Best Mac for Video Editing in 2023 (including M1 and M2)
Blog Post Updated May 10, 2023
I am a Mac guy. I've been involved in media production on the Apple platform for over twenty years.
I have strong opinions about which Macs are best for video editing as I tend to buy new Macs for video editing every year.
Video Editors often worry about which is the best Mac for video editing, so I decided to write this article.
When it comes to video editing, choosing the right machine can make all the difference.
Mac computers have been consistently praised for their performance and reliability, making them an ideal choice for those who want to create high-quality content.
This article will delve into the world of Macs for video editing, focusing on the top models and the benefits they offer to video editors.
TL;DR
Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2023) — The best Mac for video editing in 2023 overall. Best video editing laptop.
Apple Mac Mini 2023— The choice: apple Mac mini, for video editing on a budget
Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2022)— The best value pick for the best Mac for video editing
Apple iMac (24-inch, 2021) — The most affordable iMac for video editing
Apple iMac (27-inch, 2020) — The finest Mac for video editing with a big display
Apple Mac Studio 2022 — As a desktop computer, the best mac for 4k video editing 2022 & 2023
Apple MacBook Air 2022 (M2) — The most portable Mac for basic video editing & M2 chip
Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2019) — The MacBook Air is the best low-cost Mac.
Apple MacBook Pro (13-inch, 2020) — The finest Mac for novices
Before we get to the Best Mac for Video Editing picks for 2023 - let's take a look at some of the criteria I consider when choosing a best Mac for video editing.
Table of Contents
- What Mac Processor Do I Need for Video Editing?
- What is the Best Editing Software for the Mac?
- How Much RAM Do I Need for Video Editing?
- Apple Desktop vs. Laptop
- What Size Screen Do I Need for Video Editing?
- What Graphics Card Do I Need for Video Editing?
- What Type of Storage Do I Need for Video Editing?
- What ports do I need on my Mac?
- Mac for Video Editing: The Models:
- History of Editing Media on Apple Computers
- The Interesting History of the Mac Pro in Media Production
- PowerBook to MacBook Pro - The History of the Portable Apple Computer
- Best Mac for Video Editing FAQ
- Conclusion
Why Choose Mac for 4K Video Editing
Apple has been the go-to choice for creative professionals looking to edit videos on a reliable machine.
Macs offer excellent performance, a streamlined user experience, and compatibility with industry-leading video editing software.
In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the very best Macs for 4K video editing in 2022, covering various models to help you make an informed decision.
What Mac Processor Do I Need for Video Editing?
Type - Apple M1 chip, M1 Max, or M2 chip? Video editors want to know!
The new Apple Silicon M1 and M2 processors are a big deal. They are faster than Intel Core i5 processors, use less power, and generate less heat. For these reasons, I believe that the best Mac for editing in 2022 will have an M1 or M2 processor.
For creating visual effects, apps like Adobe After Effects also now benefit from more CPU cores, so the highest number of cores for multi-frame rendering will yield the best mac for After Effects 2022.
I currently use a 2021 MacBook Pro with an Apple M1 Max processor
What is the Best Editing Software for the Mac?
No matter which Mac you choose, it's crucial to select the best video editing software to maximize your productivity and create a polished finished video.
Some popular options for a video editor and Mac user include Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve.
Each of these programs has its strengths, so consider your specific requirements and preferences when making your decision.
Final Cut Pro
Pros:
- Seamless integration with macOS and Apple hardware
- Optimized performance for Apple's M1 chip
- Intuitive interface for beginners
- Regular updates and a strong user community
Cons:
- Exclusive to macOS, limiting cross-platform compatibility
- Some advanced features lacking compared to competitors
Premiere Pro
Pros:
- Available on both Mac and Windows platforms
- Part of Adobe Creative Cloud, which offers compatibility with other Adobe applications
- Highly customizable workspace and extensive feature set for professionals
- Large user base and online resources
Cons:
- Subscription-based pricing can be expensive
- Not optimized for Apple's M1 chip, which may cause performance issues
DaVinci Resolve
Pros:
- Available for free with a powerful paid version (DaVinci Resolve Studio)
- Advanced color grading and audio editing tools
- Multi-platform compatibility (macOS, Windows, and Linux)
- Fusion for motion graphics and visual effects
Cons:
- Steeper learning curve for beginners
- Less community support compared to Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro
Each software offers unique benefits, so the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and desired features.
