Video editing can be a complicated job – one that you’re not able to do on just any laptop. If you’re serious about your videography, you’ll want to purchase a laptop that has the proper equipment and capabilities to get the job done. In this list, we’ve compiled a few options that are up to the task. We’ll tell you more about the hardware, display, and compatibility each one offers.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the battery last on each laptop?
Most laptops offer somewhere between 7.5 and 11 hours of operation on a single charge. Keep in mind that this will depend on several factors, such as the brightness of your screen and the programs that you’re running. Streaming and editing videos can quickly drain a computer’s battery. However, we do have one computer on this list that is capable of running for 18 hours on a single charge, and we’ll tell you more about this one later.
How large are the screens?
There are a few laptops on this list that are smaller, with screens ranging between 11 and 13 inches wide. There are also multiple laptops on this list with screens as large as 15 inches wide. Most screens are standard and can only sit in one position; however, one laptop on this list will feature a touch-screen that you can rotate in such a way that allows you to use your computer as a tablet.
Buying Guide
While you now know more about laptops for videography than when we started, you probably still have some questions. As you get ready to look at the individual options, here are some things to keep in mind:
- RAM: RAM is the short-term memory held on your computer. This is not the same thing as your hard drive (we’ll talk more about that soon). RAM storage keeps data within easy access so that your processor can cuie it up quickly. This data usually comes from apps that you have open or running.
- Hard Drive: This is where you’ll save items (like videos you’ve taken or edited) for long-term storage. Since videos can take up quite a bit of space, you’ll want a computer with a large enough hard drive to hold all of the videos you’ve taken and projects you’ve been working on.
- Processor: This is the brain of your computer. It determines how effectively (and quickly) your computer can perform tasks like streaming videos, editing clips, or even surfing the web. Modern computer processors can be highly advanced, but this doesn’t mean that some aren’t better than others.
- Display: In addition to the size of your screen, you may want to do some research about the quality of the display. You can determine how many pixels will be displayed, or what the overall resolution is.
- Functions: You can always download more apps or install new software after you’ve purchased your computer. However, you might also be curious about what will already be installed onto your computer once it arrives. This cuts down on some of the work that you’ll need to do once you have your computer before you can start using it.
Acer Laptop for Videography
Best Overall
Includes 15.6 Full HD IPS Display
Each computer offers a 1920×180 widescreen backlit LED, and can run up to 7.5 hours on a single charge. They offer 4gb of RAM and a 128gb hard drive.
Why We Love It:
- Compatible with Google Classroom
- Offers one USB 3.1 port, two USB 2.0 ports, and one HDMI port
- Includes AMD Ryzen 3 3200U dual-core processor
- Features a redesigned and expanded start menu
Something to Consider:
- Screen is not the brightest
Apple Laptop for Videography
Best Features
Choose a 256gb or 512gb Hard Drive
In addition to a large hard drive, this laptop also offers a 13-inch HD Retina display, a backlit keyboard, and a FaceTime HD camera. It runs 3.5 faster than the previous generation of MacBook Airs thanks to the Apple M1 chip, which is fully equipped with an 8-core CPU.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three different colors
- Offers 8gb of RAM
- Runs Adobe Creative Cloud, Microsoft 365, Google Drive, and many preloaded apps
- Battery can last up to 18 hours on a single charge
Something to Consider:
- Not compatible with some PC-based accessories
HP Laptop for Videography
Best Design
Sleek and Responsive
The backlit keyboard and multi-touch touchpad contribute to a simple and easy interface. The touchpad supports four-finger gestures for increased versatility, and the increased battery life will help you get more done no matter where you are.
Why We Love It:
- Sold in three different colors
- Includes 4gb of RAM and a 32bg hard drive
- Runs a wide variety of Android apps
- Stereo speakers are tuned by audio experts
Something to Consider:
- Even with a backlight, the keyboard can be hard to see in some low-light conditions
Microsoft Laptop for Videography
Best Hard Drive
Up to 1TB of Storage Space
This laptop offers increased storage space and a 15-inch screen while only weighing 3.4 pounds. It’s super easy to store and carry, and since it offers a battery life of up to 11.5 hours on a single charge, you may find yourself using it quite often on the go.
Why We Love It:
- Sold with four different load configurations
- Available with multiple screen sizes, and can also be purchased with a 256gb or 512gb hard drive
- Includes multiple USB-C and USB-A ports for charging and connecting devices
Something to Consider:
- Paint can easily chip off
Lenovo Laptop for Videography
Most Versatile
Screen Rotates 360 Degrees
This laptop weighs only 2.6 pounds, and features an 11-inch rotating touch screen. You can use this computer with the attached keypad, or folded as a tablet. Whatever you choose, you’ll enjoy powerful processing and fast loading.
Why We Love It:
- Offers built-in virus protection
- Features increased battery life
- Setup only requires a Google account
Something to Consider:
- Requires adapter to connect microSD card
