10 Best CPU for Video Editing – Complete Guide 2024

If you’re building a computer for video editing, there are a few key elements you don’t need to compromise. The most important of these components is the processor. Most, if not all, of today’s video editing programs are heavily processor dependent. Sure, some support GPU acceleration, but it’s the CPU that takes most of the load.

This is the main reason why anyone who wants to build a computer for video editing should invest in a good processor. A processor with enough cores and threads, a good microarchitecture and a high clock speed is ideal for video editing. Therefore, in this article we have tested the top 10 processors for video editing.

Comparative table

What should I look for when buying the best video editing machine?

Not all processors are suitable for video editing, even the expensive ones. There are a few things that can be very useful in video editing that are worth investing in. It’s worth mentioning the cores, threads and lower processor clock frequency.

Many elements must be put together to create a good computer for video editing. Of course, the processor is one of the components, if not the most important. Let’s look at what’s really worthwhile and examine the role of the CPU and GPU in video editing.

Cores and wires

Nowadays, we recommend nothing less than a quad-core processor for video editing. Video editing software uses multiple cores and threads, and the performance of such software often adapts directly to more efficient processors with multiple cores. Examples of powerful video processing engines include the AMD Ryzen 9 3950X and Ryzen 9 3900X, or the Core Intel i9-9900K, with the 9900K having 8 cores and 16 threads, the 3900X having 12 cores and 24 threads, and the 3950X having a massive 16 cores and 32 processing threads. That doesn’t mean you can’t edit a video without it, but more hearts and more threads help. In Premiere Pro, for example, you will notice a rapid increase in performance when you increase the number of cores to 10. After that, there’s always an increase, but it’s not as obvious.

hourly rate

Another important aspect of processor performance is clock speed. However, it should be noted that the clock speed of the processor is only important if the processor has enough cores and threads and has an efficient microarchitecture. The higher the clock speed, the better the software performs. This means that processors with a higher clock speed generally perform better. For the examples of processors discussed above, the Ryzen 3950X and 3900X would be better choices, although their clock speeds are slightly lower because they have many more cores and threads than the 9900K. Another thing to note: when editing high resolution video like 4K, the benefit of a more powerful processor will be much more apparent.

CPU VS GPU for video editing

Which is more important for video editing, CPU or GPU? If you had asked this a few years ago, it would probably be a processor. And in general, it’s always a CPU, but a good GPU will help, especially if you’re using Premiere Pro. Adobe is making more and more use of the GPU in Premiere Pro, so a modern GPU would certainly be useful. Since video encoding is a very labor-intensive task, you should invest most of your money in the processor. However, if you use GPU-accelerated effects in your videos, keep in mind that z. B. Premiere Pro uses CUDA cores to make these effects much better. GPU-accelerated effects are often used in video editing, so it really depends on your specific workload. But eventually, you’ll want to spend more on the processor, because it will allow you to get the most out of video editing.

You might like it too: 10 CPUs at the best budget for the games in 2024

Best processors for video editing

Now that the buying advice has been eliminated, let’s take a look at some of the best video editing programs that money can buy today. They are all excellent, but have different strengths and are available at different prices. The choice of one or the other is entirely up to you.

AMD Ryzen 9 3950X

AMD’s latest offering is also the best and brightest, especially in video editing.

The AMD Ryzen 3950X costs a little more than the Intel Core i9-9900K and comes without a cooler. Normally that would be a breach of contract. However, the Ryzen 3950X has twice as many cores and filaments.

Yeah, you read it right. The Ryzen 3950X is equipped with 16 cores and 32 threads, twice as many as Intel’s Core i9-900K.

Of course, we’ve long known that the 3900X performs much better than the i9-9900K when it comes to core performance and themed threads when it comes to the amount of extra cores and threads.

For example in video editing.

Given that the 3950X has even more cores and threads, it’s safe to say that it will outperform the i9-9900K. All in all, the Ryzen 9 3950X is a powerful processor that is ideally suited for editing videos on the PC.

To:

  • Very quickly.
  • native PLCe generation 4.0
  • Amazing energy efficiency
  • Most motherboards are compatible

Delays:

  • A slightly higher price

Additional features :

  • Maximum magnification of 4.7 GHz
  • 1 Cache-1 MB
  • PCI Express Version-PCIe 4.0 x16
AMD Ryzen 9 3950X Specifications:
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 16 / 32
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.5 GHz / 4.7 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 73 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 105W
The process 7 nm

AMD Ryzen 9 3900XProcessor

Looking at the AMD Zen 2 series, the Ryzen 9 3900X is currently the best video editing processor. It is a high-frequency beast with many cores, capable of rendering videos very quickly, even at high resolution.

