When it comes to video editing on the iPad, two major contenders stand out: Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve.
These apps have both made headlines with their robust features and professional capabilities, but which one is the right fit for you?
Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker or a beginner looking to dive into the world of video editing, making the right choice can save you time, money, and effort.
In this article, we’ll compare the two head-to-head and help you decide which is the best tool for your creative needs in 2024.
Overview of Final Cut Pro for iPad
Key Features
Final Cut Pro for iPad packs a punch with professional-grade features designed specifically for mobile workflows.
The Magnetic Timeline is one of its standout tools—it automatically snaps clips together, helping avoid gaps and misalignments as you edit. It’s perfect for maintaining a clean and organized timeline, especially when working on larger projects.
Here is Apple’s official guide on working with timelines in Final Cut Pro for iPad.
Then there’s Multicam Editing, which is a huge benefit if you’re shooting with multiple cameras. Final Cut Pro makes it seamless to sync up different angles and switch between them, without the headache of manually lining up footage.
This feature alone sets Final Cut Pro apart from many other mobile editing apps, which often lack this level of sophistication.
Another notable feature is its advanced editing tools like precision trimming, keyframe-based animation, and advanced transitions. If you’ve used the desktop version, you’ll appreciate that most of these tools translate smoothly to the iPad interface.
User Interface
When we talk about usability, Final Cut Pro for iPad shines in how it’s adapted to touch-based editing. Apple has put real effort into making the app’s interface intuitive for mobile users. For instance, gestures like pinch-to-zoom and tap-to-select make navigation through your project easy.
That said, if you’re coming from the desktop version, there might be a brief learning curve to adjust to the touch-based environment. But overall, I’ve found that it’s highly optimized for the iPad’s screen size and performance capabilities.
Even beginners can quickly get up to speed thanks to its well-organized layout and straightforward workflows.
It’s important to note that Final Cut Pro for iPad is only compatible with iPads that have an M1 or M2 chip. This restriction means that if you’re using an older iPad model, you won’t be able to use this app, which could be a significant limitation depending on your device.
Integration with Apple Ecosystem
Now, one of the biggest strengths of Final Cut Pro on iPad is its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. If you already use Apple products, this app can significantly streamline your workflow.
For example, you can easily transfer projects between your iPad and Mac using iCloud or AirDrop, which is a massive time saver.
Additionally, the app syncs well with other Apple tools like Apple Pencil for precise editing, or using Sidecar with a MacBook for a dual-screen setup.
This kind of seamless integration gives Final Cut Pro an edge, particularly for creators who want to maintain efficiency across different Apple devices.
Price & Subscription Model
When it comes to cost, Final Cut Pro for iPad requires an upfront purchase—which, depending on where you stand, is either a pro or a con.
For some, the upfront payment of $49.99 might seem steep, but there’s no recurring subscription fee, which can be a relief compared to apps that lock features behind monthly paywalls.
Long term, it’s a one-time investment, and you get access to all of its updates without any additional charges. This is great for budget-conscious creators who prefer paying once instead of being tied into monthly fees.
In sum, Final Cut Pro for iPad is a strong contender for anyone who’s already in the Apple ecosystem, offering powerful features and an easy-to-learn interface.
Its real strength lies in how well it integrates with the entire Apple suite, making it a smart choice for long-term, mobile editing workflows.
Overview of DaVinci Resolve for iPad
Key Features
DaVinci Resolve for iPad brings much of the desktop version’s power to a mobile platform, and its feature set is especially attractive for professional editors.
One of its standout features is its advanced color grading tools. DaVinci Resolve has long been known for its exceptional color correction capabilities, and the iPad version doesn’t disappoint.
You can fine-tune colors with precision, using features like curves, color wheels, and the famous Resolve color panels, which is something many mobile editors can’t match.
Then there’s Fusion, Resolve’s powerful visual effects and motion graphics toolset. It allows you to create advanced effects, including 2D and 3D compositions, right from your iPad.
For creators who need to go beyond simple cuts and transitions, Fusion opens up an entirely new level of creativity, offering everything from keying to rotoscoping.
Finally, DaVinci Resolve on iPad comes with Fairlight audio tools, a professional audio post-production suite.
