Best CPUs For Video Editing – 2023 Review

Austin
| Last Updated: February 28, 2023

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Just like your heart is essential for the working of your body, a CPU is essential for the proper functioning of your whole system. Since so much of our work needs to be done on our system, it can be quite overwhelming to find the best CPU for your workstation.

To help you out, we have done all the research for you and have jotted down the essential points that will aid you in your decision. 

Comparison of the Best CPUs For Video Editing

IMAGEPRODUCT
  • Comes with Intel turbo and boost maximum technology
  • Can support the Intel Optane memory system
  • Features the Intel UHD graphics 630
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  • It comes with updates with 2nd Gen Ryzen technology and related advancements
  • Has 16 cores and 32 processing threads
  • Comes with a smart maximum boost frequency
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  • Gives you a 3 months pass of Xbox gaming
  • Comes with 6 cores and 12 threads
  • Best budget CPU for video editing
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  • Best CPU for gaming and video editing
  • Can successfully deliver an ultra-fast FPS performance
  • Comes with 12 cores and 24 processing threads
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  • Comes with 8 cores and 8 threads for optimal functioning
  • Supports 3.6GHz till 4.90 GHz of memory
  • Best Intel CPU for video editing
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  • Accommodates delivery of ultra-fast FPS performance
  • Comes with 12 cores and 24 threads for processing
  • Best CPU for 4k video editing
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What Are the Components of a CPU

Many people understand the worth of a CPU, but they don’t understand what a CPU is and why it is considered to be the most important part of the system. Here is a brief description of all the important components of a CPU system.

Memory or Storage Unit

As the name suggests, this unit is essential for storing your information, data, and other significant results. It also supplies you with various information and helps enhance communication between different components of the system. It is also known as the internal storage unit or the random access memory.

The size of your RAM will have a direct impact on the power, speed, affect, and capability of your CPU. Your CPU is home to 2 main types of memory systems, which are primary storage and random access memory.

Control Unit

This unit is also extremely important as it controls all the operations that happen in your computer, but it doesn’t actually carry out any processing operations directly. The main functions of this unit include controlling and transfer of all the instructions and data that are part of the computer. Moreover, it coordinates and manages all the different components of your computer. Lastly, it also obtains all the instructions from your memory, interprets them, and directs them at the computer.

ALU (Arithmetic Logic Unit)

This unit deals with 2 important sections, which are mainly the logic section and the arithmetic section. The logic section deals with the logical part of the computer that is involved in functions like selecting, comparing, merging, and matching of the data, whereas the latter deals with arithmetic functions. These include functions like addition subtraction, multiplication, and division.

Can Any CPU Be Used For Video Editing

The answer to this is more complex than you think, but we will make it easier for your understanding. In order to edit your videos, you need a CPU that comes with a dual-core or a slightly better desktop, at least. Any CPU from this past decade will have that feature and hence can be used for editing purposes. Moreover, the bigger you go when it comes to CPUs, the better your performance will be. In order to achieve a 1080p resolution for video editing, we recommend a CPU from our list.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-core

Characteristics of Our Favorite CPUs For Video Editing

With so many options in the market, we understand how hard it must be for you to pick one product. To help you out, we will be highlighting the main characteristics of your CPU for video editing. 

More Cores and Threads

There are many CPUs that are not good for video editing, and one way to identify them is via the number of cores and threads that they have. For video editing, you need software that makes use of multiple cores and threads. This not only enhances your performance but also makes it easier for you to edit complex videos. When you increase the number of cores, you will gradually see a difference in processing.

Higher Clock Speed

This also plays a very important part of video editing. The higher the clock rate, the better your experience will be. But that’s not all. In order to make use of this feature, you need first to ensure that your CPU already has a higher number of cores and threads to help you out. Moreover, as you will increase the clock speed, you will see a significant difference in the way you edit your videos.

Higher Cache

Cache is a word that is highly misunderstood in regards to video editing. The CPU comes with an onboard cache that not only improves the speed of your data but also makes your work faster. The cache also stores the necessary data that the CPU needs. Whenever any information is not stored in the cache, the CPU has to go to additional lengths to bring instructions from the RAM.

