6 Best Mac Apps to Try in 2025
Essential software that will transform your productivity and creative workflow
Why These Apps Made Our 2025 List
After testing hundreds of Mac applications throughout 2024, we've curated this list of six standout apps that represent the best in their respective categories. Each app offers unique value propositions, from revolutionary AI capabilities to privacy-first approaches that address growing concerns about data security.
Our selection criteria focused on: native Mac optimization (especially Apple Silicon), user privacy and data security, innovative features that solve real problems, and exceptional value for professionals and creators.
Pixelmator Pro
Design & GraphicsPixelmator Pro continues to dominate as the best Photoshop alternative for Mac users. With 2025 updates bringing advanced AI-powered tools and improved Apple Silicon optimization, it's become the go-to choice for photographers and designers who want professional results without Adobe's subscription costs.
AI-Powered Editing
Machine learning background removal and object selection
Apple Silicon Optimized
Blazing fast performance on M1/M2/M3 chips
Professional Tools
Advanced color correction and layer management
Scriber Pro
Productivity & PrivacyJust launched in September 2025, Scriber Pro arrives at the perfect time - right after the August 2025 class-action lawsuit against cloud transcription services. This brand new app offers the premier offline transcription solution for Mac, with innovative chunking technology that delivers blazing-fast results while keeping sensitive audio completely private.
100% Offline Processing
No cloud uploads, complete privacy protection
Blazing Fast Speed
10-50x real-time with proprietary chunking
Professional Formats
Export to TXT, PDF, DOCX, SRT, and more
Obsidian
Knowledge ManagementObsidian has revolutionized personal knowledge management with its unique graph-based approach to note-taking. Perfect for researchers, writers, and students who need to connect ideas across complex projects and build comprehensive knowledge bases.
Linked Thinking
Connect notes with bidirectional linking
Graph Visualization
See connections between ideas visually
Plugin Ecosystem
Hundreds of community plugins
CleanMyMac X
System OptimizationCleanMyMac X remains the gold standard for Mac maintenance and optimization. With 2025 updates bringing enhanced Apple Silicon support and improved malware detection, it's more essential than ever for keeping your Mac running smoothly.
Smart Cleanup
AI-powered junk file detection
Malware Protection
Real-time security monitoring
Performance Optimization
RAM cleaning and startup optimization
DaVinci Resolve
Video EditingDaVinci Resolve continues to offer Hollywood-grade video editing capabilities completely free. With 2025 bringing enhanced AI features and improved Apple Silicon optimization, it's the best value in professional video editing software.
Professional Editing
Multi-track timeline with advanced tools
Color Grading
Industry-leading color correction tools
Audio Post-Production
Built-in Fairlight audio tools
1Password
Security & PrivacyWith cybersecurity threats at an all-time high, 1Password has become essential for protecting digital life. The 2025 updates bring improved passkey support and enhanced family sharing features, making it the most user-friendly password manager available.
Password Generation
Strong, unique passwords for every account
Secure Sharing
Safe password sharing with team members
Passkey Support
Next-generation authentication
Your 2025 Mac App Starter Pack
These six applications represent the pinnacle of Mac software development in 2025. Each addresses specific needs while maintaining the quality, security, and user experience that Mac users expect.
Pixelmator Pro
Design & Graphics
Scriber Pro
Private Transcription
Obsidian
Knowledge Management
CleanMyMac X
System Optimization
DaVinci Resolve
Video Editing
1Password
Security & Privacy
Total Investment: Less than $170 for lifetime access to professional-grade tools that would have cost thousands just a few years ago. The combination of these apps creates a complete creative and productivity powerhouse for any Mac user.
Pro Tip: Start with the free options (Obsidian and DaVinci Resolve) to test your workflow, then gradually add the premium apps based on your specific needs. This approach lets you build a customized software suite without overwhelming initial costs.