With Fairlight, you can handle everything from basic audio adjustments to advanced audio mixing and mastering. If you need to mix multiple audio tracks or work with surround sound, Fairlight provides a robust environment to do so, all within the same app.
User Interface
The layout and workflow in DaVinci Resolve for iPad take a bit of adjusting, especially if you’re used to the desktop version. While the interface tries to maintain the core of the desktop design, it’s been tweaked for mobile use.
The iPad version is highly gesture-driven, and while you can still use a mouse or trackpad, touch gestures like pinch-to-zoom and drag-to-adjust are front and center.
One key difference is the arrangement of tools. The interface is more compact, and some features are nested deeper within menus to save screen space.
This might slow you down initially if you’re a seasoned Resolve desktop user, but once you familiarize yourself with the touch interface, the workflow can feel surprisingly fluid.
It’s clear that Blackmagic Design put thought into translating the app’s complexity onto a mobile device without overwhelming the user.
Compatibility with External Devices
Regarding external device compatibility, DaVinci Resolve performs quite well on iPad. It supports a wide range of external storage options, which is essential for dealing with large video files.
You can easily connect external SSDs or USB-C drives, allowing for smooth project transfers and file management.
Keyboard and trackpad support is fully integrated, which can be a big advantage if you prefer a desktop-like experience while editing on your iPad.
Whether you’re using a Magic Keyboard or a third-party keyboard, shortcuts from the desktop version are available, which helps to retain the speed and precision that professionals need.
You’ll also find that DaVinci Resolve for iPad works well with other peripherals like Apple Pencil, which offers precise control for tasks like masking or drawing custom shapes in Fusion.
This level of peripheral support makes it a versatile option for those looking to do serious editing on the go.
Price & Subscription Model
DaVinci Resolve offers a free version on the iPad, which includes a surprisingly comprehensive set of features. You get access to the basics, including the color grading tools, editing suite, and even some of the Fusion effects.
For many casual creators or beginners, the free version is more than enough to handle most video projects.
For those who need more advanced features, there’s the paid version, which is priced at $95 for a one-time purchase.
The paid version unlocks additional features like advanced color grading, higher resolution support, and more professional-level effects and audio tools.
This is a significant difference from other apps that lock much of their functionality behind ongoing subscriptions, making DaVinci Resolve a fantastic option for anyone who doesn’t want to deal with monthly or yearly fees.
DaVinci Resolve for iPad provides a well-rounded and highly professional editing experience. Its advanced color grading, Fusion effects, and Fairlight audio tools make it an exceptional choice for serious editors, while its free version offers an impressive range of features without the need for immediate investment.
Final Cut Pro vs DaVinci Resolve iPad Comparison Table
Here’s a table comparing the pricing models and what’s included in each version of Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve:
| App | Version | Price | Key Features Included |
|---|---|---|---|
| Final Cut Pro | Free (Limited) | Free | Limited functionality, basic editing tools, no advanced features or effects. |
| Full Version | $49.99 (one-time) | Full editing suite, Magnetic Timeline, Multicam Editing, color correction, 4K/8K support, integration with Apple ecosystem, lifetime updates. | |
| DaVinci Resolve | Free Version | Free | Full editing suite, basic color grading, basic Fusion effects, Fairlight audio tools, 4K support, limited to standard resolution exports. |
| Studio Version | $95 (one-time) | All features of the free version plus advanced color grading (HDR, noise reduction), high-resolution support (8K, 12K), advanced Fusion effects, advanced Fairlight tools, DaVinci Neural Engine (AI-based tools), lifetime updates. |
This table outlines the pricing structure and the key features included in each version of Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve, helping you to decide which version is the best fit based on your needs and budget.
Performance Comparison: Final Cut Pro vs DaVinci Resolve on iPad
Rendering Speed
When it comes to rendering speed, both Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve are optimized to handle high-resolution video like 4K and even 8K, but there are some differences in how they perform.
In my experience, Final Cut Pro tends to handle 4K video rendering a bit faster than DaVinci Resolve, especially on newer iPad models like the iPad Pro with the M1 or M2 chip.
