Best Laptops for Graphic Design in 2025 (Reviewed & Ranked)

0
8


Looking for the best laptop for graphic design in 2025? As a professional graphic designer of 17 years myself, I know exactly what to look for!

Below I share the best based on performance, value, and my first-hand experience making sure they can handle everything from graphic design, to building intricate 3D models and editing high-quality videos.

That said, if you need more power, see our list of the best desktop computers for graphic designers. Or if you work in web design and do more coding, see our post on the best laptops for programming.

Quick List: 10+ Best Laptops for Graphic Design 2025

Here are the best laptops for graphic designers in the current market:

  1. Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro — Best Overall (Editor’s Choice)
  2. Dell 2023 XPS 17Best Value 
  3. Lenovo Legion 7i — Best for Gaming & Design
  4. Apple 15.3‑inch MacBook Air (M3) — Best Lightweight Laptop
  5. ASUS Zenbook S 16 — Best OLED Display
  6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 14.4” — Best Windows & Best for Drawing
  7. HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 — Best Large Screen
  8. Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 16” — Best for Seamless Productivity
  9. ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 OLED — Best for Video Editing
  10. Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 — Best Convertible Laptop
  11. Acer Chromebook Spin 714 — Best Budget 

Which Laptop is Best for Graphic Design?

After using the Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro, I can confidently say that it’s the ultimate laptop for graphic designing as of now. From the powerful chipset to the stunning display, this laptop has all you can expect from a device tagged the “best.”

Best Overall

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Pro

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Pro


4.9

The MacBook Pro delivers flawless performance for editing RAW photos, vector art, and video, with its Liquid Retina XDR display providing accurate P3 colors and deep blacks. Its slim, lightweight design, advanced macOS features like Universal Control and Sidecar, and robust connectivity options make it perfect for creative professionals on the move, supported by a long 17-hour battery life.

Pros:

  • Fast performance on heavy creative workloads
  • Bright, color‑accurate mini‑LED display
  • Magic Keyboard with Touch ID
Cons:

  • Premium price tag
  • Base 512 GB storage may fill quickly

Buy on Amazon

We may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

05/30/2025 11:47 am GMT

My Top 3 Picks

Here are my top 3 picks for the best graphic design laptops in 2025:

Best Laptop for Graphic Design

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Pro

Best Value

Dell 2023 XPS 17 9720 Laptop

Best Convertible Laptop

Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop 14.0"

Screen Size:

14.2 inches

RAM:

24 GB unified memory

Processor:

Apple M4 Pro

Processor:

Intel Core Ultra 7‑155H

Graphic Card :

16 cores

Graphic Card :

NVIDIA RTX 3060

Graphic Card :

Intel Arc (integrated)

Pros:

  • Fast performance on heavy creative workloads
  • Bright, color‑accurate mini‑LED display
  • Long battery life

Pros:

  • Stunning UHD+ display
  • Generous storage
  • Thunderbolt 4 ports for rapid data transfers.

Pros:

  • Bright and color-accurate 2.8K OLED display
  • 2-in-1 convertible design
  • Lightweight and easy to carry

Best Laptop for Graphic Design

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Pro

Screen Size:

14.2 inches

RAM:

24 GB unified memory

Processor:

Apple M4 Pro

Graphic Card :

16 cores

Pros:

  • Fast performance on heavy creative workloads
  • Bright, color‑accurate mini‑LED display
  • Long battery life

Best Value

Dell 2023 XPS 17 9720 Laptop

Graphic Card :

NVIDIA RTX 3060

Pros:

  • Stunning UHD+ display
  • Generous storage
  • Thunderbolt 4 ports for rapid data transfers.

Best Convertible Laptop

Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop 14.0"

Processor:

Intel Core Ultra 7‑155H

Graphic Card :

Intel Arc (integrated)

Pros:

  • Bright and color-accurate 2.8K OLED display
  • 2-in-1 convertible design
  • Lightweight and easy to carry

05/30/2025 11:47 am GMT

 

10 Best Laptops for Designers in 2025: Tested and Reviewed

Explore the detailed reviews of my handpicked selection of laptops for graphic design and find the one that best suits your needs.

1. Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro — Overall Best Graphic Design Laptop 2025 (Editor’s Choice)

Apple MacBook M4 Pro
Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Laptop for Graphic Design 2025

Screen Size: 14.2 inches | CPU: Apple M4 Pro (12 cores) | GPU: 16 cores | Storage: 512 GB SSD | RAM: 24 GB unified memory

I’ve been using this MacBook Pro to edit RAW photos, lay out vector art, and cut together video clips, and it never skips a beat. The Liquid Retina XDR display delivers precise P3 colors and true blacks, so I see exactly what I get. Apps like Photoshop, Illustrator and Premiere Pro launch instantly and stay fluid, even when I’ve got large files open.

It’s thin (0.61″) and light (3.52 lbs), so slipping it into a backpack is no hassle. The backlit Magic Keyboard with Touch ID makes logging in or authorizing purchases quick and secure. I also rely on the 12 MP Center Stage camera for sharp video calls, and the six‑speaker sound system to review audio tracks without an external speaker.

Jacob Cass with Macbook Pro Laptop
Designer & JUST Creative Founder, Jacob Cass, with Macbook Pro Laptop.

macOS features like Universal Control and Sidecar let me turn an iPad into a second display or draw directly in Procreate and send it over to the Mac. Apple Intelligence powers on‑device ML tools—like supercharged image upscaling and smart masking—right inside my creative apps.

Connectivity:

  • 3× Thunderbolt 5 (USB‑C)
  • HDMI output
  • SDXC card slot
  • MagSafe 3 charging
  • 3.5 mm headphone jack

Battery life holds strong for about 17 hours of mixed‑use work, so I can move between home, studio and café without running low.

PROS CONS
➕ Extremely fast performance on heavy creative workloads ➖ Premium price tag
➕ Bright, color‑accurate mini‑LED display with wide P3 gamut ➖ Base 512 GB storage may fill quickly
➕ Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and large Force Touch trackpad
➕ Studio‑quality camera, mic array and six‑speaker audio system
➕ Long battery life and on‑device ML acceleration via Apple

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Graphic Design

Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Pro

 

2. Dell 2023 XPS 17 — Best Value + Best Laptop for Graphic Design and Photo Editing

Dell 2023 XPS 17. Laptop for Graphic Design
Dell 2023 XPS 17. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Design Laptop for Photo Editing

Screen Size: 17 | CPU:  i7-12700H | GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060  | Storage: 4TB | RAM: 64GB

The Dell 2023 XPS 17 9720 is one of the most impressive laptops I’ve ever used, and it’ll likely become your go-to machine for everything from photo editing to video rendering. It’s powerful, portable, and has a stunning display. In my opinion, its the best value laptop on the market!

For starters, the XPS 17’s 17″ UHD+ Touchscreen display with its 3840 x 2400 resolution makes my every design element pop. I loved working on my designs on this display, as it allowed me to see every detail with precision. The touchscreen functionality also comes in handy for quick edits and sketches.

“Most laptops have shifted to thinner bezels, but the XPS line has long taken that to the limit with its nearly borderless edge-to-edge displays. The design makes the screen pop, and also helps the panel look even bigger than its size, particularly on the spacious 17-inch model.” (PC Mag)

The laptop is also powered by an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060 dedicated graphics card with 6GB of dedicated GDDR6 VRAM. This makes it very easy to handle even the most demanding graphics-intensive tasks, namely creative apps such as video editing and 3D rendering. I was able to work on multiple design applications simultaneously without any lag or performance issues.

The XPS 17 also comes with 64GB of DDR5 RAM and a 4TB NVMe SSD. This gives me plenty of storage space for all of my design files, and my laptop boots up and loads programs in seconds.

Additionally, the inclusion of Thunderbolt 4 ports is a major plus when it comes to transferring large design files quickly. I was able to transfer a 2GB video file from my external hard drive to the XPS 17 in just a few seconds.

However, the battery life, approximately around 9 hours, is a bit limiting for those who are always on the move. Additionally, the 720p webcam is just OK for casual video calls, but it’s not ideal for professional meetings, or presentations. I would have preferred to see a 1080p webcam on a laptop of this caliber.

Still, the Dell 2023 XPS 17 9720 is the perfect laptop for graphic designers and photo editors who need a powerful and portable machine with a stunning display. With its powerful processor, impeccable graphics performance, and stunning InfinityEdge display, the XPS 17 9720 can handle anything I throw at it.

