Best Drone Video Editing Software For Mac

  1. Best Drone Video Editing Software For Mac Pro
  2. Best Video Editing Software Imac
  3. Best Drone Video Editor 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.

Apr 09, 2020  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. Verdict: After Effects is the best drone video editing software if you want to add realistic cinematic effects, like smoke, explosions, gradient transfusions, etc. It also functions as a simple non-linear video editor, music editor and transcoder for multimedia. There are thousands of built-in effects that may be united to create an unlimited number of combinations, add rain, wind, sun glares.

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

ImageNameFeatures
OUR CHOICE
  • Clear 5K display
  • 6-core i5 processor
  • Ultrathin design
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Apple MacBook Pro 15-Inch
  • Increased sharpness
  • Double overclocking processor
Check Price
PROFESSIONAL
  • 5K display
  • Discrete video card
Check Price
Apple MacBook Pro 13-Inch
  • Retina Screen
  • Connect a separate eGPU
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  • Can have up to 6 monitors
  • Can connect up to 36 peripherals
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Apple MacBook Air
CHEAPEST
  • Retina display
  • Processor turbo-overclocking
  • Thin body
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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

Drones, also known as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are rapidly growing in popularity. They make it possible to record epic aerial videos for both professional film productions and recreational drone pilots. Drone footage is often of high quality and offers stunning bird's-eye views.

However,

It is inevitable that Drone footage always contains lots of unwanted parts when you wish to sharing or creating a Drone video with your friends. So, you need a video editing program to cut out the parts you don't want.

Best Drone Video Editing Software For Mac Pro

What's more,

A video editor will also help to stabilize the video if your drone was shaking in the wind as well as optimize the quality of your recording by adding interesting filters, transitions, graphics, and background music to make the video even more interesting for the viewer.

Today, you can get a variety of good drone video editing software for every skill level. Choosing the right video editor will enable even an inexperienced beginner to create high-quality drone videos that are a joy to watch.

[Entry Level] BEST Drone Editing Software for Mac and PC

1. Filmora Video Editor

When you need a program that you can use to edit drone videos quickly and easily, Filmora Video Editor is an excellent choice. The software is extremely easy to use and offers a full range of powerful video editing tools.

Users have access to over 500 special effects, most of which can be tweaked and customized. Plenty of stunning filters, transitions, overlays and animations are also available which make it easy to get started with video editing. With this inexpensive program, even first timers can make professional looking drone videos.

2. iMovie

iMovie comes pre-installed on Apple computers. It features a minimalist interface and offers all the video editing functions that you would need to make basic edits to drone footage. It has two video tracks and two audio tracks that you can use to combine multiple clips.

Using this simple program, you can add titles, transitions and video effects. You can also cut, crop, rotate and zoom a selected area, as well as adjust playback speed and the length of transitions between scenes. iMovie works well with most video formats and supports editing in HD or 4K resolution.

3. Windows Movie Maker

Once popular for creating slideshow videos for birthdays, holidays and parties, many are already familiar with Windows Movie Maker. Its video editing tools are very basic but not surprising since it is a free program. Using Windows Movie Maker, you can apply a variety of fonts and video effects to your drone footage. Trimming and merging clips as well as adding background music are easy to perform. This software is very easy to use but it is no longer officially supported by Microsoft. If you can find it, it can still be installed and used.

4. GoPro Studio

As the name suggests, this entry-level video editor is designed for GoPro camera users. It offers basic tools to edit drone videos, but can also update your GoPro camera firmware.

It has fewer functions and features than similar video editors which limits its capabilities but accommodates beginners and inexperienced users. Using this software, you can easily import video files from your camera and perform basic edits such as trim, cut and join video clips, as well as add titles and music. You can also use GoPro Studio to adjust the color balance of your video and change the playback speed.

[Intermediate Level] Drone Editing Software for Mac/PC

1. FilmoraPro Video Editor

FilmoraPro Video Editor is a budget friendly video editor that offers advanced tools suited for more experienced users. Its simple and intuitive layout makes it is very easy to use. It offers unlimited tracks which allows you to work with as many video and audio tracks as you want.

In addition to the usual editing tools such as trim, crop, merge, cut and split, users also have access to advanced video editing tools including rate stretch, slip, slide, ripple edit, and more, to help produce high quality drone videos. If you are familiar with Adobe Premier Pro and need a software tool with similar advanced features and functionality at a lower price, this is the perfect video editor for you. .

