Best CPU Processor For Video Editing From Industry Experts
If you are interested in video editing, the performance of your PC matters a lot. The higher the resolution that you work with, the more work you put into processing your videos. Source file types, the codec, and video resolution will all influence the speed at which you can edit, playback, render and export your finished work.
So it's the processor that determines the proper functioning and performance of the PC. The video editing software may or may not rely on the processor, but they surely rely on GPU acceleration, but again it's the CPU that deals with most of the load. That is why; one should invest in a good processor for video editing.
Also, in this article, we have presented a few of the best choices of CPU build's that are actually worth spending your money on and will definitely help you in producing more efficient and well-organized videos in generally less time. It is up to your choice to choose a processor or spend some extra bucks to buy the entire CPU build.
Related Articles: Best Hard Drive For Video Editing.
little tip before you proceed
For your convenience, this article is divided into three sections, that might guide you to find the exact thing you are looking for. So choose any one of the options below to check out the respective section.
8 BEST PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING REVIEW
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1. INTEL CORE I5-11400F DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- 6 cores and 12 threads for fast performance
If you are on a budget and search for something with a processor that works more than a decent one, then this 11400F processor is the ideal one. Being compatible with Intel 500 series and selected Intel 400 series chipset-based motherboard, this works as expected.
The Intel Optane memory support has super-intelligent technology that can remember frequently accessed files and applications even after turning off your computer. So while doing high-end video works, this feature will be of great help.
Apart from this, the processor is equipped with a thermal solution which means you get a heat sink or a fan. At times, the thermal solution comes via pre-applied thermal paste or attached thermal pad.
It has six cores and 12 threads that promise to support the video editing process without any lag. The base clock speed is 2.6 GHz, and it can be easily increased up to 4.4 GHz. Though this processor cannot be overclocked, the max clock speed is achievable when you attach a decent RAM. The fast clock speeds also mean that it can deliver high frame rates and expect low latency.
The ‘F’ in the 11400F name indicates that this processor doesn’t come up with integrated graphics, and I find this one a major drawback. But considering the price offered for the features, it is an okay thing.
It works best only in the Windows 1o platform. Overall, this processor gives a fast workflow to encode, decode and render the video editing processes without much effort.
Pros
Cons
2. AMD RYZEN THREADRIPPER 3970X 32-CORE
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- 4. 5 GHz max boost frequency
If you are a professional video editor who is ready to afford this processor which is loaded with some amazing features, then this is your pick. It is also the most expensive processor in this list of video editing processors.
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 3970X 3 unlocked desktop processor gives you the highest performance desktop processor that is especially designed for prosumer like Youtube professionals, vloggers etc. The 32 cores and 64 threads deliver unparalleled performance and handle multithreaded workloads easily. So heavy video rendering and multi threaded work processes is good.
This processor supports OS like Windows 10 - 64-Bit Edition, Ubuntu x86 64-Bit and RHEL x86 64-Bit. What is best in this processor is its new automatic overclocking feature. So the 4.5 GHz max boost and the huge 144MB cache makes the video editing or any high end work a breeze.
Overall, if you are into high end video editing, game designing or animations, then this is your pick. Well, again this is not recommended for beginners or for a decent level of video editing.
Pros
Cons
3. INTEL CORE I7-11700K DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- 8 cores and 16 threads for fast performance
- Has Intel Turbo Boost Technology
Anyone who searched for the 11700K processor would know that it is one of the best processors for video editing. This processor is not just limited to high-end video editing processes but also for gaming as well.
The base frequency is 3.6GHZ, which is a super good number, and it reaches an impressive 5.0GHz before any performance of any kind of overclocking. Editing or rendering 4k or 8k video is not easy; your processor has to render the data quickly and work properly. Thanks to its eight cores and 16 threads. The eight cores and 16 threads are also quite impressive because they can easily handle high-end video editing processes.
