Best Laptops for Graphic Design, Photo Editing, and Video Editing Reddit

Graphic design demands potent, versatile laptops. Whether for logos, animations, or web designs, your device should manage complex tasks and showcase sharp graphics. Selecting the best laptop involves considering factors like the processor, memory, graphics, screen quality, battery, weight, and cost.

Here’s our 2023 list of Best Laptops for Graphic Design, Photo Editing and Video Editing, catering to varied budgets and needs. We will learn from Reddit Tips and reviews to create the best list for you.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Consider reading: Best Laptop under $1000 for Students and Gaming

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021): Top Choice for Graphic Design

The MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) stands out as the premier choice for graphic design, boasting the advanced Apple M1 Pro chip which outperforms its predecessor by up to 70%. Its 16-core Neural Engine is adept at machine learning and AI tasks.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) Key Features:

• Display: 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR, supporting up to 1600 nits of brightness, P3 wide color gamut, True Tone technology, and 3024 x 1964 resolution.
• Design: Sleek, weighing 3.5 pounds, and 0.61 inches thick. Features a backlit Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar, Touch ID, Force Touch trackpad, and advanced FaceTime HD camera.
• Audio: Six-speaker sound system with spatial audio support.
• Battery: Up to 17 hours of web browsing, 20 hours video playback, and 50% charge in 30 minutes.
• Connectivity: Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, and no SD or HDMI ports.
• OS: macOS Monterey, featuring Universal Control, AirPlay to Mac, Shortcuts, Focus, and a revamped Safari.
• Price: Starting at $1999 for the 8-core CPU, 14-core GPU, 16 GB memory, and 512 GB SSD.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) Pros:

• Superior performance with M1 Pro chip.
• Remarkable Liquid Retina XDR display.
• Extensive battery life and fast charging.
• Diverse connectivity with Thunderbolt 4.

MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) Cons:

• Pricier than some Windows counterparts.
• Limited post-purchase upgradability.
• Missing SD and HDMI ports.

Verdict: The MacBook Pro 14-inch (2021) is one of the best laptops for graphic designers seeking performance, display excellence, and the latest features, albeit at a premium.

Dell XPS 17 (2022): Premier Windows Choice for Graphic Design

The Dell XPS 17 (2022) is a top-tier choice for graphic designers leaning toward a Windows device. It’s powered by the 12th-generation Intel Core i9-12900H processor with Turbo Boost tech, ensuring efficiency for rigorous tasks.

The Dell XPS 17 (2022) Key Features:

• Display: 17-inch InfinityEdge, up to 4K UHD+, 500 nits brightness, 100% Adobe RGB, 94% DCI-P3, and Dolby Vision HDR. The slim bezels yield a 93.7% screen-to-body ratio.
• Design: Sleek yet robust, weighing 4.87 pounds and 0.77 inches thick. Features backlit keyboard with fingerprint, large touchpad, and a 720p webcam.
• Audio: Quad-speaker system enhanced with Waves MaxxAudio Pro and Waves Nx 3D audio technologies.
• Battery: Approximately 13 hours of mixed use, 9 hours of video playback, and up to 80% charge in an hour.
• Connectivity: Four Thunderbolt 4 ports, a full-size SD slot, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2.
• OS: Windows 11 Home, introducing Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, Widgets, Microsoft Teams, and an improved Microsoft Edge.
• Price: Starts at $2499, customizable up to a 10-core CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU, 64 GB DDR5 RAM, and 4 TB storage.

The Dell XPS 17 (2022) Pros:

• Superior performance with Intel Core i9 processor.
• Stellar InfinityEdge display supporting HDR.
• Solid build with essential security features.
• Comprehensive connectivity, including Thunderbolt 4.

The Dell XPS 17 (2022) Cons:

• More expensive than some competitors.
• Heavier compared to similar laptops.
• Battery life might be average for some users.

Verdict: The Dell XPS 17 (2022) is one of the best laptops for graphic design, standing out with its performance, expansive screen, and Windows 11 features. It’s suitable for designers wanting a formidable, Windows-centric workstation.

Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021): The Pinnacle of Windows Graphic Design Laptops

The Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021) rises to the top as a premium choice for graphic designers who use Windows. With its Intel Core i9-11980HK processor boasting Thermal Velocity Boost tech, it handles intensive tasks with ease.

