In recent months, I’ve been looking to upgrade my Final Cut Pro desktop editing rig. I wanted something that could last me at least the next two to three years and provide me with a smooth workflow; I also wanted to spend less than $2,000 total. If you’re in a similar predicament, then read further. For less than $2,000 I put together a Mac mini video editing setup that works great with Final Cut Pro X.
Mac mini & RAM
The Mac mini model I picked up is the baseline six-core i5 variant with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. I was able to snag it for $929 on Amazon. Unfortunately, the sale for $929 is no longer available, but I think even at $1,029.99, it’s a great computer nonetheless. As far as performance goes, the i5 for my use is going to be fine, but that 8GB of RAM (2x 4GB) and 256GB of RAM isn’t going to cut it.
I went out and got 16GB of RAM from Kingston, a single DIMM stick cost me $70 and gave me a grand total of 20 gigs of RAM in the machine. Yes, I’m aware that 20 is a weird number, but for now, I’m just happy to have more than 8GB.
Video: Mac mini video editing setup
Read more at 9to5Mac.com