Which laptop do you need for video editing?
Working with video editing programs
To edit and render videos, you work with programs like Adobe Premiere Pro, Sony Vegas, and Pinnacle. Or with Final Cut Pro on MacBook models. Each one of these programs is demanding, and that asks a lot from your laptop. Are you looking for a laptop you can easily get started with video editing on? When you make your choice, keep the following specifications in mind.
- Processor: at least Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7
- RAM: at least 8GB
- Screen: at least full HD (1920x1080)
Processor, RAM, and screen resolution
Choose an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 processor if you want to get started with demanding programs for video editing. This allows you to render video files without any problems.
If you work with demanding programs, having enough RAM ensures that these programs run smoothly. That's why we recommend a laptop with 8GB RAM or more.
For the screen, you need a Full HD resolution at least. Movies are increasingly being recorded in 4K, so also consider choosing a laptop with a 4K screen with IPS panel for an even sharper image.
A dedicated video card or not?
To render, edit, and play videos, your laptop needs some extra power from a dedicated video card. For example an NVIDIA GeForce, Quadro series, AMD Radeon, or FirePro series video card. This makes video editing software run a bit more smoothly and makes your movies render faster, especially in 4K. It's not a requirement, because the processor does most of the work. But it's a nice bonus.
Video editing for beginners
If you don't really need demanding and complex software or if you have a smaller budget, there are a number of alternatives you can consider. You could start with Adobe Premiere Elements, which is basically Premiere Pro for beginners. MacBook users can use iMovie, which is a good alternative.
Editing videos on a Chromebook
Are you looking for a Chromebook, but you want to edit videos on it? You can. Use apps from the Google Play Store like PowerDirector, or an online program like WeVideo. Keep in mind that you can't install software on a Chromebook that you can install on a Windows laptop or MacBook, as we mentioned earlier. The same applies to a laptop with the Windows 10 S operating system.
Personal advice in the stores
Do you want to hold or test your potential new laptop first? Or would you like personal advice from an expert? Make an appointment to visit our store. We'll take our time to help you out. And if you've made up your mind, we'll set up your new laptop for you right away.