Apple has a clear advantage here due to its in-house optimization, meaning Final Cut Pro is finely tuned to work seamlessly with the hardware. If you’re working with 4K footage, you’ll find that Final Cut Pro renders slightly quicker, making it ideal for quick turnarounds or fast-paced projects.
On the other hand, DaVinci Resolve performs well with 4K, but when you start dealing with 8K footage, you may notice that it takes a bit longer compared to Final Cut Pro.
Resolve’s strength lies in its ability to manage more complex timelines—especially those with extensive color grading or effects. However, those extra processes can slow down render times, so you might have to be more patient when working with larger files or intricate compositions in Fusion.
Battery Usage
In terms of battery efficiency, Final Cut Pro takes the lead again. It’s designed to work efficiently within the Apple ecosystem, and as a result, Final Cut Pro is generally more battery-friendly during extended editing sessions.
Whether you’re rendering videos or just working within the timeline, it’s optimized to minimize battery drain, making it a good option if you’re working on the go and don’t have easy access to power.
DaVinci Resolve, while powerful, tends to be more battery-intensive. This is partly due to the fact that it’s running complex features like Fusion and Fairlight audio tools, which require more processing power.
If you’re doing color grading or working with multiple layers and effects, expect Resolve to consume battery faster than Final Cut Pro. On longer projects, you’ll want to have a charger handy or work in shorter bursts if you’re not plugged in.
App Stability
When it comes to app stability, both apps generally perform well, but there are notable differences based on the complexity of your project and the iPad model you’re using.
On newer iPads with M1 or M2 chips, Final Cut Pro is incredibly stable, with very few crashes or lags. The app’s integration with Apple hardware shows here, and whether you’re dealing with large files or complex edits, the experience remains smooth.
DaVinci Resolve, while stable overall, does tend to experience occasional lags or crashes, particularly on older iPad models. This is especially true when you’re pushing the limits with high-resolution footage, multiple video tracks, or detailed color grading and effects.
The app’s more advanced features, like Fusion and Fairlight, put a heavier load on the iPad’s processor, which can lead to performance dips or even crashes if you’re working with an older device.
That being said, on the latest iPads, both apps handle most tasks with minimal issues, though Final Cut Pro maintains a slight edge in overall stability due to its tighter integration with Apple’s hardware and operating system.
Final Cut Pro offers faster rendering times for most users, better battery efficiency, and slightly better stability. DaVinci Resolve, while more demanding on performance, offers advanced tools that may be worth the trade-off if you need more intricate editing options.
Editing Tools and Features Showdown
Advanced Editing Tools
When we compare advanced editing tools between Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve on iPad, both apps offer robust capabilities, but their approach to precision and ease of editing differs.
Final Cut Pro is known for its intuitive editing environment, especially with its Magnetic Timeline, which simplifies the process of cutting and arranging clips.
This feature allows for smooth rearrangement of clips without worrying about gaps or overlaps, making it a favorite for editors who want a fast, streamlined workflow. The touch-based interface on iPad translates well, allowing for gesture-based precision when trimming or adjusting keyframes.
In general, Final Cut Pro provides ease of use without sacrificing advanced editing capabilities, making it ideal for editors looking for both speed and precision.
DaVinci Resolve is more geared toward professionals who need advanced control. While it may have a steeper learning curve, its node-based editing system offers deeper customization and precision.
For editors who are used to working with complex timelines and need control over every detail, Resolve provides an impressive array of tools. However, its interface can feel more rigid on the iPad compared to Final Cut Pro, especially when using touch controls.
Color Grading and Effects
When it comes to color grading, DaVinci Resolve has long held the crown in the industry, and its iPad version brings a significant portion of that power to mobile editing.
DaVinci Resolve’s color wheels, curves, and advanced color correction tools are unrivaled. You can isolate specific color ranges, adjust shadows, midtones, and highlights with extreme precision, and even work with HDR color grading.
If color accuracy and fine-tuned adjustments are critical to your workflow, DaVinci Resolve is the go-to app.
Final Cut Pro, while not as renowned in the color grading department, still provides solid tools for most editing needs.
Its color board and color wheels allow for basic color correction, and for many editors working on general projects, this will be more than enough.
However, it lacks the advanced depth of DaVinci Resolve’s suite. If you’re dealing with projects that require high-end grading, you might find Final Cut’s tools somewhat limited, though it’s more than capable for general use.