Apart from this, you get the usual features like Intel Optane Memory support and PCIe Gen 4.0 support, which are added brownie points. Note that this processor is compatible only with Intel 500 series and selected Intel 400 series chipset-based motherboard only.
The part which I find very lagging is the power consumption and the heating issues. It doesn't come up with a thermal solution which is a con here. Due to this, during the editing part, when the processor handles data, it gets heated up.
Overall, I would say that this processor is strong and stands the competition even if AMD keeps dominating. Also, Intel's price is relatively lower than AMD.
Pros
Cons
4. AMD RYZEN 9 5900X 12-CORE, 24-THREAD UNLOCKED DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- CPU socket is Socket AM4
- Platform supported is Windows and Linux
- 16 core and 32 thread unlocked desktop
- PCIe 4.0 for X570 and B550 motherboards
- DDR-3200 support
Now that you saw a processor from Intel, I think it is time to shed some light on the AMD processors. AMD has manufactured Ryzen 9 3900X targeting content creators. If you are into editing 8k videos, then this processor is the ideal one. Why I am saying this is, it is equipped with 12 core and 24 threads which is the most powerful thing you get for a mainstream desktop.
This processor has the ability to deliver ultra-fast 100+ FPS performance which means, you can do professional video editing and play elite games with high resolution is possible. It lacks a cooler, so you need to include either a liquid cooler with 280 millimeters or a larger radiator.
The best part is that this processor is unlocked for overclocking, and the max boost is a 4.7 GHz max boost. The game cache is 70 MB, so your CPU has the next bit of data loaded in the cache, and thus, the loading speed is much faster.
Your processor can render and process data in a swift manner. This processor is best suited for professional work, and so if you have the cash to spend, definitely this one is worth every penny.
Pros
Cons
5. INTEL CORE I9-11900K - BEST INTEL PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Compatible with Intel 500 series & select Intel 400 series
- Intel Optane Memory Support
- PCIe Gen 4.0 Support
- Max clock speed up to 5.3 GHz
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- 125W TDP
If you are looking for something massive, a processor that can handle 8k video editing in a breeze, then Intel Core i9-11900k is the one.
The i7 processor was on the top of the points table and considered one of the best until i9 was released. i9 is one of the most advanced processors while writing this review. I strongly recommend this high-end video editing process because personally, I purchased this processor and was left amazed. You can edit, playback, render and export your videos in high quality easily.
This one is compatible with both Intel 500 series and some selective Intel 400 series chipset-based motherboards. The previous versions also have eight cores and 16 threads, but the game changes with its max clock speed up to 5.3 GHz.
Intel thermal velocity boost technology increases CPU speeds to reach max turbo frequency, thus improving performance in both single-threaded and multithreaded applications.
This unlocked processor can be overclocked and easily boosted to reach its maximum potential. So you can never go wrong with this powerful processor that works at ultra-speed.
Well, I accept that this intel processor for video editing is a bit on the pricey side, but again every good thing comes with a price. Also, I see the lack of thermal solutions as a disadvantage.
Pros
Cons
6. AMD RYZEN 5 3600XT UNLOCKED DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
You need at least AMD Ryzen 5 for video editing processes. That said, this processor is another best video editing processor. The processor specifications point out that this one is not just limited to gaming but also suitable for a decent video editing processor.
It can deliver super-fast 100+ FPS performance in the world’s most popular games, and it can also render videos for video editing with a system memory of 3200 MHz.
Also, PCIe 4.0 delivers double the graphics and storage bandwidth. It is equipped with cool, quiet, and efficient 7nm technology as well. For the advanced socket, the AM4 platform can support PCIe 4 0 on x570 motherboards.
The processor is constructed with six cores and 12 processing threads bundled with the powerful AMD Wraith Spire cooler, which extensively keeps the processor cool. It comes with a Max Boost of 4.4 GHz unlocked for overclocking 35 MB of game cache and DDR 3200 support. Overall, this is a decent choice for the budget offered.