Review of the Best CPUs For Video Editing

In a market where shops are flooded with cheap quality products, it can be hard to choose a good CPU, but don’t worry, as we have shortlisted the best CPUs for you to consider. Each one comes with some special features to help you out.

Best Overall:
Intel Core i9-9900K

PROS

  • Can support up to 3.60 GHz up to 5.00 GHz
  • Comes with overclockable and unlocking technology
  • Comes with 8 cores and 16 threads for more diversity
  • Works really well with performance level entry games
  • Allows for multitasking such as streaming, gaming, and recording

CONS

  • Number of cores is only the bare minimum
  • Relatively higher price than most other models
  • It is compatible with motherboards that only fall in the Intel 300 series chipsets

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers are extremely happy with this product and have left reviews that have compelled us to name it as the best overall product. It comes with an Intel boost technology that not only makes your work easier but also allows you to complete tasks in lesser time. Fans have also praised its overclocking features that allow them to make edits in the best way possible.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The best feature of this model is its higher RAM memory. The memory range is between 3.60 GHz and 5.00 GHz, which is amazing because it allows the users to process their tasks in lesser time. Moreover, it allows you to multitask, meaning that you can stream, record, and make edits all at the same time without facing slow network issues.

Who Will Use This Most

The product is one of the best ones for video editing. Its good amount of threads, as well as higher RAM memory, makes tasks easier. Moreover, the CPU can also be used for entry-level gaming and productivity apps. Its suitable store cache makes it good for multitasking as well. 

Bottom Line

With a good overclocking technology and a higher RAM memory, this CPU is already making its mark in the industry and a very strong one too. It works really well with most apps and helps you make edits in lesser time. Moreover, its higher memory makes it able to work with complex data without much effort. Hence it is due to all these features that the product is known as the best overall.

Runner-up:
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X

PROS

  • Ensures frame rendering for the final time
  • Comes with a higher number of cores and threads
  • The high bandwidth is achieved by the desktop processor
  • Allows you to experience virtual environments at a scale level
  • It can be easily overclocked by the new boost overdrive system

CONS

  • Cooler is not included in the system
  • Cache is slightly less than some other models
  • Operating system can vastly vary via manufacture

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers are thrilled with the inclusion of this product in the market. Features like easy overclocking and a manageable overdrive system make the CPU a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their video editing. 

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The product stands out to us because of its amazing chipset and higher compatibility. It is created for editors and gamers alike. And the higher number of expandable slots makes it worth your money. Moreover, the quad-channel DDR4 is also available that allows for greater support as well as easy unlocking and overclocking.

Who Will Use This Most 

The model is leading its way and becoming one of the most sought out products for virtual production, storytelling, and video editing. Its fast processing enables you to get the best experience at scale and to complete tasks in a much smaller way. Moreover, it’s suitable for making advanced upgrades and edits to your videos.

Bottom Line

The product is considered to be a true game-changer in the industry and for all the right reasons. It comes with one of the highest numbers of cores and threads that make processing easier. Moreover, it is updated with the latest technologies and related advancements that make it our runner-up product, that too with a huge margin.

Best Budget CPU for Video Editing:
AMD Ryzen 5 2600X

PROS

  • Comes with a wraith spire cooler
  • Comes capable with silent operation
  • Has a higher cache than most other models
  • Is bolstered by the thermal hardware system
  • Frequency is relatively higher than some other models

CONS

  • Lesser number of cores and threads
  • Requires a socket AM4 motherboard 
  • Video editing might take longer than other models

What Recent Buyers Report

In order to judge a model’s fame, it is important to take the recent buyer’s opinions into consideration. And the AMD has completely impressed the buyers due to its cost-effectiveness and a higher frequency. The model comes with silent operation and is bolstered with complete thermal hardware, something that really sits well with most consumers.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The product stands out to us due to the inclusion of perfect thermal hardware. This is important because the issue with most CPUs is that they get hot too quickly, and there isn’t a good system to radiate the heat, but that is certainly not the case with the AMD. The coolers are nicely packaged with good existing processors, that too, with lesser price.