While Final Cut Pro offers basic color correction tools, its capabilities in this area are pretty limited compared to DaVinci Resolve. If your work involves extensive color grading, you might find Final Cut Pro’s tools insufficient.
The color grading experience in Final Cut Pro for iPad is “abysmal” if you need more than minimal adjustments. This is a significant limitation for users who enjoy detailed color work.
Audio Editing
Fairlight in DaVinci Resolve is a professional-level audio suite that stands out for its ability to handle complex audio mixing.
You can work with multiple audio tracks, do intricate audio fades, and even handle surround sound if needed.
For editors who need detailed audio control, Fairlight provides advanced features like equalizers, compressors, and noise reduction. This level of audio editing goes beyond what you’ll typically need in mobile projects, but having access to it on an iPad is a huge plus for professionals.
Final Cut Pro’s audio tools are simpler but still effective for most users. You can adjust volume, apply basic filters, and work with multiple audio tracks, but you won’t find the same level of control as in Fairlight.
However, for editors who don’t require highly specialized audio work, Final Cut Pro’s interface makes it easy to handle basic tasks like syncing audio, removing background noise, or enhancing vocal clarity.
Multicam & Motion Graphics
Both Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve offer multicam editing, but Final Cut Pro makes this process extremely straightforward.
You can sync multiple camera angles easily and switch between them with just a tap, making it a breeze for editors working on multi-camera shoots like interviews or live events. This feature is particularly useful for quick, efficient editing without having to dive deep into settings.
DaVinci Resolve, while also capable of multicam editing, offers more in-depth tools for managing multiple angles but requires a bit more setup and understanding of the software.
If you need more granular control over each angle or more flexibility in post-production, Resolve is the better option, though it’s less user-friendly for beginners.
In terms of motion graphics, Fusion in DaVinci Resolve stands head and shoulders above what’s available in Final Cut Pro. Fusion allows for complex visual effects and 2D/3D motion graphics, giving you the ability to create custom animations, apply sophisticated visual effects, and even work with compositing.
This is a game-changer for editors working on projects that require high-level motion graphics and effects. Final Cut Pro’s Motion integration provides basic motion graphics capabilities, but it doesn’t offer nearly the same level of depth or flexibility as Fusion.
In short, Final Cut Pro wins for ease of use and speed in basic multicam and motion projects, while DaVinci Resolve is the better choice for editors who need advanced control and detailed motion graphics capabilities.
User Experience and Learning Curve
For Beginners
If you’re new to video editing, Final Cut Pro for iPad is generally the easier app to start with. Its interface is designed with user-friendliness in mind, especially for those familiar with other Apple products. T
he Magnetic Timeline, simple drag-and-drop editing, and intuitive gesture controls make it a smooth introduction to editing. Final Cut Pro’s learning curve is relatively shallow, meaning you can get started with basic projects quite quickly.
For beginners, the app strikes a nice balance between ease of use and offering enough tools to grow your skills without feeling overwhelmed.
DaVinci Resolve can feel daunting for newcomers. Its advanced feature set, while powerful, comes with a steeper learning curve. The layout is more complex, and many of its tools—such as node-based workflows and color grading panels—can be difficult to grasp without prior experience.
If you’re determined to learn professional-grade tools, it’s definitely possible to learn Resolve as a beginner, but expect to spend more time getting comfortable with the interface and understanding the software’s depth.
For Professionals
For seasoned editors, the decision becomes more nuanced. DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse for professionals who need advanced control over their projects. Its robust suite of tools, particularly in color grading, motion graphics (via Fusion), and audio editing (via Fairlight), is hard to beat.
If you’re already comfortable with Resolve on the desktop, transitioning to the iPad version will feel natural, although some workflows may be slightly slower due to the mobile interface. For editors who demand industry-standard tools and precision, DaVinci Resolve delivers the flexibility and power you need.
That said, Final Cut Pro still offers plenty for professionals, especially those who need fast, efficient editing workflows. It’s particularly strong if you work within the Apple ecosystem, and its ability to integrate with tools like Motion for basic motion graphics or Compressor for export tasks makes it a strong all-around contender.
