Imovie Vs Final Cut
- Final Cut Pro X is nearly as easy to use as iMovie, and when you move from one program to the other, it’s clear to see iMovie inspired the changes to FCP. The intuitive controls make learning FCP a quite easy process, and the interface takes a clean and simplistic approach to editing workflow.
- Final Cut Pro vs iMovie: Which App Renders Faster? Since iMovie has fewer effects, transitions, and layers, the app can process video faster. Movies made with Final Cut Pro are usually much larger and therefore take more time to render.
If you want to edit your video on Mac OS, you need to choose between iMovie vs Final Cut Pro. It is necessary to determine what type of video editing you need to do or how often you plan to work with a program. Since iMovie and Final Cut Pro are Apple products, they offer similar features and capabilities.
IMovie vs Final cut. There is no doubt that the use of Apple iMovie is one of the software that has been very popular for the avid Apple products user. IMovie is a product that was designed with the main people of focus being home users the ability to share and create multimedia projects within their peers who use Mac Computers. Imovie vs Final cut. Thread starter jerickson; Start date Feb 21, 2011; J. Jerickson New member. Joined Feb 21, 2011 Messages 4 Reaction score 0 Points 1. Feb 21, 2011 #1. IMovie vs Final cut. There is no doubt that the use of Apple iMovie is one of the software that has been very popular for the avid Apple products user. IMovie is a product that was designed with the main people of focus being home users the ability to share and create.
Imovie Vs Final Cut
iMovie is an excellent platform that allows beginners to accomplish their creative goals. It is designed to provide Mac users with simple tools to create their home movies. It is a go-to tool for aspiring videographers and vloggers.
Final Cut Pro X is universal video editing software that can be used for creating home videos, editing footage from multi-camera shorts, school or class montages, professional commercials editing, etc.
What Is iMovie?
iMovie: Strengths and Weaknesses
Straightforward interface. iMovie stands ahead from its contender in the iMovie vs Final Cut Pro rivalry due to its simple interface. Apple understands that not only professionals or hobbyists want to create clips. That is why iMovie is an easy-to-understand video editing tool for casual iOS and Mac OS users.
It includes all the necessary tools for creating high-quality clips. All the features are straightforward to identify and use. Besides, the interface, like the entire product, is very similar to Final Cut Pro X, but it is more simplified. This allows you to switch to more advanced Apple software easily.
Magnetic timeline. iMovie features the legendary Magnetic timeline that is available in Final Cut Pro X. Some users find this feature very useful, while others determine it as a weakness of the software. Add a new clip to a timeline, and all frames to the right of it will automatically move to the left without any gaps. This feature also comes in handy when you want to expand or contract your existing video or move the footage around. With Magnetic timeline, you can considerably speed up your video editing process.
Ability to add custom elements. Another critical aspect of the Final Cut Pro vs iMovie comparison is that the latter incorporates customizable studio logos, cast names, and credit rolls. The app offers multiple templates, so you can pick the one that matches your style and movie genre. This allows you to establish your unique style.
Access to effects and enhancements. iMovie comprises effects and video enhancements that you can use to give a special touch to your project. The program offers ten filters, eight themes, and the ability to complement your clip with music and sound effects. You can also add a soundtrack from your music library or record a voice-over.
Streamlined sharing. Don’t keep your creations on one device. You can share your clips using AirDrop, iCloud Drive, social media platforms, or video sharing websites. Aside from demonstrating your video editing talent, you can share your fleeting moments with other people.
Limited number of video layers. Even though numerous competing video editing programs allow you to use an unlimited number of video layers, iMovie offers only two. Nevertheless, it is enough for basic video editing. There aren’t any limitations related to the audio layers. It is possible to work with up to six layers simultaneously. For example, you can add a soundtrack to a video layer, create four individual audio layers, and an extra one for the score.
No tutorials. Unlike other video editors, iMovie doesn’t come with tutorials or wizards. Nevertheless, it has a simple interface and offers tips once you hover the mouse over particular icons or tools. If you are a total newbie, you will need more time to figure out all the iMovie features compared to the programs that come with comprehensive tutorials.
No advanced features. iMovie doesn't support 360 video and multi-camera editing. Nevertheless, this product offers such useful tools as transitions, titles, backgrounds, basic video trimming and editing, and the ability to add voiceovers. Here quality is more important than quantity, which makes this product stand out from many free offers from Apple.
Limited number of video exporting formats. iMovie supports a limited number of video formats. You can save a video in FLV, ASF, QT, MOV, MPG, MPEG, AVI, WMV, MP4, and M4V file formats. Similar video editing programs offer twice as many options.
What Is Final Cut Pro?
Final Cut Pro: Strengths and Weaknesses
Smooth video editing. Final Cut Pro X offers professional tools for advanced editing. The strongest advantage of the software is its Magnetic Timeline that allows you to move and trim videos without affecting the rest of the footage. You can even use color codes to analyze clips to identify their content.
