Check out the our 10 best laptops for video editing this year. Explore powerful devices with advanced graphics, high-speed processors, and stunning displays, designed to enhance your editing experience and boost your creativity. Learn their specifications, pros, and cons in this expert guide to make an informed decision.
Video editors spend an average of 40-50 hours a week glued to their laptops?
Choosing the right laptop is make-or-break for creative flow. You don’t want your masterpiece ruined by lag or fuzzy visuals, right? Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, I’ve got you covered!
I’ve put together a top 10 list of laptops that will turn your editing woes into wows. These laptops combine strong power, portability, and have stunning visuals.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best laptops for video editors, ensuring you find the perfect match for your needs.
From ultra-fast processors that’ll make rendering a breeze to high-resolution displays that bring your edits to life, each laptop on my list promises to turbocharge your productivity and creativity.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
Why settle for anything less?
Video editing demands the best, and so should you. With so many laptops on the market, it’s tough to find the perfect one that meets your needs. That’s why I’ve researched for you, carefully selecting the top 10 best laptops for video editing this year, based on their:
- Processing power
- Graphics capabilities
- Display quality
- Overall performance
Here are the Top 10 Best Laptops for Video Editing:
So, let’s begin
1. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max)
The Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max) is a fantastic choice for video editing, offering lightning-fast speed, a stunning display, ample storage, long battery life, and durability, making it perfect for beginners and professionals alike!
Key specifications
- Processor: Apple M2 Max
The M2 Max chip offers incredible processing power, allowing for smooth and efficient handling of demanding video editing tasks. - RAM: Up to 64GB
With up to 64GB of RAM, the MacBook Pro can easily manage large video files and multitask without slowing down. - Storage: Up to 8TB SSD
The 8TB SSD provides ample space for storing high-resolution video projects and ensures fast read/write speeds for quicker file access and rendering. - Graphics: Integrated 38-core GPU
The powerful 38-core GPU accelerates video rendering and playback, making editing and effects work faster and more efficiently. - Display: 16-inch Retina XDR, 3456 x 2234 pixels
The stunning Retina XDR display offers exceptional color accuracy and high resolution, giving you a clear and vibrant view of your video projects. - Battery: 100Wh (Up to 22 hours of movie playback)
Pros
- Arguably the most performant laptop on the market
- Brilliant side speakers that get plenty loud
- Faster, more capable connectivity
- Reliable battery life with fast charging
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited ports
2. Dell XPS 17 (9730)
The Dell XPS 17 (2024) is an excellent choice for video editing, even for beginners, due to its powerful specifications and features that cater to the demands of video editing software.
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
The Intel Core i9-13900H is a powerful CPU, serving as the brain of your computer, capable of handling complex video editing tasks smoothly and quickly, enabling fast editing, effects application, and rendering of high-resolution videos.
RAM: Up to 64GB
RAM (Random Access Memory) is where your computer stores data that it needs to access quickly. Having up to 64GB of RAM ensures that you can work on large video files and run multiple applications simultaneously without your laptop slowing down.
Storage: Up to 4TB SSD
SSD (Solid State Drive) storage is much faster than traditional hard drives. With up to 4TB of storage, you have plenty of space to store large video files, projects, and software, and the fast access speeds mean your files load quickly.
Display:17-inch 4K UHD+ (3840 x 2400)
The display is where you see your work. A 4K UHD+ display provides a high resolution, so you can see every detail of your video clearly. This is crucial for making precise edits and ensuring your final product looks great.
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
The GPU (Graphics Processing Unit) helps with rendering images, video effects, and animations. The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 is a powerful GPU that can handle demanding video editing tasks, allowing for smoother playback and faster rendering times.
Battery Life: Up to 12 hours
Long battery life means you can work on your projects for extended periods without needing to recharge, which is great for editing on the go.
Pros:
- 4K UHD+ Display: The high-resolution screen provides excellent clarity and color accuracy, which is essential for video editing.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU: This powerful graphics card ensures smooth video playback and fast rendering, making your editing process more efficient.
- Premium Build Quality: The Dell XPS 17 is built with high-quality materials, giving it a durable and professional feel.
Cons:
- Expensive Configurations: The powerful specs come at a high price, which might be a significant investment for beginners.
- Heavier than Other Laptops: The large screen and premium build make the Dell XPS 17 heavier and less portable compared to smaller laptops.
3. Razer Blade 15 Advanced
This laptop is a top choice for video editors, offering a powerful processor, ample storage, high-quality display, and a dedicated graphics card, making it an ideal tool for creating stunning videos with ease.
Key Specifications
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
The Intel Core i9-13900H processor is the laptop’s powerful brain, delivering lightning-fast performance and effortlessly handling complex video editing tasks, ensuring smooth software operation, quick rendering, and seamless multitasking.