PROS CONS
➕ Stunning UHD+ display for impeccable visuals. ➖ Battery life could be better.
➕ Robust performance with Intel i7 and NVIDIA RTX 3060. ➖ 720p webcam feels slightly outdated.
➕ Generous storage with 4TB NVMe SSD.
➕ Thunderbolt 4 ports for rapid data transfers.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Graphic Design and Photo Editing

Dell 2023 XPS 17 9720 Laptop

 

3. Lenovo Legion 7i — Best Gaming Laptop for Graphic Design

Lenovo Legion 7i Gaming Laptop
Lenovo Legion 7i Gaming Laptop. Image Credits: Amazon

One of the Best Gaming Laptops for Designers

Screen Size: 16 | CPU: Intel Core i9-13900HX | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 | Storage: 2TB | RAM: 32GB RAM

As someone always on the lookout for a laptop that can handle the most demanding tasks, from 3D modeling to high-resolution photo editing, I was really impressed by the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8. It exceeded my expectations– delivering blazing-fast performance and a stunning display that made my designs come to life.

To begin with, the Legion has a 13th-generation Intel Core i9-13900HX Processor and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 GPU. This allowed me to handle even the most complex design projects with ease. This laptop never slowed down, even when running multiple applications at the same time.

Plus, the 16-inch QHD+ display is a delight to work on. With its vibrant colors, sharp details, and 240Hz refresh rate, it provided the perfect canvas for my creative projects. I especially appreciated the high refresh rate when editing videos and animations, as it gave me smooth transitions and playback.

The ample 2TB NVMe SSD solved all my storage concerns, and the 32GB DDR5 RAM made multitasking a breeze. I could run multiple design programs simultaneously without any lag or performance issues.

While using Legion Pro 7i Gen 8, I did notice a few shortcomings. First, the chassis is made of plastic– which, though, makes it lighter– it definitely makes me doubt its durability. Also, the fans can get very loud during intensive tasks. 

Finally, the Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 doesn’t have an OLED or miniLED display option. While this isn’t a huge concern for me, it’s something to keep in mind if you’re looking for the absolute best display quality.

Apart from these minor drawbacks, I found the Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gen 8 to be a powerful and reliable laptop for graphic designers, digital artists, and other multimedia creators. Its robust performance, stunning display, and large storage space make it one of my go-to graphic design laptop choices.

PROS CONS
➕ Robust Intel i9 processor paired with NVIDIA RTX 4090 for unmatched performance. ➖ Chassis incorporates more plastic than previous models.
➕ Stunning QHD+ display with high refresh rates for vivid visuals. ➖ Fans can get loud during heavy tasks.
➕ Ample storage and memory for intensive multitasking. ➖ Absence of OLED or miniLED display options.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Gaming Laptop for Graphic Design

Lenovo Legion Pro 7i Gaming Laptop

 

4. Apple 15.3‑inch MacBook Air (M3) — Best Lightweight Laptop for Designers on the Go

Apple 15.3‑inch MacBook Air
Apple 15.3‑inch MacBook Air. Image Credits: Amazon

Top Pick for Portability Without Compromising Performance

Screen Size: 15.3 inches | CPU: Apple M3 (8‑core) | GPU: 10‑core | Storage: 512 GB SSD | RAM: 24 GB unified memory

The 15.3‑inch MacBook Air with the M3 chip strikes a great balance between portability and power, making it a solid choice for creative professionals who need performance without the extra bulk. The lightweight build and slim profile make it easy to carry, and it still delivers enough muscle to handle everyday design tasks with ease.

The Liquid Retina display supports over a billion colors and stays sharp with its 2880×1864 resolution. I found it ideal for editing high‑res images, color correcting, or working on layout designs in apps like Photoshop and Figma. The 500‑nits brightness and P3 wide color gamut give everything on screen the depth and clarity it deserves.

With 24 GB of unified memory and a 512 GB SSD, app switching feels instant and loading large project files is never an issue. Whether I’m sketching concepts, organizing assets, or editing social content, the M3 chip handles it all smoothly. It’s also surprisingly efficient—battery life lasts up to 18 hours, which is perfect for long workdays without a charger.

The built-in 1080p FaceTime camera, six-speaker Spatial Audio system, and three-mic array also make it great for remote meetings and creative collaboration. While it has only two Thunderbolt ports, the inclusion of MagSafe 3 and support for dual external displays with the lid closed adds flexibility to your setup.

