Best MacBook for Video Editing on A Budget That You Will Like

Looking for the best MacBook for video editing to take your creative projects to the next level? 

Apple’s MacBook lineup offers powerful tools for video editors, blending exceptional performance, stunning displays, and cutting-edge features to handle demanding editing workflows. 

In this guide, we’ll explore the best Macbook for photo and video editing and help you choose the perfect model for your needs.

Best Macbook for programming and video editing

Why Do Video Editors Use Macs?

Apple has clearly seized the lion's share of the high-end filmmaking market and with good reason. Their devices are sleek, sturdy, user-friendly, and powerful straight out of the box.

The Mac operating system (macOS) sets the standard for reliability and performance, and the Mac interface is exceptionally intuitive and user-friendly.

The displays on MacBook and iMac are likewise brilliant, rich, and, most importantly, correct in terms of color displays.

When it comes to laptops, Mac has a significant edge since Macbooks are robust, small, and ideal for 4K video editing and beyond. 

Furthermore, the connectivity with iPhone applications provides a significant benefit for mobile video editors. 

► Read more: Best iMac for video editing

Best MacBook for Video Editing

Are Macbooks good for video editing? – Yes, provided you select a decent and high-quality one. If you are unsure which one to buy, see the recommendations below for additional information.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3, 2023): Best overall

The MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3, 2023) stands out as the best Macbook Pro for photo and video editing.

It offers unparalleled performance with the M3 chip, a stunning Liquid Retina XDR display, and up to 96GB of unified memory. 

MacBook Pro 14-inch

In addition, its advanced GPU and optimized cooling system ensure smooth rendering of high-resolution videos, while the 14-inch screen delivers precise color accuracy, perfect for professional editors. 

Compact yet powerful, it's a perfect choice for creators seeking portability and exceptional editing capabilities.

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2, 2023): Best for big screen

This laptop has a stunning display, and the powerful M2 Pro or M2 Ultra processors can perform professional-level video editing. 

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2, 2023)

The design is typical of Apple; you can tell a MacBook a mile away, and this version is no exception. It's almost comparable to the previous generation, with a sleek, slender, silver finish that is gorgeous. 

Post selection is adequate by Apple standards, with three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports, an HDMI port, and an SDXC memory card slot.

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max, 2021): Old but gold

The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max, 2021) is a powerhouse and one of the best MacBooks for video editing, featuring the groundbreaking M1 Pro and M1 Max chips for exceptional performance. 

MacBook Pro 16-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max)

Its expansive 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers stunning color accuracy and detail, making it perfect for editing 4K or even 8K videos. 

With up to 64GB of RAM and advanced thermal management, it handles demanding workflows effortlessly.

Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (M1, 2020): Best budget

Here comes the best budget Apple laptop for video editing, which provides impressive performance at an affordable price.

Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (M1, 2020) 

Powered by Apple’s M1 chip, it delivers smooth video editing for 4K projects with exceptional efficiency. The Retina display ensures accurate colors, while its compact size makes it highly portable. 

Ideal for beginners or editors on a budget, it balances power, price, and portability perfectly.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max, 2021): Best cost-effective alternative

Another best Macbook for video editing is the MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max, 2021).

It is a cost-effective choice for video editing, which allows video creators to experience premium performance without the higher price tag of the 16-inch model. 

MacBook Pro 14-inch (M1 Pro, M1 Max, 2021)

Equipped with the powerful M1 Pro or M1 Max chips, this Macbook best for video editing. It delivers excellent speed and efficiency for editing 4K and 8K videos. 

Its 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display ensures vibrant and accurate colors, making it a reliable and portable option for professional video creators.

Apple Mac mini (M2 Pro, 2023): Best mini Mac

The Apple Mac mini (M2 Pro, 2023) is the best mini Mac for video editing, delivering desktop-level performance in a compact design. 

Powered by the M2 Pro chip, it easily handles demanding editing tasks, including 4K and 8K workflows. 

Apple Mac mini (M2 Pro, 2023)

Its efficient thermal management ensures sustained performance, while support for up to two displays makes multitasking seamless.

If you are looking for power and affordability, it’s a perfect choice with limited space.

iMac 24-inch (M3): Best PC

The 24-inch iMac, now equipped with the powerful M3 CPU, is not only the greatest Mac for video editing for most people but also one of the best all-in-one desktops available. 

The design stays the same as the M1 version, and it is available in seven different colors to match your setup. It's thin, slim, fashionable, and takes up minimal space. 

iMac 24-inch (M3)

The screen has a 4.5K Retina resolution, 500 nits brightness, and decent color space coverage for video editors: 100% sRGB and slightly more than 75% DCI-P3. 

Other features include a 1080p FaceTime camera, 'studio-quality' microphones, and a six-speaker arrangement for spatial audio, which sounds fantastic. 

Mac mini (M2, 2023): Best budget desktop

The Apple Mac mini is one of the cheapest Apple computers available, and given its power, it's a fairly excellent price. 

As the name implies, the Mac mini is compact. However, its space-saving design allows it to fit neatly and keeps your desk uncluttered. 

Mac mini (M2, 2023)

Connectivity is also strong, with four Thunderbolt 4 connections, an HDMI 2.0 port, two USB-A ports, a 10 Gigabit Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm headphone jack on the rear. 

► Read next: Best external hard drive for video editing

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Mac for Editing Video?

When it comes to buying the best video editing Macbook, there are some factors you should take into careful consideration.

• Screen: A high-resolution Retina or Liquid Retina XDR display is crucial for accurate color grading and detail work. Larger screens, like the 16-inch MacBook Pro or external monitors, enhance visibility and workflow efficiency.

• RAM: For smooth editing, especially with 4K or 8K footage, opt for at least 16GB of RAM. Professionals may need 32GB or more for complex projects.

• CPU: A powerful chip like the M1 Pro, M1 Max, or M2 Pro ensures faster rendering and efficient handling of intensive video tasks.

Factors to consider when buying the best Macbook for video editing

• GPU: Dedicated GPUs or integrated Apple silicon (like M1/M2) provide superior graphics performance, crucial for rendering, motion graphics, and playback.

• Storage: Ample SSD storage is vital for storing large video files. A minimum of 512GB is recommended, though 1TB or more is ideal for extensive projects.

• Ports & expansion options: Ensure your Mac has enough Thunderbolt, USB-C, or HDMI ports to connect external drives, monitors, and other peripherals essential for video editing.