This is the ultimate guide for those on a tighter budget who need a powerful computer for editing 4K videos. We’ll go over what to look for and how to make the right decision. Finding a machine that works for you and lives up to your standards is crucial. Come on, then, let’s get going!
4k Video Editing PC on a Budget
1. Dell XPS 15
Features
- Screen:16:10 FHD screen
- CPU: Intel Core i7-10750H 10th Gen
- RAM: 16 GB RAM
- Storage: 512 GB
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1650Ti
- Ports: three USB 3
- 0 ports, two USB 2.0 connections
- Weight: 4.00 lbs
Since its release, the Dell XPS 15 has been a top pick among laptop users, and for good reason. This model lets you pick between an NVIDIA GTX 1650 and 1660 graphics card, so if you want to get the most out of Adobe Premiere Pro, you can customize your PC to meet your needs.
This product’s stunning display with Dolby Vision and HDR 400 technology is a major selling point for us. Looking for a laptop with long battery life for video editing? The Dell XPS has you covered with up to 17 hours of battery life!
CPU and GPU
The Dell XPS 15 is a laptop that offers remarkable value for the money. Despite lacking a dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1650Ti graphics card, this laptop’s powerful Intel Core i7-10750H processor and lightning-fast memory make it perfect for video editing.
If you need a powerful laptop to multitask while editing videos, look no further than the Dell XPS 15.
RAM and Storage
There is plenty of memory (16 GB) in the Dell XPS 15 to run video editing programs. The 512 GB of storage space is also very generous, allowing you to save all of your files and programs without worrying about running out of room.
Display and Build Quality
The 15-inch FHD+ edge-to-edge display on the Dell XPS 15 is gorgeous, with vivid colors and wide viewing angles.
Additionally, the chassis is built with high-quality components. Furthermore, it cannot be denied that this laptop has a stunning design.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Dell’s XPS 15 is well-made and features a full-size keyboard with a number pad. This model’s keys have sufficient travel to make typing a pleasure.
Those who plan to use their laptops for extended periods of time should read our piece on the most comfortable keyboard designs.
If safety is a concern when selecting a laptop for video editing, you need look no further than the options provided by Windows Hello and a fingerprint scanner.
Ports and Connectivity
There are three total USB ports on the Dell XPS 15, two of which are USB Type-C. You’ll also have access to a mini DisplayPort, HDMI port, and a headphone jack, giving you plenty of options for connecting external devices. Not only does this laptop have Thunderbolt, but it also supports external graphics cards (eGPUs), making it ideal for video editing.
Battery Life
The Dell XPS 15 has one of the longest-lasting batteries currently available, making it a top choice among the best laptops for video editing if this is a priority for you. This laptop is ideal for long trips because it can keep you working for up to 17 hours on a single charge.
Our Verdict
If the Dell XPS 15 fits your budget, it is highly recommended that you give it a try for your video editing needs.
Not having an NVIDIA GTX 1650Ti graphics card may be a drawback for some, but the Intel Core i7-10750H processor and 16 GB of RAM should be more than enough for your video editing needs.
2. Dell G5 15
Features
- Screen:15.6″ FHD ( 1920 x 1080 )
- CPU: AMD Octa-Core Ryzen 7 4800H
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Graphics: AMD Radeon graphics
- Ports: 1 USB 3.0 Type C; 1 USB 2.0 Type-A; 1 USB 3.0 Type A; 1 HDMI out
- Speakers: Two Tuned Speakers with Nahimic 3D Audio
- Weight: 2.7 pounds
The Dell G series is a line of portable gaming laptops. The AMD Ryzen processor, Radeon graphics, and 512GB PCIe SSD in this laptop represent excellent value for the money.
CPU and GPU
The Dell G5 15’s AMD octa-core Ryzen 7 4800H processor and Radeon graphics will give you brisk performance while editing videos. With 16GB of RAM at your disposal, you won’t have to worry about slowdowns when running multiple programs at once while editing.
