Final Cut Pro, previously Final Cut Pro X, is a professional non-linear video editing application published by Apple Inc. As part of their Pro Apps family of software programs. It was released on June 21, 2011 for sale in the Mac App Store. It is the successor to Final Cut Pro. The Best Free Transcription Software for Mac and PC 2021 This post may contain affiliate links. See my disclosure for more info. In today’s post, I’ll be sharing my recommendations for the best free transcription software based on my experience as a professional audio transcriptionist.
Improve your workflow with third-party products, detailed online tutorials, and support from a thriving community of industry professionals.
Plug-ins, devices, and content.
Learn more about the wide variety of plug-ins, content, and devices that extend the power of Final Cut Pro.
Learn More about Plug-ins, devices, and content.Documentation
Explore online user guides for Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor:
Final Cut Pro User Guide
Motion User Guide
Compressor User Guide
Download the user guides as PDFs:
Final Cut Pro User Guide (PDF)
Motion User Guide (PDF)
Compressor User Guide (PDF)
You can also get the user guides from Apple Books:
Final Cut Pro User Guide
Motion User Guide
Compressor User Guide
Learn about the latest updates to Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor:
What's New in Final Cut Pro 10.5
Final Cut Pro release notes
What's New in Motion 5.5
Motion release notes
What's New in Compressor 4.5
Compressor release notes
Ripple Training
Learn the fundamentals and discover advanced tips from the Final Cut Pro experts at Ripple Training.
What’s New in Final Cut Pro 10.4.9
Explore the powerful new features in Final Cut Pro 10.4.9 with free tutorials led by Ripple Training's Steve Martin and Mark Spencer.
Learn more about What’s New in Final Cut Pro 10.4.9What’s New in Motion 5.4.6
Mark Spencer provides an in-depth overview of the new features in Motion 5.4.6, including support for 3D objects and the new Stroke filter.
Learn more about What’s New in Motion 5.4.6Getting Started in Final Cut Pro
Learn from Ripple Training founder Steve Martin in this free 10-lesson tutorial series for new users.
Learn more about Getting Started in Final Cut ProCore Training
This foundational six-hour curriculum covers the essentials, from import to final delivery and everything in between.
Learn more about Core TrainingIn-Depth Training
Learn techniques for media management, audio editing, color grading, and more in this deep-dive series designed for pros.
Learn more about In-Depth TrainingiJustine Teaches Final Cut Pro
Follow along with popular YouTuber iJustine, as she teaches you her complete workflow for creating and delivering videos using Final Cut Pro.
Learn More about iJustine Teaches Final Cut ProVideo Encoding in Compressor 4.4
Master the process of video encoding. Learn how to create custom presets, use droplets to save time, and leverage distributed processing with other Macs on your network.
Learn more about Video Encoding in Compressor 4.4Getting Started in Motion 5.4
Learn the foundations of building beautiful motion graphics.
Learn more about Getting Started in Motion 5.4Advanced Motion Training
Learn advanced motion graphics techniques including working with particle emitters, replicators and cameras, as well as how to rig and publish your compositions to Final Cut Pro.
Learn more about Advanced Motion TrainingFree Quick Tips for Final Cut Pro and Motion
Learn useful tips and tricks to make you faster and more proficient in Final Cut Pro and Motion.
Learn more about Free Quick Tips for Final Cut Pro and MotionWeb Tutorials
Whether you’re new to Final Cut Pro or just looking to pick up some tips, you can get up to speed quickly by viewing online tutorials from leading video training developers.
FCP from PremiumBeat
Visit The Beat blog for news, tips, and tricks on Final Cut Pro. Then download Final Cut Pro Editor Kits to learn key Final Cut Pro techniques — such as 3D titles and speed effects — with accompanying tutorials and free PremiumBeat music and Shutterstock footage.