Pros
Cons
7. INTEL BX80662I76700K 4512 CORE I7 6700K
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- It is a 6th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor.
- The processor is unlocked for overclocking.
The Intel Core 4512 Core i7 is a blazingly fast, feature-packed processor family with in-built security. You can edit high-end videos or play your favorite 3D games in higher resolution. You get better details and faster frame rates.
This is an unlocked processor that comes with DDR4 and DDR3L support. You can't use both DDR3L and DDR4 on the same computer or laptop. It is just that the processor is compatible with both memories.
It is compatible with Intel 100 series chipset motherboards. When paired with a Z170 chipset, this will make for a very responsive and powerful PC and make video and photo editing much faster.
This processor boasts that you get to experience at least 2.5x better productivity than a 5-year old PC. So if you have been using an old PC, then it is time to replace it with this new one. Also, you can save up to 3x better battery life when using this processor. Though many advanced models have taken the market by storm, buying an i7 at this price is recommended if you are on a budget. Definitely, you will get a good experience.
Pros
Cons
8. AMD RYZEN 7 5800X UNLOCKED DESKTOP PROCESSOR
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Supports Linux and Windows 10 64-Bit Edition
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X Unlocked desktop processor is another high-performing processor that is best for video editing processes. This is the most advanced processor in the Ryzen 7 version. This eight-core processor with 16 processing threads can handle high-end data quickly. Like its previous versions, it can also deliver 100+ FPS performances while playing elite games.
The 4.7 GHz max boost, 36 MB of cache, and DDR-3200 support make this processor a jackpot when you compare the price of Intel i9. So this can be concluded as the best AMD processor for professional-level video editing. It is affordable, provides higher performance than some of Intel's high-end chips, and is reliable for video editing processes. Do I say more?
Pros
Cons
5 BEST CPU FOR VIDEO EDITING REVIEW
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1. CYBERPOWERPC GAMER - BEST COMPUTER FOR 4K VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
Processor: This 9th Gen Intel Core i9 processor is a fast, intelligent processor that has extreme processing power that can deliver an incredible PC performance. Its eight-core and 16 threads with a 3.6 GHz boost points out that this is great for high-end editing processes.
Not just for the video editing process, you can perform multiple tasks without any lag. This i9 is something massive, and I promise that you will experience maximum performance for everything you do.
NVIDIA GeForce RTX 20 Series: Not all video editing software demands a high-end graphics card. But there is some software like After Effects that mainly require both a good processor and graphics card. This NVIDIA Turing GPU architecture and RTX platform bring a new way to experience games.
RAM: A minimum of 8 GB to handle the video editing process. And this CPU build comes with 16 GB, which is decent.
Storage: 1TB PCI-E NVMe SSD. The NVMe here is the non-volatile memory express which is a new type of storage access and transport protocol that delivers high throughput and fast response time.
Verdict: Apart from this, you get special features like a Clear Window side panel, ARGB case lighting, and RGB 7 colors gaming mouse. This PC build comes with one year of guarantee and free lifetime tech support.
So you can contact the manufacturer for any kind of support or issue. Since this 4k and 8k video editing computer is equipped with the latest processor and other advanced components, this is one of the best computers for video editing that is quite pricey in the market.
2. SKYTECH SHADOW 3.0 GAMING PC DESKTOP
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 3600
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Graphics Card: RTX 3060 Ti 8GB GDDR6
- Connectivity: 2 x USB 3.0, 2 x USB 2.0, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen1
Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 processor is designed with a new advanced "Zen" architecture that gives you a more than decent performance with its 1440p Quad HD resolution. The CPU speed is 3.6 GHz which is a decent speed. So you get a smooth, responsive, and VR-ready gaming that fits both casual and esports and video editing processes. You can edit 4k video easily.