PROS CONS
➕ Lightweight, ultra‑portable design ➖ Only two Thunderbolt ports
➕ Crisp, color-rich Liquid Retina display ➖ Integrated GPU not ideal for 3D workflows
➕ All-day battery life (up to 18 hours)
➕ Unified memory makes multitasking seamless
➕ High-quality speakers, camera, and mic for collaboration

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Lightweight Laptop

Apple 2024 MacBook Air 15-inch Laptop with M3 chip

 

5. ASUS Zenbook S 16 — Best OLED Display Laptop for Designers

Asus zenbook s16
ASUS Zenbook S 16. Image Credits: Amazon

Top Pick for Color-Critical Design Work

Screen Size: 16 inches | CPU: AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 | GPU: AMD Radeon 880M | Storage: 1 TB SSD | RAM: 24 GB DDR5

The ASUS Zenbook S 16 stands out for its balance of raw performance and stunning visuals, especially if display quality is high on your priority list. Its ultra-thin 0.43-inch chassis is made of durable Ceraluminum, and despite its slim build, it delivers solid processing power with the new AMD Ryzen AI 9 365 CPU and Radeon 880M GPU combo.

The 16-inch 3K ASUS Lumina OLED screen (2880×1800) is sharp, color-rich, and ideal for any visual creative work. I found it especially good for photo editing, digital painting, and typography. Blacks are deep, colors are accurate, and the touchscreen functionality adds convenience when sketching or making fine adjustments.

With 24 GB of DDR5 RAM and a fast 1 TB PCIe SSD, multitasking between design software, asset libraries, and web tools is smooth and efficient. The six-speaker system also adds a premium audio experience when previewing video projects or tuning sound in your edits.

In terms of ports, it covers most essentials: two USB-C 4 ports, HDMI 2.1, and USB-A 3.2, along with next-gen Wi-Fi 7 for ultra-fast cloud sync and backups. The backlit keyboard and Windows 11 Home OS keep everything modern and ready for day-to-day use.

PROS CONS
➕ Vivid 3K OLED touchscreen ideal for design work ➖ No dedicated NVIDIA GPU for 3D-heavy work
➕ Lightweight, ultra-slim 0.43” chassis with premium build ➖ White color might show wear over time
➕ 24 GB DDR5 RAM and 1 TB SSD for smooth multitasking
➕ Rich audio with six speakers and high-resolution visuals
➕ Includes HDMI 2.1, USB-A, and dual USB-C 4 ports

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best OLED Display Laptop

ASUS Zenbook S 16 Laptop

 

6. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 14.4” — Best Windows & Best for Drawing

Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio
Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Windows Laptop for Designers & Best for Drawing

Screen Size: 14.4 | CPU: Intel® Core™ i7 | GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti | Storage: 1TB | RAM: 32GB

The Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 14.4” is a versatile and powerful laptop that is perfect for graphic design. It’s fast, powerful, and easy to use, with a great touchscreen and pen. 

In terms of power, the quad-core 11th Gen Intel Core H Series processors and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics card turn the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio into a performance powerhouse. In my work, creating complex 3D models, editing high-resolution images, and bringing animations to life, this device has given impeccable performance without any lag.

The versatility of the Surface Laptop Studio’s 14.4″ PixelSense Flow touch display is also very impressive. It makes the colors of my designs vibrant and accurate– making it perfect for viewing and editing my work. 

Its unique screen-flipping feature further allows me to use the laptop in different modes depending on my needs. I can use the laptop in the traditional laptop mode for working on my designs. But when I’m feeling creative, I can flip the screen to the stage mode to use the laptop as a digital drawing board.

Paired with the Surface Slim Pen 2, the laptop offers an unparalleled digital pen experience. It feels like I’m drawing on paper, and the lines are always crisp and accurate. The pressure sensitivity is excellent, so I can easily create different thicknesses and shades. 

USB 4.0 ports with Thunderbolt 4 support further make it easy for me to connect to all of my devices, including external monitors, without having to worry about any lag or latency.

However, one thing that took me some time to get used to is the unique hinge design. It’s very versatile, but it can be a bit tricky to open and close the laptop in different modes. The Surface Laptop Studio is also a bit heavier than some other laptops, so it’s not ideal for those who need something ultra-portable. 

Still, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio is a statement of Microsoft’s dedication to graphic design. It balances performance, versatility, and good graphic design laptop in a way that truly complements my work. For creatives seeking the best Windows option in graphic design laptops, this is my top recommendation.