LinkedIn Learning
Final Cut Pro Essential Training is a video-based tutorial series that covers all aspects of Final Cut Pro. Instructor Nick Harauz helps you get up and running, cut a story, mix audio, and deliver a final project. You can also learn new Final Cut Pro editing techniques every Friday in Final Cut Pro Weekly with Nick Harauz and Jeff Greenberg.
macProVideo.com
The Mac Training Specialists at macProVideo.com bring you tutorials for Final Cut Pro and Motion. Stream them in your web browser or download HD videos to your Mac, iPad, and iPhone. Get started with nearly an hour of free Final Cut Pro First Look tutorials.
Hawaiki Motion Tutorials
Learn advanced visual effects and compositing techniques from Simon Ubsdell using Motion.
PowerUp Training
Larry Jordan provides comprehensive training to video editors covering Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor. His conversational style, in-depth techniques, and extensive resources help media pros find work, improve their skills, and keep clients happy.
POST-PROfessionals
Robin Kurz’s best-selling German language Final Cut Pro training includes nearly 15 hours of instruction, starting with the basics and going all the way to project delivery. Learn tips and tricks designed for the beginning editor and experienced professional.
AV Ultra
Free high-quality and professional Motion 5 training from Stanislaw Robert Luberda. Learn the basics of animation using Behaviors and Keyframes, and go further with lessons covering rigging and publishing titles, effects, and transitions in Final Cut Pro.
Final Cut Pro Virtual Summit
View all the presentations from the 2020 virtual conference hosted by Future Media Concepts. Featuring seven full days of cutting-edge sessions presented by top industry professionals who are well versed in the latest versions Final Cut Pro, Motion and Compressor, plugins, and editing techniques. Sign up at a reduced rate using the promo code APPLE2020 from here.
Pixel Film Studios
Watch hundreds of tutorials on the basics of Final Cut Pro.
Books
Apple Pro Training Series
Learn more about Final Cut Pro and Motion from the official guide of the Apple Training and Certification program.
Buy the Final Cut Pro guide on Apple Books
Buy the Motion guide on Apple Books
Motion Cookbook
Take full advantage of the deep features in Motion. Author Nick Harauz takes you through dozens of tutorials with downloadable content and descriptive text and images that are easy to follow.
Buy at Packt
Final Cut Pro: Pro Workflow
Proven feature-film techniques from Michael Matzdorff, first assistant editor on the Warner Bros. film Focus starring Will Smith, which was edited entirely in Final Cut Pro.
Buy on Apple Books
Motion: How It Works
This 300-page interactive ebook by author Edgar Rothermich teaches Motion using rich illustrations and diagrams that make it easy to comprehend complex concepts, features, and workflows in a very intuitive way.
Buy on Apple Books
White Papers
The ProRes White Paper and ProRes RAW White Paper include detailed technical and workflow information about the Apple ProRes codec. Visit the ProRes Authorized Products page to view Apple-certified ProRes products.
The Final Cut Pro Media Management White Paper describes how to manage media with libraries in Final Cut Pro.
The iTunes Store Package Quick Start Guide describes how to use Compressor to turn your movie into an iTunes Store package and use Apple-certified delivery partners to submit to the iTunes Store for sale.
Working with Wide Color Gamut and High Dynamic Range in Final Cut Pro offers a deeper look at High Dynamic Range (HDR) and wide color workflows with Final Cut Pro, so you can get the most from your RAW and Log C footage.
The Final Cut Pro Transition White Paper includes detailed information to help editors transition from previous versions of Final Cut Pro.
The Audio Roles White Paper explains how to use the power and flexibility of roles for editing, audio adjustments, and mixing.
The RED Workflows White Paper outlines various options for RED-based post-production workflows with Final Cut Pro.
The Final Cut Pro Shared & Remote Solutions White Paper published by frame.io describes best practices in shared and remote workflows for individuals and teams. It includes up to date information on third party hardware and software for storage, collaboration and review and approval.
