What Type of Computer Should I Buy for Gaming and Video Editing in 2024?

Choosing the right computer for both gaming and video editing in 2024 can be a daunting task, especially with the myriad of options available on the market. These two activities are demanding in different ways—gaming requires powerful graphics and fast processing, while video editing needs robust multi-core performance and significant memory. Here’s a guide to help you pick the perfect setup that balances both needs.

1. Desktop vs. Laptop: Which One Should You Choose?

Before diving into specific components, the first decision is whether to go for a desktop or a laptop. Both have their pros and cons:

• Desktops:
  • Pros: Desktops generally offer better performance for the price, are more upgradeable, and have better cooling systems, which is crucial for both gaming and video editing.
  • Cons: They are not portable and require a dedicated workspace.
• Laptops:
  • Pros: Laptops offer portability and can be used anywhere. High-end gaming laptops now rival desktops in performance.
  • Cons: Laptops are usually more expensive for similar specs, have limited upgradeability, and can suffer from thermal throttling due to compact designs.

If you need portability and flexibility, a gaming laptop with video editing capabilities could be the right choice. However, if raw power and future-proofing are your priorities, a desktop is the better option.

2. Key Components to Consider

Whether you choose a desktop or a laptop, certain components are crucial for a gaming and video editing setup. Here’s what to look for:

a. Processor (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of your computer and plays a critical role in both gaming and video editing.

• Recommended CPUs:
  • Intel: Intel’s 13th and 14th Gen Core i7 or i9 processors (e.g., Core i7-13700K, Core i9-13900K) are excellent choices, offering high clock speeds and multiple cores/threads for efficient multitasking.
  • AMD: AMD’s Ryzen 7000 series, particularly the Ryzen 7 7800X3D or Ryzen 9 7950X, are top-tier options. AMD’s CPUs are known for their multi-core performance, making them ideal for video editing.
• Core Count: Aim for at least 8 cores for a balanced performance. More cores (10-16) are better for video editing, especially if you’re working with 4K or higher resolutions.

b. Graphics Card (GPU)

The GPU is arguably the most important component for gaming, and it also significantly accelerates video editing tasks.

• Recommended GPUs:
  • NVIDIA: The RTX 40-series, such as the RTX 4070 or RTX 4080, offer excellent gaming performance and support for ray tracing. These cards also excel in GPU-accelerated video editing tasks.
  • AMD: AMD’s Radeon RX 7000 series, like the RX 7800 XT or RX 7900 XTX, provide a strong alternative with competitive gaming performance and good video editing capabilities.
• VRAM: For video editing, especially with 4K footage or complex effects, consider a GPU with at least 8GB of VRAM. For 8K editing or heavy compositing, 12GB or more is preferable.

c. Memory (RAM)

RAM is crucial for both smooth gameplay and efficient video editing, especially when working with large files or multitasking.

• Recommended RAM:
  • 16GB: This is the minimum for gaming and light video editing.
  • 32GB: Ideal for serious gaming and 4K video editing. It allows for smoother multitasking and handling of larger projects.
  • 64GB: Overkill for most, but useful if you’re editing 8K video or running multiple demanding applications simultaneously.

d. Storage

Both gaming and video editing demand significant storage space. Fast storage is also important for reducing load times and improving overall system responsiveness.

• Recommended Storage Setup:
  • SSD: A fast NVMe SSD (at least 1TB) should be your primary drive for the operating system, games, and video editing software. This ensures fast boot times and quick file access.
  • HDD: A secondary 2TB or larger HDD is useful for storing video files, game libraries, and other large data that doesn’t require the speed of an SSD.
  • External Storage: For video editors, an external SSD or RAID setup can be beneficial for backing up projects or transferring large files between systems.

e. Display

The monitor is an often-overlooked component but crucial for both gaming and video editing.

• Recommended Monitors:
  • Gaming: A high refresh rate monitor (144Hz or higher) with a low response time is essential for smooth gameplay. Look for monitors with G-Sync or FreeSync support to minimize screen tearing.
  • Video Editing: Color accuracy is paramount. Consider a monitor with at least 4K resolution and support for wide color gamuts like Adobe RGB or DCI-P3.

For a dual-purpose setup, consider a monitor that balances both, such as a 144Hz 4K monitor with good color accuracy.

3. Power Supply and Cooling

• Power Supply: Ensure your power supply (PSU) is powerful enough to handle your components. For most setups, a 750W PSU should be sufficient, but if you’re running high-end components, consider 850W or more.
• Cooling: Efficient cooling is essential, especially for high-performance desktops. Consider a case with good airflow and either an air or liquid cooling solution for the CPU.

4. Pre-Built vs. Custom-Built Systems

• Pre-Built Systems: If you prefer convenience, many manufacturers offer pre-built gaming PCs or laptops with the specs you need for both gaming and video editing.
• Custom-Built Systems: Building your own PC allows for more customization and often better value for money. You can choose each component based on your exact needs.

5. Budget Considerations

• Mid-Range Budget ($1,500 – $2,500): A setup in this range can handle 1080p and 1440p gaming at high settings, along with 4K video editing.
• High-End Budget ($2,500+): For 4K or 8K video editing and 4K gaming at ultra settings, a high-end setup with top-tier components is recommended.

Conclusion

In 2024, the best computer for both gaming and video editing will depend on your specific needs and budget. Desktops generally offer more power and upgradeability, while laptops provide portability with slightly compromised performance. Focus on key components like the CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage to ensure your system can handle both gaming and video editing tasks smoothly. By carefully selecting the right components and balancing your budget, you can build a versatile setup that excels in both areas.