2. WeVideo

WeVideo is an easy to use, cloud-based video editor that can be used to edit 4K drone footage. Since it is cloud-based, it can be accessed from any computer or device with an internet connection. It supports most media formats which helps to provide a smooth video editing experience. On the program users can find all the basic video editing tools such and can cut & trim clips, apply special effects, filters, transitions and overlays, and add music and text. Other advanced features are also available including, WeVideo JumpStart, Cloud storage, screen recording, Green Screen effect, Music library and playback speed control.

3. Lightworks

Lightworks is a free video editor that offers intermediate level tools to edit drone videos. It offers basic and advanced tools that provide good control over all the aspects of video editing. The UI looks somewhat outdated but is still easy to use.

You can easily drag and drop clip sequences, add audio tracks and special effects to your drone footage. Users can also use the video editing tools to cut, trim, crop and split clips. The free version of Lightworks only allows users to export edited videos at a maximum 720p and limits video formats to MPEG4/H.264.

4. Cyberlink Power Director

Editing

Cyberlink Power Director is a mid-range video editor that provides a good balance between advanced tools and user friendliness. It provides a wide range of features and functions that are suited for 360 degree drone footage, 4K resolution and multicam video editing. With the program users can perform all the usual video editing functions as well add filters, transitions, special effects, graphics, music and text. This software provides interesting features such as True Theater Color technology which autocorrects video color and Magic Movie Wizard which can automatically edit your drone video with just a few clicks.

[Advanced Level] Video Editor for Drone Footage

1. Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro is a popular professional video editor that offers advanced video editing functions. Its UI is clear and easy to navigate despite its wide range of tools and features. This greatly simplifies the operation of the software tool and provides full control of every aspect of the video editing process. Adobe Premiere Pro is compatible with most media formats and is capable of processing drone footage in UHD and 4K. Using this software users can trim, cut & append clips, do color correcting, apply filters & special effects, add music, graphics, titles, overlays, transitions, text and much more.

2. Final Cut Pro X

Final Cut Pro X is a professional MacOS video editor designed especially for experts and semi-professional videographers. It is used by some Hollywood filmmakers and is credited for editing some well-known blockbuster movies. It features a comprehensive range of tools that provide a high degree of control for every aspect of drone video editing.

This program has a simple UI that is similar to iMovie, which helps to make it less intimidating for users familiar with Apple’s entry-level video editor. Users have access to wide selection of special effects, filters, overlays, transitions and audio effects. Advanced tools include 3D & 360-degree video support, multicam editing, XML exporting and HVEC support.

3. Davinci Resolve

Best Video Editing Software Imac

Davinci Resolve is a cross-platform video editor offering advanced tools for editing drone videos. The free version of Davinci Resolve provides good color correction tools and a good selection of filters. There are multiple video tracks, so it's suitable for non-linear video editing, and the trim tool is pretty intuitive too. You can process videos with a resolution of up to 8K, but the export settings are limited to 4K.

Best Drone Video Editor For Mac

This software is known for being very resource-intensive and works best on computers with high specs. It is recommended only if you are serious about learning advanced post-production techniques and own a powerful desktop computer with a minimum 16GB RAM.

4. Avid Media Composer

Avid Media Composer is a professional video editing software that can be used to edit drone footage. It is often used to edit mainstream TV shows and movies. This software provides powerful advanced in a complex, feature-rich UI that is suited to advanced users. It is compatible with most video formats and can work with different resolutions from SD up to 8K. Using its cloud options, users are also able to access and edit their drone videos remotely. Some of its pro-level features include support for any aspect ratio, support for UHD video, Avid DNxHD codec, 3D & multicam editing, FrameFlex and Audio Dupe Detection.

Conclusion

Choosing the best video editor suited for your skill level will help you get the most out of your drone footage. With the right software tool, you can effectively create high quality and entertaining drone videos at your home without wasting time learning to use a program or spending more than you need to.

So,

If you are a beginner looking for a drone video editor with a good mix of features to allow you to explore your creativity while being easy to use, light on system resources and budget friendly, go with Filmora Video Editor. If you are already familiar with video editing and need more advanced tools to better enhance your drone footage, FilmoraPro Video Editor is perfect for you.

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