Best Video Editing Software For Mac

iMovie is no longer free for Mac users to edit videos. So you need to look for other free video editing software for Mac (macOS 10.14 Mojave included) as alternative solution. No need to search around the internet, here you can get top 9 free video editors for Mac listed below that are sure to accomplish all your video editing needs. Edit a wide variety of video file formats to make them your own customized movie experience. Add effects, subtitles, music...you name it. When it comes to video editing, your creativity is the limit.

Top 13 Video Editing Software for Mac 1. Adobe Premiere Pro CC. Verdict: Adobe Premiere is the most popular video editor for all the platforms. Verdict: Lightworks can be downloaded for free without a time limit. The program has multi-channel input. InVideo Online Video Editor is our top pick in the list of best video editing software available for Mac today. The online video editor by InVideo gives you the ability and flexibility to create.

Top 9 Best Mac Video Editing Software You Should Know

#1. Filmora Video Editor (Mac and Windows)

Why settle for a simple and limited video editor when you can have it all? Filmora Video Editor brings all tools into one amazing program that enables video editing, and is also a video converter. Edit video and convert video at will, for virtually all formats available and a huge array of devices.

Whatever you need, Filmora Video Editor for Mac has it! Or, if you're absolutely just looking for a dedicated video editor, we also have the best solution. Try our Filmora Video Editor for Mac! The best video editor for Mac (macOS High Sierra included) in the market.

  • Supports almost all video, audio and image formats.
  • Makes amazing movies with 300+ new eye-catching effects.
  • Allows you to add music to video or crop/trim/merge videos.
  • Full compatible with macOS 10.6 or later including macOS 10.13 High Sierra, and Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Edit Videos on Mac using Filmora Video Editor for Mac

Step 1. Import Video

Open Filmora Video Editor for Mac and click on “Import” button on the home screen. Choose “Import Media Files” and select the video file on your Mac that you want to upload. Alternatively, you can drag and drop the video from your local storage to the program window.

Step 2. Edit Video

To edit the video, you need to drag the video to the timeline on the screen.

Editing

To cut the video place the pointers on the position that you want to cut the video and click on Scissor button. Alternatively, you can right-click on the video and click on cut or split the video. You can also delete the part that you have cut.

When you click on “Edit” once you right click on the video, you will get basic editing options appear on a window such as brightness, contrast, saturation as well as audio editing options like volume, pitch and noise removal.

For effects click, on the desired effects like overlay. Choose an overlay and drag it to the video. It will appear on the video once you play it.

Step 3. Save the Edited Video

After editing the video, click on “Export” button and select “Output” format. You can also opt to burn video to DVD, export online or save to a device. For Output option, just choose the output format and then select the destination on your folder and export file.

Editing videos on Mac with Filmora Video Editor for Mac is quite simple and fast. Moreover, this video editor for Mac allows you save and share files in different ways.

#2. Avidemux

Avidemux is an open source video editor for Mac that will make encoding, filtering, and cutting a breeze. In comparison to other video editors for Mac, this video editor for Mac is compatible with different video formats such as DVD, MPEG, AVI, and many more. It also supports some audio formats including WAV, AAC, MP3,among others. If you are a beginner in video editing, there is no need to worry because it's very easy to use and will allow you to edit your video files without experiencing any inconvenience. Like all video editing programs, this tool is easy to install. It can also be downloaded easily. For first time users, there is a detailed tutorial provided. It also comes with advanced features that will provide total convenience for all users. However, for non-tech savvy people, you might find some of its functions confusing. But, with its user-friendly interface, you won't need to study numerous tutorials.

#3. Blender

Blender is a free video editing software for Mac and free 3D rendering program, which features the best list of animation essentials such as modeling, rigging, interface, animation, shading, UV unwrapping, real time 3D game creation, and so on. This also has a pack of high-end interface that is loaded with intrinsic and useful tools. But, like most video editors, this has also pros and cons. When compared to some video editors, this video editor for Mac is a video editor that provides professional 3D quality that is available for free. It has a lot of features and ideals for every 3D enthusiasts, graphic artists, and designers. It is also versatile and lightweight. Unfortunately, beginners might experience difficulties when using this software. But, luckily, there is a manual that can help you make the most of it. Blender is also compatible with various versions of Windows.