RAM and Storage
The 512GB PCIe SSD included in the Dell G5 15 is more than enough space for all of your apps, including your video editing programs. The 16GB of RAM allows you to run multiple programs simultaneously without slowing down your computer.
If you are concerned about privacy while using your laptop for video editing, you can choose between a fingerprint scanner and Windows Hello.
Display and Build Quality
With a 15.60-inch screen and a Full HD resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate, the Dell G5 15 stands out from the competition. The laptop’s all-aluminum construction makes it rugged and reliable even when used on the go.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The Dell G5 15’s keyboard is backlit and responsive. The presence of a numeric keypad is a nice bonus. With the best laptops for graphic design, you’ll have a large, responsive trackpad to make video editing and other tasks a breeze.
Ports and Connectivity
Ethernet, a USB Type-C port, HDMI out, and two USB Type-A ports are just some of the ports and connections offered by the Dell G5 15. Bluetooth wireless connectivity is an option with this model.
Battery Life
The battery life of the Dell G5 15 is so long that you can take your work with you anywhere you go.
The manufacturer claims that this model can go for up to 14 hours without being recharged, making it the longest-lasting option in its price range. You can check out our article on the best laptops for video editing under $1500 if battery life isn’t a concern.
Our Verdict
The Dell G5 15 is the perfect laptop for 4K video editing at an affordable price.
When paired with Radeon graphics, the AMD Ryzen 7 4800H processor is more than capable of handling video editing tasks without causing any stuttering or other performance issues. The long battery life and large amount of storage space available in this laptop make it an excellent buy.
3. Apple MacBook Pro
Features
- Screen:14.2-inch
- CPU: Apple M1 Pro chip
- RAM: 16GB RAM
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Graphics: Apple 14-core GPU or Apple 16-core GPU
- Ports: Three Thunderbolt 4 (USB-C) ports with support for Charging, HDMI port
- Weight: 3.5 pounds
The Apple MacBook Pro is one of the best laptops for 4k video editing that money can buy. It comes with a 14.20-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, up to 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and an Apple M1 Pro chip that offers up to ten cores of CPU performance. This laptop is perfect for any professional videographer or editor who wants the best performance possible.
CPU and GPU
Apple MacBook Pro is an all-in-one computer that comes with an Apple M1 Pro chip processor that is able to handle up to 16GB of RAM. Depending on the model you choose, there are also two graphics chips available, with one of the better options being one of the models that come equipped with AMD Radeon Pro 14-core GPUs or 16-core processors!
In order to meet the demands of any video editing project, this machine provides a great deal of processing power, which makes it a great choice if high performance is required! Find out more about the best laptops that are under $1500 by visiting our website.
RAM and Storage
As far as RAM options are concerned, you have the choice between 16GB and 32GB RAM for the Apple MacBook Pro based on the model you choose.
In terms of storage, there is a choice of three SSD drive sizes, including a 256GB model, a 512GB model, and a massive terabyte model. You won’t have to worry about running out of storage space anytime in the near future with this much storage space available for any video editing project.
Display and Build Quality
There is a 15.4-inch (diagonal) Liquid Retina XDR display with LED backlight, which makes the Apple MacBook Pro an excellent choice for editing video.
Throughout the editing process, the colors are beautiful and vibrant, and there are great viewing angles so you will be able to see what is happening at all times. In addition to its beautiful look and sleek design, this laptop is also designed with a durable and sleek all-aluminum body that is neither too thin nor too thick.
Keyboard and Trackpad
With its full-sized keyboard and trackpad, the Apple MacBook Pro is ideal for editing video because of the size of its keyboard and trackpad! Even after long periods of typing on this keyboard, you will still find it comfortable to use, which makes it great if you need to edit videos all day long. Also, the trackpad has plenty of space for gestures, so you will be able to use them with ease when you need to do so.
Ports and Connectivity
The Apple MacBook Pro comes with two Thunderbolt ports, which are ideal for connecting external displays or other accessories to the MacBook Pro. In addition to the full-size USB port, there is also an HDMI port as well as a SD card slot for SDXC cards. It makes it easy for you to connect all your peripherals without having to worry about using hubs or dongles, which can be annoyance if you do have to use them frequently.