PROS CONS
➕ High-performance specs for intensive tasks ➖ Slightly heavier than competitors
➕ Versatile screen design for varied uses ➖ Pen sold separately
➕ Stunning display with true-to-life colors ➖ Limited drive size options.
➕ Seamless connectivity options

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Windows Laptop for Graphic Design

Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio

7. HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 — Best Laptop for Marketing and Graphic Design

HP ZBook Fury 17 G8
HP ZBook Fury 17 G8. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Large Screen Laptop for Creatives and Marketers

Screen Size: 17.3 | CPU: i7-11850H | GPU: NVIDIA Intel RTX A4000 UHD Graphics | Storage: 512 GB | RAM: 32 GB

The HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 truly transformed my creative work with its exceptional performance. With its powerful performance and impressive features, this laptop lets me take on even the most demanding marketing and graphic design projects with ease.

With its Intel Core i7 processor and 32 GB DDR4 RAM, I can run multiple heavy-duty applications simultaneously without any slowdown. Whether I’m editing high-resolution images, or crafting complex designs, the ZBook Fury 17 G8 always delivers consistently smooth performance.

The 17.3″ Full HD display offers crisp, clear stunning visuals, ensuring that every pixel of my design stands out. Plus, the color accuracy ensures that what I see on screen is what I get in the final output.

On top of that, the 512 GB SSD booted up the operating system in seconds and loaded apps even faster. I was able to transfer large files quickly and easily via the USB 3.0 ports. The inclusion of multiple USB ports further allowed me to connect all my essential devices without having to unplug and replug them.

The spill-resistant keyboard gave me peace of mind knowing that a minor accident wouldn’t ruin my device. Its integrated fingerprint reader is also a great security feature. It allowed me to log in quickly and securely without having to type in my password.

“On a physical level, the ZBook Fury 17 G8 can detect when it’s being tampered with or the bottom panel has been taken off, and automatically encrypt all drive contents. It also has measures in place to protect the BIOS from malware and other malicious software upon every boot, keeping things safe even before the OS has loaded.” (Tech Radar)

While the ZBook Fury 17 G8 is a powerful laptop, it does have some drawbacks. It’s heavy, so it’s not easy to carry around. Also, when I pushed it to its limits, it got hot and noisy. The battery life also isn’t that great, so I had to keep it plugged in for most of the time. Finally, the design is functional, but not very stylish.

Despite these drawbacks, the HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 is still one of my top choices for graphic design laptops in 2025– especially for those engaged in creative marketing. From 3D rendering to video editing and intricate graphic design, it performs flawlessly and lets my creative juices flow like nothing else.

PROS CONS
➕ Exceptional performance for demanding tasks ➖ Heavier than most laptops in its category
➕ Vibrant and color-accurate 17.3″ display ➖ Tends to heat up under heavy workload
➕ Ample storage with fast data access ➖ Battery life could be better
➕ Diverse connectivity options ➖ Design might not appeal to all

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Marketing and Graphic Design

HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 17.3" Mobile Workstation

 

8. Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro 16” — Best Windows Laptop for Seamless Productivity

samsung galaxy book4
Samsung Galaxy Book 3 Ultra. Image Credits: Amazon

Top Choice for Graphic Designers Who Want Speed and Portability

Screen Size: 16 inches | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H | GPU: Intel ARC (integrated) | Storage: 1 TB SSD | RAM: 32 GB DDR5

The Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro is a sleek, high-performance laptop that fits perfectly into a modern creative workflow. With a 3K AMOLED touchscreen, it delivers rich contrast, deep blacks, and exceptional clarity, ideal for color-accurate design and video work. The new anti-reflective coating with Vision Booster also makes it easy to use in bright environments without glare issues.

Powered by Intel’s Core Ultra 7 processor with an integrated NPU and Intel ARC graphics, the laptop handles demanding design software with ease. I found editing high-resolution images, running Figma, and working in Adobe Premiere all smooth and stutter-free. The 32 GB DDR5 RAM ensures apps remain snappy, even during multitasking with heavy files.

At just 0.46” thick and weighing 3.44 lbs, the Book4 Pro is light enough to carry daily. The all-day battery with a 76Wh capacity keeps you going for long design sessions, and the 1 TB SSD offers enough room for large file libraries, RAW images, and motion projects.

It also includes strong collaboration features: a full HD webcam, AKG quad speakers with Dolby Atmos, and dual studio mics with AI noise canceling. Plus, if you use a Samsung phone or tablet, syncing across devices is seamless, also you can share files, take calls, or extend your screen effortlessly.

