Best Video Editing Software for Mac in [2025]: Which One is Right for You?
Are you a Mac user looking to create professional-quality videos or simply polish your personal vlogs? You’re in luck. Macs are renowned for their incredible performance and seamless software integration, making them a favorite among video editors, whether amateur or professional. But with so many video editing tools available, choosing one can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in.
This guide walks you through the best video editing software for Mac, covering options for all levels—from beginners to seasoned pros. By the end of this post, you’ll not only know which software suits your needs best but also feel confident taking your video editing to the next level.
How to Choose the Right Video Editing Software for Mac
Before we jump into the list, it’s crucial to understand what to look for when selecting video editing software. Here are a few quick pointers to guide your decision:
- Skill Level: Are you a beginner looking for ease of use or an expert yearning for advanced features?
- Budget: Assess whether a free tool suffices or if premium features justify spending extra.
- Features: Evaluate your needs—do you require 4K support, effects libraries, color grading tools, or AI-powered editing?
- Hardware Compatibility: Ensure the software works seamlessly on your Mac and takes advantage of its unique hardware (like the M1 or M2 chip).
Now that you know what to consider, let’s explore your options.
Best Basic Video Editing Software for Mac (Perfect for Beginners)
1. iMovie (Free)
iMovie comes pre-installed on most Macs, making it an excellent starting point for beginners. Its drag-and-drop simplicity and intuitive interface allow you to create polished videos quickly.
Key Features:
- Easy-to-use timeline
- Preloaded themes and transitions
- 4K video support
- Seamless integration with other Apple devices and apps
Why Choose iMovie?
If you’re new to video editing or need something free for casual projects, iMovie is a no-brainer. Plus, it’s powerful enough for small projects, like social media videos, YouTube content, and school assignments.
2. Filmora for Mac ($49.99/year)
Filmora caps off its beginner-friendly approach with a rich set of features that won’t overwhelm. It offers a clean interface and plenty of drag-and-drop styling tools while keeping things simple.
Key Features:
- One-click special effects
- Royalty-free music and sound effects
- Split screen and green screen effects
- Built-in tutorial resources
Why Choose Filmora?
Filmora strikes the perfect balance between simplicity and functionality. Beginners will appreciate its ease of use, while enthusiasts will enjoy its creative tools.
Professional Video Editing Software for Mac (For Advanced Users)
3. Final Cut Pro ($299.99 one-time purchase)
Final Cut Pro is Apple’s professional-grade editing software, favored by filmmakers and experienced video editors. It’s a step up from iMovie, designed for those who want better speed, precision, and creative control.
Key Features:
- Magnetic Timeline for seamless editing
- Advanced color grading tools
- 360-degree VR editing & HDR support
- Optimized for the Apple Silicon chips and macOS Ventura
Why Choose Final Cut Pro?
Go for Final Cut Pro if you need sophisticated features, unparalleled performance, and a tool that’s perfectly tuned for the macOS ecosystem. It’s pricey but worth the investment if you’re serious about video editing.
4. Adobe Premiere Pro ($20.99/month, subscription-based)
Adobe Premiere Pro stands out as one of the most feature-rich, cross-platform editing tools available. Used by professionals in Hollywood and beyond, it’s praised for its versatility and extensive capabilities.
Key Features:
- Multicam editing to handle complex projects
- Immersive VR and 360-degree video editing
- Seamless integration with other Adobe tools, like After Effects
- Accurate color grading with Lumetri Color panel
Why Choose Premiere Pro?
Premiere Pro is ideal for those who frequently collaborate with other creatives or need advanced customization options. Its monthly subscription model is perfect if you don’t want to commit to a one-time cost like Final Cut Pro.
5. DaVinci Resolve (Free or $295 for Studio version)
Known for its unparalleled color grading capabilities, DaVinci Resolve caters to professionals who demand precision. Plus, the free version is surprisingly robust, making it a popular choice across skill levels.
Key Features:
- Industry-leading color correction tools
- Collaborative editing features (ideal for teams)
- Built-in visual effects and audio post-production tools
- Intuitive multi-cam editing
Why Choose DaVinci Resolve?
DaVinci Resolve is a must-have for editors focused on color grading or advanced finishing work. Start with the free version and upgrade as your needs grow.
AI-Powered Video Editing Software for Mac
6. LumaFusion ($29.99 one-time purchase)
Especially beloved by content creators, LumaFusion’s AI capabilities, like automated keyframing and smart clip organizing, set it apart. Though it initially targeted iOS users, its macOS version runs seamlessly across devices.
Key Features:
- Intelligent AI-guided video organization
- Multitrack editing for up to 6 video/audio tracks
- Real-time video editing without rendering delays
- Pro-res video export
Why Choose LumaFusion?
For creators who prioritize efficiency and work across multiple Apple devices, LumaFusion is unbeatable.
Comparison Chart of Video Editing Software for Mac
| Software | Best For | Key Strength | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| iMovie | Casual users | Free and simple to use | Free |
| Filmora | Beginners/Enthusiasts | Creative drag-and-drop effects | $49.99/year |
| Final Cut Pro | Professionals | Optimized for macOS | $299.99 (one-time) |
| Adobe Premiere Pro | Professionals | Advanced cross-platform tools | $20.99/month |
| DaVinci Resolve | Color correction experts | Unmatched grading features | Free or $295 (Studio) |
| LumaFusion | Creators on-the-go | Smart AI-based organization | $29.99 (one-time) |
Which Video Editing Tool is Right for You?
The ideal software depends on your needs, budget, and skill level:
- Beginner? Start with iMovie or Filmora.
- Pro looking for macOS-native functionality? Final Cut Pro is your best bet.
- Need a feature-rich cross-platform solution? Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve should be on your radar.
- Short on time? Lean on the efficiency of LumaFusion’s AI tools.
Take the Next Step in Your Video Editing Journey
No matter your experience level or editing goals, your perfect software is out there waiting. Start small with a free or beginner-friendly tool or take the plunge with advanced software if you’re ready to level up.
Which software do you think is the best fit for your needs? Explore the options above, pick your favorite, and get to editing—the world is waiting for your next masterpiece.