Nowadays, editors of different abilities and ambitions can put together an effective video editing computer at a fairly low cost. This story looks at some of the options you have in the current marketplace and examines what makes a video editing computer ideal for each type of editor.

Research Tech Specs

Many times, videographers need to start their computer search by first assessing their software needs. If you want a full-blown video editing software suite (e.g. Apple Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere, Sony Vegas,) or a powerful editing system like Avid, you'll want to check the technical specifications for details about what kind of hardware is required to run the software. If you don't pay close attention to these details you may be returning your computer for the next step up in the product line. Always review the "recommended" specifications, too. Adhering to just the minimum requirements allows you to install the software, but the user experience may be poor because there won't be enough system resources for the software to run smoothly.

Further adding to the complexity of your specifications, different video formats may require more robust hardware. Generally speaking, high definition video requires faster performing hard drives, significantly more RAM (in some cases at least 4 GB) and faster processor speeds. Be certain to consider what type of footage you'll be editing. That can make a big difference in the end. Basic video editing applications (e.g., Microsoft MovieMaker, Apple iMovie, Adobe Premiere Elements) may not require as much resources to run, but processor speeds and plenty of RAM are still ideal to get the job done.

Pre-Configured Please

Editors who wish to relinquish their responsibilities of researching the technical specifications may find relief in providers of Turnkey Video Editing Workstations. There are a few companies in the marketplace that provide entry level and semi-professional video computers complete with the video editing applications pre-installed and pre-tested. These systems have been configured for the video editor in mind and have been typically built with more than the mere basic specifications. These systems are ideal for editors who do not have interest in configuring their own system, or perhaps don't feel confident that they can marry the hardware with the software. The truth is that it can be a complicated ordeal setting up a system, even when you do all your research.

You will end up spending more money on a pre-built system, but it may be just the right fit for you. Typically, these companies offer reliable customer support and computer repair as well. That, too, may come in handy. Shops that put these systems together can be found all over the Internet by doing a Google search for "video editing workstation". Also, Videomaker compiles an annual Workstations Buyer's Guide, which is a good place to search for companies that make these systems. Many major computer manufacturers offer similar solutions, but they may not have the same level of experience when dealing with video editing sales and support questions.

Trustworthy Macs

Macs have long earned trust among video editors as being a very reliable and stable system for video editing. The iMac product-line has been a good fit for amateurs and students who need an all-in-one system (monitor and computer are one unit). These machines are not as powerful as the Mac Pro line but they usually are equipped to handle Final Cut Pro right out of the box.

The Mac Pro systems are workhorses that can chew through a lot of data processing with their quad core processing capabilities. Many professional video editing studios cut major films and TV shows with these systems. You'll pay a pretty penny for a Mac Pro, but it may be worth it if you plan on attending film school or making a feature length film.

Of course, the other side of the Mac coin is that many people are not familiar with the Mac interface. It may take some getting use to if you're new to the Mac OS. The price of the hardware, and the investment of time required to get acquainted, tends to scare off quite a few folks. Find an Apple Store and take one for a test drive. Most users know whether they love it or hate it within the first few minutes. Overall, many Mac users are loyal, happy users as their workstations perform admirably throughout the years with little to no down time.