Quick Sync Video capabilities vary by the age of the CPU: Quick Sync is only available on Intel CPUs with integrated graphics, and it doesn't work within virtual machines unless you pass through the Intel integrated graphics to the VM, which does not work on all systems. Intel Quick Sync Video support can be used for hardware accelerated video decoding, which can improve energy-efficiency and performance, however the difference is minimal if you are use sub streams effectively, and the use of substreams can negate the need of Quick Sync, bringing many non-Intel CPUs into play. If you want to buy or build a new machine, use the most recent CPU hardware generation from AMD or Intel. In many parts of the world, the used market for PCs will be far more cost-effective than buying new. Higher-spec CPUs may be able to provide better frame rates at 4K resolution, better remote viewing performance with multiple users connected, and can have enough power left over for Deepstack AI if you choose to use it. Lesser CPUs will still work fine with proper software configuration, just perhaps not with as high of resolutions and frame rates. As a minimum, I recommend a CPU with a CPU Mark of at least 6000, and single thread rating of at least 2000. Since 2020, proper use of sub streams will enable nearly any quad-core desktop CPU made since 2012 to handle nearly any number of cameras up to Blue Iris's limit of 64 cameras. * Integrated graphics is highly recommended for its cost-effectiveness compared to a dedicated GPU. But low single thread performance (below about 2000-2500) may cause stuttering or jerky playback even with lower-resolution video than 4K. * High Single Thread performance is mainly important for working with 4K video at high frame rates. * High Multi Thread performance helps your system scale up (more cameras, more concurrent remote viewers, better AI analytics response time, etc). There are several important factors in choosing a CPU: The CPU determines how much video your system will be able to process, and how much electricity it will consume. The most important aspect of a Blue Iris computer is the CPU. This is all in an effort to provide greater understanding of the capabilities of different hardware configurations running Blue IrisĬheck it out, here: Blue Iris Performance Data Data is collected in an automated fashion, ensuring that it remains unbiased and as accurate as possible. Since late 2017, users of the tool ' Blue Iris Update Helper' are regularly contributing performance data to a public database. These still make very capable computers for Blue Iris if you configure things properly.Įach manufacturer also has an 'outlet' store where they sell their own refurbished computers, although these have often been picked clean of all the best deals already. Older systems, such as those based on i5-4590 or i5-4570 can be found for $100 or less.

These are better for large workloads, such as if you have more than about 12-16 cameras. i7 systems can be found between $200-$500 (or cheaper if older). These make great Blue Iris computers for medium-size workloads. A minimum of 8 GB of RAM is recommended, as Windows 11 can use around 4 GB all on its own, leaving nothing for Blue Iris.Ĭomplete systems based on an Intel i5 desktop CPU can be found for $100-$200 USD.Windows 11 officially requires an Intel CPU from the 8th Gen or newer, or AMD Ryzen 2000 series or newer.Windows 10 End of Support is October 14, 2025: The original manufacturer warranties on these systems have mostly worn off by this point. Some used PC sellers offer a warranty.If possible, choose a system with Windows preinstalled to be sure you don't have to pay for a license separately.i5-6500T) are underpowered versions designed to fit in smaller cases and meet stricter energy-usage requirements. Systems with a 'T' suffix on the CPU (e.g.If you plan to use Blue Iris's AI integrations or a large number of cameras, get at least 16 GB of memory. 8 GB of RAM is recommended as a minimum for most, especially on Windows 11.

Intel 4th generation (no H.265 hardware acceleration)

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