How to
How to turn YouTube videos into Shorts on a Mac
Free cost calculator · no signup · then $199 lifetime license
Published 9 September 2026. Modified 9 September 2026.
Three honest paths on a Mac, in order of money then time.
1. YouTube's own tools (free)
If you only need a clip on YouTube, use YouTube. No extra vendor. No file on disk.
2. CapCut (free, manual)
Download your video (you must have the right to). Edit 9:16 by hand. Captions in the editor. This is how most people still start.
3. Clippingli ($199 lifetime)
- InstallGet the Mac installer from this site. If Gatekeeper warns, follow the Mac help page.
- Activate and paste a keyLicense from purchase email. OpenAI key in Settings. Key guide.
- Paste a YouTube URL you may processClipping stays on the Mac. Approve the clips. Export files you can post.
Rights: you represent you may download, clip, overlay, and publish. Captions do not create a fair-use defense.
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