PC Build for Gaming and Video Editing: A Complete Guide

If you’re a gaming enthusiast who also dabbles in video editing, you know how crucial it is to have a PC build for gaming and video editing. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of building a powerhouse PC optimized for gaming and video editing. So, grab your toolkit, and let’s dive into the process of selecting suitable PC components, performance optimization, and the art of creating a gaming/editing system that can tackle even the most demanding tasks.

Like they say, all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, so you need to game now and then. Gaming has been proven to help with mental alertness and responsiveness, aside from helping you relax, which is great for those of us who are perpetual workaholics.

In summary, you can set up a PC that can handle your video content creation tasks and intense gaming sessions by ensuring that you acquire specific hardware that will equip your PC to handle these tasks effortlessly. That’s what this article is all about, and we’ll explain it below.

We’ll examine the type of specific hardware to buy, go through the actual build, and recommend some optimizations that would keep your PC at optimal performance. Let’s go!

The Basic Requirements  

Gaming and video editing might seem like vastly different tasks, but they share one common trait: they demand a lot from your hardware. Gaming requires a system that can render high-resolution graphics and maintain smooth frame rates, while video editing demands processing power and memory to handle complex video files.

Building a PC that excels at both requires careful consideration of each component’s capabilities. We’ve written about a PC built exclusively for gaming and a PC built for video editing in the past, but this article provides recommendations for a PC that can handle both workloads comfortably.

First, the components:

PC Build for Gaming and Video Editing: Important Components

The Processor (CPU)

The heart of your PC plays a pivotal role in both gaming and video editing. You’re gonna need a multi-core processor with high clock speeds. CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X or the Intel Core i9-12900K fit the bill, offering the raw power needed for smooth performance in both tasks.

If you ask me, I’ll advise you to go for the Intel CPU because it delivers better performance in both workloads, though pricing may deter you, in which case you should opt for the AMD option.

Graphics Card (GPU)

When it comes to gaming and video editing, the GPU is your best friend. High-performance gaming GPUs make a whole lot of difference for memorable gaming. experiences Also, in video editing, most apps now support hardware video transcoding hence the need to install the best graphics card you can get your hands on.

Having said this, look for a GPU with ample VRAM, such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 or the AMD Radeon RX 6900 XT. These GPUs not only provide stunning gaming visuals but also accelerate video rendering tasks.

However, most software tends to favor NVIDIA GPUs because of their unique technologies, such as CUDA and hardware raytracing. In my opinion, go for the NVIDIA option.

The RTX 3080 GPU is a great choice for gamers, because of the position it occupies: it’s a high-end GPU without the hefty price tag of the 3090 or 3080Ti. We’ve even written a guide for a PC build based on the RTX 3080 GPU.

Memory (RAM)

Multitasking is the name of the game here. Aim for at least 32GB of fast DDR4 RAM, allowing you to seamlessly switch between gaming and video editing applications without slowdowns. I’ve seen rigs sporting up to 256GB of RAM, but then, isn’t that overkill?

You could up the ante with up to 64 GB, which is more than enough, even if you use the RAM-hungry Adobe apps, you won’t have memory shortage issues.

Storage Solutions

Speedy storage is a must for quick game loading and efficient video editing. Go for a fast NVMe SSD as your primary drive, like the Samsung 980 PRO. For bulk storage, consider a high-capacity HDD or SATA SSD to keep your game library and video files organized.

Motherboard Selection

Go for a motherboard that’s compatible with your chosen CPU and offers sufficient PCIe slots for your GPU and other expansion needs. The ASUS ROG Strix B550-F Gaming is a reliable choice. As a matter of fact, be sure that the motherboard can support the amount of RAM that you plan to install.

Power Supply Unit (PSU)

Stability is key, and a dependable PSU ensures just that. Calculate your power requirements and opt for a PSU with a bit of headroom. Look for models with 80 PLUS Gold or higher efficiency ratings, like the Corsair RM750x.

Cooling Solutions

Cooling is essential for maintaining optimal performance. Consider an all-in-one liquid cooler for your CPU, like the NZXT Kraken X63, and ensure your case has adequate airflow to prevent overheating.

PC Build for Gaming and Video Editing: Recommended Components for Intel Build

1. Processor (CPU): Intel Core i9-12900K
2. Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
3. Memory (RAM): Corsair Vengeance RGB Pro 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3600
4. Storage: Samsung 980 PRO 1TB NVMe SSD/Western Digital 2TB HDD
5. Motherboard: ASUS ROG Strix Z690-E Gaming WiFi
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU): Corsair RM850x 850W 80 PLUS Gold
7. Cooling Solutions: NZXT Kraken X63
8. Case: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Chassis

Last update on 2023-09-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

PC Build for Gaming and Video Editing: Recommended Components for AMD Build

1. Processor (CPU): AMD Ryzen 9 5900X
2. Graphics Card (GPU): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
3. Memory (RAM): G.SKILL Trident Z Neo 32GB (2 x 16GB) DDR4-3600
4. Storage: Samsung 980 PRO 1TB NVMe SSD/Western Digital 2TB HDD

5. Motherboard: ASUS ROG Strix X570-E Gaming
6. Power Supply Unit (PSU): Corsair RM850x 850W 80 PLUS Gold
7. Cooling Solutions: NZXT Kraken X63
8. Case: Phanteks Enthoo Pro Full Tower Chassis