Ready to edit video like a pro in 2024? Whether you’re slicing through 4K footage or just getting started with your YouTube channel, you need the right laptop.
You’ll need a machine that doesn’t just get the job done but does it efficiently. Welcome to your ultimate guide! We’ve reviewed and ranked the best laptops for video editing this year.
Asus ProArt P16 – Best laptop for video editing
The Asus ProArt P16 is an absolute beast for video editing, thanks to its 4K OLED display and diverse connectivity options. It’s got a 16-inch 3840×2400 screen, perfect for color grading and multitasking.
This laptop also lasts over 9 hours on a single charge. Ports? It’s got plenty: two USB-C, two USB-A, an HDMI, an SD card reader, and a 3.5mm audio jack. It’s a solid choice for those who need sharp visuals and a diverse port selection.
Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra – Best laptop for video editing (if you don’t need 4K)
With a gorgeous OLED screen and long battery life, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Ultra is a strong contender. It features an Intel Core Ultra 9 185H CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 GPU, making it capable of tackling any video editing task.
Its 16-inch OLED display has a resolution of 2880×1800 and a 120Hz refresh rate. It lasts a mind-blowing 18 hours and 54 minutes on a single charge. Don’t need 4K? This one’s for you.
The audio on this laptop is also stellar, and if you switch on Dolby Atmos, it gets even better. However, keep in mind the bulkier charger and a keyboard that isn’t the best.
Asus ProArt PX13 – Best ultraportable laptop for video editing
The Asus ProArt PX13 is a powerhouse packed in a portable design. With an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 CPU, Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, and 32GB of RAM, it’s a solid pick for video editors on the go.
This 13.4-inch laptop weighs just 3.04 pounds.It’s got an OLED display with touchscreen and stylus support, making it perfect for creative tasks.
It also includes a wide array of ports: two USB Type-C, one USB Type-A, an HDMI 2.1, a microSD reader, and a combo audio jack. However, lower battery life and loud fans can be a bit of a downside.
Despite these minor hiccups, it’s an excellent pick for portability and power.
Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition – Best budget laptop for video editing
Looking for a budget-friendly option? The Asus TUF Gaming A16 Advantage Edition is under $1,000 but still offers solid performance for video editing. The 16-inch 1200p FHD display showcases rich and varied colors.
Powered by an AMD Radeon RX 7600S GPU and AMD Ryzen 7 7735HS CPU, it handles video editing tasks efficiently. It also offers exceptional battery life, lasting 11 hours on a single charge.
A few trade-offs include a 720p webcam and mushy keys, but for the price, it’s a stellar deal. If you have a bit of extra cash, consider upgrading to the Dell Inspiron 16 Plus for a sharper display and longer battery life.
Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro) – Best MacBook for video editing
The Apple MacBook Pro (M3, Pro) comes with a 14-core GPU, 18GB of RAM, and 512GB of SSD storage, making it a robust option for video editors who prefer Apple’s ecosystem.
With a 14.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display and a resolution of 3024×1964, this laptop offers incredibly sharp visuals. Three Thunderbolt 4 ports ensure speedy data transfers.
The battery life is also commendable, lasting more than 10 hours on a single charge. Intense video editors might want to upgrade to a model with more storage or use an external SSD.
If you need a bigger screen, the MacBook Pro, M2 Pro might be worth checking out, offering a larger display and a powerful 19-core GPU.
Things to consider when buying a laptop for video editing
When choosing a laptop for video editing, consider the CPU and GPU first. The faster your hardware, the quicker your edits. An Intel Core i7 or i9 is ideal, though an Intel Core i5 can suffice on a budget.
Storage is crucial since video files take up space fast. Aim for at least 1TB of SSD if you’re dealing with 4K videos. RAM is another critical factor; 16GB is the minimum, but 32GB is preferable for 4K editing.
Display quality is essential. A bright, color-accurate display close to 100% sRGB is ideal. A 4K display is highly recommended for serious editing. Look for a screen size of at least 15 inches for better visibility.
What the experts say
Experts like PCWorld’s Adam Patrick Murray emphasize the importance of an SD card reader for transferring video from a camera. He also recommends a 4K, 60Hz panel over faster 1080p panels found on gaming laptops.
Color accuracy is another key factor. Laptops supporting the full DCI-P3 color gamut and Delta E < 2 color accuracy are highly recommended for precise editing.
Don’t forget, pairing a powerful gaming laptop with a color-accurate external monitor is a viable option if you need speed and color accuracy.
Choosing the right laptop for video editing is about balancing performance, display quality, and features within your budget. From powerful beasts to budget-friendly picks, there’s something for everyone.
No matter what your needs are, one of these laptops will have you covered in 2024. Time to get editing and bring your creative visions to life!
Source: Pcworld