Best CPU For Video Editing [Intel And AMD Processors]
We assume that you landed on this page looking for the best CPU for video editing. We hope you are aware that video editing, animation, graphic designing, and visual effects require a high-performance CPU to quickly process the data without any lags, thus saving your precious time.
So in this article, we will discuss two ways to build the best compatible CPU for video editing: First way is to directly buy a pre-built CPU that works as a plug and play. The second way is to build your dream CPU yourself with the components we suggest.
Again you get this question, whether to choose Intel or AMD, how much core count a processor must-have, RAM, storage, the operating system, and finally, the cost. Don't worry, we have got answers to all your questions to get the best CPU for video editing under your budget.
Little Tip
For your convenience, we categorized this article into three sections, that might help you to find exactly what you are looking for. Select any one of the options below to check out the respective section.
What's the role of the CPU in Video editing?
Before moving on to the main topic, I think it's crucial to understand the CPU's role in video editing and the minimum requirements of the CPU to process videos smoothly. The Processor's speed greatly influences the performance of video editing. You may be using different video editing software like Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Camtasia, Cyberlink, Pinnacle, Filmora, etc.
Irrespective of any video editing software you use, the Processor must be good enough to make edits and render the video quickly. That being said, when we compare some video editing software, we found that DaVinci Resolve software depends more on the GPU for accelerating the number of tasks.
Whereas, software like After effects and Premiere Pro highly depend on CPU for high-end video editing work than GPU. But overall, you need to consider a GPU if you load up more effects on editing. Otherwise, the CPU plays a major role in handling the loads in video editing.
We will now explain what happens behind the scene during a video editing process.
Initially, the video editing software reads the data (video footage) from your storage (SSD/HDD).
Then your video editing software decodes the footage.
The software then processes the footage based on the effects and the color-grading you use.
During the editing process, the footage is stored in the memory (RAM), allowing you to preview the changes in real-time .
Once the editing is over, the video will be rendered. This is the most important process where it would take several hours or even days to complete the rendering. You may require a heavily configured CPU build to render very big video footage. Then the software will encode the data.
Finally, the encoded data (video footage) will be saved in the HDD or SSD.
Factors that determine High CPU Performance
Here are some of the core factors that influence the CPU Performance (Click on each to know more)
We have only one processor chip, but it can have multiple cores in it. Each core is a CPU. Today, we have dual-core and quad-core computers where each core has its fetch and execute cycle. So this means a processor can be two or four times faster than a normal processor.
But the actual processor's speed depends on the software, but again this varies among different software being used. For example, video editing and game software depend more on the core technology than a word processor or spreadsheet software.
A processor needs a clock pulse in order to operate correctly. A clock pulse works in accordance with the real-time clock, where One clock cycle = 1 Hz, i.e., one cycle per second.
In a PC, a clock speed runs in gigahertz, where a typical speed of a clock speed is two or four gigahertz. So the faster the clock speed, the faster instructions will be processed by the Processor.
The small amount of high-performance RAM that stores the data repeatedly used by the processor is called cache memory. This memory plays a crucial role in increasing the speed of processing the data.
The number of bits a CPU can process simultaneously is the word length. Typically, a computer system has a word length range between 32 and 64 bits.
The maximum number of addressable locations by the processor is the address bus width. The addresses/memory location are numbered from 0 to 255. E.g. If you have an address bus width of 8 bits, you can have 256 addresses. So the wider the address bus, the faster your larger memory can be accessed.
The number of bits transferred simultaneously from one device to another is the data bus width. Though the data bus and address bus have the same size, at times, they change. If the data bus is 16bits and the address bus is 32bits, then the data is fetched in 2X16 bit groups.
Now that you have learned about the basics, we shall jump to the buying guide of best CPU video editing.
Cpu for video editing - PREREQUISITES
Some of the basic specs to consider while buying a CPU for video editing are
Best CPU for Video Editing COMPARISON
Product Image | Product name | Specifications | buy now |
|---|---|---|---|
| CyberpowerPC | ||
| iBUYPOWER | ||
| iBUYPOWER | ||
| CyberpowerPC | ||
| OMEN 30L |
1. CyberpowerPC Gaming PC - Best Budget CPU for Video Editing
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are looking for the best budget CPU for video editing, then this can be your ideal pick. Though this is a gaming build, it has the basic specs you need for video editing. The i5 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Super graphics card give you amazing performance eliminating the lags and enables you to perform mid-range video editing processes.
Final Verdict
If you are a video editor who looks for a PC for editing high-quality 1080p video on a budget, we highly recommend this one for you. The 6 core budget CPU and fast PCIe SSD promises good speed. Also, we felt that it is crucial to mention the performance of the video editing software here. If you have 6 core CPU, then you can expect only decent performance with this budget CPU for video editing.
If you demand even greater performance, then either consider upgrading to 16GB RAM, 8 crore processor, or check out our next recommendation.