PROS CONS
➕ Brilliant 3K AMOLED touchscreen with anti-reflective coating ➖ Integrated GPU not built for 3D rendering
➕ Ultra-thin, lightweight build ideal for mobility ➖ Limited native stylus support despite touchscreen
➕ 32 GB RAM and 1 TB SSD for smooth, high-capacity workflows
➕ Long-lasting battery and fast charging with 65W adapter
➕ Tight Galaxy ecosystem integration with phones and tablets

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best for Seamless Productivity

SAMSUNG 16" Galaxy Book4 Pro Business Laptop

 

9. ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 OLED — Best Laptop for Graphic Design and Video Editing

ASUS 2023 ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED Laptop
ASUS 2023 ProArt StudioBook 16 Laptop. Image Credits: Amazon

Best Laptops for Graphic Designers and Video Editors

Screen Size: 16 |CPU: i9-13980 | GPU: Nvidia Geforce RTX 4070 GPU | Storage: 1TB | RAM: 32GB

For my graphic design and multimedia work, the ASUS ProArt StudioBKook 16 OLED was a revelation. It’s a powerhouse designed for creators like me, who spend their days animating pixels and editing frames. This laptop has truly exceeded my expectations, seamlessly handling even the most demanding tasks.

The 16″ OLED 3.2K touch display of the ASUS ProArt StudioBook has completely transformed how I see and interact with my work. Plus, the sharpness of the 3200 x 2000 resolution makes every detail in my digital crafts and complex designs stand out in stunning clarity.

On top of that, the 120Hz refresh rate and 0.2ms response time allow for smoother transitions. This really comes in handy for my video editing and animation tasks.

With the Intel Core i9-13980HX Processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070 dedicated GPU at its heart, StudioBook 16 OLED has handled every challenge I’ve thrown at it. From Complex 3D animations to detailed graphic card designs— it’s managed them all with a level of precision and power not many laptops can offer.

One of the most innovative features of the ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED is the ASUS Dial. I can use the Dial to adjust brush sizes and zoom in and out of my canvas quickly and easily. In Premiere Pro, I can use the Dial to navigate timelines and adjust playback speed.

But there are a few limitations that should also be considered. The battery life is not the best, especially under heavy workloads. Additionally, the laptop does not have a fingerprint login sensor, which may be a minor inconvenience for some.

But overall, the ASUS ProArt StudioBook 16 OLED is a perfect creative powerhouse with a stunning OLED display and powerful chipset for designers and video editors. Features like the ASUS Dial and color-accurate display streamline my workflow and ensure my designs look as intended.

PROS CONS
➕ Stunning 3.2K OLED display with touch and stylus support ➖ Battery life could be better for heavy tasks
➕ Powerful performance with Intel Core i9 and NVIDIA RTX 4070 ➖ Lacks fingerprint login
➕ Innovative ASUS Dial for enhanced workflow
➕ Expandable memory and storage

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Laptop for Graphic Design and Video Editing

ASUS 2023 ProArt StudioBook 16 Laptop

 

10. Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 — Best Convertible Laptop for Flexible Design Work

Lenovo yoga 9i
Lenovo Yoga 9i. Image Credits: Amazon

Top Choice for Designers Who Want Touch + Pen + Portability

Screen Size: 14 inches | CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7‑155H | GPU: Intel Arc (integrated) | Storage: 1 TB SSD | RAM: 16 GB LPDDR5X

The Lenovo Yoga 9i stands out as a flexible 2-in-1 option built for designers who value versatility, portability, and pen-based input. With a 14-inch 2.8K OLED touchscreen running at 120Hz, the display is incredibly responsive and vibrant. Colors are sharp and accurate, making it perfect for digital illustration, photo touchups, and layout design.

Powered by Intel’s Ultra 7‑155H processor and integrated Intel Arc graphics, the Yoga 9i handles everyday creative tasks like vector design, editing, and concept sketching smoothly. I found the included Active Pen especially helpful for precision work when used in tablet mode.

This model includes 16 GB of LPDDR5X RAM and a fast 1 TB PCIe SSD, ensuring smooth performance across your software stack and quick access to large design files. The lightweight 2.85 lb chassis and 360° hinge make it easy to switch between laptop and tablet modes useful for presentations, drawing, or editing on the go.

Additional perks include a fingerprint reader, a backlit keyboard, and strong port selection: two Thunderbolt 4, USB-A 3.2, and USB-C 4.0. It also comes bundled with a high-speed Dockztorm USB hub, handy for plugging in peripherals during studio sessions.

