If you do a lot of film editing on your Mac, you’ll definitely want to invest in a Final Cut Pro keyboard. These are specifically manufactured to make the video editing process as easy as possible. The revolutionary design features a unique way to visually orient your keys so that it’s almost as convenient as programming the commands yourself. This can be a great alternative to the learning curve of figure out how to use each key effectively. A Final Cut Pro keyboard is the perfect addition to anyone that has a lot of video editing to do.
The main advantage of a Final Cut Pro keyboard is that it’s set up perfectly to guide you through the process. All of the keys are color coordinated to signify their uses in different editing processes. For example editing and trimming commands are coded in pink, while mark points are yellow, and different cursors are coded in orange, etc. This makes it remarkably easy for anyone that’s not a professional editor to learn the system quickly. A good editor will end up barely touching their mouse, because clicking and dragging only prolongs the process. A Final Cut Pro keyboard is the best way to become that efficient, and really improve the quality of your editing.
The main thing will be choosing the right type for you. For strictly editing, nothing works better than a Logic ultra thin aluminum keyboard. They are fairly expensive, but really nice to work with, and feature easy to press flat keys so that you aren’t slowed down by tripping over your keyboard. You have the option of purchasing a Final Cut Pro keyboard, or even a standard aluminum model and then purchasing an Apple LogicSkin for use over your existing keyboard. This can add an extra layer of convenience as the skin can be applied and removed as you use Final Cut or other programs, allowing for the keyboard to have multiple uses.
One of the main things to consider from any keyboard will be whether or not they feature a USB connection, or are wireless. Wireless boards are feature an extra layer of convenience in that you can easily jostle them around without worry for pulling on the connecting cord. However these operate using batteries, so when the power is running low, the keys will become unresponsive. When you’re using a Final Cut Pro keyboard you’re probably doing something important, so frustrating power losses may not be an option.
Final Cut Pro keyboards can be fairly expensive depending upon the type that you purchase. An aluminum keyboard is by far one of the cheaper options available, and can be found for as low as $100. Although if you already have an aluminum board you can find a cheap skin to convert your keyboard for only $30. A standard Final Cut Pro keyboard will cost slightly more than that at around $150. On average wireless boards are more expensive than USB versions. Typically an internet retailer will be the best place to find a good keyboard without spending too much. Some good sites include Amazon.com, and MacMall.com.