Final Cut Pro is ideal for Mac users looking for a native, user-friendly option, while Premiere Pro is suitable for those working across platforms or utilizing other Adobe products.
DaVinci Resolve shines in color grading and audio editing, making it a powerful choice for more advanced video editors.
How Much RAM Do I Need for Video Editing?
8GB of RAM is the minimum I would consider for video editing on a Mac (16GB is better). If you can afford it, 32GB of RAM is overkill for most video editing tasks but it does give you some headroom for working with large projects or using memory intensive plugins.
My 2021 MacBook Pro has 64 GB of RAM. I decided to get more RAM for use in video editing software like Final Cut Pro and Premiere Pro, and graphics applications like Adobe After Effects.
Apple Desktop vs. Laptop
There are two main types of Macs - desktops and laptops. For video editing, I believe that the best Mac is a laptop. Laptops are more portable and easier to take with you when you travel. For editors who spend any time on set or in production, a laptop is a valuable tool.
I currently use a 2021 MacBook Pro for video editing. It has an M1 processor and 64 GB of RAM.
Apple offers two types of workstation computers: the Mac Studio and the iMac. The Mac Studio is apple workstation, a desktop computer that starts at $4999. The iMac is an all-in-one computer that starts at $1099.
The iMac has a large screen, fast processor, and plenty of storage. It also comes with a built-in camera, microphone, and speakers. If you are looking for an all-in-one solution for video editing, the iMac is the best choice.
If the current MacBook Pro is too expensive for you, there are plenty of folks settling for less power and a better price using a MacBook Air for video editing. If this were me, I'd likely use Final Cut Pro, which, as Apple's video editing software, is better tuned for a slightly less powerful mac laptop.
What Size Screen Do I Need for Video Editing?
15-inch or 16-inch?
The size of your Mac's screen is important for video editing. You want to be able to see your footage clearly in your video editing software without straining your eyes. I find that 15-inch and 16-inch screens on the MacBook Pro are the sweet spot for video editing.
My 2021 MacBook Pro 16 inch has a gorgeous 16-inch liquid retina display.
Apple makes its own powerful displays.
The Apple Pro Display XDR is the best external monitor for video editing. It has a 6K resolution and reference-quality colors. And of course, iMac models have built in displays. The Apple Store also sells plenty of Apple-endorsed external monitors, as well, which are still appropriate for editing videos.
What Graphics Card Do I Need for Video Editing?
The graphics card is important for video editing. You want a graphics card that can handle the demands of your video editing software.
For 4K video editing, you will need a powerful graphics card. I recommend the AMD Radeon Pro Vega 20 or the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti.
My 2021 MacBook Pro has an M1 processor and an AMD Radeon Pro 5500M graphics card to help push its retina display. The GPU in a Mac Studio is even more powerful. It has an AMD Radeon Pro Vega 64 graphics card.
The iMac has a built-in AMD Radeon Pro Vega 20 or 5600 XT GPU. The Mac Studio has a dedicated AMD Radeon Pro Vega II Duo GPU with 32GB of HBM2 memory.
Read More: How Does a GPU Impact Video Editing?
What Type of Storage Do I Need for Video Editing?
SSD or HDD?
The type of storage you choose for your Mac is important for video editing. You want to be able to access your footage quickly and easily.
I recommend using an SSD (solid state drive) for video editing. SSDs are faster than HDDs (hard disk drives) and they use less power.
My 2021 MacBook Pro has a 512 GB SSD. I also have external SSD hard drives that I use for extra storage pace for my video footage. Any modern MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, or Mac Mini will have an SSD drive inside it.
What ports do I need on my Mac?
The ports you choose for your Mac are important for video editing. You need to be able to connect your camera, external hard drive, and other peripherals easily.
I recommend choosing a Mac with Thunderbolt 3 ports (USB-C). Thunderbolt 3 is fast, versatile, and easy to use.
My 2021 MacBook Pro has 4 Thunderbolt 3 / USB C ports and an HDMI port. I use an adapter to get 2 USB A Ports.
Mac for Video Editing: The Models:
MacBook Air M1: A Portable Powerhouse
The MacBook Air M1 is an ideal choice for those seeking a portable Mac with excellent performance.
Its 13-inch Retina display offers stunning visuals, and the M1 chip ensures smooth editing of 4K video files.
While its integrated graphics card may not handle complex rendering tasks as efficiently as a dedicated GPU, the MacBook Air M1 is perfect for basic video editing on the go.
