Unlike other programs that have versions both for Mac and PC, Final Cut Pro does not have a Windows version. A Mac computer's technical specifications (both laptops and desktops) can install Final Cut Pro, as long as there is enough hard drive space to accommodate the large files required to install the program. Its installation alone can use up at least 40GB. For optimal use, especially when editing HD videos, it is advisable to have at least 2GB of RAM.
Final Cut has a user-friendly interface that offers more creative options and technical control when editing. Plug-ins and updates optimize the comprehensive tools for editing, animating, mixing, color-grading and rendering. With its broad format support, editors can natively edit in almost any tape-based or file-based format.
iMovie is a proprietary video editing software that is much less technical than professional programs. It can be easily used by nonprofessional videomakers. It is an ideal software for making home movies and personal video collections whether the footage comes from a mobile phone, digital camera, consumer camcorder or even a professional camera. iMovie makes video editing a simple task filled with many audio and video effects and transitions to accessorize personal videos in a few clicks.
iMovie's video library and video enhancement tools feature themes and effects where elements such as lightning, smoke and dust can be readily placed on ordinary video clips. Editing basically requires simple drag-and-drops and a few clicks. The editor can easily organize, cut and splice, choose titles, directly add music from iTunes and other audio software, incorporate animated maps (useful for video travelogues), and do basic color correction.
Adobe Premiere Pro for Mac is a fully professional nonlinear editing system that works seamlessly with Adobe Photoshop, After Effects and other Adobe products commonly used when editing videos and creating visual effects. This real-time, timeline-based program is part of Adobe Creative Suite, a package of graphic design, video editing and web development applications developed by Adobe. This provides easier workflow and more flexibility when editing professional works.
The Adobe Creative Suite has open workflows with Final Cut, Avid and Digidesign Pro, making it possible to collaborate more efficiently in between editing programs especially when working on separately edited parts of movie and animation projects. Editors can easily import and export Final Cut Pro and Avid editing projects into Premiere. It has expanded support for both tape-based and file-based video formats in standard definition (SD) or high definition (HD).