Best Professional Photography Editing Software For Mac

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  1. Best Music Editing Software Mac
  2. Best Professional Photography Editing Software For Mac 2017
  3. Best Professional Photo Editing Software 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.

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.

  • ON1 Photo RAW is an overall great software to try out, for beginners and professional users alike. It might be expensive for beginners, but ON1 Photo RAW 2019 has enough arsenal of professional photography editing tools to become for your portrait retouching software.
  • With programs like Affinity and Pixelmator Pro, it's no longer the case that Photoshop is king when it comes to image editing software. We take a look at the best Mac photo editors for creative.

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.

Best Music Editing Software Mac

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.

Best

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.

Best Professional Photography Editing Software For Mac

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
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.

Best Professional Photography Editing Software For Mac 2017

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

Best Professional Photo Editing Software For Mac

Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more

Editing your photos on your iPhone is one thing, but editing your photos on your Mac can take your photography skills to a whole 'nother level.

Many of us still keep our main libraries on our Macs because of its faster processors, larger storage, and all-around bigger computing power. The Mac is still the best device for serious photo editing, so you need some serious photo editing apps to make an impact.

The built-in Photos app on Mac offers several useful photo editing tools. You can crop, adjust lighting and color, set the white balance, add filters, remove unwanted blemishes, and a few more things. However, in all honesty? It's not really meant to be a robust editing app, so If you are looking for something to really finish your photos right, we've got a list of the best photo editors for Mac right here. Let's go!

Affinity Photo

If you're looking for a photo editing app that goes above and beyond for the pricetag, while still allowing you complete creative control over your images, then it might be worth it to take a peek at Affinity Photo.

Affinity Photo supports unlimited layers, groups, layer adjustments, filters, masking, and more: you also have access to tools like dodge, red-eye fix, burn, blemish, clone, and patch (so pretty much Photoshop without all the convoluted bells and whistles). Nondestructive auto-saving makes undoing everything you've done easy, so if you need to start from the beginning, the option is there.

Play, manipulate, edit, and get hella creative with Affinity Photo whether you're a serious graphic designer or someone who's just looking to do some basic editing. Your photography will seriously thank you.

  • $49.99 - Download now

Fotor Photo Editor

Searching for a super simple, straight-forward photo editing app that's there to help you edit and not confuse you to the point of ripping out your hair? Then check out Fotor Photo Editor!

With this photo editor, you can easily adjust contrast and color of more washed-out photos, add borders, tilt and shift your images, add different text, slap on a few filters, and so much more, all from the easy-to-find toolbox on the right side of the app. You can even create collages of your photography masterpieces!

The BBC once called Fotor Photo Editor 'light Photoshop', and they're kind of right! You can go above and beyond editing your images with Fotor Photo Editor without getting bogged down by more complicated editing buttons and tools.

  • Free - Download now

Lightroom

When you look into photo editing software, one of the first things that'll pop up is Adobe's Lightroom, and for good reason! It's essentially a staple in the photo editing community.

Lightroom is great for photographers who need to manage a large image library, and who are prepared to commit to (and pay for) Adobe's cloud storage space. But it is purely a photography tool that's a little outside the regular Adobe design ecosystem. (Creative Bloq)

Pretty much anything you want to do with your photo, you can accomplish with Lightroom. You can blend and merge shadows and highlights, sharpen dull, blurry images so they look crisp and clear, add details and tint colors to make a photo stand out, and so, so much more.

While it is a bit more on the complicated side, people who use the program and know how to navigate it are hooked. Keep in mind, there are two versions of the app — there's the Classic version, which is more preferred, and the 2018 CC version.

If you're hesitant about the program and paying for it, you can download Lightroom free for 30 days as part of a trial period. After that, you can add it to your Photoshop CC subscription for $9.99 per month.

  • Free trial - Download now

Pixelmator

Amp up your photo editing skills with a little bit of help from Pixelmator!

This particular photo editing app allows you to combine two different photos into one (while still allowing you to edit over each layer), add shapes, gradients, filters, tints, and more, and completely change and edit your photography to make it fit perfectly to your aesthetic. You can even mask and cut off certain areas of the photo, giving you more creative control over your final image.

Similar to other photo editing apps, you can also adjust contrast, color, saturation level, definition, and so much more.

It's another great alternative to Photoshop, at least according to our managing editor Lory Gil.

  • $29.99 - Download now

GIMP

Love Photoshop (or the idea of Photoshop...) but don't want all the complicated components and nonsense that comes along with it? Then it might be worth it to take a peek at GIMP.

Similar to Photoshop, GIMP allows you full control over editing your photos: it's an advanced image manipulation program with detailed customization for color reproduction.

You can add layers to your photos, edit and tweak colors, adjust contrast, crop, adjust saturation, and so much more. If you're someone who admires Photoshop but is terrified of the price (or just thinks it's not worth it) then GIMP might be the perfect pal for you.

  • Free - Download now

Snapheal

Say 'bye-bye' to nasty photobombs, zits, perky distractions, and so much more in your photos thanks to Snapheal!

Snapheal is a little bit unique in the sense that it's more of a 'delete now, ask questions later' app. It's more about cleaning up a photo than it is editing it and adding a whole bunch of layers. The tools can either remove large objects or smaller imperfections depending on the mode. You can even adjust the masking tool, use a magic rope, or clone stamp your way to a new photo.

If you're someone who's a perfectionist when it comes to your photography and you just can't stand that one stupid, distracting blur in the background, then Snapheal is the guy for you.

  • $7.99 - Download now

Preview

I know what you're thinking: 'Preview? Really, Cella?'

To which I respond: 'Uh, yeah. Duh, my dude. You use it every day!'

Sure, you can't do a bunch of fancy things with Preview like add filters, adjust contrast, and fix saturation, but you can quickly crop a photo, adjust the color, rotate it, add shapes, texts, and a signature, export as a different format, and more.

Yes, Preview isn't perfect, but it is easy to use and fantastic for making small, fast changes to your photography.

  • It's already on your Mac.

How do you edit your photography?

What is your favorite photo editing app for the Mac? Why does it work the best for you? Let us know what your top picks are in the comments down below!

Updated August 2018: All the choices on this list are still the best of the best!

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