#4. Kdenlive

Kdenlive or KDE Non-Linear Video Editor is an open source Mac video editing application. Its package is based on MLT Framework that focuses on easy to use features and flexibility. When compared to other video editors, this supports all formats, which are supported by the FFmpeg including AVI, QuickTime, FlashVideo, WMV, and MPEG. This video editor for Mac also supports 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios for NTSC, PAL, and some HD standards including AVCHD and HDV. The videos created with this software can be exported to a Device. Users can also write it on a DVD using its simple menu. Kdenlive is also compatible with Linux. But, make sure to check the compatibility of your system to avoid any issues. Most users like this Mac video editing software. However, others have experienced difficulties in using it because of the complexity of its interface. Nevertheless, the manual is of certain help for any doubts.

#5. JahShaka

JahShaka is one of the Mac video editing tools that aim to become an open source, cross-platform, and free video editing tool. At present, it is in its alpha stage and supports real time effects rendering. It is best for every user who has not yet enough experience using video editors. But, professionals can also rely on this video editing tool. Unfortunately, JahShaka is still lacking some helpful implementations of numerous features including the non-linear editing system. This video editing tool was written with the use of Qt by Troll tech, but the user interface of this software is using the library of OpenGL to make the GUIs. This video editor for Mac is also compatible with Linux and Windows. Nevertheless, this video editing software has some issues. So, before you consider it, see to it that your system is compatible with the program's features to avoid any inconvenience and for you to use it properly.

#6. VideoLan Movie Creator

VideoLan Movie Creator is a video editor for Mac, which is different from VLC Media Player, but they are both developed by VideoLan Organization. The project was developed for playing videos and some media formats. This movie creator is perfect for everyone who wants a program that will provide convenience whenever they are creating movies and videos of high quality. The software is compatible with other operating systems as well. However, there are some issues that were experienced by many users. These issues include sudden crashes of the program. But, overall, VideoLan Movie Creator is a video editor mac that you must try, most particularly if you are just starting to explore movie creation or video editing. The interface of the movie creator is easy to use and simple. So, this just means that there is no need for you to learn more about it as it won't require special skills in order for you to use it.

#7. iMovie

Mac video editing tool that was developed by Apple for iOS devices (including iPod touch, iPad Mini, iPad, and iPhone) and Mac. Originally released in 1999 as an application for Mac OS 8. The third version of iMovie was only released for OS-X, but there are modified versions so users can use it properly. iMovie is best at importing video footage to Mac using the interface of FireWire or through USB. This video editor for Mac also imports photos and video files from hard drives. With this video editing tool, you can edit video clips, add effects or music. There is also included a basic color correction option as well as other video enhancement tools. Transitions like slides and fades are also possible. However, even if iMovie is rich in various features, the effects options are not really very comprehensive, when compared to other editors.

#8. Adobe Premiere Pro

Well, many people heard about Adobe Premiere Pro. This video editor for Mac is a professional Mac video editing software program, which also has Windows version. It is a part of the Adobe Creative Suite for designers and developers. It has both standard and professional features, but you will need some experience to learn working with it. People from all around the work use it because it allows them to perform a lot of actions.

#9. HyperEngine-AV

Our last proposition for you is HyperEngine-AV, another free video editing software for Mac. You can capture, edit, and export audio and video files, and even to create quality DVDs with your movies. It offers you twelve studio quality effects, and you can also add info and credits, titles, or karaoke lyrics. We like it a lot because it comes with editable fonts, colors, styles, and many more.

Related Articles & Tips

© Provided by T3 Video editing software

The best video editing software could be the difference between an enjoyable project and an eye-melting struggle. That's why we've rounded up the best video editing software for Mac, Windows, iOS and Android, among others, so you can find the ultimate tool for you.

