How to Export in Final Cut Pro as MP4: Step-by-Step Guide

Editing a video is only the first step. Delivering it in the right format is another. With so many formats out there, which one makes the most sense for your project?

If you're working with Final Cut Pro and need to share your project in a more universal format, MP4 remains the go-to standard for online platforms, mobile devices, and general video sharing.

This guide will walk you through how to export in Final Cut Pro as MP4, and discuss a simpler video-editing and publishing solution – Movavi Video Editor.

Final Cut Pro projects are saved in the platform’s FCPXML format, so you’ll often need to convert them to a more common and universal format like MP4 for better compatibility across different systems and platforms.

Here's how to export MP4 in Final Cut Pro without getting lost in its menus.

Before using Final Cut Pro to export as MP4 videos, make sure no clips or elements are selected in your timeline. Use Shift + Command + A to deselect all. Then go to the top menu bar, click File, hover over Share, and choose Master File from the submenu. This opens a settings box where export options can be customized.

In the window that appears, head to the Info tab to check video details like duration, format, and resolution. Click on the Settings tab next. From the Format dropdown, choose Computer. Under Video Codec, select Faster Encode if you're prioritizing speed over file size. Pick your desired Resolution from the available options. When done, hit Next.

Now it's time to pick where the file will go. In the Save As field, give your project a name. Choose a folder from the directory to the left or browse to your preferred destination. Then click Save. Final Cut Pro will begin the export process and generate an MP4 file based on your selected settings.

The workflow of getting a Final Cut export as MP4 can feel a bit procedural, especially if you’re not familiar with all the terms and settings.

If you find this process overwhelming or just want something simpler, Movavi Video Editor provides a more beginner-friendly interface with quicker access to common export options.

Knowing how to export MP4 in Final Cut Pro is helpful if you’re working in Apple’s editing environment, but it’s not always the most straightforward route.

If you prefer an easier experience with powerful tools at your fingertips, Movavi Video Editor stands out as a simpler, faster alternative, especially when the goal is to export MP4 without spending extra time adjusting settings.