If speed and ease of use are your priorities and you don’t need the high-end color grading or compositing tools that DaVinci Resolve offers, Final Cut Pro might be the better fit.
Customizability
Both Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve offer ways to tailor your workflow, though Resolve provides more granular control over the editing environment.
Final Cut Pro is somewhat limited in its customization. You can adjust your workspace layout to suit your preferences, use keyboard shortcuts (especially with external keyboards), and adjust the timeline and viewer panes to your liking.
However, it’s not designed for deep customization. What Final Cut Pro does well is provide a streamlined, default workflow that works for the majority of users, which is great if you want to focus on editing without tinkering too much with settings.
DaVinci Resolve allows for much more customizability. You can tailor almost every aspect of your workflow, from the way your timeline is organized to the exact parameters of your color grading tools and effects.
The node-based editing system alone offers massive flexibility, allowing you to create highly specific and intricate effects chains that would be difficult to replicate in other programs.
Professionals who want full control over every detail of their workflow will appreciate the level of customization Resolve offers.
Final Cut Pro is easier to learn and more streamlined for beginners, while DaVinci Resolve excels in providing advanced functionality and customization for professionals who need precise control over their editing environment.
Project Export and File Management
When importing media into Final Cut Pro for iPad, the files are stored directly on the iPad itself. While this can be convenient for portability and offline editing, it can also be a drawback for users with limited storage capacity.
Unlike DaVinci Resolve, which allows you to work directly from external drives, Final Cut Pro’s approach could quickly consume your device’s available storage, especially if you’re working with large video files.
File Formats Supported
When it comes to file format support, both Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve for iPad offer strong compatibility, but they cater slightly differently to various workflows.
Final Cut Pro supports a broad range of popular video and audio formats for both import and export, including ProRes, H.264, HEVC, and standard audio formats like AAC and AIFF.
If you’re working within the Apple ecosystem, Final Cut Pro’s seamless handling of ProRes is a standout feature, especially if you need high-quality, efficient encoding for professional projects.
DaVinci Resolve takes a more flexible approach, offering support for not only common formats like H.264, H.265, and ProRes, but also more niche and professional formats such as DNxHD and MXF.
This makes Resolve a better choice if you’re working in environments that require diverse codecs and container formats, such as broadcast or high-end post-production.
If you’re dealing with a variety of file types or working across different platforms, DaVinci Resolve’s flexibility is a major advantage.
Project Sharing
Both apps offer collaboration tools, but the level of integration varies.
Final Cut Pro integrates seamlessly with iCloud, allowing you to share and store projects across devices with ease. This is particularly helpful if you need to switch between editing on your iPad and Mac, as iCloud keeps your projects in sync.
You can also use AirDrop to quickly transfer files between devices or collaborate with others within the Apple ecosystem. However, collaboration features in Final Cut Pro are somewhat limited when it comes to multi-user workflows.
If you’re working with a team, you may need to export files and manage them manually.
DaVinci Resolve shines with its collaboration features, especially when using DaVinci Resolve Studio on desktop or through the Blackmagic Cloud.
While the iPad version doesn’t include all of the desktop collaboration tools, you can still share projects with Resolve users across different platforms using Blackmagic’s cloud integration.
For larger projects with multiple editors, colorists, and sound engineers, DaVinci Resolve’s multi-user workflow is a huge asset. You can even work with shared timelines and remote project access, which makes it ideal for teams working remotely.
Export Speed and Quality
In terms of export speed, Final Cut Pro tends to be faster, particularly on newer iPad models with M1 or M2 chips. Apple’s optimization for its hardware really shows here—if you’re working with standard 1080p or 4K footage, Final Cut Pro delivers quicker export times than DaVinci Resolve in most cases.
This makes Final Cut a solid choice if fast turnaround times are a priority for your projects.
However, when it comes to export quality, DaVinci Resolve pulls ahead, especially if you need to export in higher-quality formats or with more complex settings.
Resolve offers more advanced export controls, allowing you to customize everything from bitrates to color space and metadata. If your project requires high-end professional outputs, especially in formats like DNxHR or uncompressed RAW, Resolve’s export capabilities provide superior control.