Graphics card: The graphics card included is RTX 3060 Ti 8GB GDDR6, and it delivers high frame rates and flawless image quality while playing PC games and during photo or video editing.
RAM: The minimum RAM requirement for video editing is 8 GB, and this build has 16GB. So it can render data quickly.
Storage: 1TB NVMe SSD – Up to 30x faster than traditional HDD. So you get more storage as well as the SSD gives you further boost
Verdict: If you have the cash to shed, then this can be your pick. Since the AMD comes with a high-performance Wraith cooler, it doesn't get heated when the processor processes high-end data. But again, 3 GHz is pretty decent, and I expected a little more for this processor and other components. Apart from this, the Skytech Shadow 3.0 gaming case with tempered glass looks appealing.
3. IBUYPOWER PRO - BEST COMPUTER BUILD FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Processor: Intel i7-11700F
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 RAM
- Storage: 1TB HDD
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 6GB
- Connectivity: 4 x USB 3.0 | 2 x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000
Processor: This i7 processor is a game changer. Though it comes with a base speed of just 2.4 GHz you can overclock it and increase the speed up to 4.9 GHz. It stands out from its competitors with its high performance and it has the capacity to handle multiple tasks easily. So encoding, decoding and rendering high quality video can be done without any lag.
RAM: I must talk about the RAM of this build. 16 GB RAM is actually enough to handle a professional video editing process and this one has it and hence you can expect a consistent performance.
Storage: You get 1 TB HDD and no SSD which is quite disappointing for me.
Verdict: This is the most advanced processor available at the time of writing this article. So if you are a professional who is looking for the best computer for video editing and multimedia, then look no further. I must also mention the add ons like tempered glass RGB gaming case, 802.11 AC Wi fi and free gaming keyboard and RGB gaming mouse.
4. CYBERPOWERPC GAMER XTREME - BEST BUDGET CPU FOR VIDEO EDITING
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Processor: Intel Core i5-9400F
- RAM: 8GB DDR4
- Storage: 240GB SSD, 1TB HDD
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 6GB Video Card
- Connectivity: 6 x USB 3.1 | 2 x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000
Processor: The Intel core i5 processor has 6 cores and 6 threads that allows you to multitask faster and provide maximum performance. Also, the processor base speed is 2.90 GHz and it can be boosted to 4.10 GHz.
RAM: 8 GB DDR4 is a decent RAM that handles the video editing process and gives you a smooth experience.
Graphics card: GeForce GTX 16-series graphics cards are powered by the Turing Architecture to deliver up to 3x the performance of previous-generation graphics cards. Also, the GeForce GTX GPUs and NVIDIA game ready drivers combo is there to deliver fast performance and low latency that is required to play games and handle heavy graphics.
Verdict: The PC comes with the new DirectX 12 technology. Windows 10's API is armed with unique features that will provide quicker processing in real-time to generate higher FPS and more vibrant graphics as well as reduced power consumption.
The CYBERPOWER Gamer PC build features the latest generation of high-performance Intel Core processors and ultra-quick DDR RAM to handle system-intensive tasks – like HD video playback, gaming and video editing.
This 4k video editing workstation comes with powerful discrete video cards and provides a smooth gaming and multimedia experience. It also comes with in-built Wi-Fi connectivity and includes a free black 102 – key keyboard. This computer build has all the specs for video editing and if you are budget, then this is your pick.
5. CYBERPOWERPC GAMER SUPREME LIQUID COOL GAMING PC
PRODUCT DETAILS:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 3800X
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Storage: 1TB PCI-E NVMe SSD
- Operating System: Windows 10 Home
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 12GB Video Card
- Connectivity: 6 x USB 3.1 | 2 x USB 2.0 | 1x RJ-45 Network Ethernet 10/100/1000
Processor: This AMD Ryzen 7 3800X is another beast in this list of the best PC for video editing. The base speed is 3.9 GHz, and the eight core and 16 threads together give you the fast speed required to edit videos. Since high-performance liquid cooling is included with the pack, the overall system and the processor remains cool when processing.
