Invest in the Best Video Editing Equipment for 2024
Video content creation has been a continuously evolving technology since the first camera was invented in 1816. But with the rise of social media and mobile phones, a new kind of video content was born: video content created solely for social media platforms, such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram.
What hasn't changed, however, is the quality needed to produce these videos. And that's where video editing equipment and hardware come in. Whether you're editing a feature-length movie, a commercial, a YouTube video, or TikTok content, you want video editing equipment that can handle the graphics and audio.
Choosing the Right Video Editing Gear in 2024
The editing process doesn't begin when you import your files into the editing software. It starts when you choose the right video editing gear. You'll need a powerful computer that can handle a seemingly endless supply of footage, and that requires knowing your RAM, CPU, storage, and compatibility requirements.
Without high-quality video editing gear, your final product will look mediocre and amateurish. For emerging filmmakers, that's a major crutch because film festivals won't accept submissions that don't meet their specific requirements. And quality is just as important for the small screen. If your sound has issues, your YouTube subscribers will have trouble hearing it.
To prevent hitting a roadblock later on, it's best to research what you'll need and make the investment. Quality matters.
Video Editing Computers
Before you decide on the type of computer you'd like to purchase, think about what kind of video editing you plan to do. Some computers are best for professional video editors, others may be better for animation. There's also the question of whether you'd prefer a Mac or a PC. Macs tend to dominate when it comes to video editing, but it doesn't mean you can't find a powerful PC editing computer.
Top Mac Video Editing Computers for 2024
M2 Mac Studio
M2 Mac Studio is the overall best video editing computer. With its M2 chip, 12-core CPU, and 38-Core GPU, it offers the best processing power of any computer out there. What this means for editors is that they'll get faster rendering times, high-resolution playback, and real-time effects that will play smoothly. You can connect up to eight displays with up to 4K resolution at 60Hz, and you can render large files as the M2 Max comes with 96GB of unified memory. If you want even more power, consider the M2 Ultra chip. You'll get a 24-core CPU, 76-core GPU, 2TB, 4TB, or 8TB of SSD storage, and up to 192GB of memory.
M2 MacBook Pro
The M2 MacBook Pro is another heavy hitter when it comes to video editing. It's an upgrade from the M1 MacBook Pro, and it offers up to 20% faster performance compared to its predecessor. You can buy either the M2 Pro or the M2 Max chip. The M2 Max chip gives you a 38-core GPU if you need faster and smoother graphics, 16GB of RAM, and up to 1TB of SSD storage. It's also compatible with your iPhone and iPad apps. The 14.2-inch liquid retina display gives you a gorgeous image and rich colors while you're editing. Although you can't upgrade this computer, what it offers should be sufficient for all of your rendering and editing needs.
M1 MacBook Pro
The M1 MacBook Pro has recently been replaced by the M2 Macbook Pro (above). However, you don't necessarily need to make an upgrade. The M1 MacBook Pro can do just about anything you throw at it, including rendering large files smoothly. This computer is also a good choice if you want a great editing computer but don't want to shell out the money for an M2 MacBook Pro. Released in October 2021, you can purchase either the standard M1, the M1 Pro, or the M1 Max version. Which one should you buy? The M1 Pro and the M1 Max offer up to 70% faster CPU performance. So, if you're looking for seamless playbacks, effects without stutters, and faster rendering times, then the Pro and Max are probably better picks.
Top PC Video Editing Computers
ASUS 2023 ROG G22CH DS766
If you're a professional video editor who needs to edit high-resolution footage on a PC, then the ASUS computer should be your top pick. Although this is first and foremost a gaming computer, it's no secret that gaming computers make excellent video editing computers as well. In this case, the 13th Gen Intel® Core™ i7-13700F Processor and theNVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3060 Ti graphics card combine to give you a powerful editing tool. Rendering times will be quick, and you won't experience lags due to the 1T SSD storage and 16GB of RAM. The best part of this ASUS computer is that you can upgrade its components so that your computer runs faster and handles heavier files better.