Consider reading: Best Gaming Laptop to Buy

Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021) Main Features:

• Display: 17.3-inch IPS, up to 4K UHD, 400 nits brightness, 100% Adobe RGB and 100% DCI-P3, X-Rite Pantone certified. It flaunts an 89% screen-to-body ratio.
• Design: At 5.5 pounds and 0.84 inches thick, it’s a blend of elegance and resilience. Equipped with a backlit keyboard (numeric keypad included), generous touchpad, and a 720p webcam.
• Cooling: Dual-fan system paired with multiple heat pipes ensures optimal temperature even under pressure.
• Battery: Offers around 10 hours of general use and 7 hours for video playback. Plus, a 50% charge within an hour.
• Connectivity: Diverse with three USB 3.2 Gen1 ports, a Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.1, mini DisplayPort 1.4, UHS-II SD slot, RJ-45 Ethernet, audio combo jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.
• OS: Windows 10 Pro enhances productivity and security with features like BitLocker and Remote Desktop.
• Price: Begins at $3499, customizable up to a 10-core CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU, 64 GB DDR4 RAM, and 4 TB storage.

Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021) Pros:

• Elite performance with Intel Core i9 processor.
• Outstanding IPS display that guarantees color accuracy.
• Designed for durability with a versatile keyboard.
• Comprehensive port selection for all connectivity needs.
• Enhanced security and features with Windows 10 Pro.

Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021) Cons:

• Premium price that’s higher than many competitors.
• Weightier than other similar options.
• Battery life may not stand out against competition.

Verdict: The Gigabyte Aero 17 (2021) is an embodiment of luxury and efficiency for graphic designers on the Windows platform. If budget isn’t a constraint and you seek stellar performance coupled with a remarkable display and robust build, this is the go-to choice.

MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022): Top Affordable Choice for Graphic Designers on macOS

The MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) emerges as a compelling affordable choice for graphic designers who lean towards macOS. Powered by Apple’s M2 chip, it presents a harmony of performance, display brilliance, and portability.

MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) Main Features:

• Display: 13.3-inch Retina with QHD+ resolution, 500 nits brightness, P3 wide color gamut, True Tone technology, and 227 ppi pixel density, offering vibrant imagery.
• Design: Weighing 3 pounds and measuring 0.61 inches thick, it sports the backlit Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar, Touch ID, Force Touch trackpad, and a 720p FaceTime HD camera.
• Sound: Stereo speakers boasting high dynamic range and Dolby Atmos support.
• Battery: Stellar, offering up to 20 hours web browsing or 18 hours video playback, plus a 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
• Connectivity: Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, 3.5mm headphone jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.
• OS: macOS Monterey, introducing Universal Control, AirPlay to Mac, Shortcuts, Focus, and an enhanced Safari.
• Price: Starts at $1299, with configurable options going up to a 10-core CPU, 16-core GPU, 16 GB memory, and 2 TB storage.

MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) Pros:

• Impressive performance courtesy of the M2 chip.
• Stunning Retina display enhanced with True Tone.
• Sleek, lightweight profile featuring the efficient Magic Keyboard and Touch Bar.
• Exceptional battery longevity coupled with rapid charging.
• macOS Monterey, packing a suite of innovative features.

MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) Cons:

• Not as potent as the 14-inch or 16-inch MacBook Pro variants.
• Post-purchase upgrades are restricted.
• Houses only two Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Verdict: The MacBook Pro 13-inch (M2, 2022) stands out as the ideal MacBook for graphic designers operating on a tighter budget. It promises superb performance, a premium display experience, commendable battery life, and the fresh macOS Monterey, all wrapped in a compact design. If you seek a balance of power and affordability in the macOS ecosystem, this is your top pick.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6: The Top Convertible Choice for Graphic Designers

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6, with its blend of powerful specs and 2-in-1 versatility, distinguishes itself as a preferred laptop for graphic designers desiring flexibility in their workflow.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 Main Features:

