Which Mac Should You Pick for 4K Video Editing with Final Cut Pro X?

4K video editing with Final Cut Pro X requires a powerful Mac that can handle the high demands of this type of work. Here are the top models recommended based on their performance, graphics capabilities, and RAM configurations. By the end of August 2023, these are the best options currently available.

MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro is an excellent choice for those seeking both portability and high-end performance for 4K video editing.

14-inch MacBook Pro M2 Pro

Processor: M2 Pro chip with 10 or 12-core CPU Graphics: Integrated 16-core GPU or 19-core GPU with M2 Max RAM: 16GB up to 64GB Storage: Starts at 512GB up to 8TB Display: Liquid Retina XDR display with excellent color accuracy Battery Life: Excellent battery life for on-the-go editing

16-inch MacBook Pro M2 Pro or M2 Max

Processor: M2 Pro or M2 Max chip Graphics: Up to 38-core GPU with M2 Max RAM: 16GB up to 96GB Storage: Starts at 512GB up to 8TB Display: Liquid Retina XDR display ideal for detailed video work Battery Life: Also excellent with a larger screen for multitasking

iMac

The iMac offers desktop-like performance in a portable device, but the choice here depends on whether you need portability or a fixed setup.

24-inch iMac M1

Processor: M1 chip Graphics: Integrated 7-core or 8-core GPU RAM: 8GB up to 16GB Storage: Starts at 256GB up to 2TB Display: 4.5K Retina display suitable for video editing but less powerful than the MacBook Pros

27-inch iMac (Intel-based)

Processor: Intel Core i7 or i9 options Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 5000 series RAM: 16GB up to 128GB Storage: SSD options available Display: 5K Retina display ideal for video editing

Recommendations

For Portability: Opt for the 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro or M2 Max. These models provide robust performance and are perfect for heavy video editing tasks.

For Desktop Use: If you prefer a desktop setup, the 27-inch iMac (if still available with Intel processors) can be a good choice. The 24-inch M1 iMac is less powerful for intensive tasks and offers a less impressive display compared to the MacBook Pros.

Conclusion

In summary, the MacBook Pro with M2 Pro or M2 Max is the top choice for 4K video editing due to its superior performance and portability. The 16-inch model, in particular, offers exceptional performance for demanding projects. If you need a desktop setup, consider the 27-inch iMac if available, as it provides a good balance of performance and display quality.