Support
Apple Support Pages
Find up-to-date information about key topics and basic troubleshooting tips for all three apps.
Final Cut Pro Support PageMotion Support Page
Compressor Support Page
AppleCare Professional Support
AppleCare Professional Support offers IT department–level support for deploying and managing professional video workflows that include Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor.
Learn more about AppleCare Professional SupportApple Support Communities
Participate in online forums for Final Cut Pro, Compressor, and Motion hosted by Apple.
Final Cut Pro Support CommunitiesMotion Support Communities
Compressor Support Communities
Pro Video Formats
Pro Video Formats
The Pro Video Formats package is a free download available to all Mac users. It provides support for a range of video codecs used in professional video workflows.
Learn more about Pro Video FormatsCommunities
Tap into a rich source of information sharing and support by visiting a Final Cut Pro blog, participating in a web forum, or attending a user group in your area.
Blogs
Alex4D
Curated blog of news and notes about the Final Cut Pro ecosystem.
FCP.co
The most comprehensive resource for Final Cut Pro news.
FCPWORKS
Workflow advice and events from Final Cut Pro experts.
FCPX.tv
Final Cut Pro news, articles, tutorials, and reviews.
LumaForge
Read about collaborative video editing from the company behind the Jellyfish shared storage device.
The Beat
Discover the latest video editing tutorials and tips for Final Cut Pro, delivered by the video experts at PremiumBeat.
Podcasts
Final Cut Pro Radio
Helpful tips, tricks, and commentary on Final Cut Pro.
MacBreak Studio
Final Cut Pro veterans discuss video production on Mac computers.
Web Forums
Apple Support Communities
Forums for Apple applications, hosted by Apple.
Creative Cow
Forums for discussing Final Cut Pro tips and techniques.
FCP.co Forum
The forum companion to the comprehensive FCP.co website.
Final Cut Pro Editors
Facebook group for Final Cut Pro tips and discussions.
Final Cut Pro on Facebook
Read posts about new products and plug‑ins related to Final Cut Pro.
User Groups - USA
FCPWORKS
Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles Creative Pro User Group
Los Angeles, CA
Sacramento Video Industry Professionals
Sacramento, CA
- Karen Olsen
San Diego Mac Video Production User Group
San Diego, CA
User Groups - International
Calgary Fabulously Creative Pro User Group
Calgary, Canada
- Duane Martin
Final BUG – Final (Cut) Berlin User Group
Berlin, Germany
Final Cut Argentina
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Front Créatif MTL
Montréal, Canada
Feedback
Help us improve Final Cut Pro, Motion, and Compressor.
Motion is the powerful motion graphics tool that makes it easy to create cinematic 2D, 3D and 360° titles, fluid transitions and realistic effects in real time. And with its Metal engine and improved performance and efficiency on Mac computers with Apple silicon, Motion lets you build and play back effects at incredible speeds.
Your graphics in Motion.
Designed with editors in mind, Motion’s streamlined interface and incredible performance lets you create and play back titles, transitions and effects in real time. Take the guesswork out by seeing your designs without the need to render.
Design in a modern interface that matches the look of Final Cut Pro and puts the focus on your work. Easily locate assets using visual content browsers, then build motion graphics with a logical layers list, full-length timeline and keyframe editor. It’s simple to customise the interface to match the way you work.
Motion is the best way to build effects for Final Cut Pro projects, including titles, transitions, generators, filters and more. Save any effect to make it immediately available in Final Cut Pro, where you can apply adjustments directly in the video editor. And instantly jump back to Motion at any time for more advanced changes.
Create Smart Motion Templates that include USDZ 3D objects and use them in Final Cut Pro. Publish any parameter to a template, or create rigs that let you control a group of parameters with a simple slider, pop-up menu or checkbox. If you set up templates with multiple aspect ratios, Final Cut Pro automatically uses the correct layout based on your footage.