The number of cores and threads is impressive, at 12 and 24 respectively, scoring higher than Intel’s competition in this area. The base clock is quite high at 3.8 GHz, but when rendering, when a little more is needed, the maximum thrust is 4.6 GHz. This should be more than enough, but you can always overclock it since it’s an unlocked CPU.

As AMD promised with the first generation of Ryzen processors, the 3900X continues to use the AM4 socket. It is realized on the 7nm process, which is the latest and greatest and one of AMD’s biggest advantages over Intel. RAM is supported in dual-channel mode at 3200 MHz, and the processor is clocked at 105W.

All in all, if you need a high-end video editing machine, the Ryzen 9 3900X is definitely a powerful processor – it can handle anything you throw at it.

To:

  • Supports PCLe 4.0
  • Outperforms Intel
  • has 12 cores
  • It has 24 components

Delays:

  • Does not have built-in images
  • Slow game performance

Additional features :

  • Can deliver ultra-fast performance of over 100 FPS.
  • AMD Prism Wraith Cooler
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X Specifications
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 12 / 24
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.8 GHz / 4.6 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 64 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 105W
The process 7 nm

Intel 9. Generation i9-9900K Processor

Intel Core i9-9900K is Intel’s latest and greatest processor for non-HEDT platforms. It’s an excellent all-around processor for those who can afford it, and it pays attention to everything important to the processor.

For starters, it’s an eight-core monster. This is more than enough for video editing, especially considering the 3.6 GHz base frequency. If that’s not enough for your workload, or if you just want more, the i9-9900K can work up to 5 GHz, which is impressive. It offers excellent video editing performance.

It runs on the LGA 1151 socket with a 95W TDP. The STIM cooling material provides excellent heat transfer from the processor to the cooler, allowing you to overclock your processor comfortably. The integrated graphics card is the Intel UHD 630, and the processor supports Intel Optane memory. With up to 40 PCIe slots and 16MB of cache, this could be the best processor for video editing if price is not an issue.

To:

  • Implemented in single and dual flow workloads
  • 128GB storage capacity
  • More cores than previous CPUs

Delays:

  • Does not significantly improve game performance.
  • He doesn’t have a fridge.

Additional features :

  • Supports Intel Optane Memory
  • Only compatible with motherboards based on the Intel 300 chipset.
Intel Core i9-9900K Specifications
Architecture Coffee-Lake
Socket LGA 1151
Cores / Wires 8 / 16
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.6 GHz / 5 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 2666 MHz / 2
Cache 16 MB
Integrated Pictures Intel UHD 630
Release of the gearbox Yes
TDP 95W
The process 14 nm

AMD Ryzen 7 3800XProcessor

LED cooler While AMD’s Zen 2 version offers more powerful options, some video editors simply don’t need that power. If you don’t need a Ryzen 9 3900X with more cores, there is an excellent alternative that can also save you a few bucks: the Ryzen 7 3800X. It’s still a very powerful processor, but a bit cheaper.

For starters, you have a processor built on a FinFET 7nm TSMC and using AMD’s famous AM4 socket. It comes with a 105W TDP and an excellent AMD Wraith Prism cooler, but you’ll need something more powerful if you want to overclock it.

In terms of numbers, it’s an 8-core processor with 16 streams. This should be more than adequate for video editing, especially considering the operating frequencies. The base frequency is 3.9 GHz, which is higher than the Ryzen 9’s 3.8 GHz, but if you plan to push it well, it will easily reach 4.5 GHz with the turbo. Oh, and there’s always room for overclocking. RAM is supported in dual channel mode at 3200 MHz. If you want to make the best use of the processor, we recommend using fast RAM.

All in all, if you don’t need 12 cores, the Ryzen 7 3800X is definitely one of the best processors for video editing.

To:

  • PLC 4.0
  • Complete with cooler
  • Both single and multiple performance

Delays:

  • Minimum level of overclocking

Additional features :

  • 16 parts
  • High computing power
AMD Ryzen 7 3800X Specifications
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 8 / 16
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.9 GHz / 4.5 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 32 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 105W
The process 7 nm

AMD Ryzen 7 3700XProcessor

AMD has launched two models in the Ryzen 7 series performance lineup, and the 3700X is the lower of the two. Although it is lower, it is still one of the best processors for video editing, especially if you want to save a few bucks. This is the CPU you get when you buy a spare cooler, as it has a fairly high overclocking potential.

If you really need these fast render times (and the difference isn’t that great, to be honest), then it makes sense to use the 3700X instead of the 3800X. Both are manufactured using the 7nm FinFET process, both use the AM4 connector and both support dual channel memory at 3200MHz. Finally, they both have eight cores and sixteen threads, which is more than enough for video editing.

The main difference is that the 3700X comes with slightly lower frequencies. They have a base clock of 3.6 GHz and a maximum gain clock of 4.4 GHz. However, as mentioned, this can be easily corrected by overclocking. Oh, and then there’s the lower 65W PET scan.