Battery Life
As we’ve come to expect from Apple, the MacBook Pro has an incredibly long battery life. This is not the first time Apple has done this! The device can be used continuously for up to ten hours on a single charge, so you’ll have enough time to edit for a long period before charging it again. Check out our list of the top laptops under $2000 for more information.
Our Verdict
In my opinion, the Apple MacBook Pro is one of the best laptops for editing 4k videos! The MacBook Pro comes with an amazing 14.20-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, up to 16GB of memory, and a 512GB SSD drive, along with a powerful Apple M1 Pro chip processor, which provides more than enough performance power required by video editors.
If you have the money, you can buy it for a reasonable price. If you do not, you may not be in a position to buy it, but if you can afford it, it is well worth every penny. Here is a list of the top-rated laptops available for under $500 that you might find useful.
4. Alienware Area 51M
Features
- Screen:17.3 Inches
- CPU: Intel Core i7 10700K
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 1TB SSD
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070
- Ports: One Thunderbolt 3 port, One USB 3.1 Gen 1 port with PowerShare, One HDMI 2.0 port, One Mini DisplayPort 1.4, One external graphics port
- Weight: 29 pounds
Among the powerful and expensive gaming laptops available in the market today, Alienware Area 51M offers excellent performance when it comes to video editing. In addition to its large 17.30-inch display, the laptop comes with an Intel Core i-series processor, 16GB of RAM, 1TB of storage space, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card.
As a result, all of your video editing projects can be edited with no lag or slowdown, as the GPU provides more than enough power. One of the downsides of this product is its price tag, which may be too much for some users, but if you have the money to spare, it’s worth looking into. You can find more information about the best laptops under $3000 by clicking here.
CPU and GPU
This Alienware Area 51M laptop is equipped with an Intel Core i7 10700K processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card to give it a powerful performance.
Having such a great video editing laptop is a great thing! This means you will not have to worry about waiting around while your videos render in the background since you will be able to run any program or software without lag or slowdown.
RAM and Storage
With the Alienware Area 51M, you get a massive 16GB of DDR RAM, which is more than enough for any video editing project that you might have in mind.
Additionally, you will receive 1TB of storage space, which is great for storing all your videos, photos, and other files that you might need. This should be enough to last you for a long time without having to worry about running out of space in the future.
Display and Build Quality
There is a large 17.30-inch screen on the Alienware Area 51M, making it perfect for editing videos. It is equipped with a 1920×1080 resolution screen that offers great color reproduction and viewing angles, making it easy to see what’s happening even when working in bright or outdoor environments, regardless of what time of day it is.
Keyboard and Trackpad
The Alienware Area 51M comes equipped with a full-size backlit keyboard featuring a number pad, in addition to a full-sized backlit keyboard! There is no doubt that the trackpad on this laptop is excellent and responsive, which makes it easy to navigate around the laptop without having to worry about any mistakes being made. I think that is definitely something that comes in handy when it comes to editing videos.
Ports and Connectivity
The laptop offers two USB Type-C ports that support Thunderbolt, and four USB Type-A ports (two standard USB connectors and one that supports USB Power Delivery). There is also an SD card reader on the left side panel, along with a Mini DisplayPort connector, HDMI port, and three audio jacks on the right side of the laptop. Additionally, there is also another headphone/microphone combo jack and a separate microphone input on the right side of the laptop.
Battery Life
It should be noted that the Alienware Area 51M comes with a six-cell 92Watt battery that is expected to provide around four hours of use on a single charge, which is not bad but could be improved.
There is also some concern about the weight of the laptop itself, which is a hefty 29 pounds, which may be a bit much for some users to carry around with them all day.
Our Verdict
It is without a doubt one of the most powerful and expensive gaming laptops in the marketplace today. This laptop offers excellent performance when it comes to video editing. This Windows 10 PC has a sizeable 17.30-inch display, a processor from Intel Core i7 10700K, 16GB of RAM, a GeForce RTX 2070 graphics card from NVIDIA, and an Intel Core i7 10700K processor.