The MacBook Air is an option for those seeking a mac for video editing. While it may not be as powerful as the MacBook Pro, the MacBook Air still offers decent performance with the Apple M1 chip.
This makes it a suitable choice for those who require a lightweight, portable option for video editing tasks.
However, the MacBook Air's display is smaller than that of the MacBook Pro, measuring at 13.3 inches.
Despite its smaller size, the MacBook Air still features a high-resolution Retina display, making it one of the best macs for video editing in terms of portability.
Takeaway: The MacBook Air is a lightweight and portable option for video editing on-the-go. However, its processing power and graphics capabilities may not be sufficient for more demanding video editing tasks.
MacBook Pro M1: More Power for Professional Video Editors
The Apple MacBook Pro is often considered the best mac for video editing, thanks to its powerful processor, high-quality display, and ample storage options. With the latest Apple M1 chip, the MacBook Pro offers excellent performance for video editing tasks. This chip is designed to provide both high efficiency and powerful performance, making it the ideal video editing processor.
The MacBook Pro comes with two different display options: a 14-inch and a 16-inch model. Both models feature a stunning Retina display with True Tone technology, ensuring vibrant colors and crisp images. Such a display is essential for video editors who need accurate color representation while working on their projects.
When it comes to storage, the MacBook Pro offers options ranging from 512GB to 8TB SSD, providing ample space for large video files and rendering software. With this wide range of storage options, the MacBook Pro proves itself as a great editing machine.
Takeaway: The MacBook Pro is a popular choice for video editors due to its powerful processors and graphics capabilities. It also has a high-quality display and a variety of ports for connecting external devices. However, it can be quite expensive and may not be necessary for less demanding video editing tasks.
iMac M1: An All-in-One Solution
The iMac M1 is an excellent option for those seeking a powerful all-in-one solution for video editing.
With its 24-inch 4.5K Retina display, the iMac M1 delivers stunning visuals and color accuracy.
he M1 chip's performance rivals that of many high-end desktop computers, and its sleek design allows it to fit seamlessly into any workspace.
Takeaway: The iMac is a desktop computer with a large display and powerful processors, making it a great option for video editing. It also has a variety of ports for connecting external devices and can be upgraded with additional RAM and storage. However, it is not portable and can take up a lot of desk space.
Mac Mini M1: A Compact and Affordable Option
For video editors on a budget, the Mac Mini M1 offers impressive performance in a compact form factor.
While it lacks a built-in display, the Mac Mini M1 can be connected to an external monitor, providing a flexible and cost-effective solution for 4K video editing.
The port selection on the Mac Mini includes two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and gigabit Ethernet, making it easy to connect peripherals and external storage.
For those who prefer a desktop setup, the Apple Mac Mini is an excellent option. Equipped with the Apple M1 chip, the Mac Mini delivers strong performance in a compact package.
As a result, it's often considered the best Apple workstation for those who require a smaller, more budget-friendly option.
The Mac Mini does not come with a built-in display, so users will need to purchase a separate monitor.
However, this provides the flexibility to choose a display that best suits your video editing needs.
Takeaway: The Mac Mini is a compact and affordable option for video editing. It has a decent processor and can handle basic video editing tasks. However, it has limited storage and is not as powerful as other Mac options, which can lead to slower rendering times and less efficient video editing.
Mac Studio: A Powerful Workstation for Demanding Tasks
Apple's new Mac Studio, powered by the M1 Max or M1 Ultra chip, is designed for demanding creative tasks such as 4K video editing.
With up to 64 GB of unified memory and a dedicated GPU, the Mac Studio delivers unparalleled performance and rendering capabilities.
Its compact design and multiple Thunderbolt 4 ports make it an ideal choice for professional video editors who require a powerful workstation.
Takeaway: The Mac Studio is a new all-in-one desktop computer designed specifically for creative professionals. It has a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and a high-quality display. However, it is expensive and may not be as customizable as other Mac models.
iMac Pro: A Premium Choice for High-End Video Editing
The iMac Pro, featuring a 27-inch 5K Retina display and Intel Xeon processors, remains a popular choice for high-end video editing.
With up to 18 cores and 128 GB of RAM, the iMac Pro delivers exceptional performance and can handle even the most demanding video editing tasks.
Its AMD Radeon Pro Vega graphics card ensures smooth rendering and playback of 4K video files.
Takeaway: There are no current iMac Pro models to purchase new, so this is aging technology that was once cutting edge. Consider it if you need an affordable workstation.