Depending on how fast you need the rendering, you can choose the 3700X or its big brother. If you’re not in a hurry, you should save a few bucks. Or save them faster. You’ll need that too.

To:

  • Ideal for games
  • Fabrication method 7 nanometer
  • PCI Express 4 support
  • Low energy consumption

Delays:

Additional features :

  • More than 100 SPF performances
  • 3200 MHz DDR4 system memory
AMD Ryzen 7 3700X Specifications
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 8 / 16
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.6 GHz / 4.4 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 32 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 65W
The process 7 nm

Intel 9. Generation i7-9700K Processor

Before the advent of the i9 series, Intel’s i7 line was the flagship processor for non-HEDT users. With the introduction of the i9, the i7 is slightly less efficient and less expensive. However, the 9700K is still a workhorse when it comes to video editing.

First, it has eight cores and eight strands. The base frequency is 3.6 GHz, which is correct, and it is increased to 4.9 GHz, which is impressive. And that’s before you overclock. If you do video editing, that’s probably all you need, and the 9700K delivers impeccable performance.

It is manufactured using the 14nm process and runs on the LGA 1151 socket, with 12MB cover and 95W TDP. It’s not the fastest, nor the most powerful, but the i7-9700K is certainly more than most users need for video editing. If you don’t want to spend too much money but want good performance, you should check out this device.

To:

  • Unique high base performance
  • 3D graphic pencils
  • High frame rate

Delays:

  • Has no cooling system
  • Does not support hyperthreading

Additional features :

  • 64GB Memory
  • 41 GB/s memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7-9700K Specification:
Architecture Coffee-Lake
Socket LGA 1151
Cores / Wires 8 / 8
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.6 GHz / 4.9 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 2667 MHz / 2
Cache 12 MB
Integrated Pictures Intel UHD 630
Release of the gearbox Yes
TDP 95W
The process 14 nm

AMD Ryzen 5 3600XProcessor

Although it is one of the most popular Ryzen 5 models, the Ryzen 5 3600X is probably the best-selling processor of all AMD processors marketed under the Zen 2 architecture. Intel’s main competitors are the i7-8700K and the i7-9700K, and it is interesting to note that both of these perform better in some scenarios. The best? It is cheaper, which makes it a very attractive option.

Like all other models on the market, the Ryzen 5 3600X is built using TSMC’s 7nm FinFET process. Memory is supported in dual channel mode at 3200MHz, and as with all Ryzen chips, we recommend a fast memory if you want to enjoy it. The standard TDP is 95W, and you get a Wraith Spire Cooler in the box to get you started.

The Ryzen 5 3600X has slightly fewer cores than the Ryzen 7 models – it’s a six-core, twelve-thread configuration, which is still adequate for video editing. Frequencies are also very good: a base frequency of 3.8 GHz and a maximum turbo boost of 4.4 GHz should keep you happy when cleaning the timeline or rendering. All in all it’s a good compromise between price and performance, give it a try.

To:

  • Improves game performance
  • Can support AM4 motherboards
  • Grand Prix

Delays:

  • Does not have built-in images
  • Poor acceleration

Additional features :

  • DDR 3200 support
  • The AM4 platform can support PCIe 4 0 on x570 motherboards.
AMD Ryzen 5 3600X Specifications:
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 6 / 12
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.8 GHz / 4.4 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 32 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 95W
The process 7 nm

AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Processor

The Ryzen 5 3600 is a slightly weaker brother to the 3600X – as are the 3700X and 3800X. And just like Ryzen 7, the fact that it’s a weaker model doesn’t make it bad. On the contrary, it makes it ideal for people who want to save some money. Let’s take a look at the specs and see why this is one of the best video editors in the Zen 2 range.

For starters, the Ryzen 5 3600 comes with six cores and 12 strands. The clock frequency is slightly lower than that of the more powerful variant – here the base frequency is 3.6 GHz, while the turbocharger switches to 4.4 GHz. However, except under a very heavy load, it’s nothing you’ll notice. There is also dual-channel memory support at 3200 MHz.

Like the other models in the Zen 2 series, the Ryzen 5 3600 uses the AMD AM4 plug and is manufactured on a 7nm FinFET TSMC. It has a very reasonable TDP of 65W, and there’s plenty of room for overclocking, so if the frequencies aren’t enough for you, you can raise them a bit. The included Wraith Stealth cooler will get you pretty far in that regard, but a liquid cooler would definitely be better.