With this kind of power, you can edit any video project with no need to worry about lags or slowdowns as the machine is more than capable of handling it. It doesn’t come cheap, which makes it a good option only for those with the money to spare, but if you have it, it’s worth considering if you can afford it!
5. Microsoft Surface Book 2
Features
- Screen: 13.5″ (3000 x 2000)
- CPU: 8th generation Intel Dual Core i7-8650U
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 256GB SSD
- Graphics: NVIDIA GTX 1050
- Ports: 2 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C, 2 x Surface Connect ports
- Weight: 3.62 lbs
With an Intel Core Processor and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card, the Surface Book 2 is a powerful laptop with a lot to offer. If you want to edit videos or play games on the go, this is the perfect device for you.
It has a 13.50-inch touchscreen display with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels and comes with a touch pad. As well as the SD card reader, the device is equipped with a headphone jack, as well as two USB Type-A ports. Aside from being lightweight, the Surface Book is also easy to carry around with you wherever you go.
CPU and GPU
Among its powerful features, the Microsoft Surface Book 2 is equipped with a powerful Intel Core i7-8650U processor and an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1050 graphics card.
Considering this, it makes it the perfect laptop to edit videos on. With this system, you will be able to run any program or software without experiencing any lag or slowdown, which is great since you won’t have to worry about waiting around while your videos render in the background.
RAM and Storage
It is worth mentioning that the Microsoft Surface Book 2 comes with a whopping 8GB of DDR RAM, which is more than enough for any video editing project you have in mind.
There are also 256GB of storage space included in the package, which is perfect for storing all of your videos, photos, and other files that you may have. It should not be a problem for you to run out of space for a long time to come because this amount of space should be more than enough to satisfy your needs.
Display and Build Quality
With a 13.50-inch touchscreen display that provides great color reproduction and viewing angles, the Microsoft Surface Book 2 is easy to use even when working in bright or outdoor environments, since it has a clear display that makes it easy to see what’s going on.
In addition, the laptop is very well built thanks to the magnesium alloy construction which gives you the peace of mind that this laptop will last you for years to come without requiring any repairs.
Keyboard and Trackpad
Besides having a backlit keyboard, the Microsoft Surface Book 2 also comes with a touchpad that is designed to be as easy to use as possible in the dark. With a nice and responsive trackpad, you will be able to navigate your way around Windows without having to worry about imprecision when using it. When it comes to editing videos, that’s definitely something you’ll want to have available to you.
Ports and Connectivity
In terms of connectivity, you get two USB Type-A ports, one USB Type-C port with Thunderbolt support and charging capabilities, one SD card reader, one mini DisplayPort connector, and a headphone jack. It has also been equipped with 802.11ac Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which will come in handy when it comes to transferring files between devices or when connecting to wireless networks.
Battery Life
A final highlight of the Microsoft Surface Book 2 is its integrated battery pack, which is capable of charging your laptop for hours on end, making it the perfect laptop for using all day at home or traveling from one place to another. In addition, it weighs a little over three pounds, so you won’t have a problem carrying this machine around with you if you need to.
Our Verdict
There is no doubt that the Microsoft Surface Book 2 is a powerful, expensive laptop that offers excellent performance when it comes to editing video. There is no doubt that it is worth considering if you have the money!
In the end, we can conclude that the Microsoft Surface Book 2 is a great choice for anyone who is in the market for an upgrade from an older laptop or who has a limited budget. In the year 2022, we are sure that this laptop will be one of the top laptops available for 4k video editing.
Best 4k monitor for video editing 2022
1. A 31-inch LED-lit monitor from LG Electronics with a 31-inch screen:
As the 31MU97 monitor is capable of delivering 4096×2160 resolution on its 31 inch display, you can expect a better accumulation of pixels on the screen of the monitor as a result. As compared to Full HD content, this resolution level is rated to be about four times higher than that of Full HD content.