• Display: 14-inch IPS with up to 4K UHD, boasting 500 nits brightness, 100% sRGB, 72% NTSC, and Dolby Vision HDR. The slim bezels ensure a generous 86% screen-to-body ratio, amplifying the viewing experience.
• Design: A 2-in-1 that weighs 3.15 pounds and has a thickness of 0.59 inches. It can be utilized in laptop, tablet, tent, or stand mode. Includes a backlit keyboard, TrackPoint, fingerprint reader, 720p webcam, privacy shutter, dual-array microphones, and an in-built stylus pen.
• Battery: Promising up to 15 hours of mixed usage and 11 hours of video playback. The rapid-charge tech offers up to an 80% boost in just one hour.
• Connectivity: Features two USB-A 3.2 Gen1, two Thunderbolt 4, HDMI 2.0, an audio combo jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.1.
• OS: Runs on Windows 10 Pro, laden with security and utility features like BitLocker, Remote Desktop, Group Policy, and Windows Hello.
• Price: Starts at $1499, with customizable options going up to an octa-core CPU, NVIDIA GeForce MX450 GPU, 32 GB RAM, and 2 TB storage.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 Pros:

• Powerful performance powered by Intel Core i7-1185G7.
• Vibrant display augmented with Dolby Vision HDR.
• 2-in-1 adaptability, complemented by the integrated stylus.
• Notable battery life with swift charging.
• Beneficial features offered by Windows 10 Pro.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 Cons:

• Not the most powerful option in its price bracket.
• Missing an SD card slot and Ethernet port.
• Limited to only two Thunderbolt 4 ports.

Verdict: The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 6 stands out as the pinnacle 2-in-1 laptop for graphic design. Its performance, top-tier display, multi-mode design, commendable battery life, and Windows 10 Pro make it suitable for designers eyeing a flexible and adaptable device. If you prioritize versatility in your design tasks, the X1 Yoga Gen 6 is an excellent choice.

MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021): The Pinnacle of Graphic Design in the Apple Ecosystem

The MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021) powered by the M1 Max chip stands as the flagship model for graphic designers who seek unparalleled performance within Apple’s lineup.

MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021) Main Features:

• Display: 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR, offering QHD+ resolution, 1000 nits sustained brightness, 1600 nits peak brightness, P3 color gamut, True Tone, with a resolution of 3456 x 2234 pixels.
• Design: A sleek frame weighing 4.7 pounds, 0.64 inches thick, featuring a backlit Magic Keyboard, Touch Bar, Touch ID, Force Touch trackpad, and a 1080p FaceTime HD camera.
• Audio: A six-speaker sound system with force-canceling woofers and spatial audio capabilities.
• Battery: Up to 21 hours of browsing and 14 hours of video playback, with a 50% charge in just 30 minutes.
• Connectivity: Boasts three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, SDXC card slot, 3.5mm jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.
• OS: Runs macOS Monterey with features like Universal Control, AirPlay to Mac, Shortcuts, Focus, and a revamped Safari.
• Price: Begins at $2499 for the basic version, but can be customized up to a 12-core CPU, 64-core GPU, 64 GB RAM, and 8 TB storage.

MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021) Pros:

• Performance Beast: Thanks to the M1 Max chip.
• Stunning Display: With the Liquid Retina XDR tech, visuals are sharp and vibrant.
• Solid Design: Combines aesthetic and utility with features like the Magic Keyboard.
• Battery Prodigy: Offers one of the longest battery lives in its category.
• Port Variety: Three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI, and an SDXC card slot give users a variety of connection options.

MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021) Cons:

• Premium Price: One of the priciest options on the market.
• Upgrade Limitations: Post-purchase upgrades are virtually non-existent.
• Missing Ports: No Ethernet or USB-A ports.

Verdict: The MacBook Pro 16-Inch (2021) is undeniably the crème de la crème for graphic designers in the Apple world. For those who prioritize performance, display quality, and are not deterred by its premium price, it’s an unmatched tool for graphic design. This powerhouse is tailored for professionals desiring the apex of Apple’s technological innovations.

Dell XPS 15 (2021): An Affordable Powerhouse for Graphic Designers on Windows

Dell’s XPS 15 (2021) positions itself as a prime choice for graphic designers needing Windows compatibility without breaking the bank.