Pros
Cons
2. iBUYPOWER Pro MR9270 - Best Intel CPU
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are looking for a CPU build that can handle high-end video editing processes easily and that doesn't break your bank, then we highly recommend iBUYPOWER Pro Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element MR9270, it has ideal specs that can support the video editing processes.
Talking about the Processor, i7 9700F comes with a base clock of 3.0GHz, 16GB DDR4-2666 RAM and the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB altogether promises high-end lag-free performance.
Final Verdict
The biggest advantage of this CPU is, it supports almost all video editing software and provides a faster user experience.
So if you are someone who does multiple tasks simultaneously or do high-end video editing processes, or an avid gamer, this iBUYPOWER Gaming PC Computer Desktop Element MR MR9270 is highly recommended. Also, you can't find a CPU build with amazing features at this price range, so grab it. Lastly, if you want to try an AMD processor for video editing, then check our next recommendation.
Pros
Cons
3. iBUYPOWER PC Trace 4 9310 - Best Budget DESKTOP For Video Editing
PRODUCT DETAILS:
If you are someone who is looking for an AMD processor for mid-range video editing works, then check out iBUYPOWER Gaming PC Computer Desktop Trace 4 9310. Packed with an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 processor and AMD Radeon RX 5500 XT graphics card, this CPU build can easily run mainstream games and handle normal/mid-range video editing tasks with ease.
The notable part of this CPU build is that there is more room for future updates. So you wish to upgrade the build, you can easily do it without thinking twice.
Final Verdict
The iBUYPOWER Trace 4 9310 pre-built case is light-weight yet has a solid build. Numerous ports present here make room for connecting different devices with it. Though this one is ideally meant for gaming, it has specs that can easily support medium video editing tasks with 1080p quality.
But if you want a CPU to support 4k quality, then this might not be the one you are looking for. You can either upgrade it or if you can afford some extra bucks, then check out our next recommendation.
Overall, the memory and the storage part are the only drawbacks here, but if you want a medium performance from your video editing applications at a budget, we highly recommend this one.
Pros
Cons
4. CyberpowerPC supreme - best ryzen cpu for video editing
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Sometimes, it is financially sensible to buy a CPU build that can do all the high-end work without much effort. So we recommend you the CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme Liquid Cool Gaming PC (SLC8260A3), if you are looking for the best CPU for video editing or gaming purposes.
Having all the specs required for high-end video editing tasks, this build proves to be a better choice than building a customizable one from scratch.
Final Verdict
So if you are looking for the high end CPU, then this can be your optimal choice. Overall, the AMD Ryzen 7 3800X, Radeon RX 5700 XT 8GB graphics card, the 16GB DDR4 RAM, and the 1TB NVMe SSD assure you faster performance.
But when we did backend research, the video editing software like Davinci Resolve and Premiere Pro worked well with both NVIDIA and AMD, but Adobe tends to optimize more for NVIDIA. So if you have a good budget and can afford a CPU build covered with the best features, check out our next recommendation.
Pros
Cons
5. OMEN 30L Desktop PC (GT13-0092) - best intel cpu for video editing
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Final Verdict
If you are a professional video editor dealing with high-end editing works, then this is a great pick for you. Period.
Pros
Cons
BEST processor FOR VIDEO EDITING
If you have been looking for a best processor for video editing, and not sure which one is compatible or works well for video editing, then you need to checkout our handpicked list.
We have tried to keep things a little more straightforward for you to quickly understand every product listed here before investing.
BEST processor FOR VIDEO EDITING LIST
Product Image | Product Name | Specifications | buy now |
|---|---|---|---|
| AMD RYZEN 5 3600 | ||
| INTEL CORE I7 | ||
| AMD RYZEN 7 3700X | ||
| INTEL CORE I9 | ||
| AMD RYZEN 9 3900X |
1
AMD RYZEN 5 3600 - BEST BUDGET PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS
If you are on a budget, then we highly recommend this best budget processor for video editing. AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Desktop Processor claims to be one of the most advanced processors that can simply support mid-range video editing tasks at an affordable price.
To handle the heat dissipation, this processor comes with a AMD Wraith Stealth cooler that is cool, quiet and low-profile. With PCIe 4.0, you can expect double the graphic bandwidth.
Video editing software like After Effects, DaVinci Resolve, and Premiere Pro tend to perform well with this processor. So with 6 cores and 12 threads and a max frequency of 4.2 GHz, the video editing tasks can be done lag-free.
Pros
- Great performance.
- PCIe version 4.0.
Cons
2
INTEL CORE I7-8700K - BEST INTEL PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS
Intel i7-8700K was launched on its 40th anniversary, so it is one of the rarest and limited edition processors. Like the previous entry, this processor also has 6 Cores and 12 Threads but has a bit difference in the speed.
Though it's a bit more expensive than its competitors the best part is that it can easily hit 5.0 GHz without overclocking. With such a great benefit you can save some dollars here on CPU coolers. Overall, this is a solid-performing CPU and can easily handle productivity apps, modern games, or anything you throw in its path.