From professional editors to would be filmmaking amateurs, there is something there to suit all levels. There are also, as you'd imagine, a range of prices from pretty pricey premium stuff all the way to totally free video editing software.

If you want easy video editing or simply the best free option, then will be something in this broad list of the best options out there right now.

From trimming clips and applying filters to working with green screens and adjusting playback – there are plenty of features to look out for when deciding which is the best video editing software for you. You might be on team Adobe and simply have to get one of the many options there, or you may be more open to trying some lesser known names that offer a great experience for a lower price.

We've got the best video editing software right here, each organised by what they offer, which stands out, so you should be able to find the right tool to create your next work of art on video, right here.

Best video editing software

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Adobe)

1. Adobe Premiere Pro CC

Platform: Mac/Windows Free trial: 7 days 8K support: Yes Upload to YouTube: Yes 360 support: Yes Price: Subscription

Wide support
Not cheap

The very best video editing software title has got to go to one of the oldest players in the game Adobe, with its latest Premiere Pro CC. As the name suggests this is the do-it-all tool that professionals use to create top-end video. As such this isn't cheap, paid for on a subscription model. But for that cost you get everything you could possibly want from basic trimming and layering right up to 8K and 360-degree video editing support – presuming your machine has the power to run that.

This works on both Mac and Windows and is crammed full of keyboard shortcuts to help make the process easy to use.

There is an option to upload directly to YouTube, making this a one-stop shop for any self publishing social media video makers out there.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Future)

2. Final Cut Pro X

Platform: Mac Free trial: 30 days Video tracks: Unlimited

Simple to use
Expensive

Final Cut Pro X is simply the best video editing software you can get on Mac. Sure Adobe options are great too but this is built by Apple, for Apple. So, as you'd expect it's super clean, minimal and as such easy to use. But that doesn't mean to say it scrimps on features, far from it.

This software offers lots of features to justify the high price. These include special effects, grouping tools, adding and editing audio plus multi-camera editing and smart colour balancing tools. You also get access to unlimited video tracks so you should never feel constricted. With a 30-day free trial it's definitely worth giving this powerful video editing tool a try.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Adobe)

3. Adobe Premiere Elements

Platform: Mac/Windows Free trial: Yes Video tracks: Unlimited

Feature rich
Could be faster

Adobe Premiere Elements is the second Adobe software on the list in just three so far. Yup, Adobe is that good. This video editing suite offers a more affordable and easy to user alternative which is crammed full of useful features like facial recognition, to name but one.

Simple but really effective features we love include video stabilisation, automatic motion tracking, audio effects and a selection of soundtracks included as standard. The fact it's all easy to use is just a great bonus. If you work with a lot of people based videos then the smart toning is a great feature for skin – a bit like how a selfie camera makes you look smoother skinned. This helps give the videos a more professional finish. And for the pros you can enjoy effects like chroma-keying, opacity, transitions and more. Something for everyone then.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Lightworks)

4. Lightworks

Platform: Mac/Windows/Linux Free: Yes Video tracks: Multi support

Very customisable
Not the easiest to learn

Lightworks is a stunning video editing tool when you consider that it's absolutely free. This software is good enough to get you professional quality videos without charging you pro-grade prices. The hidden cost? This isn't quite as easy to use as some of the above options, but if you put in the effort to learn, it can be as effective.

Import and render footage in the background then preview video effects in real-time – some seriously high-end features you might not expect to see in a free tool. Set custom keyboard shortcuts to speed up the working process and enjoy multi-track editing for complex end results.

There is the option to spend a little money and upgrade to Lightworks Pro, which will let you export projects to different formats and enjoy features like 3D modelling and straight to YouTube uploads.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Hitfilm Express)

Best Video Editing Software For Macbook Air

5. Hitfilm Express

Platform: Mac/Windows Free: Yes Video tracks: Multi support

Templates
Must pay for better features

Hitfilm Express is another really useful free video editing programme which comes with a friendly and easy to use interface. That makes this a great option for anyone new to video editing that wants to give it a try. That said, it does have some decent features for more seasoned users too.

