When it comes to video editing, Mac offers a range of powerful machines that fit various budgets and needs. If you’re in the market for the best MacBooks for video editing on a budget, look no further than the M2-powered models. While the M3 Max chip packs a punch with its advanced features, most video editors will find the M2 models more than sufficient.
MacBooks are a popular choice among creative professionals in the US, and for good reason. They offer versatility, software compatibility, and robust M2 or M3 processors that can handle demanding video editing tasks with ease. We’ve put each model to the test, and recommend the 13-inch MacBooks for their larger screens and enhanced productivity. Smaller versions are also available for those who prefer a more portable option.
Our evaluation process is rigorous and comprehensive, taking into account video download and upload speeds, rendering times, and real-world feedback from contributors. For more information on our testing methodology, check out our guide on testing laptops, PCs, and workstations. We’ve also compiled a list of the best MacBooks for video editing on a budget, including Windows alternatives, to help you make an informed decision. Ultimately, the right video editing software is also crucial, so be sure to choose the one that best fits your needs. You can also check out the guide on the best gaming laptops for CODm.
Top 5 Best MacBook For Video Editing On A Budget
Here are the best MacBooks for video editing under $1,500, worth buying.
Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch M2 (2022)
The Apple MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) is a compact and powerful laptop designed for creative professionals, including video editors. With its upgraded M2 chip, improved display, and enhanced performance, this laptop is an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Video Editing Performance:
The MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) handles video editing tasks with ease, thanks to its:
M2 chip with 8-core CPU and 10-core GPU
8GB or 16GB of unified memory
Fast SSD storage options (up to 2TB)
Pros:
- M2 chip is a brilliant performer
- Excellent battery life
- Almost silent in use
- Can even play games
Cons:
- No new design
- Still only two Thunderbolt ports
- 720p webcam
- New MacBook Air offers better value
Score:
Price: Starts at $1,299 / £1,299 / AU$1,999
Configuration:
- CPU: Apple M2 (8-core)
- Graphics: Integrated 10-core GPU
- RAM: 16GB Unified LPDDR5
- Screen: 13.3-inch, 2,560 x 1,600 Retina display (backlit LED, IPS, 500 nits brightness, wide color P3 gamut)
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 3 (USB-C), 3.5mm headphone jack
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- Camera: 720p FaceTime HD webcam
- Weight: 3.0 pounds (1.4kg)
- Size: 11.97 x 8.36 x 0.61 inches (30.41 x 21.24 x 1.56cm; W x D x H)
Apple MacBook Air 15-inch (M3)
Apple’s MacBook Air 15-inch (M3) is a top-notch laptop for video editing, offering a perfect blend of performance, portability, and price. With a stunning 15.3-inch Liquid Retina display, color grading and video playback are a treat. Fast performance and efficient battery life come courtesy of the M3 chip, making quick work of 4K video editing and rendering.
Weighing just 3.3 pounds and measuring 0.45 inches thin, this laptop is effortlessly portable. Up to 15 hours of battery life mean you can work on your projects all day without worrying about running out of power. Up to 2TB of storage provide ample space for your projects and files.
Upgrading your video editing workflow with the MacBook Air 15-inch (M3) means enjoying compatibility with top video editing software like Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. Plus, two Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports enable connection to your favorite peripherals and accessories.
Pros:
- M3 chip provides fast performance
- Long-lasting battery life (up to 15 hours)
- Thin and light design
- Bright Liquid Retina display
Cons:
- Limited ports (only 2 Thunderbolt/USB-4)
- Display could be more vibrant
- No SD card slot or HDMI port
Score:
Price: Starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,699
Configuration:
- CPU: Apple M3 (8-core)
- Graphics: Integrated 10-core GPU
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB Unified LPDDR5
- Screen: 15.3-inch, 2880 x 1864 Liquid Retina display (backlit LED, IPS, 500 nits brightness, wide color P3 gamut)
- Storage: 256GB, 512GB, 1TB, or 2TB SSD
- Ports: 2x Thunderbolt/USB-4, 1x MagSafe, 1x Headphone jack
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0
- Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD webcam
- Weight: 3.3 pounds (1.5kg)
- Size: 13.40 x 9.35 x 0.45 inches (34.0 x 23.8 x 1.1cm; W x D x H)
MacBook Pro 14-Inch (M3 Pro)
The MacBook Pro 14-inch (M3 Pro) is one of the best machine for video editing and YouTube content creation, offering impressive performance, graphics, and display quality. However, it’s important to be aware of its limitations to maximize its potential.
While it’s ideal for demanding tasks like 4K video editing, color grading, and 3D rendering, it may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget due to its premium price point. Additionally, its weight may not make it the most portable option, and using it for basic tasks like browsing and email might be overkill.
On the other hand, the laptop’s impressive display and powerful speakers make it perfect for color-critical work and audio editing. Its various ports also allow for seamless connectivity to peripherals.
