Final Cut Pro: Secondary Display changes randomly

Question

Vicpm Author

Level 1

4 points

Final Cut Pro: Secondary Display changes randomly

Final Cut Pro randomly changes the Secondary Display when using multiple monitors

Hello,

I am a professional video editor and have been using Final Cut Pro for more than 25 years.

I am reporting what I believe is a bug, not a feature request.

For years, I used the same four-monitor setup without any issues. Final Cut Pro always opened the Secondary Display on the same monitor, and my workflow was completely stable.

The problem only started after moving to a new Mac Studio. This is actually the second time it has happened after changing to a new Mac.

Now, every time I restart my Mac, Final Cut Pro may choose a different monitor as the Secondary Display. Sometimes it selects my right monitor, other times my top monitor, even though I never change my display arrangement, cables, or settings.

If this behavior is expected, I would at least expect it to be consistent. Instead, the monitor selection changes randomly between restarts, which strongly suggests a software issue.

I already opened a support case with Apple (Case ID: ***), and the issue was reviewed by Engineering. I was advised to submit this feedback, but I sincerely believe this deserves further technical investigation.

System:

Mac Studio
Four external monitors (2 Dell, 2 ViewSonic)
Monitors connected directly to the Mac Studio using HDMI and USB-C.
No docks, hubs, or third-party display drivers.

This issue has a significant impact on my professional workflow, and I hope the Final Cut Pro engineering team can investigate it.

Thank you.

[Edited by Moderator]

Posted on Aug 8, 2026 3:24 PM

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Answer 1

terryb

Level 4

3,660 points

Aug 8, 2026 3:46 PM in response to Vicpm

This is a user-to-user forum. Send Apple your feedback via Final Cut Pro->Provide Final Cut Pro Feedback... or Feedback - Final Cut Pro - Apple

This does come up here periodically. Here's one thread that might be helpful.

FCPX select a specific secondary monitor … - Apple Community

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Answer 2

Vicpm Author

Level 1

4 points

Aug 8, 2026 3:55 PM in response to terryb

Thanks, Terry. That's actually exactly why I'm posting here. I understand this is a user-to-user forum — I'm specifically hoping to hear from other Final Cut Pro users who may have experienced the same issue and found a solution or workaround.

I'll definitely send feedback to Apple as well, but in the meantime I'm hoping we can help each other here.

Thanks for the link — I'll take a look at that thread!

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Answer 3

Vicpm Author

Level 1

4 points

Aug 8, 2026 4:07 PM in response to terryb

I had actually already submitted the issue through Apple’s Final Cut Pro Feedback form before posting here.

I also checked the other thread you shared. It was closed in December 2025, and since people are clearly still experiencing this issue, I think this thread could be a good place to continue the discussion and hopefully find a better workaround or solution.

Thanks again for your help!

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