While Final Cut Pro is no slouch in quality, it tends to favor speed and simplicity. In contrast, DaVinci Resolve offers more options for those who need detailed output settings and are willing to spend more time fine-tuning their export parameters.
Which App is Better for You in 2024?
For Content Creators
If you’re a content creator focused on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or TikTok, Final Cut Pro is likely the better fit. Its streamlined interface and faster export speeds make it ideal for those who need to turn around videos quickly.
The Magnetic Timeline helps with rapid editing, and its integration with the Apple ecosystem allows you to easily move content between devices and apps like Photos and GarageBand.
For content creators who want high-quality edits but prioritize speed and efficiency over advanced features, Final Cut Pro delivers a fast, user-friendly experience.
The fact that you can work with ProRes directly on the iPad is a big plus, as it retains high quality without bogging down your workflow.
If you’re shooting with an iPhone or using a compact camera, Final Cut Pro ensures a fast and seamless process from footage to final upload, making it the perfect tool for YouTubers and social media influencers who need to post frequently and stay on top of trends.
If your content involves a lot of visual effects, color grading, or compositing, DaVinci Resolve may be more appealing, especially with Fusion for motion graphics.
While it’s slower to render and more complex to learn, it offers the kind of professional tools that allow for truly unique and polished videos. This is particularly helpful if your content leans more toward high-production-quality videos, like music videos or short films, where visual aesthetics are critical.
For Filmmakers
For filmmakers who need the most professional-grade tools, DaVinci Resolve is the clear choice. It’s widely used in the film industry for its industry-leading color grading tools, node-based effects, and the Fairlight audio suite.
Resolve’s Fusion also allows filmmakers to create complex visual effects and compositing that go far beyond what’s possible in Final Cut Pro.
Resolve’s ability to handle raw formats, high-resolution footage, and even HDR workflows makes it ideal for serious film projects. It’s also perfect for filmmakers who want precise control over every aspect of their project, from the smallest detail in a color correction node to the exact audio mix.
If your work involves collaborating with a team of editors, sound designers, and VFX artists, Resolve’s collaboration tools and flexibility make it the superior option.
That said, Final Cut Pro is still a solid choice for filmmakers working in shorter-form content or for those already within the Apple ecosystem.
If you’re producing indie films or documentaries where speed and simplicity are key, Final Cut Pro’s efficiency, paired with its easy integration with other Apple tools, is appealing.
When it comes to professional-grade features, DaVinci Resolve is unmatched on the iPad.
For Budget-conscious Editors
If you’re on a tight budget, DaVinci Resolve’s free version offers incredible value that’s hard to beat.
The free version gives you access to nearly all of Resolve’s core features, including its advanced color grading, multicam editing, and Fusion for visual effects.
You can produce extremely high-quality content without paying a cent, which makes it a standout for budget-conscious editors who don’t want to compromise on functionality.
While Final Cut Pro requires a one-time purchase of $49.99, which is still relatively affordable compared to subscription-based apps, it doesn’t offer a free tier. If you’re just getting started and don’t want to invest right away, DaVinci Resolve’s free version is the way to go.
Final Cut Pro’s one-time cost can be seen as a long-term investment, as you won’t be tied to any ongoing subscription fees, and it includes lifetime updates.
For budget-conscious creators, DaVinci Resolve gives you more bang for your buck, especially if you need powerful tools without paying upfront. For those who prefer a simpler interface and are willing to invest in a polished, efficient app with no future fees, Final Cut Pro’s one-time purchase is also a great value.
In 2024, the best choice depends on your needs—whether you’re seeking speed and simplicity for social media, high-end tools for filmmaking, or a budget-friendly editing solution with industry-grade features.
Conclusion
The choice between Final Cut Pro for iPad and DaVinci Resolve boils down to your personal needs and preferences.
If you’re deeply integrated into Apple’s ecosystem and prefer a more intuitive, iPad-friendly interface, Final Cut Pro may be your best bet.
If you’re after advanced features like industry-standard color grading and don’t mind a slightly steeper learning curve, DaVinci Resolve is a powerhouse option—especially with its free version.
Whichever app you choose, both offer incredible tools that can help you unleash your creativity and take your video editing skills to the next level! Let us know in the comments which one you prefer!