Who Will Use This Most

The Ryzen is best for people interested in gaming and video editing, but more importantly, it is considered to be the perfect CPU for people shopping on a budget. The higher cache makes the users perform editing in a much better way by shifting the data directly from the cache rather than through RAM.

Bottom Line

With higher cache and silent operation, this product is definitely one of the best ones in the market. It is bolstered with thermal hardware, which is a property that not many models have. Its unique wraith spiral cooler coupled with hardware enables you to complete the task in much lesser time. Moreover, the higher frequency is another plus point.

Best CPU for Gaming and Video Editing:
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

PROS

  • Higher game cache of 70MB
  • Cooler control of LED is also supported
  • Comes with DDR 3200 complete support
  • It is totally unlocked for overclocking purposes
  • Comes bundled with the AMD wraith prism and a joint cooler

CONS

  • Lesser compatibility with some other models
  • Warranty does not cover damage caused by overclocking
  • The precision boost overdrive requires AMD Ryzen threadripper

What Recent Buyers Report

The 7-nanometer technology of the model has won hearts and not just of recent buyers but consumers all over. The CPU provides users with a cool and quiet environment that offers efficiency with comfort. Moreover, the higher number of processing threads makes it a good investment for buyers looking to multitask with their CPUs.

Why it Stands Out to Us

The Ryzen 9 3900X definitely provides fast access and processing, but that is certainly not the only reason it stands out to us. The processor comes with 4.0 PCL slots that not only deliver higher bandwidth, but its amazing graphics enable you to make use of that higher bandwidth. Moreover, the higher cache also aids in your work.

Who Will Use This Most

The CPU is primarily used for video editing, but that’s not the only use for the model. It comes with brilliant LED control and is color-coded to bring the best experience for all users. Moreover, when it comes to gaming, the CPU provides a much higher cache that enables you to make use of time and extra space. 

Bottom Line

The product is known to have blurred the line between content creation, elite gaming, and editing performance. It comes with some of the most advanced features that make it worth your money. The unlocking and overclocking process, coupled with a higher cache, makes it the best CPU for video editing and gaming.

Best Intel CPU for Video Editing:
Intel Core i7-9700K

PROS

  • It is built with solder thermal interface material
  • Can effectively support the Intel UHD graphics 630
  • Can cater to the high-end and professional demands
  • Can effectively manage the excess heat accumulation
  • Allows for simultaneously recording streaming and gaming

CONS

  • Cooling device is not included in the package
  • It is compatible with only the Intel 300 chipsets
  • Lower combined cache than some other models

What Recent Buyers Report

Recent buyers are all praise for this amazing product. They really like the higher RAM memory that comes included with the package. This higher Optane memory allows them not only to store more data but also work effectively with more data. Moreover, the product comes with 8 cores and 8 threads that are essential for video editing.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The model stands out to us because of its solder thermal hardware. This is because the feature prevents the model from getting too hot, thus hindering tasks. Moreover, this feature also manages heat dissipation well and makes the CPU independent and disregards the need for a spare cooler for better efficiency.

Who Will Use This Most

The Intel Core i7-9700K can cater to all professional users by providing them the best experience possible. Moreover, it allows multitasking and thus enables users to play, stream, and record all at the same time without facing any delays. Not just that, the product is well equipped with a good overclocking system that provides you with all the necessary tools for effective gaming.

Bottom Line

Most products come with one good feature and compromise on several others, but that is certainly not the case with this brilliant CPU. The model brings you one of the best graphics cards that is essential for making complex edits to your videos. Moreover, the model can cater to the demands of amateurs as well as professionals, thus adding to its appeal.

Best CPU for 4k Video Editing:
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X 12-core

PROS

  • Is unlocked for overclocking
  • Can support a range of motherboards
  • Color controlled and allows for LED support
  • Comes with a bundle of AMD wraith prism cooler
  • Has a higher combined cache than most other models

CONS

  • Not suitable with older chipsets
  • Expensive than most other models
  • Warranty does not cover the costs due to overclocking

What Recent Buyers Report

If you need to assess a product’s worth, all you need to do is read about the recent buyer’s opinion about the product. And the product in question has successfully garnered a lot of praise from recent buyers who have given the product amazing reviews. It is due to all these reasons that the product has been chosen as the best one for 4k video editing.