Graphics card: This build is bundled up with the latest and the greatest NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 that can handle and edit high-end videos with high resolution. It also has a 12 GB video card and 1 HDMI, and one display port.
RAM: You get 16 GB DDR4 which is actually more than enough to handle 4k or 8k video editing in a breeze.
Storage: You get 1 TB PCI-E NVMe SSD which positively affects the overall performance of the build-in terms of loading fast, and thus it eliminates the lagging part.
Verdict: Overall, this editing CPU build gives a stunning performance with its high-end components packed in one sleek chassis. Though it says that this build is optimized for ultra-high game settings and gives high resolutions, these features are ideal for video editing. You get freebies like a gaming keyboard and RGB 7 color mouse combo. I can also say that this is the best computer for Adobe premiere pro software.
Pros
Cons
BUYING GUIDE FOR BEST PROCESSOR FOR VIDEO EDITING
You must keep in mind that not every processor is built for video editing. I have listed some points below that you can keep in mind before you select a processor: -
Core and Threads: Nothing below a 6- core processor is recommended for video editing. Video editing software takes advantage of multiple cores and threads. The performance of the software often scales directly with higher performance CPUs that have multiple cores.
Clock Speed: The clock speed of a CPU is only essential if the CPU has enough cores and threads along with an excellent micro-architecture. As the clock speed increases, the software works better and faster.
BUYING GUIDE FOR BEST CPU FOR VIDEO EDITING
Memory/RAM: If you want a quick and efficient computer for the video editing process, RAM is the most crucial factor you need to consider. So for video editing purposes, it is recommended to choose anything between 8 to 32 GB RAM. To be more specific, at least 16 GB is ideal for high-end video editing tasks.
Processor: It is optimal to choose a processor that has six or more cores. This is because the core helps in the fast processing of data, and thus, you won't feel any kind of lag during high-end video editing processes. We recommend you to pick a multi-core processor; AMD or Intel for video editing : if it is Intel, pick Intel i5, i7, and i9 models or AMD Ryzen 7/9, AMD Threadripper 3960X. Editing 4k or 8k videos is possible only through advanced processors like i7 or i9 or AMD Ryzen 7/9.
Graphics card: Though Graphics cards don't play a major role in the video editing process, some software demands a good graphics card to give its maximum efficiency. In this case, look for a minimum of 2GB memory, but software like After effects requires a high-end graphics card.
Storage: In general, SDD is more reliable than HDD. Also, SDD consumes less power, and data access is quick. On the other hand, HDDs require more power and time to start than SSD. So when looking for a storage part, choose SSD over HDD for video editing works. If needed, you can also add external hard drives.
Operating system: Video editing doesn't require a specific operating system. It works fine with Windows, Mac, or Linux but makes sure the software you use for video editing fits the OS.
CONCLUSION
These are the best processor for video editing and best CPU for video editing available in the market currently. You’ll notice that I have taken care of both the essential points that I mentioned earlier. Apart from those, I have also mentioned numerous other features like maximum frequency offered, memory, etc. These will undoubtedly help you make an informed decision.
I hope that you have found what you were looking for. Happy editing 🙂
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Does the CPU matter for video editing?
Yes, CPU matters a lot for video editing. This is because the video editing software through which you do the editing part relies on the CPU so as to transfer data quickly and handle multiple things simultaneously.
2. Is Intel or AMD better for editing?
The AMD processor has the upper hand in content creation because it has an increased number of cores and threads, which are feasible for a video editing processor. So if you want me to answer which is better than the other, definitely go for AMD over Intel in terms of video editing processes.
3. Which is more important for video editing GPU or CPU?
CPU is more important for video editing. But again, there is some video editing software that expects high-end graphic cards so that you can edit videos smoothly. However, most of the software works well with the processors alone and doesn't expect high-end graphics cards.