Dell XPS 15 (2021) Main Features:

• Display: 15.6-inch InfinityEdge display, QHD+ resolution, 500 nits brightness, 100% sRGB and 99% DCI-P3 coverage, Dolby Vision HDR, thin bezels, and a 16:10 aspect ratio.
• Performance: Powered by Intel Core i7-11800H with Turbo Boost up to 4.6 GHz.
• Design: Lightweight at 4 pounds, 0.71 inches thick, featuring a backlit keyboard with a fingerprint reader, touchpad with multi-touch, and a 720p webcam.
• Audio: Quad-speaker system enhanced by Waves MaxxAudio Pro and Waves Nx 3D audio tech.
• Battery: Up to 12 hours on mixed tasks, 8 hours on video playback, and fast-charge offering 80% in an hour.
• Connectivity: Three USB-C ports (Thunderbolt 4), full-size SD card slot, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2.
• OS: Ships with Windows 11 Home, boasting features like Snap Layouts, Snap Groups, Widgets, Microsoft Teams, and a refreshed Microsoft Edge.
• Price: Begins at $1499 for the base configuration, customizable up to 10-core CPU, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, 64 GB RAM, and 2 TB storage.

Dell XPS 15 (2021) Pros:

• Performance & Value: Thanks to Intel Core i7-11800H, it delivers on tasks without emptying pockets.
• Immersive Display: InfinityEdge with Dolby Vision HDR guarantees striking visuals.
• Compact Elegance: Robust and sleek with user-friendly features like a backlit keyboard.
• Connectivity: Triple USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 ensures high-speed transfers and versatile connections.
• Fresh OS: Windows 11 Home introduces a plethora of new functionalities enhancing productivity.

Dell XPS 15 (2021) Cons:

• Power Constraints: It might lag behind in sheer power when juxtaposed with some rivals.
• Missing Ports: Absence of HDMI and Ethernet may require additional adapters for some.
• Battery: Not the longest-lasting in its tier.

Verdict: The Dell XPS 15 (2021) shines as the go-to affordable Windows laptop for graphic designers. It offers a harmonious blend of performance, display quality, and design at a reasonable price point. If you’re on the hunt for a dependable workhorse without going overboard on the budget, the XPS 15 stands tall as an outstanding contender in the graphic design realm.

Acer ConceptD 7: A Strong Mac Contender for Graphic Designers

Acer’s ConceptD 7 stands out as a top-notch Mac alternative, offering graphic designers an excellent balance of performance, display, and design, all wrapped up in a Windows environment.

Acer ConceptD 7 Main Features:

• Display: 15.6-inch IPS display, QHD+ resolution, 400 nits brightness, 100% Adobe RGB and 100% sRGB coverage, Pantone validated, thin bezels, and a 16:9 aspect ratio.
• Performance: Empowered by Intel Core i7-10875H with Turbo Boost up to 5.1 GHz.
• Design: Lightweight at 4.63 pounds, 0.7 inches thick, featuring a backlit keyboard with a numeric keypad, touchpad with multi-touch, and a 720p webcam.
• Cooling System: Triple fans and quad heat pipes ensuring efficient cooling during intensive tasks.
• Battery: Offers up to 10 hours of mixed-use, 7 hours on video playback, with a 50% charge within an hour using fast-charge.
• Connectivity: Three USB-A 3.2 Gen2, one Thunderbolt 3, HDMI 2.0, mini DisplayPort 1.4, Ethernet, audio combo jack, Wi-Fi 6, and Bluetooth 5.0.
• OS: Comes with Windows 10 Pro, boasting features like BitLocker, Remote Desktop, Group Policy, and Windows Hello.
• Price: Starting at $1999 for the base configuration, with options to upgrade CPU, GPU, RAM, and storage.

Acer ConceptD 7 Pros:

• Peak Performance: Stellar performance guaranteed with Intel Core i7-10875H.
• Stunning Display: An IPS screen with Pantone validation ensures impeccable color accuracy.
• Elegant Aesthetics: White and orange accents add a touch of flair, making it visually appealing.
• Connectivity Galore: A wide range of ports for all your devices and peripherals.
• Robust OS: Windows 10 Pro enhances productivity with its suite of features and security measures.

Acer ConceptD 7 Cons:

• Comparison with MacBook Pro: It might not match the power of some MacBook Pro models.
• Missing Features: Lacks an SD card slot and the latest Thunderbolt 4 port.
• Battery Limitations: While decent, its battery life may not be the best in its class.

Verdict: The Acer ConceptD 7 emerges as a formidable Mac alternative, particularly catering to the needs of graphic designers. With a breathtaking display, robust performance, and an array of connectivity options, it doesn’t fall short in delivering an outstanding experience. If you’re a designer eyeing a Windows-based powerhouse that can go toe-to-toe with MacBooks, the ConceptD 7 is an option worth considering.