Final Cut Pro X allows for smooth video editing since it is based on a robust architecture. Thus, you can create projects of any complexity and work with multiple effects. The newest version of this Apple product supports the latest CPUs and GPUs incorporated in the MacBooks, so feel free to use their advanced capabilities.
Possibility to edit VR videos. You can achieve an immersive viewing experience due to the 360-degree video viewer. Aside from viewing your clip from all angles, you can tweak it using effective tools. You can also complement your creations with graphics and effects, such as captions and blur.
Built-in 2D & 3D Titles. Final Cut Pro X incorporates motion graphics templates, effects, and filters, which you can use to give an extra vibe to your works. You can even expand the software's capabilities with third-party tools to get total control over your project.
Instruments for audio editing. You can change audio with pre-installed tools. Also, it is possible to get rid of the background noise and enhance sound levels. Thus, you can achieve dynamic clips with perfectly overlaid audio.
The interface changes with new updates. If you've used an older version of Final Cut Pro and then switched to Final Cut Pro X, you can notice significant changes in its interface. The newest version has a different position of keyboard shortcuts and tools. Even though you can customize some features, you need time to get used to an entirely new interface.
Inconvenient text tool. Many text customization options may seem quirk and limited. Not all heading tools work identically or offer the same customization options as others. Sometimes it's easier to create headers in other programs and import them.
Limited export options. Final Cut Pro X offers limited exporting options if it comes to file sizes and formats. Nevertheless, you can export to additional formats using settings in Compressor.
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: Price
You can purchase Final Cut Pro X for $299.99 in the Apple Store. Also, it is possible to use a discount if you buy an Apple device with pre-installed software or you are a student. The developers claim that you can get multiple rounds of product updates, but that doesn’t happen often.
iMovie is free software pre-installed on Mac OS. You can also use it on iPhone and download it in the App Store. You don't even need a computer to produce stunning video clips.
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: Who Wins?
Imovie Vs Final Cut Pro For Mac
It is hard to determine who wins in the iMovie vs Final Cut Pro stand-off. When picking the software, you need to decide which manipulations you will perform with your clips. It is necessary to choose the product that will meet all your video editing needs.
iMovie is a free video editor compatible with all Apple devices. It will be useful both for beginners, who are just developing their video editing skills and experienced users, who need to quickly enhance their footage without spending a dollar.
Final Cut Pro X is more powerful video editing software compatible only with Mac OS. It offers powerful assets for digital artists’ toolbox. This product caters to the needs of filmmakers, who want to get the entire control over their projects and take advantage of numerous useful features. However, be ready to pay for such a well-elaborated program.
by Christine Smith • 2020-12-03 17:16:03 • Proven solutions
If you own a Mac PC or any of the iOS or iPadOS devices, this iMovie vs Final Cut Pro comparison would be of great help while deciding which video editor you should go for as per your requirements. After reading this, you will have clear understanding of the two editing tools. In addition to this, you will also learn about another equally efficient program that is worth giving a try if you are a beginner and want to understand the basics, and/or you don’t have access to any of the Apple devices and use a Windows computer instead.
Part 1. Best Alternative to iMovie and Final Cut Pro for Beginners
Although both iMovie and Final Cut Pro X are good video editing tools for Apple users where iMovie is even free to use, none of the two offers a simple UI, and neither is any of them available for a platform other than iOS, iPadOS, and macOS. Therefore, if you are new to post-production field and want to understand the basics, you need a program that not only has an easy-to-use interface, it is also cheap, and can do many relevant things without having you to invest in any other application. One such program that meets all the above conditions is UniConverter by Wondershare. Wondershare UniConverter (originally Wondershare Video Converter Ultimate) offers user-friendly UI, is inexpensive, has several built-in programs like video editor, video compressor, screen recorder, VR converter, etc., and is available for both Mac and Windows platforms.
Wondershare UniConverter - Best Video Editor and Converter
- Edit video files with trimming, cutting, adding subtitles, applying effects, and more.
- Convert videos to Final Cut Pro compatible formats easily and quickly on Mac/Windows.
- Support 1000+ video formats including MP4, MOV, WMV, AVI, MKV, and customized output settings.
- 30X faster conversion speed than any conventional converters.
- Burn video to playable DVD with attractive free DVD template.
- Download or record videos from 10,000+ video sharing sites.
- Versatile toolbox combines fix video metadata, GIF maker, cast video to TV, video compressor, and screen recorder.
- Stream your videos from Windows or Mac to other devices, including Chromecast, Roku, Apple TV, Xbox 360 or PS3.
- Supported OS: macOS 11 Big Sur, 10.15 (Catalina), 10.14, 10.13, 10.12, 10.11, 10.10, 10.9, 10.8, 10.7, 10.6, Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista.
