- Best Free Photo Editing Software Mac App Store
- Best Cheap Photo Editing Software Mac 10 9 5
- Free Photo Editing For Mac
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.
As far as Mac photo editing software goes, you should be able to find a basic editing program for under $100, typically starting for as little as $30. Paying more than $100 will often land you a professional editing program with additional editing tools and presets compared to the basic versions. 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.
- Jun 28, 2020 Shotcut is highly versatile free video editing software available on Mac and PC. Once you get past the somewhat steep learning curve, you’ll find you can do quite a lot with Shotcut. And, since it’s a free software, you have the option of seeing whether or not you like it without having to pay a cent.
- In terms of RAW photo editing, Affinity Photo’s big advantage is its ability to process very large files (more than 100 Megapixels) and to offer smooth zoom at 60 frames per second. It gives you full control over the smallest details of your images and provides editing tools such as levels, curves, HSL, and exposure and white balance adjustments.
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
Image | Name | Features |
---|---|---|
OUR CHOICE |
| Check Price → |
Apple MacBook Pro 15-Inch |
| Check Price → |
PROFESSIONAL |
| Check Price → |
Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch |
| Check Price → |
| Check Price → | |
Apple MacBook Air CHEAPEST |
| Check Price → |
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
Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more
If you could create your own photo editing software, it would work like this. Whether it’s quick corrections, delicate retouching, or immersing yourself in complex fine art with hundreds of layers, Affinity Photo has you covered.
Trusted by professionals
App stuck on resuming update on mac. Affinity Photo has become the first choice for photography and creative professionals around the world, who love its speed, power and precision. Born to work hand-in-hand with the latest powerful computer technology, it’s the only fully-loaded photo editor integrated across macOS, Windows and iOS.
Raw Editing
HDR Merge
Panorama Stitching
Focus Stacking
Batch Processing
PSD Editing
360 Image Editing
Multi Layer Comp
Smart Object Support
Digital Painting
Performance and power
The raw power under the hood of Affinity Photo will leave you amazed at how quickly you can work. Watch your edits render in real time and dive into the huge toolset, tailored to the demands of a professional workflow.
- + Live, real time editing
- + Massive image support (100+ Megapixels)
- + Super smooth pan and zoom at 60fps
- + Open and edit PSD and PSB files
- + PSD smart object import
Support for Nik Collection 2.5 by DxO
Support for one of the most powerful photo editing plug-ins.
Flawless retouching
Whether you want to make quick corrections, or spend time on a detailed retouch, Affinity Photo has a complete set of retouching tools and dedicated features to help.
- + Smooth and retouch skin with frequency separation
- + Dodge, burn, clone, patch and blemish removal tools
- + Dedicated liquify workspace for sculpting features
- + Remove unwanted objects with the magical inpainting brush
Incredible live filter layers
Effects like blurs, lighting, distortions and perspective corrections can all be applied as non-destructive live filter layers. This means you can erase away from them, mask them, reorder them and adjust parameters at any time. It’s a completely new way to work.
- + Add filter effects non-destructively
- + Apply to single layers or over a whole layer stack
- + Mask and erase areas after they have been applied
- + Live full resolution preview at all times
Full RAW Development
Shoot in RAW and enjoy an end-to-end 16-bit, super smooth experience in Affinity Photo. Bring out all the details, and control those finer corrections to take that perfect shot to another level.
- + Professional lens corrections
- + Adjust exposure, blackpoint, white balance and much more
- + View histograms, blown highlights, shadows and tones
- + View and edit EXIF information
- + Best in class noise reduction and hot pixel removal
- + Import XMP files (metadata only)
- + Edit metadata
- + Batch copyright and rights information
Breathtaking compositions
With support for limitless layers, Affinity Photo provides a full library of adjustments, effects and live filters, all of which can be grouped, clipped, masked or blended together to create incredibly complex image compositions.
- + Unlimited layers
- + Layer effects
- + Live blend modes
- + Mask & clipping layers
- + Vector and text tools
Beautiful brushwork
Affinity Photo’s super smooth brush engine and advanced dynamics offers the most fluid and natural painting experience available.
- + Huge library of brushes included
- + Create custom brushes with advanced dynamics
- + Combine multiple brushes together in a single stroke
- + Full support for Wacom and other graphics tablets
- + Full support for Apple Pencil (iPad version)
- + Import .abr brush files
Faultless photo stitching
Get perfect panoramas every time with Affinity Photo’s advanced stitching algorithm, including automatic image alignment and full perspective corrections.
Refined selections
Achieve a level of accuracy you never thought possible with Affinity Photo’s advanced selection refinement algorithms. Whether cutting out objects, creating masks or selectively applying adjustments, you can make extremely precise selections – even down to individual strands of hair – with ease.
- + Selection brush & magic wand
- + Marquee and lasso tools
- + Advance selection refinement
- + Paint to select
- + Pen tool
Stunning HDR
Affinity Photo’s HDR algorithm creates incredibly natural-looking images enabling you to unlock the full dynamic range of the scene. You can work natively with the full 32-bit image, or use extensive tone mapping facilities for beautiful results.
- + Unlimited source images
- + Full tone mapping controls
- + Merge directly from RAW
- + Alignment and perspective correction
Focus merge
Expertly merge multiple images taken at different focal distances for detailed macro photography results. Affinity Photo takes care of the alignment and completes a deep analysis to determine the best areas of each image to use.
32-bit workflow
The only photo editing tool to offer full end-to-end 32-bit workflow for working on HDR images, renders, textures or exports from 3D software.
- + OpenEXR and Radiance HDR support
- + Import OpenColorIO configurations
- + HDR / EDR monitor support
Any device, anywhere
The first professional photo editing application with full editing power and 100% file format compatibility across Windows, Mac and iPad allowing you to work with the same file across any device.
Best Free Photo Editing Software Mac App Store
Best-in-class PSD Import/Export
PSD Import/Export
PSB Import
Layer Integrity
Plugins Supported
Best Cheap Photo Editing Software Mac 10 9 5
Brush Support
PSD Smart Object import
Free Photo Editing For Mac
Buy now €54.99 Affinity Photo (macOS) Free trial Affinity Photo (macOS)
Buy now €54.99 Affinity Photo (Windows) Free trial Affinity Photo (Windows)
This website uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies. Find out more