Export times in Final Cut Pro (FCP) can vary significantly based on several factors, including the video resolution, codec used, effects applied, and the hardware specifications of the computer. Here's a detailed comparison of export times between the MacBook Pro M4 and the 16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9:
MacBook Pro M4
The MacBook Pro M4, featuring Apple's latest chip architecture, offers improved performance over older Intel-based models. However, export speeds for H.264 videos, which are commonly used for web distribution, have been reported to be similar between the M4 and M4 Pro models. This suggests that the difference in export times might not be substantial for H.264 exports, with some tests showing only about a 30-second difference between the two models for similar tasks[8].
For more demanding tasks or different codecs, the M4's performance can be quite efficient. The M4 chip provides a significant boost in video processing compared to older Intel models, thanks to its integrated Media Engine and optimized software support[6].
16-inch MacBook Pro with Intel Core i9
The Intel Core i9 MacBook Pro is a powerful machine with robust CPU capabilities, which can handle demanding video editing tasks. However, when it comes to video export, the performance can be limited by the lack of specialized media processing hardware like Apple's Media Engine found in M-series chips.
Export times on Intel-based MacBook Pros can be longer compared to M-series models, especially for tasks that benefit from hardware acceleration, such as ProRes encoding. For H.264 exports, the Intel Core i9 might perform well but could still be slower than M-series chips due to the absence of dedicated encoding hardware.
Comparison and Considerations
- H.264 Exports: For H.264 exports, the difference between the M4 and Intel Core i9 models might not be dramatic, with the M4 potentially offering slightly faster or comparable performance due to its integrated Media Engine.
- ProRes and Other Codecs: For ProRes or other codecs that are optimized for Apple's hardware, the M4 MacBook Pro is likely to outperform the Intel Core i9 model significantly.
- Effects and Complexity: The presence of effects, color grading, and transitions can increase export times on both models. However, the M4's efficiency in handling these tasks might still provide a faster overall experience.
- Hardware and Software Optimization: Apple's M-series chips are highly optimized for Final Cut Pro, which can lead to better performance in video editing and export tasks compared to Intel-based models.
In summary, while the Intel Core i9 MacBook Pro is powerful, the M4 MacBook Pro likely offers faster export times for most video editing tasks, especially those optimized for Apple's hardware. However, for specific tasks like H.264 exports, the difference might be less pronounced.
Citations:[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbLU4u5-XjY
[2] https://www.kodjoarts.com/mac-mini-m4-pro-review-a-video-editor-s-30-day-speed-test-results
[3] https://www.reddit.com/r/fcpx/comments/16fvolm/macbook_pro_2019_vs_fcp_export_performance/
[4] https://www.reddit.com/r/finalcutpro/comments/16wplrw/final_cut_taking_too_much_time_to_export_video/
[5] https://forums.macrumors.com/threads/interesting-after-watching-tons-of-m4-pro-and-m4-mini-videos-the-export-speed-seems-to-be-the-same.2442914/
[6] https://www.apple.com/au/newsroom/2024/10/new-macbook-pro-features-m4-family-of-chips-and-apple-intelligence/
[7] https://creativecow.net/forums/thread/myy-final-cut-video-its-taking-too-long-to-export/
[8] https://www.reddit.com/r/macmini/comments/1gqsdj5/has_anyone_actually_tested_export_speed_to_h264/
[9] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V0_4kgXhls0
[10] https://support.apple.com/guide/final-cut-pro/speed-up-exports-with-simultaneous-processing-verd006aab15/mac