Editing videos in Wondershare UniConverter is extremely easy as compared to iMovie or Final Cut. The instructions given below explain how things can be done using UniConverter on a Windows computer:
Step 1 Launch Wondershare UniConverter and Import a Footage.
Launch Wondershare UniConverter on your Mac or Windows computer, ensure that the Video Converter tile is selected from the top, and click the icon from the center of the window. Use the Open box that appears next to select a video you want to edit, and click Open to import the footage.
Step 2 Click Scissors and Edit the Video.
Click the Scissors (Trim) icon present under the thumbnail of the imported video. When the editor window opens up, place the Playhead (called ‘Skimmer’ in Final Cut Pro X) in the Timeline you want to trim the clip from, and click Cut. Next, select the unwanted section, and click Delete. If needed, repeat the process for the other side of the footage to get rid of the end section as well, and click OK to save the changes.
Step 3 Click Crop and Add More Effects.
Click the Crop icon present next to that of Trim to open the Crop/Effect box. Use the tabs given at the top to access their relevant options, and make the necessary modifications to crop or rotate the video, add watermarks, subtitles, and audio as required. Click OK from the bottom when you are done.
Step 4 Choose a Format and Export the Video.
Open the Output Format: menu from the top-right of the main window, use the tabs at the top of the menu to locate and select your preferred format and resolution (MP4 with the Same as source resolution for this tutorial), define a destination folder in the Output field at the bottom, and click the Start All to begin rendering and export the video.
Part 2. Comparison Table Between iMovie VS. Final Cut Pro
In case you are still interested in learning more about iMovie and Final Cut Pro and want to choose any one among the two, the iMovie vs Final Cut Pro table given in this section highlights the key differences between both the programs. This would help you decide which application should you go for depending on your level of expertise in video editing. Other factors that may influence your decision to pick one software over the other would be the target audience you wish to prepare the videos for, the amount of funds you want to invest in a tool, and the device(s) you intend to use the app on.
| Particulars | iMovie | Final Cut Pro X |
|---|---|---|
| Features | Multiple Projects Support, Built-in Backdrops and Themes, Clip Stabilization | Motion Graphic Templates, Virtual Reality (VR) Support, HDR Support for Videos |
| Price | Free | USD299.99 |
| Pricing Model | Not Applicable | Onetime Payment |
| Pros | Simple UI, Does Not Require Prior Training, Has Built-in Social Media Sharing Options | Smooth Working, Has Advanced Features, Gives Industry-Standard Output |
| Cons | Lack Advanced Features and Tools, Doesn’t Allow Professional Editing, Changes Permanently Saved on Original Files | Has Steep Learning Curve, Doesn’t Have Built-in Sharing Options, No Automatic Updates Available |
| Platforms | iOS, iPadOS, Mac | Mac |
Part 3. What are the Key Differences Between iMovie VS. Final Cut Pro
In addition to the table given above explaining iMovie vs Final Cut Pro, another difference between iMovie and Final Cut Pro, or say, other key differences between the two applications are discussed below:
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: General Information
While iMovie is a free application designed for novice users or the beginners in post-production field, Final Cut Pro X is a full-fledged video editing program used by highly skilled professional editors in commercial projects.
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: Learning and Using
Learning iMovie is easy because of its simple UI that is developed keeping the Home users or amateurs in mind. On the other hand, Final Cut Pro X requires moderate amount of knowledge in the field of video editing. The latter also recommends that the users should have good understanding of technical terms like framerate, pixels, resolution, etc. in order to work on Final Cut Pro X effectively.
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: Rendering Efficiency
Since iMovie mostly uses built-in templates and presets to produce final outputs, rendering videos consume less amount of processing power and GPU. Whereas Final Cut Pro, unlike iMovie, allows users to add custom effects, filters, and other transitions, and therefore it uses the GPU to its full, thus increasing the render duration. Nevertheless, rendering in Final Cut Pro is significantly quicker when compared to other non-Apple professional video editing applications available in the market.
iMovie vs Final Cut Pro: Sharing
Because iMovie is good at editing and exporting videos for domestic uses, it has built-in options to share the outputs to social media websites. This is something that Final Cut Pro lacks in. Because of being a tool that is expected to produce commercial projects, sharing the Final Cut Pro X’s outputs to social networking sites for free isn’t ethically correct.
Conclusion
Although discussing about difference between iMovie and Final Cut Pro would be injustice to both the editing tools, you may want to choose iMovie or Final Cut Pro X if you intend to produce videos for your personal use or commercial gains respectively. However, if you don’t have access to iOS, iPadOS, or macOS device(s), you can always and by all means skip the iMovie vs Final Cut Pro part, and choose Wondershare UniConverter instead that is more equipped, simple, and can be installed on either a Windows or Mac PC.