Video editing has become an essential skill in today’s world, from hobbyists crafting YouTube videos to professionals producing high-quality content. However, one of the biggest challenges for editors is finding a powerful yet affordable computer capable of handling demanding video editing software. Whether you’re working with 1080p, 4K, or even 8K footage, your editing machine must have a strong processor, ample RAM, and a fast storage system to ensure smooth performance.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore where to find affordable video editing computers, whether you’re looking to buy pre-built systems or build your own.
Key Features to Consider for Video Editing Computers
Before diving into where to buy your computer, it’s essential to understand the key features that make a computer suitable for video editing.
1. Processor (CPU)
The CPU is the brain of the computer and plays a crucial role in video editing. Look for at least a quad-core processor, though a six-core or eight-core CPU will significantly improve performance, especially for 4K or higher-resolution projects.
2. Graphics Card (GPU)
A dedicated GPU is important for video rendering and playback, especially when using software like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Final Cut Pro. NVIDIA and AMD are the two most popular GPU brands, with options ranging from mid-range to high-end models. Look for cards with at least 4GB of VRAM.
3. Memory (RAM)
Video editing software consumes a lot of memory, especially when multitasking. For basic editing, 16GB of RAM should suffice, but for more intensive tasks or working with higher resolutions, 32GB or more is recommended.
4. Storage
An SSD (Solid State Drive) is essential for video editing due to its fast read and write speeds. Aim for at least 500GB of SSD storage for your operating system and applications. You can use a traditional HDD for larger files and backups.
5. Display
A good display is vital for accurate color grading. If your budget allows, opt for a 4K monitor with a wide color gamut, such as one with 100% sRGB or AdobeRGB support.
Best Places to Find Affordable Video Editing Computers
1. Amazon
Amazon is one of the largest online marketplaces, offering a wide range of computers suitable for video editing at various price points. You can find everything from entry-level to high-end video editing machines, both pre-built and custom-built options.
Pros:
- Wide selection of products
- Competitive pricing
- User reviews provide insights into product performance
- Fast shipping with Prime
Cons:
- Limited customization options for pre-built systems
- Support can vary depending on the seller
Some budget-friendly computers for video editing found on Amazon include the Acer Predator Helios 300, Dell XPS Tower, and custom-built gaming PCs that double as excellent video editing workstations.
2. Newegg
Newegg specializes in computer hardware, making it a top choice for both pre-built systems and DIY enthusiasts looking to build their own video editing rigs. The platform often offers sales, promotions, and deals on high-performance PCs and components.
Pros:
- Wide variety of parts and pre-built systems
- Regular discounts and promotions
- Strong customer service and return policies
Cons:
- Some sellers offer less-than-stellar products, so check reviews before purchasing
Newegg is particularly good for those looking to build their own video editing computer, with competitive pricing on CPUs, GPUs, and RAM.
3. Best Buy
Best Buy offers a combination of in-store and online options for buying video editing computers. They stock both Apple and Windows-based systems, with a selection of gaming PCs that double as capable video editing machines.
Pros:
- You can try systems in-store before purchasing
- Geek Squad support is available for setup and repairs
- Frequent sales and open-box discounts
Cons:
- Limited customization compared to buying parts from other retailers
Best Buy is a good option if you want to pick up a pre-built system like the iMac, MacBook Pro, or high-performance Windows PCs like the HP Omen or Lenovo Legion.
4. B&H Photo Video
As a retailer focused on creatives, B&H Photo Video offers a range of computers specifically optimized for video editing, including both Windows and macOS machines. The site often offers deals and bundles for creative professionals.
Pros:
- Great selection for creative professionals
- Knowledgeable customer support
- Frequent sales and discounts
Cons:
- Limited selection of budget-friendly options
If you’re in the market for an Apple MacBook Pro or a Windows-based workstation, B&H offers competitive pricing, especially during holiday sales.
5. Micro Center
Micro Center is known for its physical stores, where you can get hands-on with computers and parts before purchasing. They offer both pre-built systems and individual components for building your own video editing PC.
Pros:
- Competitive pricing, especially in-store deals
- Ability to physically inspect products before buying
- Knowledgeable staff who can provide recommendations
Cons:
- Limited store locations
- Online selection can be more limited than other retailers
Micro Center also offers custom PC building services, making it an excellent option for those who want a custom video editing computer without the hassle of assembling it themselves.
