Mac or PC.... (yep)

Hi all!

I can almost hear everyone who just read the title wincing. I don't blame you, it's a heated topic. But I thought my tendency towards FCP and your general knowledge of the editing community might be able to assist me and enlighten my plight. I'll try to keep it short.

I'm looking to buy an entirely new computer. I am a gamer, not a huge amount but I'd like to get into it more. I love editing in FCP X, although I haven't done so in awhile. iMovie aside, it's the only editor I know how to use. I like graphic design, it's not a profession but it's a hobby. I've recently heard from a Software engineer/programmar at work (who is a user of Windows and Apple) that a Mac might be better, as he's found he's had to replace parts every half a year or so to maintain his "PC"/Windows, which could long term be less cost effective than a mac. He also mentioned they tend to retain their value moreso.

I just started working full time so I can't say how much I would really lean in the direction of either gaming or editing with FCP X.

Has anyone used adobe Premiere Pro? Is it much different? How's the learning curve? I really appreciate the background rendering and workflow of FCP X, but then I don't have anything to compare it too!

Thanks heaps for any advice at all.

If you prefer FCPX, Mac is your only option.
If you prefer to rent software (=no access to your intellectual property after stopping to pay the rent), you can buy Mac or PC

As in, if I'm not going for FCP I will likely be having to pay for CC renting another software per month...?

Cyrup wrote: As in, if I'm not going for FCP I will likely be having to pay for CC renting another software per month...?

hu?
options aside iM/FCPX for macOS are well known:
Adobe CC = rent
Lighworks = rent
daVinci = depending on your needs $$$$
Blender = not serioulsy, really?

On the PCplatform there are zillions of apps, some rent, some paid $$$$ some $$, some free....

I would compare with FCPX only Adobe CC=rent, steem learning curve, high hardware reqs.

Hi Cyrup
I agree with your friend, Apple hardware quality is typically better than most PCs. Know of several doctors/dentists/veterinarians who buy Macs (mostly iMacs) then run Windows apps in Boot Camp or via virtual programs like Parallels/VMWare because of needed Windows only software.
You can run gaming apps the same way, Boot Camp better for absolute speed. There are still some speed issues even then, but it totally depends on your gaming needs.
Apple integration or eco-system makes most app experiences much better and more uniform on the Mac.
Some really great software is included free with new Mac purchases, and so far all updates for even paid Apple apps and OS have been free (5 years and counting).
IMHO FCPX is hands down the overall best NLE out there. Some other NLEs have certain specific features that are better, but plug-ins or using those NLEs when the need calls evens out those times.
PP has a learning curve. There are those who love it, not my cup of tea. Haven't used it in years.

Karsten, you still have access to any thing (IP) you created and exported using CC, you just can't do any additional editing/work without paying for the use of the CC apps. You can just pay 1 month for that if you want. Still overall cost is WAY more than FCPX/Motion.
I actually use Blender, yes BIG learning curve, node based editing, but it has some great features and is free. It has some really strong CGI abilities, 3D vastly leaves Motion/FCPX in the dust.
Started using BM Fusion as well. Yep both not nearly as intuitive as FCPX. Don't forget DaVinci Resolve.

Anyway good luck to you Cyrup.
Hope this helps, Greg

VidGreg wrote: Hi Cyrup
I agree with your friend, Apple hardware quality is typically better than most PCs. Know of several doctors/dentists/veterinarians who buy Macs (mostly iMacs) then run Windows apps in Boot Camp or via virtual programs like Parallels/VMWare because of needed Windows only software....

Super helpful!

I've used Bootcamp before, although admittedly it's become corrupt on my current computer.

Hm, that's a great point, CC is a monthly cost. Although I'm currently paying for CC anyway... not sure if I will keep doing that long term however. I don't like the idea that I would have to keep paying for something on a monthly basis to access my work. But I'm also cautious of Apple these days, as much as I love the products, I feel like they're just too overpriced. I know it's business but they really do charge a lot for repairs, service, etc... But you've both given me stuff to think about, so thank you!

This is an impossible question to answer, as you will get so many different views, you have to do your own research, your own budgeting, consider all costs going forward.

Something to consider, if you plan on editing further, then look at the various editing platforms, not only for what they cost, but at the wider community support, the various sources for training, plug ins, advice, and so on.

Factor those into the pro v con debate, look at rental v full ownership, the costs of the hardware platform of your choice, is a Mac based laptop suitable, or a wider range in Windows???

Personally I am more in favour of Apple Final Cut Pro X, it is a far more stable platform, a great bunch of plug in developers, a great community here [even if we bump heads from time to time!! :oops: ]