Windows v Apple for movie editing

[vicars]

Are there any movie editors out there who can give a quick analysis of the benefits of Apple computers? Is it simply that Apple have a traditional design hertitage and are no better in function terms or do Apple have the advantage in software and computing power? I am thinking of getting a MAC to start me off in editing if it is the best long term option. Is it or can I get away with a cheaper Windows machine (with similar spec etc). Look forward to your responses. Thx

[rojash]

Not a lot of difference, but you are repeating a myth when you say "a cheaper Windows machine (with a similar spec.)". Generally, nowadays if you compare like-for-like spec-wise (bearing in mind that you need a reasonably high performance machine for video editing) you'll find that the prices aren't that different. I'm a Windows software developer, but if I was buying a machine purely for video editing, picture editing, e-mail and web, I would definitely consider a Mac.

[pug100]

When it comes to professional editing solutions then your choice is basically down to three main progams, Avid Xpress Pro (PC or Mac ), Final Cut Pro (Mac) and Adobe Premiere ( PC or Mac).
There are many more out there ranging from bundled progs (imovie and WindowsMovie Maker) to semi pro but the above three are the ones most professionals use.

Not all Macs or PCs can run these applications as editing is very heavy on the processsor, memory and hard drives. Macs tend to be more stable as all their kit is made by one manufacturer and have tighter quality control whereas PCs can be a real mixed bag of different components from various manufacturers, not all of them compatible. This is where the pricing differential comes in.

I'd do some research before deciding but here are some links for you to check out
http://www.videoforums.co.uk/guide-mac-video-e diting-36.htm

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_video_edi ting_software

http://www.pctechguide.com/45DigitalVideo.htm

[fo3nix]

For serious video editing, Macs are primarily used. Partly history, but even now they're still better for it, for a variety of reasons, than windows computers.

For less serious video editing, Macs are still better. iMovie (both '08 and '06) is leagues ahead of Windows Movie Maker in terms of its usability and general capability.

Go for an iMac, and get yourself the biggest internal drive they sell, as well as the biggest external drive you can afford.

[vicars]

Thx guys, if I had another question it would be for a total novice (but with a fairly good grasp of computers) how long would it take to get good at Final Cut Pro (and final cut studio)? Are we talking 20-30 hours use or months? Thx.

[pug100]

If you've used some of the more basic editing software, then Final Cut will look very different but is basically the same. It's a timeline based editing system with a source & edit window. It'll have a lot more icons and options for trim mode, insert or overlay and the ability for many video and audio tracks.
It sholdn't take more than a few hours to become familiar with it, but to get really good you'll need to learn the keyboard shortcuts. Your best bet is to trawl the user groups or forums and look for tips on how to get the best out of Final Cut. One good thing about choosing a well known package is that is is usually well documented at every level form novice to expert.
This assumes you know what you want to achieve in terms of editing. If you want to learn how to edit there are loads of books and web pages available out there. I saw a very good prog the other day on Channel 4 about the making of Twelfth Night and showed exactly how the top end editors worked, it may well be repeated on more 4 or E4 soon. Worth watching for some insight into the world of film editing