Shotcut desktop video editor showing the timeline, preview monitor, and playlist on a local project.
Shotcut main window: preview, playlist, and timeline for a local video editor project after install. Screenshot from shotcut.org (Meltytech); used for install orientation, not as a logo..

Homebrew cask

Verified on formulae.brew.sh:

brew install --cask shotcut

The cask tracks the official macOS dmg for Shotcut.

GitHub dmg

Take shotcut-macos-*.dmg from GitHub Releases. Open the dmg, drag Shotcut to Applications, and launch. Use the unsigned dmg only when you already know you need it.

Requirements

shotcut.org lists current macOS lines for modern builds and older last-supported tags for legacy macOS. Match the tag notes to your OS version before you upgrade a lab image.

After install

Open Shotcut, import a short clip, cut once, export once. Windows remains the primary Install panel in this guide; this page covers Mac desks honestly.

Why this door matters

A video editor install fails most often when the file comes from a renamed portal. Stick to GitHub Releases for mltframework/shotcut, winget Meltytech.Shotcut, Homebrew cask shotcut, Flatpak org.shotcut.Shotcut, or Snap shotcut. Those doors keep the binary aligned with Meltytech builds.

Write the door on the machine ticket beside the Windows build. That habit prevents a second install path from appearing after the next reimage. If SmartScreen prompts on a fresh signature, use More info and confirm Meltytech when Windows shows a publisher.

Proof export habit

After any install or update, open a short disposable clip, place it on the Timeline, and export one throwaway file. A video editor that launches but cannot export is not finished. Keep masters read-only while you learn the Export panel.

If export fails, try a software preset, confirm disk space, and retest with a tiny clip before you change GPU options. Save a .mlt project when you expect to reopen the cut. Prefer a new output filename every time so you never overwrite the only master.

Continue with the Windows install walkthrough, the download-safe notes, the releases file map, and the installed checklist. Compare built-in editors when you only need a light trim. Use troubleshooting when SmartScreen, architecture mismatches, or failed exports block the first hour.

This video editor path stays local: media, timeline, and export output remain on disks you choose. Network is required for the first download and for package updates, not for everyday cutting once Shotcut is installed.

Frequently asked questions

Is brew required?

No. The GitHub dmg works without Homebrew. Brew is the verified package door when you already use Homebrew. Prefer GitHub Releases for mltframework/shotcut or winget Meltytech.Shotcut on Windows x64, then finish one proof export before you change advanced settings.

Where is the cask defined?

Homebrew cask shotcut on formulae.brew.sh, currently tracking the Meltytech macOS build. Prefer GitHub Releases for mltframework/shotcut or winget Meltytech.Shotcut on Windows x64, then finish one proof export before you change advanced settings.

Does this guide install on Windows too?

Windows has its own guide and remains the primary Install panel. Use the Windows guide for winget Meltytech.Shotcut. Prefer GitHub Releases for mltframework/shotcut or winget Meltytech.Shotcut on Windows x64, then finish one proof export before you change advanced settings.