a one-time purchase or annual plan
Cons:
- Watermark in free version
- Less advanced than Premiere or Resolve
Who it’s for:
Aspiring editors, vloggers, and content creators who want something more powerful than iMovie, without the complexity of Premiere.
Why We Don't Recommend Final Cut Pro in 2025
Final Cut Pro is a powerful macOS-exclusive video editor with incredible rendering speeds and a clean magnetic timeline. However, we don’t recommend it in this list for one key reason: platform lock-in.
While Final Cut is great for Apple-only editors, it doesn’t work on Windows. This lack of cross-platform support makes it less future-proof, especially for freelancers collaborating with teams or clients on different systems.
In contrast, both Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve offer macOS support and cross-platform compatibility—allowing you to switch systems or collaborate more freely.
How to Choose the Right Editor for Your Mac
- Are you a beginner? → Start with iMovie or CapCut
- Need pro features for freelance or agency work? → Go with Premiere Pro or Resolve
- Want maximum speed and export performance? → Final Cut Pro is tempting, but consider long-term flexibility
- Creating Reels, TikToks, or YouTube Shorts? → CapCut is free and powerful
- Tight budget? → DaVinci Resolve offers insane value for $0
Learn Video Editing on Mac (Step-by-Step)
If you’re ready to level up your skills, Miracamp’s Video Editing Course teaches you:
- How to edit with Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve
- Workflow tips for Apple M1/M2 systems
- Portfolio-building projects
- How to land freelance gigs as a remote editor
👉 Explore the Video Editing Course
Final Verdict: What's the Best Video Editing Software for Mac?
For most Mac users in 2025:
- Adobe Premiere Pro is best for cross-platform, pro-level editing
- DaVinci Resolve offers unmatched value for colorists and creators
- CapCut is the easiest free tool for social content
- iMovie remains a great start for beginners
- Final Cut Pro, while fast, is not ideal for cross-platform teams or futureproofing
FAQ Video Editing Software for Mac users
What is the best video editing software for Mac in 2025?
Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve are the top choices for Mac users in 2025. They offer professional-grade tools, cross-platform support, and excellent performance on Apple Silicon.
Is Final Cut Pro worth it for Mac users?
Final Cut Pro is fast and optimized for macOS, but it's only available on Apple devices. For editors who may switch platforms or collaborate with others, Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve offers more flexibility.
What’s the best free video editing software for Mac?
DaVinci Resolve offers the most powerful free video editor for Mac users. It includes advanced features like color grading, VFX, and audio tools without a subscription.
Can I use CapCut on Mac?
Yes, CapCut is available as a desktop app for macOS. It’s great for editing short-form content like TikToks, Reels, and YouTube Shorts, with AI-powered tools and no watermark.
Is iMovie good enough for basic video editing on Mac?
Yes. iMovie is a solid choice for beginners and is pre-installed on macOS. It includes basic editing features, transitions, and export tools for YouTube and social media.
Which video editors are optimized for Apple M1 and M2 chips?
Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, Final Cut Pro, and CapCut are all optimized for Apple Silicon, offering faster rendering and smoother editing on M1 and M2 Macs.
What’s better for Mac: Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro?
Premiere Pro is better for cross-platform workflows and professional collaboration. Final Cut Pro is faster on Macs but only works on Apple devices, limiting long-term flexibility.
Do I need to pay for video editing software on Mac?
No. Tools like iMovie and DaVinci Resolve offer free versions that are powerful enough for many users. However, paid tools like Premiere Pro offer more features and professional integration.
