Parallel Media Encoder Parallel Media Encoder

Getting Started Guide

Download

Parallel Media Encoder requires macOS 14.5 or later running on Apple Silicon (M1 or newer).

Free

$0

Core codecs, batch queue, HDR support. Great for trying the app or lightweight workflows.

Download Free

Pro

Pro
$39

Parallel encoding, RAW workflows, 3D LUTs, CLI automation, and every codec unlocked.

Buy Pro License

Install

  1. Download the .dmg file from Gumroad (use a link above).
  2. Open the .dmg to mount the installer.
  3. Drag Parallel Media Encoder into your Applications folder.
Drag Parallel Media Encoder to Applications

macOS security note

On first launch, macOS may block the app because it was downloaded from the internet. Right-click (or Control-click) the app and choose Open. You only need to do this once.

Install CLI Tools (Optional)

Advanced — not required for normal use

The CLI is for automation and scripting workflows. You do not need it to use the app. Everything in Parallel Media Encoder works through the normal graphical interface. Skip this section if you just want to transcode files.

To use the pme command-line tool, install it from within the app.

  1. Open Parallel Media Encoder.
  2. In the menu bar, click Parallel Media Encoder → Install CLI Tool…
  3. Follow the prompt to install. This creates a symlink so you can run pme from any terminal.
Install CLI Tool menu option in Parallel Media Encoder

Once installed, verify it works by running:

pme --version

The CLI requires a Pro license for transcoding. The probe and inspect commands are free.

First Encode

Follow these steps to transcode your first file.

1

Add source files

Launch the app and drag video files (or folders) into the source panel.

2

Choose a codec

Select an output codec — H.264, HEVC, ProRes, and more are available.

3

Set output location

Pick where encoded files should be saved.

4

Queue and start

Click "Add to Queue" then hit "Start Encoding" to begin.

5

Monitor progress

Track each file's progress in the encode queue.

Activate Pro

After purchasing a Pro license, activate it with either method:

Via the app

  1. Open Parallel Media Encoder.
  2. Go to the menu bar and select License → Enter License Key.
  3. Paste your license key and click Activate.

Via the command line

If you prefer the terminal, run:

pme license activate YOUR-KEY

Replace YOUR-KEY with the key you received from Gumroad. Activation is instant and works offline.

What's Next

Explore the rest of the documentation to get the most out of Parallel Media Encoder.

Feature Index

See every feature with Free vs Pro details.

CLI Reference

Automate transcoding from the command line.

AppleScript Templates

Ready-to-use automation scripts.