Mastering Exact Speed Changes in Final Cut Pro with the Control-Option-R Custom Speed Shortcut

Keyboard shortcut: ControlOptionR

Control-Option-R runs the Final Cut Pro command Custom Speed. It opens the Custom Speed window, where you can set an exact speed for your selection instead of dragging a retime handle or choosing a preset. It doesn't activate a Time Stretch tool or a speed slider.

What You Can Do in Custom Speed

In the Custom Speed window you can:

  • Type an exact speed as a percentage, such as 37%.
  • Or set the speed by typing the duration you want the clip to be.
  • Choose whether the clip plays forward or in reverse.
  • Choose whether the change ripples, which lets the clip get longer or shorter and moves the clips after it.

How to Use It

  1. Select a clip in the timeline.
  2. Press Control-Option-R. The Custom Speed window opens.
  3. Enter a speed percentage or a duration.
  4. Set direction and ripple, then close the window. The clip is retimed.

When to Use It

  • Exact speeds: When a preset like 50% isn't quite right, type the exact number.
  • Filling a gap: Set a duration to make a shot fit a specific length of time, such as a music phrase.
  • Consistency: Give several shots the same exact speed so they match.

Tips

  • Press Command-R to show the Retime Editor and see the speed bar above the clip after you apply a custom speed.
  • Speed changes affect audio pitch unless Preserve Pitch is turned on in the Retime menu. Check your audio after big changes.
  • For a speed ramp, cut the clip into speed segments first, then set a custom speed on each segment.

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