Are you ready to bring your video editing game to the next level in 2024? Choosing the right laptop is a critical first step. A powerful machine can mean the difference between a smooth workflow and frustrating lag, allowing you to focus on what matters most: your creative vision.
This comprehensive guide will break down the best laptops for video editing in 2024, no matter your budget or experience level. We’ll explore the key features to consider, from powerful processors and dedicated graphics cards to high-resolution displays and lightning-fast storage, empowering you to make an informed decision and find the perfect editing companion.
Apple MacBook Pro
The Apple MacBook Pro remains a powerhouse for video editing, consistently ranking among the best in the field. The latest models, powered by Apple Silicon chips like the M2 Pro and M2 Max, deliver blistering performance for handling 4K and even 8K footage.
The gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR display ensures accurate colors and deep blacks, essential for professional video work. Plus, the integration with Final Cut Pro, Apple’s professional video editing software, creates a seamless and optimized workflow.
While the MacBook Pro sits at a higher price point, the combination of raw power, stunning display, and a robust ecosystem of apps makes it a compelling choice for serious video editors.
Dell XPS 17
The Dell XPS 17 is a powerhouse laptop ideal for video editing, thanks to its potent combination of processing power and stunning display.
Processor: Choose from the latest Intel Core i5, i7, or i9 processors, ensuring smooth handling of demanding video editing software and multitasking.
Memory: Up to 64GB of RAM provides ample memory for seamless multitasking and handling large video files.
Graphics: Enjoy dedicated graphics card options up to the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 series, allowing for accelerated rendering and smooth playback of high-resolution videos.
Display: The expansive 17-inch display comes in multiple configurations, offering stunning visuals with vibrant colors and sharp details, crucial for precise video editing. Opt for a 4K UHD+ display with touch capability for the ultimate viewing and editing experience.
While the larger size may not be as portable as some smaller laptops, the Dell XPS 17 is a compelling choice for those who prioritize performance and a larger workspace for their video editing needs.
Asus ProArt StudioBook Pro 17
The Asus ProArt StudioBook Pro 17 is a powerful laptop designed for professional video editing. Its large 17-inch display offers ample screen real estate for working with timelines and editing software. The high-resolution screen ensures accurate color representation, crucial for video editors.
This laptop is powered by high-performance processors and dedicated graphics cards, allowing it to handle demanding video editing tasks smoothly. With ample RAM and fast storage options, loading and rendering times are significantly reduced. The robust cooling system prevents overheating, ensuring optimal performance during long editing sessions.
The Asus ProArt StudioBook Pro 17 is a compelling choice for video editing professionals seeking a powerful and reliable laptop with a large, color-accurate display.
HP Envy 15
The HP Envy 15 is a powerful laptop that’s well-suited for video editing, thanks to its combination of a fast processor, dedicated graphics card, and stunning display.
You can configure it with up to a 12th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060 graphics card, which provides the power you need for demanding video editing tasks. The 15.6-inch OLED display offers vibrant colors and deep blacks, perfect for accurate color grading. With up to 16GB of RAM, you can easily multitask between your editing software and other applications.
While it may not be as portable as some ultra-thin laptops, the HP Envy 15 offers a great balance between performance and portability. Its sleek design and solid build quality make it a great option for video editors on the go.
Razer Blade 15
The Razer Blade 15 is a powerhouse for video editing, consistently ranking among the top choices. Its sleek and portable design houses some seriously impressive hardware. You can configure it with up to a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 CPU and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 40 Series GPU, making it more than capable of handling 4K and even 8K footage.
The gorgeous display is a highlight for video editors. Razer offers various configurations, with options for a fast refresh rate and OLED panels with exceptional color accuracy. This means you can edit with confidence, knowing your colors are accurate and your footage is buttery smooth.
While the Razer Blade 15 comes at a premium price, its combination of power, portability, and a stunning display makes it a worthwhile investment for serious video editors.