RAM: Up to 32GB
The Razer Blade 15 Advanced has up to 32GB of RAM, acting as short-term memory for quick access to information, enabling faster video editing and rendering, especially with multiple or large projects.
Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
With up to 2TB of lightning-fast SSD storage, this laptop provides ample space for storing video files, software, and data, and with the added benefit of SSDs being significantly faster than traditional hard drives, you can enjoy rapid file access, swift software loading, and enhanced overall performance
Display: 15.6-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) 240Hz
The 15.6-inch QHD display (2560 x 1440) has a high resolution, which means the screen is very clear and detailed. The 240Hz refresh rate makes the display smooth, which is great for video editing because you can see your work clearly and in high detail.
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4080
The NVIDIA RTX 4080 is a top-tier graphics card. Graphics cards (GPUs) are crucial for tasks involving visuals and graphics, such as video editing. This GPU is powerful enough to manage high-resolution video rendering, apply effects, and run video editing software seamlessly.
- Battery Life: Up to 8 hours
Pros:
- Sleek design: Stylish and portable, easy to carry around.
- Powerful Intel Core i9 processor: Handles complex tasks and large files efficiently.
- NVIDIA RTX 4080 GPU: Excellent for rendering and applying effects.
- High refresh rate display: Smooth and clear visuals, great for detailed video editing.
Cons:
- High price tag: It’s expensive, but the features justify the cost.
- Lower battery life: Up to 8 hours, which might require you to keep the charger handy for longer editing sessions.
4. Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 (2024)
This laptop’s potent performance and portable design make it an ideal choice for video editing, particularly for beginners, providing a seamless and hassle-free experience.
Key Specifications
Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
The AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS processor is the laptop’s powerful brain, handling complex tasks and large video files with ease, ensuring smooth editing software performance even on demanding projects.
- RAM: Up to 32GB
- Storage: Up to 1TB SSD
Display:14-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) 120Hz
The laptop’s 14-inch QHD+ display, with its sharp and clear 2560 x 1600 resolution and smooth 120Hz refresh rate, provides a detailed and fluid visual experience, making it ideal for video editing and playback.
GPU:NVIDIA RTX 3060
The NVIDIA RTX 3060 is a dedicated graphics card (GPU). A GPU is crucial for handling graphics-intensive tasks like video editing. This GPU can handle high-resolution video rendering, applying effects, and running video editing software smoothly.
- Battery Life: Up to 10 hours
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight: Easy to carry and portable.
- AMD Ryzen 9 processor: Handles complex tasks and large files efficiently.
- NVIDIA RTX 3060 GPU: Excellent for rendering and applying effects.
- Good battery life: Up to 10 hours, allowing for extended use without frequent charging.
Cons:
- Smaller screen size: The 14-inch display may feel cramped for detailed work compared to larger screens.
- No Thunderbolt 4: Limits some high-speed connectivity options for external devices.
5. HP Spectre x360 16
The **HP Spectre x360 16 (2024)** is a versatile and stylish laptop that can handle video editing tasks well, especially for beginners. Here’s why this laptop is suitable for video editing, explained in simple terms for those new to the field.
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i7-13700H
The Intel Core i7-13700H processor serves as the laptop’s powerful brain, efficiently tackling complex tasks with ease, ensuring seamless video editing performance, and enabling smooth software operation, so you can focus on creating without frustrating lag or interruptions.
RAM: Up to 32GB
The HP Spectre x360 16’s up to 32GB of RAM provides a vast short-term memory, accelerating video editing and enabling seamless multitasking by quickly accessing and juggling multiple tasks and large data amounts.
Storage:Up to 2TB SSD
Up to 2TB of SSD storage provides ample space for storing video files, software, and other data. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster than traditional hard drives, which means quicker access to your files and faster load times for your software.
Display:16-inch 3K OLED (3072 x 1920)
The 16-inch 3K OLED display boasts a stunning 3072 x 1920 resolution, delivering sharp and vibrant visuals, perfect for video editing, with OLED technology providing accurate color representation, deep blacks, and an immersive experience.
GPU: Integrated Intel Iris Xe
The Intel Iris Xe GPU handles basic to intermediate video editing tasks, managing high-resolution playback and basic effects. However, for more intensive tasks, a dedicated GPU would perform better, offering increased power and efficiency.
Battery Life: Up to 13 hours
With up to 13 hours of battery life, the laptop can last through long editing sessions without needing to be plugged in constantly. This is beneficial for working in locations where power outlets might not be readily available.
Pros:
- 3K OLED display: Provides sharp, vibrant, and accurate visuals.