Razer Blade 14: The Ultimate Laptop for Designers & Gamers

For those who yearn for a perfect blend of gaming prowess and design capabilities, Razer Blade 14 stands tall. This laptop emerges as a prime choice, offering the muscle of AMD’s Ryzen 9 and NVIDIA’s GPU lineup coupled with a dazzling display.

Razer Blade 14 Main Features:

• Display: 14-inch IPS display, QHD+ resolution, 165 Hz refresh rate, 100% sRGB, AMD FreeSync Premium for a lag-free visual experience, 85% screen-to-body ratio, and 16:9 aspect ratio.
• Performance: Powered by AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX with Precision Boost up to 4.6 GHz.
• Design: Weighing just 3.92 pounds and 0.66 inches thick, it boasts a Razer Chroma RGB backlit keyboard, touchpad with multi-touch, and a 720p webcam.
• Cooling System: Vapor chamber cooling with dual fans ensures optimal thermal management during intensive sessions.
• Battery: Provides up to 12 hours of mixed-use and 8 hours of video playback. Fast-charge can restore 50% battery in one hour.
• Connectivity: Comes with two USB-A and two USB-C 3.2 Gen2 ports, HDMI 2.1, an audio combo jack, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2.
• OS: Runs on Windows 10 Home with features like Game Mode, Xbox Game Bar, Cortana voice command, and the Microsoft Store.
• Price: Starting at $1799, with the base model packing NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 GPU, 16 GB RAM, and 512 GB SSD storage. Customizable upgrades available.

Razer Blade 14 Pros:

• Power-packed Performance: The union of AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX and NVIDIA’s GPU lineup ensures it doesn’t falter.
• Vivid Display: With its 165 Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync Premium, it promises an unmatched visual experience.
• Compact Yet Durable: Elegant black design with signature Razer Chroma RGB makes it a stunner.
• Connectivity Options: The inclusion of two USB-C ports offers versatile connections.
• Feature-rich OS: Windows 10 Home brings a gamut of user-friendly features, especially for gamers.

Razer Blade 14 Cons:

• Competition: There are stronger competitors in terms of sheer performance.
• Missing Ports: The absence of an SD card slot and Ethernet port can be a limitation for some.
• Battery Life: While decent, some contemporaries might offer a longer battery life.

Verdict: Razer Blade 14 hits the sweet spot for those who wear the dual hats of a graphic designer and a gamer. With its compelling combination of performance, display attributes, and a design that screams premium, it promises to be an invaluable tool for creatives who won’t compromise on their gaming. If design meets gaming is what you’re after, the Razer Blade 14 should be on your radar.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Closing Thoughts on Best Laptops for Graphic Design, Photo Editing, and Video Editing in 2024

The landscape for graphic design, photo, and video editing laptops has evolved remarkably. Equipped with enhanced performance, vibrant displays, and improved battery life, the best laptops this year cater seamlessly to creative professionals.

Investing in the right device can make a world of difference in your work, ensuring that your artistic visions come to life effortlessly. Choose wisely and let your creativity soar!

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FAQs on Best Laptops for Graphic Design, Photo Editing, and Video Editing in 2024

What type of laptop do graphic designers use?

Graphic designers often use high-performance laptops like the Apple MacBook Pro with advanced processors, such as the M2 Pro/Max, high-resolution displays, and substantial memory capacity, capable of handling complex design software and multitasking needs. Options include MacBook Pro models and similarly specced Windows laptops tailored for creative work.

What laptop specs do I need for graphic design and animation?

For graphic design and animation, prioritize a laptop with at least 16GB RAM for multitasking and complex graphics work. For intense tasks like 3D animation or large-scale rendering, 32GB RAM is advisable. Additionally, consider a powerful CPU, a dedicated GPU, and an SSD for optimal performance and speed.

What kind of computers do graphic designers use?

Graphic designers favor powerful computers with high-resolution displays, such as the 24” iMac with M1 chip and Mac mini. Budget-conscious or beginner designers often opt for models like the Dell XPS 8940 or Acer Aspire Z27, which offer customization and cost-effectiveness without compromising on necessary performance.

What specifications to look for when buying a laptop for designers?

When purchasing a laptop for designers, prioritize a high-resolution display, powerful CPU (like Intel i7 or AMD Ryzen), ample RAM (16GB or more), a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster storage, and excellent color accuracy. Look for dedicated graphics support (such as NVIDIA or AMD) for intensive design tasks.