HP Omen 30L
The HP Omen 30L stands out as the best overall PC for editing long-form projects and gaming. You'll get fast, responsive times for both real-time playbacks and high-end gaming. The AMD 6-Core Ryzen 5 5600G Processor lets you render large files smoothly and has no problem playing back visual effects seamlessly. The AMD Radeon RX 6600 XT 8GB GDDR6 graphics card lets you edit 8K videos easily, too. The computer offers 2TB SSD of storage and lets you bring in a variety of footage with its different ports. Although it's a gaming computer first, it still ranks as one of the best non-workstation video editing PCs.
Microsoft Surface Studio 2
Although the M1 and M2 chips on Mac computers offer faster rendering times than Intel chips, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is still a powerful computer to edit your videos on. It comes with 32GB of RAM, 1TB SSD of storage, and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 (8GB GDDR5) graphics card. You'll get smooth playbacks and rather fast rendering times due to the 8th-generation Intel Core i7 processor. The 28-inch PixelSense display is why this computer gets high marks. It's huge, making it easy to see everything you're editing. You can also tilt the display screen to Studio Mode, which lets illustrators and graphic designers work directly on the screen with a Surface Pen. The computer is ideally suited for short-form content, such as commercials.
Monitors and Displays
Choosing the right monitor for editing comes down to more than just display quality. 4K screens are common these days, so you’ll want to focus more on the extra bells and whistles provided by the manufacturer.
Dell Ultrasharp U27 4K
The Dell Ultrasharp 27-inch display is billed as a docking station hub. This means it has a collection of USB and other connectivity ports that maximize the value of the unit. The ethernet slot is particularly useful when the instability of a wireless internet connection just won't cut it. However, the excellent display is what really makes this one of the best monitors for video editors. The resolution is sharp, and the screen is plenty big enough to view all your work.
Lenovo ThinkVision M14
If you are looking for a more portable solution, the M14 ThinkVision from Lenovo is a suitable choice for editors who cannot sacrifice color accuracy. The accuracy clocks in at 96% of the sRGB value, allowing you to make informed edits to photos even while you are away from your desktop. One of the USB C slots can also transmit power, so plugging it in allows you to work for extended durations.
Best CPU and GPU
If you want smooth and reliable performance on your computer, you’ll need a strong central processing unit and graphics processing unit. These processors are ideal for video editing.
AMD Ryzen 7 CPU
AMD has a strong selection of CPUs that will keep your computer going through strenuous activities such as video editing or playing video games. While a sufficient level of RAM is needed to run multiple programs simultaneously, your rig can still be bottlenecked by a weaker CPU. The Ryzen 7 series features several different speed thresholds, though each will suffice for having a suite of creative apps all running at once.
Nvidia GTX 4080 GPU
A potent GPU will help you render scenes faster and ensure your computer can handle the heavy demands of your editing software. Graphics cards designed for gaming will provide all the horsepower you need to maintain a professional workflow. Nvidia’s GTX 4080 provides a great deal of power for those who want ideal performance for years to come. If you are on a budget, other cards from the GTX 40 series will still provide plenty of strength for your creative endeavors.
External Storage
Heavy workloads can require 1TB, if not more. Although you can get away with 500GB of SSD, try to look for a computer that offers additional HDD storage of at least 1TB. You may also take advantage of the cloud storage space, though we recommend always prioritizing a physical backup before relying on a digital server beyond your control.
Sandisk Pro G40
The Sandisk Pro G40 is known for its super-fast speeds and dual-mode compatibility with both Thunderbolt 3 (40Gbps) and USB-C (10Gbps). It also has an ultra-rugged design with a pro-grade enclosure for premium strength and a cool aluminum core that pulls heat away from the internal drive.
WD My Passport
Western Digital’sMy Passport drive comes equipped with 256-bit AES hardware encryption with password protection and is compatible with USB 3.0 and USB 2.0. It also has backup capabilities that can be set to your schedule.
Custom Editing Console
Custom-editing consoles typically offer nifty keyboard shortcuts, which can make your editing a lot quicker. Look for an ergonomic design that lets you customize all your editing shortcuts.
