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Building a New Lightroom & Photoshop Editing PC: A Comprehensive Guide

  • Aug 1, 2025
  • 4 min read

Updated: May 11

In Part 1 of this series, I shared the struggles I faced with my ageing Lightroom setup and why it was time for a serious rethink. Years of smooth editing had finally hit a wall: slow imports, laggy previews, and an overall editing experience that felt like wading through treacle.


Before jumping into the fun part—choosing shiny new components—I wanted to take a step back and explore the options I considered along the way. In the end, three paths were on the table: upgrade, replace, or build new. Here’s how I weighed them up.


Option 1: Upgrade My Existing PC


One of the best things about building a PC is knowing you can upgrade it later. So naturally, my first thought was: why not just swap out a few parts and keep editing?


The problem? My old faithful, nicknamed "CHARD1," had simply run out of steam.


  • Storage: Completely maxed out. Lightroom catalogues and RAW files chew through terabytes like popcorn. Adding yet another external drive wasn’t a long-term fix.

  • Graphics card: A second-hand buy from five years ago. Fine for basic Lightroom work back then, but hopelessly out of its depth today.

  • CPU: The real engine of Lightroom. Mine was, let’s just say… not a powerhouse.


After years of trouble-free editing, "CHARD1" had reached the end of the road. I might repurpose it later for backups or tinkering, but for serious editing? Time to move on.


Option 2: Buy a Pre‑Built or System Builder PC


Next, I considered buying a pre‑built PC or using a custom system builder. It had some appeal: someone else does the work, and it arrives ready to go.


However, the downsides outweighed the convenience:


  • More expensive than DIY for similar specs.

  • Less flexibility—you’re often stuck with whatever components they choose.

  • Zero fun factor—I actually enjoy the process of building and learning.


I even flirted with the idea of going full Apple Mac. I’m pretty agnostic about platforms—there’s an iPad on my desk, a Chromebook in my bag, and a PC under my monitor. I have no problem using a Mac if it makes sense. But wow, those upgrades… £600 just to go from 1TB to 2TB SSD storage? That felt less like “Apple pricing” and more like daylight robbery. Tempting, but I moved on.


Option 3: Build a New Lightroom & Photoshop Editing PC


Which brings us to the winning choice: build a brand‑new PC from scratch. This will be my second ever build, and I’m genuinely looking forward to it. There’s a special satisfaction in hand‑picking each component to perfectly match your workflow.


Choosing the Right Components


When building a new PC, selecting the right components is crucial. Here are the key parts to consider:


1. Processor (CPU)


The CPU is the heart of your PC. For Lightroom and Photoshop, a multi-core processor will significantly improve performance. Look for a modern CPU with a high clock speed and multiple cores.


2. Graphics Card (GPU)


A powerful GPU can accelerate rendering times in both Lightroom and Photoshop. Choose a graphics card that meets your editing needs and budget.


3. Memory (RAM)


Having enough RAM is essential for smooth multitasking. Aim for at least 16GB, but 32GB is ideal for heavy editing tasks.


4. Storage Solutions


Opt for a combination of SSD and HDD. An SSD will speed up your system and applications, while an HDD can store large files.


5. Motherboard


Ensure the motherboard is compatible with your CPU and has enough slots for future upgrades.


6. Cooling System


A good cooling system will keep your PC running efficiently. Consider liquid cooling for better performance.


Assembling Your PC


Once you have all your components, it’s time to assemble your PC. Follow these steps:


  1. Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure you have a clean, static-free environment.

  2. Install the CPU: Carefully place the CPU into the motherboard socket.

  3. Add RAM: Insert the RAM sticks into the appropriate slots.

  4. Install the Motherboard: Secure the motherboard in the case.

  5. Connect Storage Drives: Install your SSD and HDD.

  6. Install the GPU: Place the graphics card in the PCIe slot.

  7. Connect Power Supply: Ensure all components are powered correctly.

  8. Cable Management: Organise cables for better airflow.


Testing Your Build


After assembling your PC, it’s time to test it. Boot up the system and check if everything is functioning correctly. Install your operating system and necessary software, including Lightroom and Photoshop.


Essential Specs for Smooth Performance


In Part 3, I’ll share:


  • The exact components I chose and why.

  • The specs I think are essential for smooth Lightroom and Photoshop performance in 2025.

  • A few tips for anyone planning their own editing PC build.


Stay tuned—this is where the fun really begins.


Building a new PC is an exciting journey. It allows you to tailor your machine to your specific needs, ensuring optimal performance for your editing tasks. Whether you are a seasoned professional or a hobbyist, having the right setup can make all the difference in your workflow.


Remember, the phrase "building a new PC" is not just about hardware; it's about creating a tool that enhances your creativity and productivity.


---wix---

 
 
 

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