However, Windows operating systems can tend to be slower and less stable when running video applications, especially if the computer’s graphics card isn’t up to the task. So if you want to save money AND are willing to build or modify a custom computer to suit your own needs, a PC is the place to start. PCs also have more built-in ports than their modern Apple counterparts for someone who likes to plug in multiple USB drives or peripheral devices, this is a huge plus.Īnd of course, Windows machines almost always cost less than Macs. Many experienced video editors even build their computers from scratch to be able to handle even the heaviest of sessions, and this is almost always done with a PC. Over the last decade, more and more filmmakers have been making the switch from Mac to PC, for a variety of reasons.įor those who like to customize their computers to perfectly match their workloads, a PC is the obvious choice, simply because it is by far the more customizable platform, with parts and components readily available and easy to assemble. They’re also difficult (and sometimes impossible) to customize or build. The main drawback of Mac systems is that they’re generally going to be much more expensive than a PC. Plus, the integration with iPhone apps offers a big advantage for the mobile video editor. When it comes to laptops, Mac has a big advantage, with Macbooks being durable, compact, and perfectly-suited for 4K video editing and beyond. You can take the extra step of calibrating your monitor with 3rd party software or hardware, but this is usually not needed. Macbook and iMac screens are also bright, rich, and most importantly, accurate in the way they display colors. Mac operating systems set the bar for stability and performance, and the Mac interface is extremely intuitive and user-friendly. Their machines are sleek, stable, easy-to-use, and powerful right out of the box. MacĪpple has definitely captured the lion’s share of the filmmaking world, and for good reason.

There are a lot of different opinions out there, so we’re going to cut through the noise and show you the pros and cons of each, from a video editing perspective.

And when buying a computer to edit with, the age-old question of Ma c vs PC is usually the biggest factor. A filmmaker’s computer is one of their most important tools.

Macbooks for video editing