Key Features:
- Due to the use of single stream transport technology, all image sync problems are resolved by ensuring highly smooth details with its image synchronization technology.
- Using Adobe RG B technology, this IPS display manages to cover 99.5% of the color spectrum.
- It is worth noting that LG has designed this monitor in a way that allows it to handle full variation in brightness, saturation, colour, and shadows.
- Designed with flicker-free technology and offering 10 bit color depth, this display is perfect for any environment.
2. Eizo Color Edge CG318-4K:
It is a highly detailed widescreen 4K monitor that can support a higher pixel density with deep details, as well as a built-in sensor that helps to maintain the settings for several aspects of the display. You can ensure crisp details even at the corners of the screen with the Adobe RGB technology that keeps 99% color accuracy. After it has warmed up for a few minutes, the display can be used for hours and hours without getting tired at all.
Key Features:
- Color grading, compositing, 3D CGI, and 2D editing made easy.
- Sensor self-calibrates.
- High quality IPS panel for consistent color.
- Ensures corner to corner uniformity.
3.ASUS PB279Q 27″ 4K/UHD 3840×2160 IPS Monitor:
With a 27-inch widescreen and IPS panel, the Asus PB279Q offers 16:9 aspect ratio. It is possible to view the screen from as far as 178 degrees away, while the tilt angle range varies from -5 to 20 degrees. As a result, it is able to process up to 1.07 billion colours with stunning content distribution across a wide screen, so that it is capable of handling up to 1.07 billion colours. The display can be easily connected to the external world using the DisplayPort, HDMI, and Mini DisplayPort ports available on the monitor.
Key Features:
- Offers 5ms response time.
- Classic color coverage with sRGB technology.
- Designed with 10 bit colours ensuring incredible crispness in details.
- Equipped with EyeCare technology that ensures flicker and strain free content delivery.
4. Dell UltraSharp 4k UP3216Q 31.5″ Screen LCD Monitor:
There is no doubt that this is one of the most popular designs in the category of 4K monitors. As a professional video editor, this software has so many amazing features that provide the perfect results for professional video editing. There is an expectation of 3840×2160 resolution level on this screen. UltraSharp calibration tools for color management are available to ensure professional delivery. In order for it to ensure dynamic details in a screen, it is able to handle about 1.07 billion colors.
Key Features:
- It offers enhanced color clarity.There is no doubt that this is one of the most popular designs in the category of 4K monitors. As a professional video editor, this software has so many amazing features that provide the perfect results for professional video editing. There is an expectation of 3840×2160 resolution level on this screen. UltraSharp calibration tools for color management are available to ensure professional delivery. In order for it to ensure dynamic details in a screen, it is able to handle about 1.07 billion colors.It offers enhanced color clarity.
- Easy connectivity with external world via USB ports, Mini DisplayPort and DisplayPort.
- 6ms response time and 1000:1 contrast ratio.
- Flexible design that is comprehensive enough for viewing comfort maximization.
5. BenQ BL2711U UHD 4K Designer Monitor:
Key Features:
- The device has low blue light modes that protect human eyes from strain, damage, and headaches.
- Offers Rec. Optimal color precision with 709.
- 100% color coverage is provided by sRGB.
- It supports 1.07 billion colors and has a response time of 4ms.
6. BenQ BL3201PH 32-Inch IPS 4K Ultra High Definition LED Monitor:
This 32-inch 4K display is impressive. The 3840×2160 resolution of this monitor is excellent, and the display configuration of this monitor includes an LED backlight that allows delivery of clear, crisp, and highly accurate color content. In addition to covering 100% of the spectrum, sRGB is capable of supporting up to 1.0 billion colors in its color space. With 4 USB 3.0 ports, you will be pleased to know that this USB hub works as a perfect USB hub for a wide range of USB devices.
Key Features:
- Images can be compared using Pic-in-Pic technologies.
- You can expect a safe viewing experience with flicker free technology.
- Protects eyes from enhanced blue light.
- Professional color editing at an affordable price.