To:

  • Supports AM4 motherboards
  • Affordable
  • High quality and durability

Delays:

  • Slowly
  • No integrated graphics

Additional features :

  • Wraith Stealth Max cooler. Temperature 95°C
AMD Ryzen 5 3600 Specifications:
Architecture Zen 2
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 6 / 12
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.6 GHz / 4.2 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 3200 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 32 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 65W
The process 7 nm

Intel Core i5-9600K

To be fair, Intel has been catching up over the past few years. While their more expensive models often do better when it comes to two processors for the same price, AMD usually comes out on top. With Intel’s 9th generation processors. That changed a bit with the 3rd generation, and the i5-9600K is part of that generation. If you want to go the Intel way, this is probably one of the best processors for video editing, as it covers all needs and costs much less than the i7 and i9 of the same generation.

To begin with, this is a six-wire, six-wire configuration. It has to be more than just video editing. In addition, there is a base frequency of 3.7 GHz, which can be increased to 4.6 GHz if necessary. They have a 9 MB SmartCache and a 95 W TDP. Unfortunately, although it’s an unlocked processor, it doesn’t come with a cooler, which adds extra cost.

Based on Intel’s 14nm process, the processor supports up to 128GB of memory – ideal for video editing, and it’s dual-channel. This is complemented by the UHD 630 graphics card, which is not exceptional, but can do its job. All in all, it’s a good option if you want to switch to Intel.

To:

  • Good multitasking skills
  • Has integrated graphics
  • High acceleration capacity

Delays:

Additional features :

  • Only compatible with motherboards based on the Intel 300 chipset.
  • Intel UHD 630 Graphics
Intel Core i5-9600K Specification:
Architecture Coffee-Lake
Socket LGA1151
Cores / Wires 6 / 6
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.7 GHz / 4.6 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 2666 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 9 MB
Integrated Pictures Intel UHD 630
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 95W
The process 14 nm

AND LIGHTNING FAST 5 2600

In almost two years since its launch, the value of 5,2600 Rysen dramas has increased only slightly.

Now that prices have dropped significantly to make room for future offerings from AMD, the 2600 can be purchased for just over $100 these days.

For video publishers, a budget is a godsend.

With 6 main and 12 streams and a 4.1 GHz clock, the 2600 has many valuable features for video editing. Plus, with the money you save, you can buy a better graphics card, faster memory and/or more RAM, which can significantly improve your video editing system.

Finally, there’s the fact that the 2,600 overclock…

This may take some time, but a stable overclock of 4.0 GHz on all cores (from 3.4 GHz) is no tunnel. If you’re lucky enough to push the 2600 even further to get a huge performance boost without sacrificing stability, you may need to invest in a better CPU cooler than the one included here to achieve this.

Overall, the 2600 is currently the best budget processor for video editing.

To:

  • Phenomenal overall performance
  • Radiant cooler
  • Works well in multi-threaded applications.

Delays:

  • Limited overclocking capacity
  • Average gaming performance

Additional features :

  • RAM system type DDR4_sdram
AMD Ryzen 5 2600 Specifications:
Architecture Zen +
Socket AM4
Cores / Wires 6 / 12
Basic frequency / increased frequency 3.4 GHz / 3.9 GHz
Memory Speed / Controller 2933 MHz / Two-channel
Cache 19 MB
Integrated Pictures No
Unlocked multiplier Yes
TDP 65W
The process 12nm

Completion

Now that you’ve reviewed the top ten video editing programs, you can decide which one best suits your needs. But what is the best processor for video editing? It’s up to you, as everyone has their own minimum functionality requirements. Remember, take what you really need and be pragmatic about what is not needed. The more features there are, the higher the power consumption – so it’s not always more fun when it comes to computer processors.

The above mentioned companies are market leaders in the field of video editing. In this review, we have found the right processor for you, so you can finally end the tedious search.

Read related article: Top 10 processors for streaming on Twitch, YouTube, Mixer and more….

The best processors for video editing FAQs

We will clear up any confusion and read some frequently asked questions about the video editing programs below. Computer assembly, base frequency, turbocharging and multithreading are just some of the terms used in relation to computer processors, and it can be quite difficult to understand what to look for.

We hope the following questions and answers will help you answer the rest.

Q : What is the best processor for 4K video editing?

A : Intel Core i7 processors are the best for 4K video editing. The Intel Core i9 9900K is also ideal for video editing because it is a very powerful processor.

Q : Is the processor important for video editing?

A : The processor you choose is very important if you want to use it for video editing. The processor for video editing should be fast and powerful to perform the tasks efficiently.

F : How many processor cores do I need for video editing?

A :  A quad-core processor is the bare minimum you should get for video editing.

Q : How much RAM do I need to edit a 4K video?

A : 4K video editing requires at least 16 GB of RAM.

Q : Is Intel or AMD better for video editing?

A : Intel is the most popular choice and is therefore considered the best choice for editing by most video publishers.

F : Is the processor important for video editing?

A : Your computer’s processor is extremely important for video editing, as it is responsible for executing commands. All instructions in your computer are first processed by the processor.

Q : How many processors do I need for video editing?

A : The best processor for editing has about 16 GB of RAM and is a multi-core processor.

Sources:

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