Pros
Cons
- Bit expensive than competitors.
3
AMD RYZEN 7 3700X - BEST RYZEN PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS
Next up in our list comes the Ryzen, which is an excellent competitor to Intel core i7, but when it comes to multicore function AMD Ryzen 7 3700X beats Intel. It may not be the best processor for video editing when compared to its other competitors, but it's the perfect pick for those with a limited budget.
It delivers excellent performance in an affordable range and without the need for cooling. With multicore and hyperthreading features, this product is one of our favorite picks. For 4k video editing, this product is a high-end building unit. Overall, it has the required features that can handle high-end editing works and give out excellent performance.
Pros
Cons
4
INTEL CORE I9-9900KS DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
Intel has finally released its much-awaited special edition desktop processor. This newly launched fastest processor is out of the HEDT segment. With an all-core turbo bin, this premium edition is based on coffee Lake-s architecture.
With a high TDP and clock speed, it has jumped it's overclocking to 4GHz well ahead of its predecessor. Although overclocking is an advantage, it simultaneously raises the temperature to a very high degree. This one doesn't come with a cooler, which is a drawback here.
So you must have a good CPU cooler to work with this processor. Apart from this, you get the room to use the Z370 and Z390 motherboard with this edition after you update BIOS.
Pros
Cons
5
AMD RYZEN 9 3900X DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
Built in the best way possible and designed to perform the fastest route, the AMD Ryzen has won many hearts as the best processor for video editing. When you need to edit another video of high quality up to 4k,6k or 8k, this is your final destination.
Well known as the best processor in the desktop PC gaming segment, this one merely works amazingly during video editing.With ultimate graphics and fantastic resolution, nothing can defeat this one.
With color controlled LED lighting and support for Razor chroma make its looks stunning and elegant. A highly efficient CPU cooler needed for smooth running until you finish your editing with this best processor for video editing.
Pros
Cons
6
AMD RYZEN 7 3800X DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
Yet another cornerstone in the AMD 3000 series, but this time a super notch. Though Ryzen 7 3700X was an excellent product and best of best processor for video editing, this one has crossed one more milestone of higher TDP of 105W which was previously 65W.
Built on a similar 7nm chip but with higher TDP it gives some exceptionally high performance with increased clock speed. However, 3800X offers a fierce competition to core i7 9700k, but the latter lacks in terms of TDP. As for now, 3800X is one of the best processor for video editing in the world.
Pros
Cons
7
INTEL CORE I5-8400 DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
Intel's i5 series offers a great deal to all the enthusiasts in terms of performance. No doubt that AMD's Ryzen processors gave a massive competition to intel i5 and i7 series but i5 works at a faster rate for a best processor for video editing.
Although the TDP value of i5 8400 is 95W only which is quite low as compared to 105W TDP value of Ryzen AMD 7 3800X but still works powerfully because of Intel's turbo boost technology.
Pros
Cons
8
AMD RYZEN 5 3400G DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
As it has been a trend to spend some extra dollars to get a quad-core processor with excellent graphics and the best processor for video editing. But the launch of AMD 3400G has denied it all, with a price range of as low as $150, you can get the best graphics possible though it lacks at some point when it comes to building.
Unlike other Ryzen 3000 series, Ryzen 3400G still works like the older 2000 series generation. However, it needs an up-gradation to 7nm process and Zen 2 microarchitecture, but as per the price ranges a good one with high clock speed for faster performance.
Pros
Cons
9
AMD RYZEN 9 3950X DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
A high power processor with an affordable motherboard has its place. Its 16 cores make it possible for the maximum power you get for a mainstream desktop processor.
With a 7nm chip, Ryzen 3950X comes with faster performance, better efficiency, more cores and more cache for a top-notch performance for a best processor for video editing. It comes with AMD's Zen 2 micro-architecture thus giving a setback to Intel's most advanced product.
Pros
Cons
10
INTEL CORE I7-9700 DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS
Those who fell for Intel's i9 9900, but couldn't bag it because of the budget issue, this is your chance to grab a similar product, but on a lower budget.
With improved multi-core turbo boost technology, eight-core configuration and better heat transfer from the soldered surface makes it an excellent pick for those looking for overclocking this is the best processor for video editing.
It gives a fierce competition to Ryzen with its high-speed performance. Intel Core i7 9700 doesn't come with a CPU cooler. Hence you might need to spend some extra bucks for temperature control. But those looking for a lower budget should prefer Ryzen for excellent graphics.
Pros
Cons
CONCLUSION
That's all about the best CPU for video editing. Whether you are looking for a plug and play CPU build or a custom CPU build or just the best processor for video editing 2021, we hope this article answers your queries.
Hope this article helped in either building your own CPU or buying the ideal CPU build or processor for video editing. If you are still sitting on the fence, comment down below with your requirements. We will suggest the best CPU build for you.