6. Custom PC Builders (Origin PC, CyberPowerPC, iBUYPOWER)
If you want a computer tailored to your video editing needs but don’t have the technical know-how to build it yourself, custom PC builders like Origin PC, CyberPowerPC, and iBUYPOWER are great alternatives. These companies allow you to select your components based on your needs and budget.
Pros:
- Fully customizable systems
- Professionally assembled and tested
- Often come with warranties and customer support
Cons:
- More expensive than building a computer yourself
- Longer shipping times due to custom builds
These companies often have promotional deals, so you can get high-performance machines at a discount.
7. Apple Store (or Apple Refurbished)
If you’re an editor who prefers macOS, the Apple Store offers the latest MacBook Pro and iMac systems, which are well-known for their excellent performance in video editing tasks. For more affordable options, check out Apple’s refurbished store, where you can save hundreds of dollars on a like-new machine with a full warranty.
Pros:
- Reliable and high-performance machines
- Great build quality
- Access to Apple’s ecosystem and software like Final Cut Pro
Cons:
- More expensive than Windows-based systems
- Limited options for customization or upgrades
8. Building Your Own PC
For those comfortable with the technical aspect, building your own video editing computer is often the most cost-effective route. You can customize every component to suit your exact needs and budget. Sites like Newegg, Amazon, and Micro Center offer great deals on individual components.
Pros:
- Maximum customization and flexibility
- Best value for performance
- A sense of accomplishment in building your own system
Cons:
- Requires technical knowledge
- No manufacturer warranty for the entire system
Here are some components to consider for building a budget-friendly video editing PC:
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X or Intel Core i5-12600K
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA GTX 1660 or AMD Radeon RX 6600
- RAM: 16GB DDR4
- Storage: 500GB SSD + 2TB HDD for storage
- Motherboard: A compatible board with enough expansion slots for future upgrades
- Power Supply: At least 600W to power your components
Tips for Getting the Best Deal
1. Shop During Sales
Holiday sales like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and Prime Day are excellent times to score deals on video editing computers and components. Many retailers offer significant discounts during these times.
2. Look for Refurbished or Open-Box Deals
Refurbished and open-box systems can be a great way to save money on a video editing computer. Retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple offer these deals with warranties, making them a safer option than buying used from private sellers.
3. Don’t Overpay for Features You Don’t Need
If you’re just starting with video editing, you don’t need the most powerful machine on the market. Focus on getting a good processor, sufficient RAM, and fast storage. You can always upgrade components like the GPU later as your needs grow.
4. Use Price Comparison Tools
Websites like CamelCamelCamel and PCPartPicker help you track prices and compare deals across different retailers. This is especially useful when shopping for components to build your own system.
Conclusion
Finding an affordable video editing computer doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. Whether you choose to buy a pre-built system from Amazon, Newegg, or Best Buy, or decide to build your own, there are plenty of budget-friendly options that will meet your video editing needs. By focusing on the key features such as the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage, you can ensure your system will perform well even with demanding video editing tasks. Shop smart by taking advantage of sales, open-box deals, and price comparison tools to get the best value for your money.
In the end, the best video editing computer is one that suits your needs and budget, providing the performance required to create smooth and professional video content.
5. Consider Used Options
If you’re on a strict budget, buying a used or second-hand computer can be a viable option. Platforms like eBay, Craigslist, and Facebook Marketplace often have used or refurbished video editing computers at a fraction of the cost of new ones. However, make sure to verify the seller’s credibility and the condition of the machine before making a purchase.
Pros:
- Significant savings compared to new computers
- Often comes with accessories like monitors or extra storage
Cons:
- No warranty or return policy in many cases
- Components might be outdated or have wear and tear
If you decide to go this route, consider getting an older model of a high-end system, like a used MacBook Pro or an older Dell XPS tower. These machines are built for high performance, and even older models can handle modern video editing software.
6. Local Classifieds or Forums
Another potential source for affordable video editing computers is local classifieds, such as Craigslist, or online forums like Reddit’s r/buildapcsales. These platforms are great for finding people who are either selling their used computers or offering discounts on custom-built systems.