PROS CONS
➕ Bright and color-accurate 2.8K OLED display with 120Hz refresh ➖ 16 GB RAM may be limiting for very large projects
➕ 2-in-1 convertible design with Active Pen included ➖ Integrated GPU not suited for advanced 3D work
➕ Lightweight and easy to carry at just 2.85 lbs
➕ Strong connectivity with Thunderbolt 4, USB-A, USB-C
➕ Comes with bonus Dockztorm USB hub for extended connectivity

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Convertible Laptop

Lenovo Yoga 9i AI Powered 2-in-1 Laptop 14.0"

 

11. Acer Chromebook Spin 714 — Most Affordable Laptop for Designers 2025

Acer Chromebook Spin 714
Acer Chromebook Spin 714. Image Credits: Amazon

The Best Laptop for Graphic Design on a Budget

CPU: Intel i5 12th Gen | GPU: Intel Iris Xe Graphics | Hard Disk Size: 512GB SSD |RAM Memory Size: 8GB

When looking for tools that can keep up with my ever-changing graphic design work needs without burning a hole in my pocket, I came across the Acer Chromebook 714. My hands-on experience with this Acer Chromebook has shown me that a great graphic design laptop doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg.

From the moment I fired up the Acer Chromebook Spin 714, its 14-inch touchscreen display made a solid impression. Editing high-resolution images and navigating graphic design software felt intuitive and efficient, thanks to the sharp WUXGA resolution and the smooth performance of the Intel Iris Xe Graphics. While it doesn’t match a high-end workstation’s power, it handles most design tasks without breaking a sweat.

The laptop’s 2-in-1 design impressed me the most. Switching from laptop to tablet mode lets me showcase my work in a more interactive way during client presentations. I often used the tent mode for brainstorming sessions, which made for an engaging collaborative experience.

I found the 8GB RAM capable of running multiple design programs simultaneously but it was not suitable for heavy tasks such as 3D or heavy video work. But please note, Chromebooks don’t run the full versions of the Adobe CC suite but instead run the mobile versions which are not as powerful. 

The 512GB SSD also meant I never had to worry about space for my large files. Chrome OS’s cloud-centric approach initially seemed limiting, but the easy access to cloud-based design tools actually streamlined my workflow, especially when working remotely.

Now, I won’t gloss over the shortcomings. The laptop’s build and screen aren’t the best out there, and the audio quality could be better. But these haven’t really held me back from creating impactful brand designs and strategies.

To sum up my experience, the Acer Chromebook Spin 714 has proved itself to be a powerful little laptop for most graphic design tasks. And while it lacks in terms of build and screen quality, and audio capabilities, these issues are manageable and I honestly find them to be a fair trade-off for an affordable laptop of this caliber.

PROS CONS
➕ The 2-in-1 flexibility fits perfectly with my active work style. ➖ You’ll need to adapt to cloud-based design tools due to Chrome OS’s app limitations.
➕ It has the latest Intel Core i5 and integrated graphics which handle creative tasks well. ➖ The build quality and screen don’t compare to more expensive models, which might turn off some.
➕ The storage and memory keep everything running smoothly.
➕ Wi-Fi 6 connectivity keeps me plugged into my work no matter where I am.

Latest Price on Amazon:

Best Budget Laptop for Graphic Designers

Acer 2023 Newest Chromebook Spin 714 2-in-1 Laptop

 

How I Picked the Best Laptops for Graphic Design

I’m always on the lookout for tools that can help me be more productive and creative. I’ve put a lot of different laptops through their paces to see which ones can handle my everyday workload. I’ve used them for everything from drawing and designing to editing and rendering videos. Here is a step-by-step process of how I selected each laptop mentioned above:

1. Looking Around Carefully

I looked into popular laptops that were getting attention for their quality and performance, by focusing on feedback from graphic designers and video editors. Their hands-on experience helped me understand which laptops work best for creative tasks.

2. Talking to Experts

I didn’t just guess what people needed, I actually talked to different artists like people who draw, design websites, and make 3D designs. They told me what’s really important for their work, like what makes a laptop great for creating.

3. Durability

I looked for laptops that are really powerful because designers need them to handle big pictures, detailed 3D designs, and cool animations without getting stuck.

4. Display Quality

Designers need to see colors and details super well, so I only picked laptops with really good screens that show everything clearly and with the right colors.

5. Lasting Battery and Easy to Carry

Acknowledging that some artists need to take their laptops to different places, like meetings or photo shoots. So, I made sure the laptops I chose were easy to carry around and didn’t need to be plugged in all the time.

