Video editing is an intensive task that demands powerful hardware to run smoothly. In 2024, the best laptops for video editing offer not only exceptional performance but also portability, a high-quality display, and advanced graphics capabilities. Whether you’re a professional editor, content creator, or hobbyist, choosing the right laptop can make a significant difference in your workflow. This guide explores the top laptops for video editing in 2024, focusing on their performance, specifications, and value for money.
1. Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (2024)
Apple continues to dominate the video editing space, and the MacBook Pro 16-inch (2024) is a standout choice for professionals. Powered by the new Apple M3 Pro or M3 Max chip, this laptop delivers unrivaled performance, especially for video editors working with 4K or even 8K footage.
- Key Features:
- Display: 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display with 1000 nits of sustained brightness and excellent color accuracy, making it perfect for color grading.
- Processor: M3 Pro or M3 Max chip with up to 12 CPU cores and 38 GPU cores, providing top-tier performance in video editing software like Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve.
- Memory & Storage: Up to 96GB of unified memory and up to 8TB of SSD storage ensures smooth editing and quick access to large files.
- Battery Life: Up to 22 hours of video playback, making it perfect for long editing sessions.
The MacBook Pro 16-inch is arguably the best laptop for professional video editors who require top-notch power, screen quality, and ecosystem.
2. Dell XPS 17 2024
The Dell XPS 17 continues to be one of the most well-rounded laptops for video editing. With its large 17-inch display and high-end specs, it’s an excellent option for editors who need extra screen real estate and raw performance.
- Key Features:
- Display: 17-inch UHD+ (3840 x 2400) InfinityEdge touch display, offering vibrant colors and sharp details, making it great for video work.
- Processor: Intel Core i9-13980HX processor, coupled with an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4080 GPU, ensures smooth playback and editing of 4K and 6K video files.
- Memory & Storage: 32GB to 128GB of RAM and up to 8TB of SSD storage provide ample space for large video projects.
- Build Quality: The XPS 17 has a sleek, premium aluminum design, making it portable despite its large screen.
For creators who prefer Windows and need a large display without compromising on power, the Dell XPS 17 is a top contender.
3. Razer Blade 16 (2024)
While Razer is known for its gaming laptops, the Razer Blade 16 has emerged as an excellent option for video editors, offering both power and a gorgeous display.
- Key Features:
- Display: 16-inch mini-LED display with a 16:10 aspect ratio and up to 240Hz refresh rate, ideal for video editing and gaming alike.
- Processor: Powered by Intel’s Core i9-13950HX and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU, the Blade 16 handles heavy video editing tasks effortlessly.
- Memory & Storage: Comes with up to 64GB of RAM and 4TB of SSD storage, ensuring that multitasking and file management are never an issue.
- Design: Ultra-thin, premium design that’s both stylish and portable, making it a great choice for on-the-go editing.
The Razer Blade 16 is a powerful machine, capable of handling the most demanding video editing tasks while maintaining portability and aesthetic appeal.
4. ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED
ASUS has designed the ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED specifically for creative professionals, making it a powerful tool for video editing. Its combination of an OLED display and cutting-edge hardware makes it one of the best choices for video creators.
- Key Features:
- Display: 16-inch 4K OLED display with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, ensuring exceptional color accuracy for video editing and photo work.
- Processor: AMD Ryzen 9 7945HX or Intel Core i9-13980HX processors paired with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 or 4080 GPU provide top-tier performance for demanding video software.
- Memory & Storage: Up to 64GB of RAM and 2TB of SSD storage, allowing for smooth performance with 4K video projects.
- Ports: Offers a wide variety of ports, including Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI, making it versatile for connecting to external displays and storage devices.
With its stunning OLED display and powerful specs, the ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED is perfect for those who prioritize color accuracy and high performance in video editing.
5. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2
For those who prefer a unique design and flexibility, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 offers an innovative solution. Its convertible design, high-performance hardware, and versatile display make it a great option for video editors looking for a different experience.
- Key Features:
- Display: 14.4-inch PixelSense Flow touchscreen with a 120Hz refresh rate, offering rich colors and smooth performance.
- Processor: Intel Core i7-13700H with an NVIDIA RTX 4060 GPU, delivering solid performance for most video editing tasks.
- Memory & Storage: 32GB of RAM and up to 2TB of SSD storage provide fast access and ample space for video files.
- Unique Design: The laptop features a dynamic woven fabric hinge, allowing it to transform into a studio mode for better control and precision during video editing.
The Surface Laptop Studio 2 stands out with its creative flexibility, making it a great choice for editors who want a laptop that adapts to different tasks.
6. HP Spectre x360 16 (2024)
HP’s Spectre x360 16 is a sleek convertible laptop that combines power and versatility for video editors on the go. With an OLED display and the latest hardware, this laptop stands out for its balance of performance and portability.
- Key Features:
- Display: 16-inch 3K OLED display with a 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, providing rich, accurate colors for video work.
- Processor: Intel Core i7-13700U and Intel Iris Xe graphics, allowing for smooth 4K editing, although not as powerful as other options in this list.
- Memory & Storage: 32GB of RAM and up to 2TB SSD storage offer quick performance and adequate space for most video projects.
- Design: The Spectre x360 16 is a 2-in-1 laptop, allowing it to be used in tablet mode for creative tasks like drawing and editing on the go.
For video editors who need a convertible design and excellent color accuracy, the HP Spectre x360 16 is a strong contender.
Conclusion
In 2024, the best laptops for video editing combine high processing power, stunning displays, and ample storage to meet the demanding needs of video editors. From the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch’s seamless integration with professional software to the portable power of the Razer Blade 16, each option offers unique features to cater to different needs.
The right laptop for you will depend on your editing preferences, workflow, and budget. For professionals looking for peak performance, the MacBook Pro and Dell XPS 17 remain top choices, while those seeking a portable yet powerful machine should consider the Razer Blade 16 or ASUS ProArt StudioBook. Whichever laptop you choose, make sure it’s equipped with the specs you need to ensure smooth, efficient editing of your high-resolution videos.
