Why is Adobe Premiere So Slow? And Why Do Cats Always Sit on Your Keyboard When You're Editing?

Why is Adobe Premiere So Slow? And Why Do Cats Always Sit on Your Keyboard When You're Editing?

Adobe Premiere Pro is one of the most popular video editing software tools in the world, used by professionals and hobbyists alike. However, one of the most common complaints about Premiere Pro is its tendency to run slowly, especially when working on complex projects. If you’ve ever found yourself staring at a spinning wheel or waiting for a clip to render, you’re not alone. But why is Adobe Premiere so slow? Let’s dive into the reasons—and maybe even explore why cats seem to have a sixth sense for sitting on your keyboard at the worst possible moment.


1. System Requirements and Hardware Limitations

Adobe Premiere Pro is a resource-intensive application. It demands a lot from your computer’s CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage. If your system doesn’t meet the recommended specifications, you’re likely to experience lag, crashes, and slow performance. For example:

  • CPU: Premiere Pro relies heavily on your processor for tasks like rendering and playback. Older or slower CPUs will struggle to keep up.
  • GPU: While Premiere can run without a dedicated graphics card, having one significantly improves performance, especially for effects and color grading.
  • RAM: Editing high-resolution footage (like 4K or 8K) requires a lot of memory. If your system has insufficient RAM, Premiere will slow down as it tries to manage the data.
  • Storage: Slow hard drives (HDDs) can bottleneck performance. Using a fast SSD for your project files and cache can make a huge difference.

2. High-Resolution Media and Codecs

Modern cameras can shoot in incredibly high resolutions, but this comes at a cost. Editing 4K or 8K footage requires significantly more processing power than HD footage. Additionally, some codecs (like H.264) are highly compressed, which means Premiere has to work harder to decode them in real time. Using proxy files or converting your footage to an editing-friendly codec (like ProRes or DNxHD) can alleviate this issue.


3. Cache and Temporary Files

Premiere Pro generates a lot of cache files to speed up playback and rendering. Over time, these files can accumulate and take up valuable storage space. If your cache folder is located on a slow drive or is too full, it can slow down the entire application. Regularly clearing your cache and ensuring it’s stored on a fast SSD can help maintain performance.


4. Too Many Effects and Plugins

Adding effects, transitions, and plugins can enhance your project, but each one adds to the processing load. Complex effects like color grading, motion blur, or 3D transitions can bring even powerful systems to their knees. To improve performance, try rendering effects-heavy clips or using adjustment layers to apply effects more efficiently.


5. Outdated Software

Adobe frequently releases updates for Premiere Pro, often including performance improvements and bug fixes. If you’re using an outdated version of the software, you might be missing out on these optimizations. Similarly, outdated drivers for your GPU or other hardware can cause compatibility issues and slow performance.


6. Background Processes and Multitasking

Running other applications while editing can drain your system’s resources. Web browsers, in particular, are notorious for consuming RAM and CPU. If Premiere is running slowly, try closing unnecessary programs and disabling background processes. And yes, this includes that cat video you have open in another tab.


7. Project Complexity

The more complex your project, the harder Premiere has to work. Multiple layers of video and audio, nested sequences, and dynamic links with other Adobe apps (like After Effects) can all contribute to slower performance. Simplifying your project structure and breaking it into smaller sequences can help.


8. Why Do Cats Sit on Your Keyboard When You’re Editing?

While this isn’t directly related to Premiere’s performance, it’s a phenomenon many editors can relate to. Cats are naturally curious and drawn to warmth, and your laptop or keyboard provides both. They also crave attention and may sense that you’re focused on something other than them. To prevent feline interference, consider setting up a cozy spot nearby for your cat to relax—preferably one that doesn’t involve stepping on your spacebar.


9. Tips to Speed Up Adobe Premiere Pro

If you’re tired of waiting for Premiere to catch up, here are some actionable tips:

  • Upgrade Your Hardware: Invest in a faster CPU, more RAM, a dedicated GPU, and SSDs.
  • Use Proxy Files: Create lower-resolution proxies for high-res footage to speed up editing.
  • Optimize Settings: Adjust Premiere’s preferences, such as enabling GPU acceleration and setting the correct playback resolution.
  • Clear Cache Regularly: Keep your cache folder clean and stored on a fast drive.
  • Close Unnecessary Programs: Free up system resources by closing background applications.
  • Update Software: Ensure Premiere Pro, your operating system, and drivers are up to date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Premiere Pro crash so often? A: Crashes can be caused by insufficient RAM, outdated software, or corrupted project files. Make sure your system meets the requirements and try resetting your preferences.

Q: Can I edit 4K footage on an older computer? A: It’s possible, but you’ll likely experience slow performance. Using proxy files or upgrading your hardware can help.

Q: How do I create proxy files in Premiere Pro? A: Go to the Project panel, select your footage, right-click, and choose “Proxy > Create Proxies.” Follow the prompts to generate lower-resolution versions of your clips.

Q: Why does my cat sit on my keyboard when I’m editing? A: Cats are drawn to warmth and attention. Providing a comfortable alternative spot for your cat might help keep them off your keyboard.


In conclusion, Adobe Premiere Pro’s slow performance can be attributed to a variety of factors, from hardware limitations to project complexity. By understanding these issues and taking steps to optimize your system and workflow, you can enjoy a smoother editing experience. And as for your cat? Well, that’s just part of the creative process.