Mac Pro
The Mac Pro is a line of desktop computers designed, manufactured and sold by Apple Inc. It is the high-end model of the three current desktop computers in the Mac lineup, the other two being the iMac and Mac mini.
It, in most configurations and in terms of speed and performance, is the most powerful computer that Apple offers.
For editing video clips, rendering 3D graphics or running other computationally intensive tasks, it is significantly faster than any other computer that Apple offers.
The standard configuration of the Mac Pro comes with a Quad-Core Intel Xeon E5 processor, 16GB of memory, 256GB of flash storage and dual AMD FirePro D500 GPUs. Higher-end configurations can be customized with up to a 12-Core Intel Xeon E5 processor, 64GB of memory, 1TB of flash storage and dual AMD FirePro D700 GPUs.
It was last updated in 2013, and it is unknown if or when Apple will release an updated model.
Takeaway: The Mac Pro is a high-end desktop computer designed for professional video editors. It has a powerful processor, dedicated graphics card, and can be customized with up to 1.5TB of RAM and 8TB of storage. However, it is extremely expensive and may be overkill for most video editing tasks.
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Final Cut Pro vs. Premiere Pro 2022
History of Editing Media on Apple Computers
Media production has a rich history and long relationship with Apple. Over the years, Apple computers have been the preferred machines of editors and creatives.
Here's a brief history of how Apple has been involved in editing, from the early days of film production to the modern era of digital filmmaking.
The First Apple Computers
The first Apple computers were used in movie post-production as early as 1983. The Lisa computer, one of the first models released by Apple, was used by George Lucas' team to edit the first three Star Wars films.
Lucasfilm was an early adopter of Apple's technology, and they continued to use Apple computers to edit the Star Wars prequels in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Final Cut Pro
In 2003, Apple released the Final Cut Pro editing software. This software quickly became the industry standard for editing, and it was used to edit some of the biggest films and TV shows of the 2000s, including The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Lost, and Desperate Housewives.
In 2009, Apple released a new version of Final Cut Pro, which was designed for use on its new line of MacBook Pro laptops. This version of the software was used to edit the Academy Award-winning film The Hurt Locker.
In 2011, Apple released Final Cut Pro X, a major update to the software that included a new interface and new features such as magnetic timelines and color grading.
Today, Apple's video software is used by filmmakers and editors all over the world. It's also used by amateurs and hobbyists who want to create their own videos.
Other NLE Software for Editing
In addition to Final Cut Pro, a lot of NLE software is available on the Mac Platform. Great titles like Adobe Premiere Pro, Avid Media Composer First, and DaVinci Resolve 15 all run on macOS.
As you can see, Apple has a long history of being involved in editing. The company's computers and software have been used to edit some of the biggest and most popular films and TV shows of the last few decades.
See our article on the Best Video Editing Software for 2022.
The Interesting History of the Mac Pro in Media Production
The Mac Pro is a line of high-end Apple computers that was first introduced in 2006. The original was a powerful machine that was designed for professional users such as editors and graphic designers.
I got my first one in 2007. I had just gone independent and it's nearly $10K price tag was super expensive for me but necessary to be able to produce content for my clients.
In 2013, Apple released a new version of the Mac Pro, which was a major departure from the original design. It was a sleek, cylindrical machine that was much smaller than the original.
The new model was not as popular with professional users as the original, and in 2016 Apple released an updated version of the original. This new version was a more powerful machine that was designed to meet the needs of professional users.
Today, the Mac Pro is still a popular computer for professional users such as editors and graphic designers. Apple continues to update it with new features and specifications, and it remains one of the best machines for media production.
The Mac Studio has entered the pro computer lineup recently and has replaced the Mac Pro for many editors due to its price point and updated specs.
PowerBook to MacBook Pro - The History of the Portable Apple Computer
The first Apple laptop was the PowerBook, which was introduced in 1991. The PowerBook was a success, and it helped to establish Apple as a major player in the laptop market.
I owned a Titanium MacBook Pro, which I purchased in 2001. It was a great computer to edit video, and I used it to edit all of my projects at the time. The laptop form factor was appealing to me as I travelled from my work at a production company to home, where I edited video for personal and side projects.
In 2006, Apple released the MacBook Pro, which was a major update to the PowerBook. The MacBook Pro was a more powerful machine than the PowerBook, and it included a number of new features such as an Intel processor and a built-in webcam.
