We all are well aware of the importance of a central processing unit (CPU) in a computer. With modern technology, it is not necessary to buy a computer with standard specifications. We can get a custom-made computer with the specifications we need for our particular job.
Video editing is one example. We need a set of particular specification that’s going to help us complete our editing job. CPU is the most important in this regard. Finding the right CPU is going to help in a big way so its selection is also a critical process.
Latest technology providers like INTEL and AMD provide us with great processor options. Intel core X-10000 series and AMD thread ripper 3rd Gen processor are two of the latest processors launched. Here we are giving you a list of processors with a detailed review of each one to help you choose one for your need in video processing.
- AMD Ryzen 7 3800X 8-Core
- Intel Core i7- 9700K Desktop Processor 8 Cores
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600X 6- Core
- Intel Core i5-9600K
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core
- AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
- Intel Core i9-9900K
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Processors
- Intel Core i5-9400F
- AMD Ryzen 9 3950X
Table of Contents
1. AMD Ryzen 7 3800X 8-Core
It’s very important that you find a processor for your particular needs for video editing as spending extra money on a higher-grade processor will just be a waste.
AMD Ryzen 7 3800X is not the most advanced processor like Ryzen 9 3900X, but yet it is good enough to carry out some level of video editing work. It is on the cheaper side as far as its cost is concerned.
It is still a powerful processor as it is made on TSMC 7nm FinFET process as it uses AMD’s well-known AM4 socket. It comes with a 105W TDP and AMD’s best Wraith Prism cooler and if u tend to overclock it you will have to go for the more powerful processor.
It is an 8-core 16 thread CPU that can help you enough for video editing considering the running frequencies. It has a higher frequency of 3.9GHz as compared to Ryzen 9’s 3.8GHz. With turbo boost, you can easily push it to the frequency of 4.5GHz.
There is always an option of up-gradation with 3200MHz dual-channel memory support. Fast memory is the recommended way to fully use the ability of this processor. If your video editing is best supported by 8-cores this Ryzen 7 3800X is your best choice.
Additional Features
- 16 threads
- Advanced processing power
AMD RYZEN 7 3800X Specs
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 8/16 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.9GHz/ 4.5GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 32MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 105W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: 10 Gaming Gloves
2. Intel Core i7- 9700K Desktop Processor 8 Cores
Intel Core i7 is a great processor for your video editing. Intel 8 core processor is extremely quick and fast in the calculation and delivers 3.60 GHz to 4.90 GHz. It has both eight cores and threads.
Non-HEDT uses preferred this i7 CPU line-up. I7 is lower in price and performance in comparison to i9 as it was an updated version. When you are editing your videos this i7-9700 processor gives you great performance.
LGA 1151 socket and 14nm process with 12MB cache and 95W TDP gives you great specs that will make your video editing smooth and work flawlessly. It’s more than enough for most video editors. The best feature is that it’s a low-cost processor with great power.
Additional features
- 64 GB Memory
- 41GB/s Memory Bandwidth
Intel Core i7-9700 specifications
| Architecture | Coffee Lake |
| Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Cores/ Threads | 8/8 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.6GHz/ 4.9GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | 2 |
| Cache | 12MB |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD 630 |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 95W |
| Process | 14nm |
Read More: Powerful Graphics Card Under $150
3. AMD Ryzen 5 3600X 6- Core
This is one of the best seller CPU’s in the market by renowned Ryzen brand. It is from 5 series. This processor is giving great competition to Intel i7-8700K and i7-9700K and is even better in some features.
With the FinFET process, TSMC of 7nm this processor generates great results. Dual-channel Memory support at 3200 MHz with the addition of fast Memory this processor is unbeatable.
TDP of 95W is a built-in feature of this processor and you get a wraith spire cooler inside the box that makes it work for long hours. Ryzen 5 3600X is a six-core twelve thread configuration that is a great feature for video editing.
The frequency range is also a great advantage. The base frequency of 3.8GHz and a maximum turbo boost of 4.4 GHz gives us a great experience going through timeline or rendering. All features considered it is a great processor price and quality-wise.
Additional Features
- DDR 3200 Support
- AM4 Platform Can Support PCIe 4 0 on ×570 Motherboard
AMD5 Ryzen 5 3600X Specifications
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 6/12 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.8GHz/ 4.4GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 32MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 95W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Best Gaming PC Under $1500
4. Intel Core i5-9600K
The competition of AMD and Intel is heating up for the last couple of years. Intel is highly-priced that’s why AMD with the same features takes an edge.
Intel 9th generation though has changed this trend. This is one of the best processors introduced by Intel for video editing as it covers both price and necessity points of view.
It is a six-core six-thread processor. This is more than enough for video editing. With a frequency base range of 3.7 GHz to 4.6 GHz, it covers all the necessary requirements.