Pros:
- Usually local transactions, so no shipping costs
- Can negotiate prices with the seller
Cons:
- No consumer protection or warranties
- Must be cautious to avoid scams
This option is perfect for those who are knowledgeable about hardware and can spot a good deal. However, it’s important to meet sellers in safe environments and thoroughly check the system before finalizing the purchase.
Custom Build vs. Pre-Built Systems: What’s Right for You?
When shopping for an affordable video editing computer, you’ll likely have to choose between building your own system or buying a pre-built one. Both options come with advantages and disadvantages.
Pre-Built Systems
A pre-built system is a computer that comes fully assembled and ready to use out of the box. Brands like Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Apple offer pre-built systems suitable for video editing.
Advantages:
- Ready to use immediately
- Warranty and customer support included
- No need for technical skills to assemble
Disadvantages:
- Often more expensive than building your own
- Limited customization options
- Potential for unnecessary bloatware (pre-installed software)
Custom-Built Systems
Building a custom PC allows you to choose each component based on your budget and performance needs. You can hand-pick the best CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage to create a machine tailored specifically for video editing.
Advantages:
- Best value for your money
- Maximum customization
- Easy to upgrade individual parts in the future
Disadvantages:
- Requires technical knowledge to assemble
- No one-stop warranty; each component will have a separate warranty
If you’re comfortable assembling a PC or have a friend who can help, building your own custom video editing rig is often the best option for performance and savings.
Best Budget-Friendly Video Editing Computers in 2024
To help you get started on your search, here are some of the best budget-friendly computers for video editing in 2024:
1. Acer Predator Helios 300
- Price: $1,200 – $1,400
- Specs: Intel Core i7, NVIDIA RTX 3060, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Why It’s Good for Video Editing: The Predator Helios 300 is a gaming laptop that can double as a powerful video editing machine thanks to its strong CPU and dedicated graphics card.
2. Dell XPS 8940 Tower
- Price: $1,000 – $1,300
- Specs: Intel Core i7, NVIDIA GTX 1660, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Why It’s Good for Video Editing: This tower offers solid performance for 1080p and 4K editing with a mid-range price tag, making it a great entry-level editing machine.
3. Apple Mac Mini M2
- Price: $799 – $1,299
- Specs: Apple M2 chip, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
- Why It’s Good for Video Editing: The new Mac Mini offers incredible performance for its price, especially if you’re working in Apple’s ecosystem with software like Final Cut Pro.
4. HP Omen 30L
- Price: $1,300 – $1,600
- Specs: AMD Ryzen 7, NVIDIA RTX 3070, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD
- Why It’s Good for Video Editing: With a high-end AMD processor and powerful GPU, the HP Omen is excellent for rendering 4K or even 8K footage.
5. Lenovo Legion 5 Pro
- Price: $1,100 – $1,400
- Specs: AMD Ryzen 7, NVIDIA RTX 3060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD
- Why It’s Good for Video Editing: A gaming laptop that delivers top-tier performance for video editing tasks at a reasonable price.
Read also: https://riverside.fm/blog/best-video-editing-pcs
Conclusion
Finding an affordable video editing computer requires balancing your budget with the hardware you need to handle demanding tasks like video rendering, editing, and color correction. Fortunately, whether you opt for a pre-built system or decide to build your own, there are plenty of options available in 2024 that cater to different budgets and editing needs.
Here’s a quick recap of where to get affordable video editing computers:
- Amazon and Newegg offer a wide variety of pre-built and custom-built systems at competitive prices.
- Best Buy and B&H Photo Video are excellent for trying systems in-store and finding deals on high-end machines.
- Micro Center is ideal for DIY enthusiasts, offering custom PC building services and a range of components.
- Custom PC builders like Origin PC and CyberPowerPC allow for extensive customization.
- Apple Refurbished is a good option for those who prefer macOS and want to save money on high-performance machines.
Finally, if you’re tech-savvy, building your own video editing PC is often the most cost-effective option, allowing you to get the best performance for your money. Don’t forget to shop during sales events, consider refurbished deals, and use price comparison tools to get the best possible price on your new editing machine.
With the right hardware, you’ll be able to edit videos smoothly, boost your productivity, and create professional-quality content without breaking the bank.
