Video editing is complex and enthralling, packed with creativity, detail, and insight. It is also a pursuit that eats up plenty of resources, which means not every laptop will cut it. The appropriate multimedia machine will provide the ammunition you need for your job: from high-performing CPUs and GPUs to accurate displays, distortion-free sound, and abundant space to stock your best work.
These heavy-duty computers have a knack for handling multitasking without heating up or slowing down – how else will they tackle demanding multimedia applications and hours of exacting work?
9 Best Video Editing Laptops for 2023
As multimedia content generation and editing occupy imaginations and generate more jobs, available laptop options have also grown. Leading brands like Apple, Dell, HP, Razer, and ASUS have diverse choices catering to different budgets.
MacBooks for brilliant multimedia
The vintage Mac remains golden for video editing. The latest 16.2” Apple 2023 MacBook Pro is an excellent choice for immersive and resource-intensive multimedia pursuits. This machine, driven by an M2 Pro chip, 16GB RAM, and a 512GB SSD, can competently run Adobe Creative Cloud, Affinity Designer, and similar applications. Also, the Retina XDR screen with HDR is super bright (over 1000 nits), which makes an incredible difference as you work on detailing.
Apple is keen to deliver a connected and seamless experience, offering three Thunderbolt 4 ports, a “magic” keyboard with touch ID, and compatibility across other Apple devices you may own, like an iPad. These MacBooks boast over 18 hours of battery backup, so you needn’t let the absence of a power supply limit your creativity. They are expensive, of course – costing around $2,500 – but worth the price.
Dell XPS: Brilliant power & tons of space
The Dell XPS 15, costing $2,099.00, has developed a formidable reputation as a top-notch video editing machine. You can select an Intel Core i7 or i9 processor, up to RTX 4070 graphics, 64GB RAM, and a breathtaking 8TB of SSD storage space. Dell offers FHD+ and OLED display options – bright with 400-500 nits and satisfying screen-to-body ratios – with Waves Nx 3D audio for precise sound.
This range of machines delivers customized performance in various modes, for instance, optimized or cool. A lightweight and sturdy design, with two Thunderbolt 4 ports and an SD card slot, make them a portable option for creative professionals.
HP ZBook: Portable A/V performance
We admire the 16” HP ZBook Studio G9 for its commitment to performance and portability – at the same time. This mobile workstation has Intel Core i9 processors, NVIDIA RTX A5500 or 3080 Ti graphics, up to 64GB RAM, and up to 4TB of space. It is also ISV-certified to run most applications used in the A/V industry. Since the screens support more vertical content and have a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, the editing experience is convenient. But this machine does all that with a chassis weighing just 3.81 lbs.
The ZBook range delivers efficient vapor chamber cooling. It also has Bang & Olufsen audio and dependable connectivity options, like Wi-Fi 6E.
Razer Blade: Breathtaking to behold
The Razer Blade brand is sought after by video editors and gamers for its excellent performance and stunning visuals. The Razer Blade 16 uses an Intel Core i9 CPU, an NVIDIA RTX 4090 GPU, 32GB RAM, and a 2TB SSD. The FHD+ or 4K UHD+ screen uses Mini LED technology and dazzles with precise colors (100% DCI-P3). At $4,299.99, this machine certainly won’t fit all budgets, but it is inimitable. Even the adapter is more power-efficient and sleeker in a nod toward portability.
The series has another display option in the Razer Blade 18, priced at $3,199.99. With the power of Max-Q for optimal performance and THX spatial audio for disturbance-free sound, it is a good bet for multimedia professionals and enthusiasts.
MSI: Reliable and powerful
The MSI Stealth range is one of the better options for video editors – it provides sustainable performance, top-notch hardware, and effective heat dissipation. The MSI Stealth 17 Studio costs roughly $2,799.00.
It impresses with an Intel Core i9 CPU, RTX 4080 graphics, 32GB RAM, and a 1TB SSD. The QHD display has a 240Hz refresh rate, which gives you all the pixels you need for meticulous work. MSI also offers bells and whistles like Dynaudio sound and superior battery backup over similar machines.
ASUS ROG Strix & Acer Predator: Affordable excellence
ASUS and Acer have great news for anyone who thinks a video editing laptop worth its weight will cost a bomb. The ASUS ROG Strix G16 costs approximately $1,300. But it comes with adequate specs for running multimedia applications and having an enjoyable gaming experience.
For instance, you get an Intel Core i7 processor, RTX 4060 graphics, and a MUX Switch to enhance performance by up to 10%. The FHD screen has a 165Hz refresh rate and uses Dolby Vision with Pantone validation for color accuracy.
You can up the specs to Intel Core i9, RTX 4050, and a 240Hz refresh rate for a slight premium. The available memory and storage space is not as much as some competitors dish out, but the affordability makes up for a lot.
The Acer Predator Triton 14 is also a sensible choice for creative professionals seeking a budget-friendly deal. It will cost you $1,339.99 and offer the glories of RTX 4050, a WUXGA screen with G-SYNC, and DTS:X Ultra audio. Well-connected with Killer Wi-Fi 6E and sustainable with AeroBlade cooling (3D fan), it can work those all-nighters without breaking into a sweat.
FAQs
What should you look for in a video editing laptop?
An earnest performance focus is mandatory. Look for an Intel Core i7 and above, at least 16GB RAM, RTX 30 or 40 graphics, and plentiful storage (ideally SSD). The degree and intensity of your projects dictate the specs. So, slicing small video clips will not require the raw power that 4K projects need.
But besides this, you should also look for a high refresh rate, good-quality audio, and color accuracy. Video content increasingly gets consumed on OLED phones and or giant televisions. It makes accuracy imperative so you can visualize what your users see.
Typically, these laptops require efficient heat dissipation and connectivity options to access your files and share your creations with peers and clients.
Can you find a portable and cheap video editing laptop?
Unsurprisingly, these laptops can be pricey – upwards of $2,000. However, some budget-friendly options exist if you can compromise with some specs. For instance, the ASUS ROG Strix G16 costs $1,300. Acer also has some cheap picks in the Predator lineup. Interestingly, these picks are also more portable: 3-4 lbs.
Which is better for multimedia editing: AMD Ryzen or Intel Core?
Both processors can deliver high speeds and productivity for A/V projects. However, Intel CPUs perform better in single-core performance. AMD does have an edge in multitasking, but the former rules the roost in overclocking and overall video editing performance. Do note Intel’s latest generation of processors may draw more power and deliver lower battery life than an AMD counterpart.
Can you use video editing laptops for gaming?
Yes, many multimedia laptops work perfectly as gaming machines. Both categories demand performance-heavy specs, engaging displays, and clear audio. These computers can also tackle multitasking and render special effects and transitions in style. Devices like the ASUS ROG Strix and Acer Predator make affordable and multipurpose options for lovers of multimedia content – gaming, photography, video, etc.
