What are the Specifications of a Cheap PC for Video Editing?

The specifications required for a cheap PC designed for video editing can vary significantly depending on your specific needs and budget. If you're looking to perform basic editing operations without demanding visual effects (VFX) up to 4K resolution, a mid-range PC can certainly suffice.

Typical Mid-Range Configuration for Basic Video Editing

For most general editing tasks, a mid-range PC with specific components can handle the workload effectively. Here’s a breakdown of a typical configuration I found suitable:

Processor

A capable processor is crucial for smooth video editing. My setup includes an AMD Ryzen 5 processor, which is a solid choice given its balance of performance and value.

Graphics Card

The graphics card is also important, as it handles tasks such as rendering and other visual operations. I use an AMD RX 570, which is more than adequate for basic editing without complex VFX.

RAM

Memory is another key factor. A minimum of 16GB DDR4 RAM is recommended to ensure a responsive system and to handle higher-resolution footage. For your budget, 16GB should meet most needs.

Storage

Storage can be split between a Hybrid Drive and an SSD. I use a 1TB Hybrid drive and a 250GB M2 SSD for quick access to scratch files and additional storage. Some consider using all SSDs for faster performance, but that can increase the cost.

Based on these high-quality components, my build costs around ￡800, excluding peripherals. Shopping around and building a PC specifically for video editing could reduce this cost. In my case, the main bottleneck is RAM, and adding more could significantly enhance performance. Moving entirely to SSD storage would also improve speed.

Limitations and Recommendations for a Cheaper Alternative

If you're more concerned with budget and flexibility, you might wonder if a less expensive system could meet your needs. However, running complex projects often requires more powerful hardware. Here’s what to consider:

Peripherals

A decent monitor, high-speed storage, and possibly a dedicated console for mouse and keyboard productivity are essential for serious editing. A capture card, like the Elgato HD60, is also needed for video input.

Minimum Requirements for Popular Software

To run popular software like DaVinci Resolve or Premiere Pro, you typically need at least an i7 processor and 16GB of RAM. For my setup, an Acer Spin 3 with these specs costs around ￡600, but it still struggles with complex effects in fairlight.

If you're looking at a cheaper option, it's unlikely to support these minimum requirements. Many budget PCs are not even equipped to run common editors competently, let alone a capture card for input.

Conclusion

For basic video editing at 4K resolution with simple effects, a PC with the specified components can work well. However, for more complex projects, you may need to invest in a more powerful system. Always consider the specific demands of your project and the software you will be using.