Contour Design ShuttleXpress
This multimedia controller features intuitive app detection, 5 programmable buttons, and variable speed timeline scrubbing. It also includes preset shortcuts for more than 100 popular software programs and is compatible with both PC and Mac.
Loupedeck Creative Tool
The Loupedeck is another fine choice with similar functionality to the Contour Designs offering. Going with either one will do nicely, so look for whichever one is on sale when you decide to make the purchase.
Keyboard and Mouse
Editing often requires long sessions, which can be hard on your hands and wrists. The best keyboard and mouse offer an efficient layout and time-saving features.
Logitech Craft
The Logitech Craft is crafted for efficiency and precision with a large strike area and spherical dishing. Other notable features include a tactile aluminum dial, intuitive controls, and keys with smart illumination capabilities.
Lenovo 510
This wireless keyboard and mouse set sport an impressive 12-hour battery life and spill-resistant exterior. This means you no longer have to worry about bumping your drink or replacing batteries during extended editing sessions.
Computer Chair
If you have been editing for a while, you'll understand how hard it can be on your lower back and your neck. Your priority is a chair that gives ample back support.
OdinLake Ergo Plus
The OdinLake Ergo PLUS 743 is a good chair for anyone looking for all-day support. Its headrest, armrests, and height are adjustable, it's made of breathable mesh, and it has dynamic lumbar support to enhance comfort.
Autonomous ErgoChair Pro
The Autonomous ErgoChair Pro+ is another excellent choice with a form-adapting back seat to support your longest editing projects. This durable and comfortable chair is a noticeable upgrade over standard office seating while providing extra support for people who experience lower back pain from sitting for too long.
Headphones and Speakers
If you're working on a movie or TV series, the audio will be handled later by a professional sound editor working in software such as Pro Tools. However, it doesn't hurt to purchase quality headphones and speakers so that you can hear the audio clearly when you make a picture edit.
PreSonus E3.5
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 provides balanced high-frequency sound with a powerful bass response and pristine sound quality. The front panel features power on/off and volume controls, a headphone jack, and a stereo aux input. Studio One Prime and Studio Magic plug-in suite is included.
KRK RP5 Rokit G4
If you need a different range, the KRK RP5 Rokit G4 works at a frequency response of 43 Hz to 40 kHz while providing a similar level of quality as the PreSonus E3.5. The slight change in frequency response makes all the difference, so be sure to verify what range you will be working in before purchasing a set of quality headphones.
Studio Microphone
A lot of content creators focus on video and then rush to capture the sound with their mobile phones or DSLR cameras. This can lead to distorted sound or, in the case of some DSLRs, the hum of the camera threaded throughout all your audio. Consider purchasing one of these high-quality studio microphones if you need to record any voiceovers for your video content.
Audio-Technica AT2020
The Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone handles up to 144 dB SPL without distortion and has a cardioid pattern that rejects off-axis sound, making it suitable for podcasters and voice-over artists.
Shure SM57
When it comes to musical audio, a specialized instrument microphone like the Shure SM57 will help you achieve professional-grade recordings. The difference lies in the ability of acoustic mics to process high-pressure sounds like those produced by instruments and amplifiers. The SM57 is affordable and easy to come by, hence why it makes our top pick.
Editing Software
Of course, you can’t forget about the more important tool in your video equipment arsenal – your editing software. Choose a product that’s compatible with your workflow so you can bring your creative vision to life.
Avid Media Composer
Professional editors typically turn to Avid Media Composer because it offers a cost-effective powerhouse, providing an extensive toolkit for comprehensive end-to-end media production. You can choose Avid Media Composer - First (which is free), Media Composer, Media Composer Ultimate, and Media Composer Enterprise.
Investing In the Right Editing Equipment
It's important to invest in high-quality video editing equipment before you take on any professional editing project. You'll be surprised by how much good equipment (or lack thereof) can affect speed, performance, and the final product. The top video editing gear can cost a pretty penny, so choose equipment that aligns with your budget and your editing needs.