- Intel Core i7 processor: Handles complex tasks efficiently.
- Stylish and portable: Sleek design and easy to carry around.
- Good battery life: Up to 13 hours, which is great for long editing sessions.
Cons:
- Integrated GPU might not be enough for heavy tasks: Suitable for basic to intermediate editing but may struggle with more demanding tasks.
6. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 5
This is a fantastic laptop for video editing, offering top-tier features that make it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced editors. Let’s break down why this laptop is ideal for video editing in simple terms.
Key specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
The Intel Core i9-13900H processor is the laptop’s powerhouse brain, delivering exceptional processing prowess for video editing. It effortlessly handles complex tasks, massive files, and demanding projects, ensuring seamless and efficient editing software performance.
- RAM: Up to 64GB
- Storage: Up to 4TB SSD
Display:16-inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2400)
The 16-inch 4K UHD display (3840 x 2400) offers incredibly sharp and detailed visuals. A high-resolution screen is essential for video editing because it allows you to see your footage clearly and accurately. The large screen size provides more workspace, making it easier to manage multiple windows and editing tools.
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070
The NVIDIA RTX 3070 is a dedicated graphics card (GPU). A GPU helps with tasks that involve visuals and graphics, such as video editing. This GPU can handle high-resolution video rendering, applying effects, and running video editing software smoothly, ensuring a seamless editing experience.
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
Pros:
- 4K display option: Provides sharp and detailed visuals, essential for video editing.
- Intel Core i9 processor: Handles complex tasks efficiently.
- NVIDIA RTX 3070 GPU: Manages high-resolution video rendering and effects smoothly.
- Solid build quality: Durable and well-made, ideal for extensive use.
Cons:
- Expensive: High-end features come with a higher price tag.
- Battery life could be better: Up to 9 hours, which might require you to keep the charger handy for longer editing sessions.
7. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio
This is a great option for video editing, offering innovative features and strong performance. Here’s why this laptop is suitable for video editing, explained in simple terms for beginners.
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i7-13700H
The Intel Core i7-13700H processor powers the laptop with its robust performance, serving as the brain that effortlessly navigates complex tasks with precision and speed. This exceptional processing capability is essential for seamless video editing, ensuring that your software runs fluidly and lag-free, allowing you to focus on creating without interruptions.
RAM: Up to 32GB
RAM (Random Access Memory) is like the short-term memory of the laptop. With up to 32GB of RAM, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio can keep a lot of information ready for quick access. This helps with faster editing and rendering of videos, especially when you have multiple projects or large files.
Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
The laptop comes with up to 2TB of SSD storage, which is a lot of space for storing video files, software, and other data. SSDs (Solid State Drives) are much faster than traditional hard drives, meaning your files will open quickly, and your software will load faster.
- Display: 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow (2400 x 1600) 120Hz
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 Ti
The 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow display boasts a 2400 x 1600 resolution and 120Hz refresh rate, offering crisp clarity, vivid details, and seamless motion, perfect for video editing where precision and fluidity are key to crafting high-quality content.
- Battery Life: Up to 11 hours
Pros:
- Innovative design: Adjustable screen for comfortable editing positions.
- High-resolution PixelSense display: Clear and detailed visuals with a smooth refresh rate.
- Powerful Intel Core i7 processor: Handles complex tasks efficiently.
- Good battery life: Up to 11 hours, great for long editing sessions.
Cons:
- Expensive: High-end features come with a higher price tag.
- Limited port selection: Fewer options for connecting external devices.
8. Gigabyte Aero 17 HDR
The Gigabyte Aero 17 HDR is an exceptional laptop for video editing, boasting powerful specifications that cater to both beginners and professionals. Here’s why this laptop is ideal for video editing, explained in simple terms.
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
The Intel Core i9-13900H processor is the laptop’s powerhouse brain, delivering top-notch processing capabilities that effortlessly handle demanding video editing tasks, large files, and complex computations, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience in even the most demanding editing software, and allowing creators to work with precision and speed.
RAM: Up to 64GB
With up to 64GB of RAM, the Gigabyte Aero 17 HDR can handle multitasking effectively. This is essential for video editing, enabling quick access to data and enhancing overall performance.
- Storage: Up to 4TB SSD
- Display: 17.3-inch 4K HDR (3840 x 2160)
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080
The NVIDIA RTX 3080 is a powerful dedicated graphics card (GPU) designed for demanding graphics tasks like video editing. It provides excellent performance in tasks such as high-resolution video rendering, real-time effects application, and running video editing software smoothly.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours
Pros:
- 4K HDR display: Provides vibrant colors and detailed visuals, enhancing the editing experience.
- Intel Core i9 processor: Handles complex tasks efficiently.