Why it Stands Out to Us 

The product stands out to us because of its higher cache and a good number of threads and cores that make tasks much easier. The former feature allows you to stay independent of RAM memory for most of your tasks, whereas the latter enables you to complete tasks in lesser time. Moreover, a higher number of cores makes processing much easier.

Who Will Use This Most

The product, as the name suggests, is considered the best one for 4k editing. This means that it is a suitable model for anyone looking to edit complex and large-sized videos. Moreover, the higher 70MB cache memory helps boost your gaming experience and provide you with greater comfort and ease.

Bottom Line

With a fast processor, a higher number of PCle slots, and a great graphics card, the Ryzen CPU is already revolutionizing the way people make and edit videos. The greater number of cores and threads combined with higher RAM memory and cache data make it a very desirable model that can be used by anyone looking to upgrade their editing experience.

Benefits of Investing in a Quality CPU

We have all heard multiple times how important it is to have a good CPU, but why exactly is it important? Investing in a quality CPU will bring you a lot of benefits. Here is a brief overview of some of them.

Diversity in Editing

When you are an editor, you don’t want to follow the norms. You want to go beyond and try new things. This knack for innovation can only be catered by a good quality CPU. A good CPU will not only allow you the normal and basic editing, but it will also display the 3D graphics that allow for a professional editing experience. It will also allow for higher resolution videos.

Faster and Better Processing

This is catered by the higher number of cores and threads that come with a CPU. If you are a professional editor and need to edit heavy files with high resolution, then you definitely need to buy a CPU with at least 10 cores. The higher the number, the faster would be your processing. Moreover, it will take lesser time for you to complete your task with the help of a good CPU.

Better Quality of Videos

The above factors, along with higher RAM storage, will help achieve this next benefit. When you are an editor, you want only the best results out of your videos, and that is exactly what a CPU ensures. When you have to edit a high-resolution video, you want at least 8 GB memory. Moreover, for 4k resolution, a quality CPU with 16 GB RAM would be better.

More Heat Moderation

Every CPU owner needs how important heat regulation is. The latest CPUs come with thermal regulation features that ensure that your processor doesn’t get too hot. This ensures that your work is done on time and without any unnecessary delays.

Conclusion

By the time you are done reading this, we are sure that you have already made a decision. If you are still scared, fret no more, since all the above information is enough to help you make an informed decision. Now you know which processor you want to buy and how it will help cater to your needs.

Make the right choice and completely revolutionize the way you edit your videos.

People Also Ask

CPUs are complex units, and no matter how much you read about them, you always end up having some questions in mind. Here are some of the most recurrent questions asked by potential customers. We have tried our best to answer them honestly.

How Many Cores Do You Need For Video Editing?

Video editing is not that hard as it is made to be. In order to make simple video edits, you need to have a CPU with at least a quad-core. Moreover, the minimum number of cores that you require for non-interruptive functioning would be 10. If you want to indulge in professional-level editing, then you obviously need more cores and threads.

Is i5 Enough For Video Editing?

Having too much power for video editing is a myth because you can never have too much. The Intel i5 provides you with a substantial amount of power that is enough and even more for video editing. Moreover, the processor alone doesn’t handle editing; it gets help from RAM and other surrounding options.

How Many GHz Do I Need For Video Editing?

The amount of RAM you have will greatly affect your video editing; however, the exact number of GHz cannot be established as the higher the RAM, the better the functioning. But if we estimate correctly, we would require more than 3.0 GHz for video editing.

What Specs Do I Need to Edit a 4K Video?

When it comes to video editing, it is not as hard as you think. The basic specs that one needs for good video edits include a CPU processor, a RAM memory storage, and hard drive storage. Moreover, you will also require a graphics card along with your LCD monitor.

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Austin

When the tech company I worked for restructured and I ended up jobless, I decided to put the wealth of knowledge and management skills to use somewhere new. I’d checked out a few buyer’s guides on the site in the past and reached out to the previous owner. A few months later, here we are. Now, I get to be behind the scenes, helping people find the best tech.