You get a 9MB smart cache and a 95W TDP. The issue with this processor is that it doesn’t come with a cooler and is an additional expense.
Intel 14nm process CPU gives maximum support of 128GB RAM that is a great feature for video editing. It’s a dual-channel Memory. It has a built-in Graphics card with a UHD of 630 that creates enough power to easily do video editing job.
Additional features
- Intel 630 UHD Graphics
- Intel 300sSeries Chipset compatible motherboard
Intel Core i5 9600K Specifications
| Architecture | Coffee Lake |
| Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Cores/ Threads | 6/6 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.7GHz/ 4.6GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 9MB |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD 630 |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 95W |
| Process | 14nm |
Read More: Best CPU for Music Production
5. AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 8-Core
AMD launched two processors for their 7 series sets and 3700X in our opinion is a little less efficient than the other. It has a great Overclocking potential that still makes it good for video editing. Plus its price is on the cheaper side so it adds great value.
There is a nominal difference between 3700X and 3800X. As 3700X is a little slow but still very efficient. The similarities in both are the 7nm FinFET process, AM4 socket, and dual-channel Memory support at 3200 MHz
Both processors include eight-core and sixteen threads that support video editing perfectly. 3700X has a lesser frequency range. It ranges from a base clock of 3.6GHz to a maximum clock boost of 4.4GHz. Overclocking can easily cope up with this issue. The TDP is 65W
It saves you some money but you can put that to good use by having fast Memory. The least power Consumption is a great feature that adds value.
Additional Features
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 8/16 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.6GHz/ 4.4GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 32MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 65W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Best Motherboard For i5 9600k
6. AMD Ryzen 9 3900X
It is the finest processor in the market from AMD Zen 2 series. It gives you high frequency, high core count, and the highest speed in editing videos.
The number of cores is 12 threads is 24. It is giving a hard competition to Intel here. The base clock is on the high side 3.8GHz but with the boast of 4.6GHz, you get the finest result during editing your videos.
The standard AM4 sockets are first-generation Ryzen processors trademark. 7nm process is the core advanced feature that is always giving AMD an upper hand on Intel. 3200MHz of dual-channel Memory support and CPU specifications of 105W TDP.
The Conclusion here is it is one of the best processors in the market for editing videos on a professional level. It can handle EVERYTHING.
Additional features
- Ultra-fast FPS performance 100+
- Wraith Prism cooler
AMD Ryzen 9 3900X Specifications
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 12/24 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.8GHz/ 4.6GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 64MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 105W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Atx Mid Tower vs Full Tower
7. Intel Core i9-9900K
Here Intel brings a processor core i9-9900K that’s going to give you great support in your video editing assignment. The clock speed range from 3.60GHz to 5.0GHz. This gives you a great chance of performing multiple operations and complex calculations at one time
No compromise on performance is assured by this beast of a system as it is 9th generation Intel with 8-Core architecture and 16 thread.
It is built with STIM (Solar Thermal Interface Material) that ensures that heat is transferred to external coolers with extreme efficiency. It doesn’t come with cooling equipment. It prevents the system from getting overheated as overclockers push the system really hard. Thermal design power is 95W.
Intel i9 core processor supports all types of video editing software so it provides maximum results. It helps you edit videos with accuracy, efficiency, and the least time consumption. Multi-tasking ability enhances the experience of Intel i9.
Intel has HD Graphics and visual control. It delivers videos with color accuracy and the best visual effect. The presence of visual effects, transitions, and slides helps to provide us un-disrupted videos. Only Intel motherboards with 300 series chipsets are compatible with this processor.
Additional features:
- Compatibility with motherboards based on Intel 300 series.
- Intel Optane Memory Supported
Intel Core i9-9900K Specifications
| Architecture | Coffee Lake |
| Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Cores/ Threads | 8/16 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.6GHz/ 5GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | 2 |
| Cache | 16MB |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD 630 |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 95W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Mouse For Photo And Video Editing
8. AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Processors
Though it is released more than two years ago AMD Ryzen 5 2600X processor’s value is enhanced in the market. The price drop by the company has been a successful decision. It is a steal deal for sure for video editors.
It has 6 cores and 12 threads that make it an efficient processor. With a 4.1 GHz boost clock, it gives you that speed and control you need to do edit work. The additional memory or Graphics card and faster storage will help you with video editing work. 2600X processor is undoubtedly overclocked able.
A 4.0 GHz overclock from 3.4 GHz is close to impossible but 2600 can be pushed even further. It does not compromise on stability or performance in any way. Its CPU cooler needs to be upgraded as the one in the package is a little less efficient. It is undoubtedly the best-budgeted processor for video editing.