- NVIDIA RTX 3080 GPU: Offers powerful graphics performance for video editing.
- Extensive port selection: Provides versatility in connecting external devices.
Cons:
- Heavy: The laptop may be heavier than some competitors, impacting portability.
- Pricey: High-end specifications come with a higher price tag.
- Battery life could be better: Up to 7 hours, which may require frequent charging during extended editing sessions.
9. Acer ConceptD 7
The Acer ConceptD 7 stands out as an excellent choice for video editing due to its powerful specifications and specialized features designed to enhance the editing experience. Here’s a beginner-friendly explanation of why this laptop is highly regarded for editing:
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900HK
The Intel Core i9-13900HK processor is the laptop’s intellectual powerhouse, delivering extraordinary processing capabilities that tackle demanding video editing tasks with ease, handling high-resolution video rendering, effects, and software performance with unparalleled strength and smoothness, even with multiple projects.
- RAM: Up to 64GB
- Storage: Up to 4TB SSD
Display: 15.6-inch 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) Pantone Validated
The 15.6-inch 4K UHD display offers a resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. It’s Pantone Validated, ensuring accurate color representation. This means you can see your videos in stunning detail and true-to-life colors, essential for professional-grade editing where color accuracy is critical.
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080
The NVIDIA RTX 3080 GPU is a dedicated graphics card designed for demanding graphics tasks. In video editing, the GPU accelerates tasks like rendering and applying effects, significantly speeding up workflow compared to laptops with integrated graphics.
- Battery Life: Up to 7 hours
Pros:
- Pantone Validated 4K UHD display: Accurate color representation for precise editing.
- Powerful Intel Core i9 processor: Handles intensive editing tasks efficiently.
- NVIDIA RTX 3080 GPU: Accelerates rendering and enhances graphics performance.
- Durable and professional design: Built to last and suitable for professional environments.
Cons:
- Pricey: Higher cost due to premium specifications and build quality.
- Average battery life for intensive tasks: Up to 7 hours may require frequent charging during extended editing sessions.
10. MSI Creator Z16
The MSI Creator Z16 (2024) is a compelling choice for video editing due to its blend of powerful specifications and design features tailored to enhance the editing process.
Key Specifications:
Processor: Intel Core i9-13900H
Equipped with the Intel Core i9-13900H processor, the MSI Creator Z16 can handle demanding editing tasks with ease. The Core i9 processor ensures smooth performance, allowing for faster rendering times, multitasking capabilities, and seamless operation of editing software.
- RAM: Up to 32GB
- Storage: Up to 2TB SSD
Display: 16-inch QHD+ (2560 x 1600) 120Hz
The 16-inch QHD+ display with a resolution of 2560 x 1600 and a 120Hz refresh rate offers a sharp and detailed viewing experience. This high-resolution screen provides ample workspace for editing videos and ensures that you can see fine details clearly while working.
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060
The NVIDIA RTX 3060 GPU is a dedicated graphics card that accelerates graphics-intensive tasks such as video rendering, real-time effects processing, and color grading. It enhances performance in editing applications, enabling faster workflow and smoother playback of high-resolution video content.
- Battery Life: Up to 9 hours
Pros:
- 16:10 QHD+ display: Provides a spacious and detailed workspace for editing.
- Intel Core i9 processor: Ensures powerful performance for multitasking and editing.
- NVIDIA RTX 3060 GPU: Enhances graphics performance and accelerates rendering.
- Stylish design: Combines aesthetics with functionality.
Cons:
- Battery life could be better: Up to 9 hours, which may require occasional charging during extensive editing tasks.
- Expensive: Higher price point due to premium specifications and design features.
Final Thoughts On the Best Video Editing Laptops
There you have it—the top 10 best laptops for video editing. Whether you prioritize power, portability, or stunning display quality, our selection caters to every need.
From the reliability of the MacBook Pro to the versatility of the Dell XPS, each laptop offers robust performance, ample memory, and exceptional graphics capabilities that help you can unleash your creativity and bring your vision to life with ease.
As an experienced SEO and social media strategist, I craft compelling, optimized content that resonates with target audiences. With 3 years of expertise in video marketing, product reviews, and social media strategy, I create high-quality content for various platforms. Through meticulous research and attention to detail, I deliver engaging and effective content that drives results and helps businesses grow.
Felix is the Senior Content Editor and Strategist at Adilo, where he harnesses his expertise in social video marketing, online video platforms, video editing, e-commerce, e-learning, and marketing to to help businesses drive results. With a keen eye for storytelling and a pulse on industry trends, Felix crafts actionable content that empowers brands to elevate their video marketing strategies and thrive in the digital landscape.