Motion boasts an enormous ecosystem of third-party plug-ins and templates that complement the power of the app. Download tools for enhanced tracking and 3D object creation, or choose from thousands of templates with gorgeous titles, transitions and effects to use as is or customise to fit your project.
With its modern Metal architecture, Motion uses the power of today’s high-performance GPUs to speed up tasks throughout the app and play back motion graphics in real time as you create them. Combine 3D objects, cameras, lights and emitters with other complex elements, and view your results instantly. And since Motion shares a render engine with Final Cut Pro, you’ll get consistent speed and quality across applications.
New
3D Objects
Quickly import USDZ 3D models, then easily and precisely adjust their position, rotation and scale using Behaviours or the Keyframe Editor. For even more stunning results, add cameras to a scene or combine objects with emitters, replicators, cameras and more.
NewStroke Filter
Easily outline the edges of any video, image or text element with the Stroke Filter. Create a custom look by choosing from a solid or gradient colour, or add multiple strokes using a gradient outline.
Advanced Colour Correction
Fine-tune hue, saturation and brightness with the same advanced colour wheels available in Final Cut Pro. Target and adjust specific colour ranges by using the eyedropper with colour, hue and saturation curves. Then, view your pristine graphics in stunning HDR on Mac or Pro Display XDR.
Optimised for Mac Pro
Design and create faster than ever before with Motion on the new Mac Pro. Motion takes advantage of all the GPUs in your Mac and uses up to 28 CPU cores in processor-intensive ProRes workflows. Motion is also optimised for the Afterburner card to accelerate ProRes projects, so you can design motion graphics and watch your results instantly in groundbreaking 8K resolution.
Powerful design tools.
Motion features a real-time design engine that lets you see your work immediately, along with a deep set of tools and content for creating and animating complex motion graphics.
Build brilliant 2D, 3D and 360° compositions by choosing from more than 1,900 Apple-designed, royalty-free graphics — including vector artwork, high-resolution images, animations and 60 USDZ 3D models that come pre-installed in Motion.
Control the timing and position of elements in your animation using intuitive keyframe tools. Use flexible curve interpolation for smooth parameter changes. Draw curves using a freehand tool, or move, stretch and condense groups of keyframes using the Transform box.
Best Mac For Final Cut Pro X 2020
Create natural-looking motion without the need for complex calculations using preset behaviours like Gravity, Throw and Vortex. Use Text behaviours that animate letters, words or lines across the screen. Or apply the Overshoot behaviour to easily create spring-loaded animations. You can even combine behaviours for more advanced motion animations.
Create high-quality animated backgrounds with built-in generators — each with parameters to customise the look and style of the animation. Choose from a collection of standard shapes or unique designs. All generators can be used as bump maps or textures on other objects — including 3D text.
A 2D and 3D view of your titles.
Easily create beautiful 2D and 3D titles that you can animate with drag-and-drop behaviours and intuitive text animation tools.
Create text using your favourite fonts and adjust its position, opacity and rotation. Manipulate vector-based characters with pristine sharpness, and apply Text behaviours to add complex word and character animations easily. Motion is built on the CoreText engine, which ensures that glyphs, characters and emoji render correctly every time.
Build 3D titles from scratch, design them with easy-to-use templates or instantly convert any existing 2D title to 3D. Customise your 3D text with over 90 Apple-designed organic and artificial materials — or create your own — and see your results instantly. You can even choose from a variety of lighting rigs or create depth-of-field effects to give your titles an ultra-realistic look that matches the environment perfectly.
Quickly animate text on or off the screen by choosing from more than 100 behaviours including Type On, Blur Out and Text-on-a-Path, which sets your text in motion on a trajectory that angles, bends or twists. You can also create unique animations by moving letters where you want them.
With text generators you can automate tasks that would take hours to complete by hand. Count up and down in sequence, change text randomly, add a timecode sequence and more.
