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Recommended export settings for Final Cut Pro

Export from Final Cut Pro in HEVC (H.265) for HD and 4K (SDR or HDR). Use H.264 as fallback. Include chapter markers for MediaZilla import.

Updated over 2 weeks ago

Follow these steps to export your videos from Final Cut Pro for the best results on MediaZilla.


General Export Steps

  1. In Final Cut Pro, go to File → Share → Master File…

  2. Open the Settings tab.

  3. Set Format to Computer.

  4. Set Video Codec based on your resolution and needs (see below).

  5. Set Resolution to match your source video (commonly 1920 × 1080 for HD, or 3840 × 2160 for 4K).

  6. (Optional) Check Include chapter markers — MediaZilla will automatically import them into your video.

  7. Click Next, choose your save location, then click Save.


Recommended Settings

Up to Full HD (1920 × 1080)

  • Codec: HEVC (H.265) — preferred for smaller file sizes and efficient quota use.

  • Alternate option: H.264 (Better Quality or Faster Encode). Quality difference is minor; Faster Encode reduces export time.


4K SDR (Standard Dynamic Range)

  • Codec: HEVC (H.265)

  • Resolution: 3840 × 2160


4K HDR (High Dynamic Range, 10-bit)

  • Codec: HEVC (H.265)

  • Color Space: Set to Rec. 2020 HLG or Rec. 2020 PQ, depending on your project.


Important Notes

  • Resolution: Always use even-numbered width and height values. Odd values can cause encoding errors.

  • HEVC vs. H.264: HEVC produces much smaller files at the same quality, saving upload quota. H.264 remains a fallback if you need compatibility or faster export speeds.

  • Alternative Tools: For more control over bitrate or advanced settings, you can export a ProRes file and re-encode using Compressor or HandBrake.


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