The MacBook Air was first introduced by Apple in 2008 as a lightweight and ultra-portable laptop. Over the years, it has evolved with improved performance and features, becoming a popular choice for professionals and students who value mobility and battery life. While not as powerful as its flashier cousins, it is still used by many as a video editing laptop.
Today, the MacBook Pro is the best laptop to edit videos. It's powerful enough to handle even the most demanding projects, and it has a wide range of features that make it ideal for video editors.
Best Mac for Video Editing FAQ
Which Mac can edit 4K video?
Any Mac with the Apple M1 chip, including the MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, and Mac Mini, can efficiently handle 4K video editing.
Are MacBooks good for 4K video editing?
Yes, MacBooks, especially those with the Apple M1 chip, are well-equipped for 4K video editing due to their high-performance processors and graphics capabilities.
What kind of Mac is best for video editing?
The MacBook Pro, particularly models with the Apple M1 chip, is considered the best Mac for video editing due to its powerful performance, high-quality display, and significant storage capacity.
Is MacBook M1 good for 4K video editing?
Yes, the MacBook M1 is excellent for 4K video editing. The M1 chip offers powerful processing capabilities, making video editing tasks more efficient and smoother.
Which Mac product is best for video editing?
The MacBook Pro stands out as the best Mac product for video editing due to its powerful hardware, stunning display, and ample storage options.
Is iMac or MacBook Pro better for video editing?
While both are suitable for video editing, the MacBook Pro, especially the models with the M1 chip, often outperforms the iMac due to its higher processing power and portability.
Is Mac suitable for video editing?
Yes, Macs are highly suitable for video editing. Their powerful processors, high-quality displays, and robust software ecosystem make them ideal for this task.
Is Mac or PC better for video editing?
Both have their strengths, but Macs are often preferred for video editing due to their superior display quality, seamless software integration, and reliable performance.
What Macs can run Final Cut Pro?
All Macs running macOS 10.15.6 or later, including MacBook Pro, MacBook Air, iMac, and Mac Mini, can run Final Cut Pro.
Which iMac is best for 4K video editing?
The 27-inch iMac with Retina 5K display, equipped with a powerful processor and graphics card, is considered the best iMac for 4K video editing.
Which laptop is best for Final Cut Pro?
The MacBook Pro, due to its powerful processor and high-quality display, is the best laptop for running Final Cut Pro.
Does Final Cut Pro work well on Mac?
Yes, Final Cut Pro works exceptionally well on Mac as it's designed and optimized by Apple specifically for the macOS environment.
What is the best Mac for video editing?
The MacBook Pro, particularly the models with the M1 chip, is generally regarded as the best Mac for video editing.
Should I get an iMac or MacBook Pro for video editing?
If you value portability and often work on-the-go, choose the MacBook Pro. If you prefer a larger display and working from a fixed location, an iMac may be a better choice.
What MacBook specs do I need for video editing?
You'll need a MacBook with a powerful processor (preferably an M1 chip), at least 16GB of RAM, a high-resolution display, and ample storage (512GB or more).
How do I optimize my Mac for video editing?
To optimize your Mac for video editing, ensure you have enough storage space, close unnecessary applications to free up RAM, and keep your software updated.
Are Macs actually better for video editing?
Macs are often preferred for video editing due to their high-quality displays, powerful performance, and the seamless integration of professional editing software like Final Cut Pro.
Which Mac is best for film editing?
The MacBook Pro, especially models with the M1 chip and larger display, is considered the best Mac for film editing.
Conclusion
So, you're trying to decide between an M1 MacBook and an M1 iMac to edit videos .. which is the best choice?
Well that is all up to your needs, budget, and experience level.
We are choosing the Apple MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021) as the best overall Mac for basic video in 2022. It's the machine I use. I like its gorgeous display, its 4 USB C Ports, the retina display, and it's crazy reliable battery life. Plus the MacBook Pro form factor allows me to work from anywhere.
Are you on a tight budget and just starting out with editing on the Mac? How about the Apple Mac Mini 2020 - it's an incredibly powerful machine for the price (starting at just $699).
And if a workstation and video editing processor with power is what you need, and your budget is not an issue, check out the Apple Mac Studio 2022. It's the most powerful Mac you can buy. Paired with an external display like the LG UltraFine 5K, or Apple's own Pro Display XDR, you have an incredibly powerful Mac video editor setup.
So there you have it - the best Macs for editors in 2022, depending on your needs and budget. So get out there and start making some great videos!