You can enjoy features like 3D composition tools, green screen chroma key setting and create custom video masks. Plus there are more day to day tools like trimming of clips, colour balancing and, of course, exporting to various video formats.

The system is easy enough to use with a traditional interface that's easily recognisable to anyone who's used video editing tools before. Just make sure you have a machine with plenty of power as this makes your hardware work hard to crunch that data.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Adobe)

6. Adobe Premiere Rush

Platform: Mac/Windows/iOS/Android Free trial: Yes Video tracks: Four

Great sound editing
Free plan is basic

Adobe Premiere Rush is the ultimate mobile editing tool, designed specifically for use on smartphones and tablets. That means you can fire up this app on your iOS or Android device and edit a video entirely within that app. Presuming your phone or tablet is new enough, you can even edit high-quality 4K video footage with up to four video and three audio tracks at once.

Since this is on your phone is makes exporting super simple, with specific options to export straight to social media accounts. All that can be enjoyed for free using the Rush Starter Plan, with a three video export limit. Or pay a nominal fee and enjoy the full service right there on your phone or tablet.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: GoPro)

7. GoPro App

Platform: iOS/Android/Windows/Mac Free trial: Yes Video tracks: Multi

Over 20 themes
Controls are minimal

The GoPro App is a great way to instantly start editing your live action video footage from a GoPro camera, or any other compatible device for that matter. Since this is made to be used quickly, on the move, it's super simple to work. It will automatically import footage and can create videos synced to music right away, without you having to do much at all.

There are more complex options like adding photos or time lapse sequences as well as cool graphs and charts to express speed – ideal for action camera footage. Share the videos on YouTube or Facebook easily with a great option to go through, frame by frame, to find the perfect picture to lead your post.

If you pay and subscribe to the GoPro Plus version you'll have a lot more than the standard 20 soundtracks and can auto upload videos and photos to the cloud for editing from whatever device you want.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: CyberLink)

8. CyberLink PowerDirector

Platform: Windows Free trial: 30 days Video tracks: Multi

Wizard optimisation
Could use more fine controls

CyberLink PowerDirector is a great option for anyone relatively new to video editing that fancies a fully fledged and complex tool which is also easy enough to learn to use. That means features like 8K video editing and 360-degree support but also super simplifying tools like a wizard that optimises video in seconds. This is a great tool for a quick edit to bung up on social media in a hurry.

But there are more complex features too with a standard post production interface that includes motion graphic titles, social media friendly 1:1 video ratios and high-quality video editing.

What you'll have to pay extra for, with the Ultimate version, are features like 4K video editing, audio scrubbing and library preview features.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: KineMaster)

9. KineMaster

Platform: ChromeOS/iOS/Android Free trial: Free app Video tracks: Multi

Best Video Editing Software For Mac Reviews

Pro level
Could be faster

KineMaster is a great video editing option for Android, ChromeOS and iOS users with a device new enough to run it. We say that as this has some seriously complex features that make this good enough even for professional editors to use on the move.

You can edit multiple layers with up to four audio tracks in one project. There are also little extras like adding handwriting and text annotations and even editing at the frame and subframe levels. All that is free so even if you're not sure we'd say give this a go as it'll more than likely serve the needs of most, even the more demanding editor.

© Provided by T3 (Image credit: Corel)

10. Corel VideoStudio Ultimate

Platform: Windows Free trial: 30 days Video tracks: Multi

Affordable
Too basic for some

Corel VideoStudio Ultimate is a really great video editing option for anyone new to splice and hacking clips together. While it might be a bit basic for professionals, this has a lot of features despite how easy it is to pick up and use. That includes high-end extras like 4K, multi-cam editing and 360-degree VR video editing.

Best Video Editing Software For Mac 2019

The interface is easy to pick up and features a music library as well as a whole host of effects that can be added to your video project. The key here is that the software is intuitive enough to make it easy but also – crucially – fun, so you can actually enjoy the process of creating the final cut of your video edit. And with over 2,000 customisable filters to pick from this gives you a great opportunity to really personalise your footage to offer something uniquely fun.