Use Credit Rolls to set up a scroll in just a few steps — even for long lists of production credits. Import a text file or type the credits directly into a Motion project, then use the Scroll behaviour to automatically animate the speed of the credits based on your project length.
Best Mac For Final Cut Pro X
Stunning effects.
Just drag and drop to assemble impressive animations, with a choice of more than 200 filters and effects built into Motion. Then fine-tune your work with precise controls.
Use realistic particle systems to create effects including smoke and sparkles — or add dazzling details to any animation. Choose from over 200 particle presets or design your own and see your creations in real time. Or, create stunning geometric patterns in 2D or 3D using replicators. Go to the next level by adding 3D objects to both particle systems and replicators.
Choose from over 140 paintbrush presets or design your own using colour gradients or QuickTime files. Create pressure-sensitive brushstrokes that paint gradient colours or particle dabs. And easily make vector‑based strokes weave through 3D space.
Motion suggests the best tracking points so you can quickly create paths to track moving objects in any clip. You can attach images, particles, filters, paint strokes or the control points of a mask to any tracking path.
Image stabilisation lets you smooth a bumpy camera move or lock down a shaky shot, without time-consuming setup. And SmoothCam eliminates jitters and bumps — so it looks like your footage was shot on a tripod while still retaining camera moves like pans, tilts and zooms.
Create an accurate chroma key in a single step with the easy drag-and-drop Keying filter. If the green- or blue-screen background in your footage is unevenly lit, you can use advanced controls, including an intuitive colour wheel, to fine-tune adjustments. Plus, you can play back the results without needing to render.
360° video.
A new spin on your projects.
Motion features a robust 360 VR motion graphics workflow with real-time visualisation for a VR headset, so you can design 360° titles, generators and filters that perfectly map to your VR scene. Instantly apply those effects to your Final Cut Pro timeline and export a video optimised for YouTube, Facebook and other popular video destinations.
Create 360° titles in 2D and 3D. View them in real time with a VR headset or use the Look Around view to pan across your project in the viewer. 360° titles resize automatically when you move them within your VR scene and can be keyframed to change their look and position over time. Save your work as a 360° Motion template to access it easily in Final Cut Pro.
Design custom 360° graphics or apply bundled effects like 360° blurs, glows and particle systems to add realism to your VR scene. You can even create 360° generators and place any graphic, still, USDZ 3D object or video into a 360° project — then reposition and resize to fit.
Create mind-bending effects with 360° video in non-360° projects. Adjust tilt, pan, roll and field of view for spherical looks and animations. Then apply keyframes for perspective-inverting effects that change over time.
3D
Instantly transition from 2D to 3D space by adding a camera or cameras to any 2D project while preserving your 2D groups. Animate and adjust the cameras to create smooth, realistic 3D movement.
Shadows
Set up point lights and spot lights to cast shadows across objects. Fine-tune shadow appearance by specifying colours and edge types. When you set your elements in motion, shadows animate dynamically with the movement of objects and lights.
Reflections
Turn any shape, video plane or paint stroke into a reflective surface. Add blur to soften reflections and use the Falloff feature to fade reflections as the object moves away from the light.
FxPlug
FxPlug is a powerful Apple‑designed plug‑in architecture for filters and effects. Choose from more than 130 built-in FxPlug filters and generators. And explore the thriving ecosystem of third‑party FxPlug effects that work in Motion and Final Cut Pro with custom interfaces and incredible real‑time performance.
Third-party tools to make your workflow flow.
Choose from thousands of custom transitions, titles and motion graphics. Work directly with third-party applications through workflow extensions. Or use third-party tools for advanced tracking, EDL and AAF interchange, and more.
Five amazing apps.
One powerful collection.
Unleash your creative potential with the Pro Apps Bundle for qualifying college students, teachers and educational institutions. Get all five professional applications for video and music creation at a special price — including Final Cut Pro, Motion and Compressor, along with Logic Pro and MainStage.