How to Choose a Computer
for Video Editing


  If you intend to capture and edit any of your video footage, a computer system is a must.

It can, however, be confusing for the beginner video enthusiast. Should you use a desktop or a laptop computer? How much processing power is needed? How much hard disk space is needed?

There's a whole multitude of components in a computer - choosing the best components can be tough.

Well, the way I'd approach this problem would be to consider your budget and video editing needs. Let's take a look at the various options.


Budget Desktop Computer

If you're a budget user, I'd recommend the eMachines T3985 desktop PC. This is a powerful computer with an affordable price tag. The Intel Pentium 4 2.93 GHz processor, combined with 512 MB of DDR memory and a 80 GB hard drive, gives you the power to handle almost every video editing task. An excellent choice for those who are just starting out in video editing.
 

The eMachines T3985 desktop PC
 

Mid-range Desktop Computer

If you have a bit more spare cash, or have heavier video editing needs, the system to go for would be the HP/Compaq d325 uT system. The powerful AMD Athlon XP 3000+ processor, together with 512 MB of memory and a 80 GB hard drive make this system a good choice for intermediate level videographers.
 

The HP/Compaq d325 uT desktop PC
 

High-Performance Desktop Computer

For those with quite a big budget, the Gateway 832GM system will provide the ultimate in video editing performance. This system is packed with features like an Intel Pentium 4 3.0 GHz processor, 1 GB of DDR memory and a 250 GB hard drive. There's also a speedy DVD writer for all your video editing needs. All in all, a great bargain for experienced video enthusiasts shopping for a PC.
 

The Gateway 832GM desktop PC
 

For the mobile user, getting a laptop system may be a better choice. Even if you're at home, getting a laptop for video editing may be better as it allows more freedom of movement. Of course, laptops come with a bigger price tag. Let's take a look at what laptop systems are suitable for video editing. Again, I classify them according to budget and video editing needs.
 

Budget Laptop Computer

You should take a look at the Acer Aspire 3002LCi if you want a budget laptop computer. With its cheap price tag, it is a great option for beginner video enthusiasts. It has great features too - an AMD Sempron 2800+ process, 256 MB DDR memory and a 40 GB hard drive.

The Acer Aspire 3002LCi laptop
 

I can't think of any other laptop where you get so much power at such a low price. The money you save can then be channeled to buying better video equipment like a camcorders and accessories.
 

Mid-range Laptop Computer

The Sony VAIO GRT390ZPE laptop is ideal for power mobile users. Besides powerful features like an Intel Pentium 4 Processor 2.8 GHz processor 512MB RAM, a 60 GB hard disk, the system also has built-in Firewire support. Built-in Firewire support is a great feature for video editing - no need to buy a separate Firewire card.

The Sony VAIO GRT390ZPD laptop
 

High-Performance Laptop Computer

Those who can afford a bit more will do well to consider the Toshiba Satellite A75-S213. Toshiba is a good brand name in laptop computers. They produce quality laptops and this system is no exception. It comes with an Intel Pentium 4 3.33 GHz processor, 1GB RAM a 100 GB hard disk.
 

The Toshiba Satellite A75-S213 laptop
 

Conclusion

Hopefully, this article has given you some insight on the choices available when buying a computer for video editing. My suggestion to most people is to go for a system which meets their needs. You also need to consider other users for the computer. Will you use it to play graphics intensive games or do only simple word processing tasks? Don't waste a ton of money on a super powerful system if you don't need it. Considering these factors will help you choose a proper computer system.



Create Great-Looking Digital Videos

Roxio VideoWave Professional is a video editing program that could be the answer to your video editing headaches. If you have trouble creating good-looking home videos, VideoWave makes it easy for you. You can edit and produce Hollywood-style videos with a few mouse clicks. You can also add music, transitions, special effects and text credits to achieve professional results.


Related Articles

You may also wish to read the following related articles:

Top 5 DVD Burners
A guide to selecting and buying the best digital video equipment
How to capture video into your computer
How to choose Firewire cards for video capture
How to buy your first digital camcorder


 

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