VEGAS Pro 23
$19.99/mo or $219.00 (Perpetual)
Final Cut Pro 11.2
$299.99 (Mac) or $4.99/mo (iPad)
Analysis
A veteran NLE (Non-Linear Editor) that underwent a massive core rebuild in late 2025. Known for its 'audio-first' DNA and highly flexible timeline, the new Version 23 introduces the VEGAS Core Engine for butter-smooth 8K playback and an AI Assistant that can assemble rough cuts via chat prompts. It remains one of the few pro-tier editors offering a perpetual license, though it is still exclusive to the Windows platform.
Analysis
Apple's professional NLE, optimized for the M-series architecture. In late 2025, it features 'Magnetic Mask' for AI rotoscoping, 'Transcribe to Captions' for instant subtitling, and native 'Spatial Video' editing for Apple Vision Pro. While its Magnetic Timeline and one-time fee are highly praised, its Mac-exclusivity and hardware requirements for new AI tools limit its reach.
The Breakdown
| Feature | VEGAS Pro 23 | Final Cut Pro 11.2 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Video Editing & Post-Production | Video Editing & Post-Production |
| Subscription Cost | $19.99/mo or $219.00 (Perpetual) | $299.99 (Mac) or $4.99/mo (iPad) |