Published on Apr 17, 2025 5 min read

What is HitFilm Express? A Beginner’s Guide for Mac Users

HitFilm Express is a versatile and free video editing and visual effects software loved by creators worldwide. If you're a Mac user exploring the world of video editing, HitFilm Express provides a perfect gateway with its mix of professional-level features and user-friendly interface. This beginner's guide will walk you through what HitFilm Express is, its key features, and how you can get started with it on your Mac.

What Is HitFilm Express?

HitFilm Express is a free, all-in-one video editing and visual effects software developed by FXhome (now merged with Artlist). Designed for beginners and intermediate-level editors, it combines robust video editing tools with an array of Hollywood-quality VFX. Whether you're editing YouTube videos, short films, or social media content, HitFilm Express provides the tools and flexibility you need.

While it is free to use, HitFilm Express offers additional advanced features and tools via paid add-ons, which means you can customize it to fit your growing editing needs.

Why Mac Users Love HitFilm Express

HitFilm Express is a popular video editing software among Mac users, and for good reason. Apart from its affordability and user-friendly interface, here are some of the reasons why Mac users love HitFilm Express:

1. Superior Performance on Mac Devices

Mac devices are known for their high-performance capabilities, and HitFilm Express utilizes these capabilities to provide seamless video editing experience. The software runs smoothly on Mac devices, providing faster rendering times and better overall performance.

2. Compatibility with Apple Products

HitFilm Express is compatible with other Apple products, such as Final Cut Pro X and Motion graphics software. This allows for easy integration of footage and projects between different software, making it easier for video editors to switch between tools and collaborate with others who may be using different software.

3. Extensive Library of Visual Effects

HitFilm Express offers a vast library of visual effects that allow users to enhance their videos creatively. From basic color correction to advanced special effects, the software provides a wide range of tools for users to experiment with and add professional-grade effects to their videos.

4. Built-in Audio Editing Tools

Apart from video editing capabilities, HitFilm Express also has built-in audio editing tools that allow users to tweak sound levels, add music and sound effects, and remove background noise. This eliminates the need for using a separate audio editing software and provides a seamless video editing experience.

System Requirements for HitFilm Express on Mac

Before downloading HitFilm Express, make sure your Mac meets the basic system requirements for a smooth experience:

• macOS Version: HitFilm Express supports macOS 10.15 (Catalina) and later.
• Processor: A dual-core Intel or Apple Silicon processor is required.
• Memory: At least 4GB RAM is necessary for basic usage (8GB or more recommended).
• Graphics: GPUs with 1GB of video memory are supported, with 2GB being recommended for handling complex effects.
• Storage: Reserve at least 4GB of free disk space for installation and additional files.

Ensuring your Mac meets these requirements will allow you to unlock the software’s full potential, especially when handling larger projects or effects-heavy edits.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started with HitFilm Express

Here’s a step-by-step guide to download and start using HitFilm Express on your Mac:

1. Download and Install

• Visit the HitFilm Express website and click on "Get HitFilm Express."
• Sign up for a free account and follow the instructions to download the macOS installer.
• Once downloaded, double-click the installer file and follow the setup prompts to complete the installation.

2. Explore the Interface

Once you launch HitFilm Express for the first time, take a few minutes to familiarize yourself with its interface:

• Editor Panel: Where you’ll spend most of your time trimming clips, adding effects, and refining your timeline.
• Media Panel: Import and organize your footage here for easy access.
• Viewer Panel: This lets you preview your video edits in real time.
• Effects Library: Explore hundreds of effects and presets to enhance your project.

3. Import Your Media

Click on the "Import" button in the Media Panel to bring video, audio, or image files into your project. You can drag and drop media files directly to the timeline for editing.

4. Learn the Basics of Editing

HitFilm Express offers logical and intuitive editing functionalities:

• Drag clips along the timeline to arrange them.
• Use the razor tool to split clips, and transitions to smoothen the editing flow.
• Customize your edits with fade-in/fade-out or dissolve transitions from the toolbox.

5. Experiment With Effects

Open the "Effects" tab and experiment with ready-to-use features such as light flares, glitch effects, and 3D compositions. Drag and drop them into your footage to see instant results.

6. Export Your Project

When your masterpiece is ready, click the "Export" button. Select your preferred format (MP4 is recommended for YouTube and social media) and resolution before saving. Export tools also offer a queue system, so you can line up multiple projects for seamless exporting.

Tips to Maximize Your HitFilm Express Experience

Use Tasting Packs

HitFilm Express offers add-on packs if you need advanced effects or tools. For example, their "360-degree Toolkit" is fantastic for immersive video projects, and the "Color Grading Toolkit" is a must for achieving cinematic tones.

Leverage Tutorials

HitFilm Express provides a library of free video tutorials hosted by industry experts. These are perfect for beginners who want to master new skills quickly.

Optimize Performance

To prevent lag while editing on a Mac:

• Use proxy clips for smoother playback (a lower-resolution version of your footage used during editing).
• Close unnecessary applications running in the background.
• Save your projects frequently to avoid losing progress.

Why Choose HitFilm Express Over Other Editors?

If you’re a Mac user evaluating video editing tools, here’s why HitFilm Express stands out:

• Cost: Free baseline access with premium features at affordable prices.
• Flexibility: Combines advanced video editing and VFX in one software, so you don’t need multiple tools.
• Community Support: A supportive user community for troubleshooting, tips, and creative discussions.
• Accessibility: Beginner-friendly interface paired with detailed tutorials to lower the learning curve.

Conclusion

HitFilm Express is an excellent choice for Mac users seeking a versatile and powerful video editing tool. Whether you’re a beginner exploring video creation or an experienced editor looking for advanced features, this software provides the perfect balance of usability and functionality. Coupled with its cost-effectiveness and robust community support, HitFilm Express stands out as a reliable and comprehensive solution for creative projects.