MSI Creator 15
The MSI Creator 15 is a powerful laptop designed for creative professionals, particularly video editors. It boasts a sleek and stylish design without compromising on performance.
One of the standout features of the Creator 15 is its stunning display. The 4K resolution and wide color gamut provide incredible clarity and color accuracy, essential for video editing. Coupled with a powerful NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card, you can expect smooth playback and rendering of even the most demanding video projects.
Performance is further enhanced by the high-end Intel Core processor and ample RAM, allowing for seamless multitasking between editing software, effects, and other applications. The fast solid-state drive ensures quick boot times and rapid file transfers, optimizing your workflow.
While the MSI Creator 15 excels in performance and visuals, it also prioritizes portability. The slim profile and lightweight design make it easy to carry with you, whether you’re working from home, in the office, or on the go.
Overall, the MSI Creator 15 is a compelling choice for video editors seeking a powerful and portable workstation. Its impressive display, robust performance, and sleek design make it a top contender in the realm of video editing laptops.
Lenovo Legion 7i
The Lenovo Legion 7i is a powerhouse of a laptop designed for gamers and content creators alike. Its sleek and portable design houses some of the latest hardware, making it a highly capable machine for video editing.
This laptop is powered by a 13th Gen Intel Core i9 processor and up to an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 Laptop GPU, delivering smooth playback and rendering for demanding video editing software. The fast RAM and spacious SSD ensure snappy performance even with large video files.
The Legion 7i also boasts a stunning display, with options for a 16-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600) IPS panel with a high refresh rate and accurate color reproduction, crucial for professional-grade video editing. Its robust cooling system keeps everything running smoothly even during extended editing sessions.
While primarily marketed towards gamers, the Lenovo Legion 7i’s impressive specs and performance make it a top contender for video editors searching for a powerful and portable workstation.
Acer ConceptD 7
The Acer ConceptD 7 is a powerhouse of a laptop designed specifically for creative professionals, particularly video editors. Its sleek and minimalist design houses some of the latest hardware, making it more than capable of handling demanding video editing tasks.
One of the standout features of the ConceptD 7 is its stunning 4K display. With 100% Adobe RGB color accuracy and a Pantone Validated certification, you can be sure that your videos will look their absolute best. The powerful Intel Core i7 processor and dedicated Nvidia GeForce RTX graphics card ensure smooth playback and rendering of even the most complex video projects.
While the ConceptD 7 excels in performance, it doesn’t compromise on portability. Its slim profile and lightweight design make it easy to take with you on the go. The long battery life ensures that you can work on your projects for extended periods without needing to be tethered to an outlet. Overall, the Acer ConceptD 7 is an excellent choice for video editors who demand the best in terms of performance, accuracy, and portability.
Microsoft Surface Book 3
The Microsoft Surface Book 3, though not the newest release, remains a solid choice for video editing thanks to its powerful configuration options. Choosing the model with a dedicated graphics card is crucial for a smooth editing experience.
Pros:
- High-resolution touchscreen display
- Detachable screen for tablet functionality
- Configurations with powerful processors and dedicated GPUs
Cons:
- Can be expensive, especially for higher-end configurations
- Battery life is average
The Surface Book 3 makes a compelling option for video editors who value portability and versatility, and desire the premium build and display quality synonymous with the Surface line. However, those on a tighter budget or seeking the absolute latest tech might find more value in other offerings.
Samsung Galaxy Book Odyssey
The Samsung Galaxy Book Odyssey is a powerhouse designed for creative professionals, especially video editors. Its strength lies in the Nvidia RTX graphics, offering a significant boost in rendering times and smooth playback of high-resolution footage.
Beyond its graphical prowess, the Odyssey boasts a beautiful AMOLED display with vibrant colors and deep blacks, crucial for accurate color grading. This, coupled with its powerful Intel Core processor and ample RAM, makes the Samsung Galaxy Book Odyssey a compelling option for video editing in 2024.