Additional features
- DDR4 RAM type
AMD Ryzen 5 2600X Specification
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 6/12 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.4GHz/ 3.9GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 19MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 65W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Best SSD For Video Editing
9. Intel Core i5-9400F
Intel is been trying hard to improve their processor so that they can be competitive in the market as well as take a win on AMD Ryzen processors. Cost efficiency is one of the major issues as they provide cheaper processors.
But with core i5 they introduced a processor that is cheaper than i7 and i9 but still provides you great working abilities for video editing. It has all the tools to help you complete your video editing perfectly and quickly.
It is a 6 cores processor with 6 threads on each core that aggregates to 12 threads. This best feature helps fast video editing as it enhances performance and allows your computer to perform multiple functions at a time.
The base frequency of 2.9 GHz which can elevate up to 4.1 GHz. This means that if we have a workload and we want to actively perform functions simultaneously we can fulfill this task easily. The smart cache is 9Mb and 65W TDP. This is an unlocked CPU so the cooler is not included and if you want you can buy it separately.
The CPU is a 14nm processor that can support up to 128 GB of RAM. These features come in handy for video editing and it is also a dual-channel Memory support system. It is only compatible with the Intel 300 series motherboards.
GPU is discrete but no integrated Graphics support. Memory Bandwidth goes max to 41.6 GB/s. It has 2 memory channels. All in all the specifications are good for video editing processes.
Additional features
- Compatible with Intel 300 series motherboards
- Intel optane Memory support
Intel Core i5- 9400F Specifications
| Architecture | Coffee Lake |
| Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Cores/ Threads | 6/6 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 2.9 GHz/ 4.1 GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200GHz | 2 |
| Cache | 9MB |
| Integrated Graphics | None |
| Unlocked Multiplier | Yes |
| TDP | 65W |
| Process | 7nm |
Read More: Best Keyboards For Programming
10. AMD Ryzen 9 3950X
AMD Ryzen 9 3950X stands high ground in processor manufacturing and Graphic cards. AMD Ryzen 9 3950X is a 12 core processor that delivers 100 FPS. That is great for heavy gameplay and video editing.
It has 16 core architecture with 2 threads per core counting to 32 threads. This is a great count for quantum counting, data analysis, gaming, and video editing. CPU has a minimum clock speed of 3.5 and a max clock speed of 4.7GHz that means the calculations are quicker and applications are running much faster.
LED supported elegant cooling system is included that keeps heat build-up to a minimum and intensive tasks are completed without interruption. AMD processors control everything.
When all such great features are included the price range mounts high that is a very natural thing as it’s giving you all high-class specifications that are going to out-perform your task so if you are just looking for simple and lightweight processors this is not a good pick for you.
This processor is for professionals.
Additional Features
- 1 Mb cache
- PCIe Express version
AMD Ryzen 9 3950X Specifications
| Architecture | Zen 2 |
| Socket | AM4 |
| Cores/ Threads | 16/32 |
| Base Frequency/ Boost Frequency | 3.5 GHz/ 4.7GHz |
| Memory Speed / Controller 3200 GHz | Dual-Channel |
| Cache | 73MB |
Read More: Best Mouse For Fortnight
Things to Consider While Buying CPU for Video Editing
Buying a CPU for video editing is not a simple process to do, you need to check many components and combine them correctly to get a perfect computer to work on video editing. CPU is one of the most important parts of the computer for video editing.
We will give you a detailed list of the thing you need to consider while buying a computer for video editing.
Cores & Threads
These days multiple cores are most popular and work efficiently in a processor. A single core means that you have one pipeline to transfer data to the processor, so more cores mean more efficient supply to the processor as they divide the data and supply them more swiftly.
Breaking up physical cores to increase performance into vital cores called threads. While working on HD video or 4K you need a more efficient data supply to help your processor to perform well?
Most CPUs have 8 or even 12 cores with double threads make you video editing easy for you. Normally four cores are best for an editing job and anything more than that will be extra and more burden on the pocket so choose wisely the right amount of cores and threads.
Random Access Memory (RAM)
Another important factor of the CPU is RAM. In order to manage heavy video editing software, Random Access Memory is the most essential part of the CPU.
Most of the computers have 2 or 4GB Ram which is more than enough for normal usage but if you want to do video editing of HD and 4K video then you need a minimum of 8 to 16GB to work smoothly.
Most professional video editing software utilizes too much memory to run efficiently so with a Quad-core or octa-core processor you need heavy RAM to get the job done.
Hard Drive
While working on HD videos and big video editing software you need a big space for storage. Most computers have a 500GB hard drive which is enough for routine work but in the case of video editing, this capacity is not enough.
So if you want to safe high definition Video you need a big space for it that’s why a minimum requirement to do video editing is 2TB.