7. HP DreamColor M2D46A8 Z32x:
A 4K UHD monitor with 178 degree vertical and horizontal viewing angles delivers impressive content across wide edges. It has an 8ms response time and a 16:9 aspect ratio with a 1000:1 contrast ratio. A variety of ports, including USB ports, DisplayPort, Mini DisplayPort, and HDMI, make this display easy to adjust for swivel, height, tilt, etc.
Key Features:
- Energy star-rated monitor.
- A user-programmable IPS device.
- Beginners and professionals alike will find editing tasks much easier with the on-screen controls.
- Anti-glare screen ensures safe viewing.
8. BenQ PD3200U 32″ 4K Designer Monitor:
The PD3200U offers exceptional color accuracy and wide viewing angles. It supports sRGB color and REC for enhanced viewing even in dark rooms. It has 709. The keyboard and mouse control all display controls. The system can be configured and delivered content from external sources using USB 3.0 ports, HDMI inputs, Mini DisplayPorts, and DisplayPorts.
Key Features:
- Rec. 709 ability included.
- BenQ PD3200U has darkroom mode that makes better adjustments for contrast and brightness levels.
- It comes with 10 bit color adjustment feature and sRGB technology offers 100% coverage for color rich content.
- It is designed with flicker free viewing experience.
Best monitor for photo editing 2022
1. Dell UltraSharp U2419H
This inexpensive 24-inch Full HD monitor might be all you need
SPECIFICATIONS
- USB-C: No
- Screen size: 23.8 inches
- Resolution: 1920 x 1080
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- HDMI inputs: 1
- Display ports: 1
You’ve found the monitor you’re looking for if you want a step up in specs and the assurance of a well-known brand. It isn’t the cheapest 24-inch monitor you could buy out there, but there is such a thing as false economy, and the Dell UltraSharp U2419H does give photographers a good combination of performance and value for their money. Despite the fact that it is a 24-inch monitor, the Full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution is about as low as we would prefer in a monitor of this size, so if you are willing to accept a little visible pixellation, then this is a good monitor. The Dell’s IPS image quality, on the other hand, offers good color space coverage for the money (99% sRGB, 99% Rec709, and 85% DCI-P3), along with factory color calibration that ensures that Delta-E is less than 2. There are many things that make the Dell UltraSharp U2419H such a great deal, including the fact that it is the same quality as a monitor that costs several times as much. If you are unsure whether this is the right monitor for you, our guide to the best Dell monitors(opens in new tab) offers plenty of alternatives to consider.
2. LG 27UL500-W
A 4K IPS monitor for a bargain price – what’s not to like?
SPECIFICATIONS
- USB-C: No
- Screen size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- HDMI inputs: 2
- Display ports: 1
In comparison with budget screens you might see in a computer store, the LG 27UL500-W might seem to be a bit pricey, but if you can afford it, it’s certainly worth it to go for it. This monitor has an excellent 4K resolution, which is ideal for photographers, and it has a Color Calibration Pro tool that boosts its color accuracy, which is essential for anyone who is looking for a monitor with high-end photography capabilities for a reasonable price.
There are a number of extra features, including HDR-10 compatibility, AMD FreeSync support, and an area coverage of 98% of sRGB, which adds even more appeal to the display.
There is no doubt that some desktop monitors look clunky and bulky when compared to the LG 27UL500-W, which boasts a slim design and slender crescent-shaped silver base. One of the only real compromises of this office chair is that it does not come with a swivel mechanism built into the base, even though the tilt, height, and pivot facilities are present.
3. ASUS ProArt Display PA279CV
A budget monitor that doesn’t cut corners when it comes to image quality in terms of price
SPECIFICATIONS
- USB-C: Yes
- Screen size: 27 inches
- Resolution: 3840 x 2160
- Aspect ratio: 16:9
- HDMI inputs: 1
- Display ports: 1
Conclusion
Creating the perfect video in 4K is a complex process that requires the right camera, editor, and storage solution in order to be successful. There are seven steps that you can follow to make a great video that will be remembered forever once you follow them.