Video editing can be a demanding task for any CPU, especially one of the highest quality. The processor is put to the test by utilizing multiple cores and a high clock speed to handle the workload efficiently. Video editing showcases the true potential of a CPU, surpassing even the demands of gaming.
To enhance your video editing speed and transcoding efficiency, investing in one of the best CPUs for video editing can significantly improve your results. Here are some of our top recommendations:
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AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
Best CPU for video editing
Pros
- Off the charts CPU performance
- Solid gaming improvements
- Integrated graphics work for light games
- Works with most AM4 coolers
AMD’s top-performing processor in 2024 is the Ryzen 9 7950X based on Zen 4 architecture. With 16 cores, support for 32 threads, and high clock speeds, it’s AMD’s fastest multithreaded processor for professionals. While Threadripper CPUs might offer more cores, the 7950X excels in productivity, making it a great choice for video editing at a more reasonable price.
For enthusiasts and professionals seeking high performance without breaking the bank, the Ryzen 7950X stands out as the pinnacle of video editing power, surpassing CPUs with more cores and threads in raw power.
AMD Ryzen 9 7950X
Best CPU for video editing
Intel Core i9-13900K
Best Intel CPU for video editing
Pros
- Cheaper than AMD competition
- Support for 600-series motherboards and DDR4
- Solid multi-core improvements
- Surprising gen-on-gen improvements
Cons
- High power demands
- Small gaming performance gains
Intel’s most powerful processors, the 13900K and 14900K, offer top-tier performance for video editing and other productivity tasks. The 13900K, being more cost-effective than its successor, provides exceptional multithreaded performance at close to 5GHz, rivaling AMD CPUs in video editing efficiency.
Additionally, the 13th-gen Intel CPUs support DDR4 memory, making them a more affordable option for video editing rigs. While the upgrade path is limited to 13th and 14th-gen CPUs, the performance offered by the 13900K outweighs this drawback in video editing tasks.
Intel Core i9-13900K
Best Intel CPU for video editing
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X
Best high-end CPU for video editing
Pros
- Incredible multithreaded performance
- Affordable compared to higher-end Threadrippers
- Ideal core count for accelerating video editing
- Great upgrade potential
Cons
- Higher price compared to mainstream CPUs
- Pricey motherboard and memory
For unparalleled video editing speed, AMD’s Threadripper 7970X offers exceptional performance with its 32 high-power cores and support for 64 threads. While more affordable than higher-end Threadripper options, this CPU outperforms AMD and Intel counterparts in multithreaded tasks.
While the 7970X isn’t the top Threadripper CPU available, it provides the fastest video editing capabilities at a reasonable cost. Investing in this CPU may significantly enhance your video editing efficiency, although it comes with a higher price tag.
AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X
Best high-end CPU for video editing
Jacob Roach / Digital Trends
Intel Core i5-13600K
Best midrange CPU for video editing
Pros
- Excellent performance in video editing and other tasks
- Affordable price
- Efficient compared to top Intel CPUs
- Supports DDR4 memory
Cons
- Lacks performance of top CPUs
- Limited upgrade path
The Intel 13600K offers remarkable performance and affordability, comparable to its successor, the 14600K. With six performance cores and eight efficiency cores, this CPU excels in multithreaded tasks like video editing and gaming. It also consumes less power than higher-end Intel CPUs, making it a cost-effective choice.
Moreover, the 13600K supports DDR4 memory and fits well in mid-range video editing setups. While its upgrade path is limited, the performance it offers makes it an ideal choice for mid-range video editing PCs.
Intel Core i5-13600K
Best midrange CPU for video editing
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Best budget CPU for video editing
Pros
- Strong video editing performance
- Affordable price
- Strong upgrade potential
- Energy efficient
Cons
- Lacks performance of high-end CPUs
- Supports only DDR5 memory
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600X is a budget-friendly option with great upgrade potential for video editing. With six cores and support for 12 threads, this CPU offers decent performance at an affordable price point. Despite being limited to DDR5 memory, it allows for future upgrades to newer Ryzen CPUs and AM5 releases, ensuring long-term compatibility.
As the most energy-efficient CPU in this lineup, the 7600X is an excellent choice for compact, energy-efficient, or quiet video editing setups.
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Best budget CPU for video editing
Editors’