 

How I Tested the Best Laptops for Graphic Design

Finding the right laptop means putting it through its paces, so that’s exactly what I did. I personally tested a variety of models to see which ones could handle the intense world of design. Here’s a look at my journey to discover the laptops that stood out, not just in specs, but in real-world performance.

1. Real-world Application Testing

I put each laptop through a day in the life of a designer. This meant using them for everything I do— from sketching out digital illustrations to designing logos and putting together presentations. It was important to see how they handled the actual work I dealt with every day.

2. Software Compatibility

I ran all the major design software on these laptops, like Adobe Creative Suite and Blender. I needed to make sure they could keep up with the tools I used without any hiccups or crashes.

3. Performance Under Load

I really tested the laptops’ limits by opening up lots of big programs at once. As someone who needs to switch between tasks quickly, I wanted to see if these laptops could keep up without slowing down.

4. Color Accuracy and Display Testing

I checked the screens with the same tools I used to make sure my designs looked perfect. It was all about getting those colors just right, which is super important when you’re working on something like a digital ad or touching up a photo.

Buying Guide: Finding the Perfect Laptop for Graphic Design

As someone who’s always on the lookout for the perfect laptop to bring my ideas to life, I know how crucial it is to find one that matches our creative pace. So, let’s jump right into the essentials to consider when hunting for that ideal laptop that won’t let you down mid-design.

🖥️ Display Matters

For vibrant, color-accurate design work, the ASUS ProArt Studiobook 16 OLED leads the pack. Its 16” 4K OLED panel is Pantone-validated and factory-calibrated, offering exceptional precision that professionals rely on for color grading, photo retouching, and video editing.

🚀 Performance is Key

Designed to handle intensive creative tasks with ease, the Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro (M4 Pro) delivers blazing-fast performance. Its 12-core CPU and 16-core GPU combo lets you seamlessly render videos, compile design assets, and run multiple pro-grade apps without slowdown.

💽 Storage and Speed

Fast load times and large local storage are vital for heavy design files. The Dell 2023 XPS 17 comes with a massive 4TB SSD and 64GB RAM, giving you the headroom to run demanding projects and access them instantly, without lag or load screens.

🔌 Connectivity

When your setup involves external displays, drawing tablets, or hard drives, the HP ZBook Fury 17 G8 delivers. It offers an extensive range of ports, including Thunderbolt, HDMI, USB-A, and SD card support, perfect for pros with complex workstations.

🎨 Stylus and Touchscreen

For hands-on creatives who sketch or illustrate, the Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 14.4” is built for pen-based workflows. Its dynamic hinge, responsive touchscreen, and Slim Pen support make drawing feel fluid and natural, ideal for illustrators and digital painters.

🔋 Battery Life

If mobility is a priority, the Apple 15.3‑inch MacBook Air (M3) is the standout. With up to 18 hours of battery life and Apple’s energy-efficient M3 chip, you can work on designs all day, no matter where your projects take you.

🛡️ Build Quality

Sleek, slim, and durable, the ASUS Zenbook S 16 combines refined design with practical resilience. Its ultra-thin Ceraluminum chassis doesn’t just look great, but it’s tough enough for frequent travel while staying lightweight and professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a powerful laptop for graphic design?

Yes, a powerful laptop is essential for graphic design to handle heavy software and ensure smooth rendering, enabling faster and more efficient work processes.

Is a laptop or PC better for graphic design?

Both laptops and PCs can excel in graphic design. Laptops offer portability, while PCs often have more upgradability and raw power.

Why Apple for graphic design?

Apple products are favored in graphic design for their reliable performance, color accuracy, intuitive interface, and robust design software compatibility.

What size laptop screen is best for graphic design?

For graphic design, a 15-inch or larger laptop screen is often preferred to accommodate workspace and details without compromising visibility or causing eye strain.

 

Wrapping Up the Best Laptops for Graphic Designers

Selecting the right laptop for graphic design can be quite a quest. That’s why I’ve carefully crafted this guide to make your choice easier.

Through my trials, the Apple 14.2‑inch MacBook Pro really stood out for its incredible power and sleek design, making it my top pick for designers who value speed and display quality. But remember, the best laptop for your graphic design journey is the one that feels like your perfect fit.

I’m genuinely eager to hear about your experiences and choices. Let’s chat about it in the comments below! Your insights can be a huge help for others looking for their ideal creative companion.



Source link