Read More: Power Graphics Card Without External
Clock Speed
After selecting high cores and threads you might look for good clock speed. A clock speed is important when you have higher cores and micro-architecture because then you have more efficient processing.
As mention in the specifications of the processor 3950X and 3900X, the clock speed would be lower as compared to 9900K. So if you want to work on HD or 4K videos it is highly recommended to have a better clock speed.
The only problem with the clock speed is overclocking. Most of the tasks need high power usage of processors which results in overheating of the machine. The overclocking option is not available for every user in their computer, it’s locked because if you overclock your processor and run it on turbo speed it might burn your CPU.
So if you unlock overclocking in your computer you need to be very careful regarding the heat of the system and keep it cool with a proper cooling panel or it might burn your CPU and keep it in mind that most companies don’t give warrantee on overclocking damages.
So it’s highly recommended to use a computer without unlocking the overclocking option or for some reason you do so then be very attentive and careful.
Cooling Panel/Fan
After having a good CPU with high-quality parts the most important thing is to have a good cooling panel to avoid the damages from overheating.
There is a slight problem which is the noise of the fan. The issue is that the noise can be irritating in quite working hours and secondly the noise of the fan is an indication that the fan has any issue or not functioning properly and change it as soon as possible to keep your hardware safe from overheating.
Brands
The two most popular brands for good processor buying are Intel and AMD, and as they are the toughest competitors they are working on the advancement of desktop processor technology very efficiently.
As per their advancement in this field is clearly visible that they went from single-core to dual-core and added threads and clocking for the enhancement of the work speed.
As per the market review, AMD is more expensive than Intel but the processors they providing ranging up to 64 cores are way better, faster, and work efficiently than Intel. But AMD processors have heating issues and they need a heavy cooling system to avoid overheating damage.
Intel on the other cost-efficient than AMD and offers “Per Core Performance “over AMD which makes Intel a better choice for gamers.
Editing Software Choice
While you looking for the right hardware you must choose your software’s wisely too. Most of the software for video editing is available in the market which is lightweight and does not need a high-quality computer to use for example “Low Intensity” but in order to choose heavy software for 4K video editing you definitely need a heavy-duty computer.
AMD is full filing your requirements of a high scale for the processor as they are providing 8 to 16 GB RAM and a quad-core processor with a 4GHz clock is perfect for the heavy software’s to run smoothly.
Warrantee
Most brands are making durable and long-lasting products regarding CPU and that’s why they are offering a warranty of up to 2 years. Some brands give more warrantee on boxed products but some damages like fall damage, and overclocking are not claimable in warrantee so keep an eye on the condition of the product before buying.
Cost
In order to have a high-quality computer, you need to spend a good amount of money so you need to be really careful and calculated to buy the perfect product according to your budget.
Talking about the processor, core i5 or i7 till 8th generation are available in the market and recently i9 is also launched. The video editing system needs not more than i7 would be pretty expensive and useless as with a good amount of RAM this processor is enough for video editing.
The cost of processors is different as per brands, for example, AMD processors are most expensive than Intel processors.
What specifications are good for video editing
Choosing the right computer for video editing is the most important and technical part. You need to make sure you have the right ingredients to work otherwise you will suffer during the work with slow speed and visual effects.
Starting with a memory that you can afford between 8 to 32GB and a minimum of 16GB is recommended. The processor must be in multi-cores i5/i7/i9 models and a minimum of 4 cores are recommended as a maximum of 6 are available.
A minimum of 256GB hard drive is required but it’s good to have a lot more than that to work freely. So with the combination of the right parts, you can enjoy video editing on your computer.
Conclusion
As we have established the top 10 video editing processors in our above-given information it’s time to give an overall Conclusion.
Which is the best. Well, this is a very subjective matter. If you need the average frequency range for your video editing you will not need core i9 as it’s the most advanced as well as the priciest processor.
It is very important to know what you need and then fulfill your goals by buying the processor that is accurate for your requirements as well as your pocket.
AMD and Intel both are working tirelessly to provide us with the best processor as graphic designs and multiple working applications are the paramount need of this modern era. I will again say it’s a matter of what you actually need.
We have to be practical about it because the bigger processors will consume extra energy and if it’s not needed then it’s useless to have anyway and you will waste your money and don’t get the maximum value out of your system.
Some say Intel 9thgeneration core i9-9900K is their dream processor because it works like magic and gives you chance to maximize your value of money. Its memory capacity is dream come true for editors. It navigates your workload in such a way that you can stop praising Intel for this beast processor.
But for some video editing junkies, AMD Ryzen 9 3900X is their one true love. The extremely fast processor work like no other can and all the work is done in no time. Its cores threads and frequencies are ideal for video editing. Its supports and stays compatible with other systems make editors go crazy for this AMD processor.
Overall buy the one after doing your homework so that it is most beneficial for you
Happy buying!!!