Pros:
- 18GB unified memory standard
- Quiet
- Faster CPU and GPU compared to the M3 model
- More memory to work with
- More flexible connectivity options
Cons:
- Low performance advantage over M2 Pro
- Limited ports (only 3 Thunderbolt/USB-4)
- No SD card slot or HDMI port (only in the base model)
- The M3 Pro model is only available in Space Black
Score:
Price: Starts at $1,999 / £2,099
Configuration:
- CPU: Apple M3 Pro (11-core)
- Graphics: Integrated 14-core GPU
- RAM: 18GB Unified LPDDR5
- Screen: 14.2-inch, 3024 x 1964 Liquid Retina XDR display
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Ports: 3 Thunderbolt/USB-4, 1x MagSafe, 1x Headphone jack, 1x HDMI port, 1x SD card slot
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD webcam
- Weight: 3.5 pounds (1.61 kg)
- Size: 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (31.2 x 22.1 x 1.55 cm; W x D x H)
MacBook Pro 16-Inch (M3 Pro)
The MacBook Pro 16-Inch (M3 Pro) is an ideal laptop for YouTubers who demand top-notch performance, display quality, and portability. While it comes with a higher price tag, its features and capabilities make it a worthwhile investment for those serious about video content creation.
Pros:
- 18GB unified memory standard
- Quiet operation
- Faster CPU and GPU performance compared to the M3 model
- More flexible connectivity options, including HDMI and SD card slots (except in the base model)
Cons:
- Limited performance advantage over M2 Pro
- Only three Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports
- No SD card slot or HDMI port in the base model
- M3 Pro model only available in Space Black color
Score:
Price: Starts at $2,009 / £1,999
Configuration:
- CPU: Apple M3 Pro (11-core)
- Graphics: Integrated 14-core GPU
- RAM: 18GB Unified LPDDR5
- Screen: 16.2-inch, 3456 x 2234 Liquid Retina XDR display (not 14.2-inch as stated)
- Storage: 512GB SSD (up to 8TB available)
- Ports: 3 Thunderbolt/USB-4, 1x MagSafe, 1x Headphone jack, 1x HDMI port, 1x SD card slot (except in base model)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD webcam
- Weight: 3.5 pounds (1.61 kg)
- Size: 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (31.2 x 22.1 x 1.55 cm; W x D x H)
MacBook Pro 16-Inch (M3 Max)
The MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Max) is the ultimate video editing laptop, boasting unparalleled performance, a stunning display, and a sleek design. Its blazing-fast M3 Max chip, combined with up to 96GB of unified memory, makes quick work of even the most demanding video editing tasks. The 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display is perfect for color-critical work, with its 1,000 nits of brightness and P3 color gamut.
The laptop’s durability and battery life ensure it can withstand the rigors of frequent travel and extended editing sessions. With a range of ports, including HDMI and an SD card slot, connecting to external devices is a breeze.
Additionally, the MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Max) supports up to 8K resolution on an external monitor, making it a powerful tool for professionals working with high-resolution footage.
Pros:
- 18GB unified memory standard for seamless performance
- Quiet operation, perfect for focused work
- Faster CPU and GPU performance compared to the M3 model
- More flexible connectivity options, including HDMI and SD card slots (except in the base model)
Cons:
- Limited performance advantage over M2 Pro
- Only three Thunderbolt/USB-4 ports
- No SD card slot or HDMI port in the base model
- M3 Pro model only available in Space Black color
Score:
Price: Starts at $3,109 / £2,699
Configuration:
- CPU: Apple M3 Max (12-core)
- Graphics: Integrated 16-core GPU
- RAM: 18GB Unified LPDDR5
- Screen: 16.2-inch, 3456 x 2234 Liquid Retina XDR display
- Storage: 512GB SSD (up to 8TB available)
- Ports: 3 Thunderbolt/USB-4, 1x MagSafe, 1x Headphone jack, 1x HDMI port, 1x SD card slot (except in base model)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3
- Camera: 1080p FaceTime HD webcam
- Weight: 3.5 pounds (1.61 kg)
- Size: 12.31 x 8.71 x 0.61 inches (31.2 x 22.1 x 1.55 cm; W x D x H)
When shopping for a MacBook for video editing
consider the following below:
Powerful Chipset: The M3 chip is currently the best available in a MacBook, but it’s offered in a few different varieties for different budgets and performance needs.
Lots of RAM: Ideally, you’ll have around 16GB, though you can get away with less for less-intense assignments.
Large, Vibrant Display: Laptops with a small screen aren’t great for video editing, neither are ones with low-quality resolutions or with poor anti-glare properties.
Portable Design: Apple products are known for their durability, and that’s true of the MacBook lineup.
Storage Space: Video editing can quickly eat into your storage space.
