Best video editing laptop 2024

Ditch the lag! Unleash your creativity and say goodbye to choppy edits and sluggish rendering. Video editing beasts await –  machines with processors that scream, graphics cards that crave pixels, and displays that will blow you away.  Forget coffee breaks waiting for renders – conquer your vision, frame by frame, in stunning 4K, 6K, or even 8K. This is your chance to own a champion that can keep up with your wildest editing dreams.

The most affordable video editing laptop on our list is the MacBook Air M2, which you can still snag for $899. Our top choice is the most expensive MacBook Pro 16-inch M3 Max with 128GB of RAM and 8TB of storage, costing you a whopping $7,199. 

If you prefer working within Windows on a PC laptop, it used to require a discrete GPU, which drove up the cost and devoured battery life. However, thanks to the launch of the Intel Core Ultra, with Integrated Arc GPU, this is no longer the case. You can pick up an MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo for $1,399 and edit videos to your heart's content for hours on end, unplugged. It's powered by the Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, Intel Arc GPU, 32GB of RAM, and rounds things out with 1TB of SSD storage. 

Compiling this list took a great deal of time, and it will change, grow, and be updated as we review newer laptops. Enough with the pretense; let's jump into which laptops are the best for video editing. 

The Quick List

Don't have the patience to scroll through the whole list to find your next video editing laptop? No worries, I lack patience too, here's a quick look at all the laptops on our best video editing laptops list complete with link that will take you directly to a review of the laptop your heart desires. 

1. MacBook Pro 16-inch (M2 Max, 2023)

The MacBook Pro 16 brings beauty, beastly performance and the longest battery life we’ve seen, but the price could be a dealbreaker. (Image credit: Future)

1. MacBook Pro 16-inch M3 Max

The best video editing laptop

Specifications

CPU: M3 Pro
GPU: M3 Pro
RAM: 36 to 128GB
Storage: 1TB to 8TB
Display: 16.2-inch Liquid Retina XDR display (3456 x 2234 pixels, 254ppi)
Size: 14 x 9.7 x 0.7 inches
Weight: 4.8 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent overall performance
+
Good gaming performance
+
Bright colorful display
+
Great battery life
+
Super comfy keyboard
+
Explemary audio quality

Reasons to avoid

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Expensive for a base model
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No Face ID
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Annoying notch

Forget the editing cave, wield the Infinity Gauntlet of video editing: the MacBook Pro M3 Max 16-inch. This powerhouse isn't just a laptop, it's a mobile weapon of mass creation. With Apple's M3 Max chip at its core, 36GB to a staggering 128GB of RAM, and up to 8TB of storage, it pulverizes the competition and even eclipses previous MacBook Pros.

Unmatched performance is just the start. The battery life stretches to a mind-blowing 18 hours and 5 minutes, so say goodbye to editing sessions cut short by a low battery. But the magic doesn't stop there. A gorgeous Liquid Retina XDR display brings your work to life, while a dream-like keyboard ensures every edit feels effortless. This is a laptop miles ahead of anything else on the market.

Of course, with great power comes a hefty price tag. Starting at $3,999 and reaching a jaw-dropping $7,199 for the maxed-out configuration we tested, this MacBook Pro makes even seasoned reviewers flinch.

So, is it worth it? For professional video editors who demand the absolute best, absolutely. But for everyone else, the price might be a reality check. The MacBook Pro M3 Max 16-inch is the undisputed king, but be prepared to pay the royal ransom

See our full MacBook Pro 16-inch (M3 Max, 2023) review.

MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo

MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo review: The MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo is a fruit-slaying badass laptop

The MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo is the best Windows laptop for video editing of 2024 (Image credit: Future)

2. MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo

The best Windows video editing laptop

Specifications

CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
GPU: Integrated Intel Arc GPU
RAM: 32GB
Storage: 1TB SSD
Display: 16-inch OLED 3,840x2,400
Size: 14.11 x 10.01 x 0.66
Weight: 3.3 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Stunning 4K OLED display
+
Sturdy, lightweight aluminum-magnesium alloy build
+
Excellent, balanced performance
+
All-day plus battery life
+
AI-tuned webcam and mic array are a win

Reasons to avoid

-
Speakers could be a tad louder

You can unleash your content creative genius with the MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo. It's a fast machine packing an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU that features the game-changing integrated Intel Arc GPU, an NPU, and 32GB of RAM. You'll find yourself fearlessly editing on the stunning 16-inch OLED 3,840x2,400 display, boasting vibrant colors and impressive brightness. The comfortable keyboard ensures a smooth editing flow.

Unlike the previous-generation Intel-powered laptops, the Core Ultra packing Prestige can edit your 4K, 6K, and 8K videos for hours on end, unplugged. 

I edited 6K videos over a weekend of content creation and didn't realize I had been doing so unplugged. Not only didn't I need to be tethered to an outlet, but there wasn't the obvious drop in performance I have experienced for years when using a PC laptop unplugged for a couple of hours its CPU and discrete GPU would alow for. 

You will be happily surprised by the battery-sipping MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo. 

See our full MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo Review

MacBook Pro M3 14-inch

MacBook Pro 14-inch M3

Armed with Apple’s new M3 Pro pr Max chipset. The MacBook Pro brings power and endurance., You also get that familiar iconic chassis. (Image credit: Laptop Mag)

3. Apple MacBook Pro (14-inch) M3 2023

Best 14-inch laptop for video editing

Specifications

Display: 14-inch, 3024 x 1964-pixel
CPU: Apple M3 Pro and Max (8-10-cores) (14-30 cores)
GPU: M3
RAM: 8GB - 96GB
Storage : 512GB - 8TB
Weight: 3.3 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent overall performance
+
Solid gaming performance
+
Stunning design
+
Comfortable keyboard
+
Incredible endurance

Reasons to avoid

-
No Face ID
-
Distracting notch

The MacBook Pro M3 14-inch offers familiar sleekness and portability thanks to a design that hasn't changed since Obama was in the office, weighing a mere 3.5 pounds and fitting seamlessly into your camera bag. But its true highlight lies inside power and portability in perfect harmony.

With an average of 17+ hours on or off the grid, this laptop caters to creators on the go, ensuring uninterrupted workflow wherever your travels take you.

Upgrade to the M3 Max chip for a 14-core CPU and 30-core GPU, boosting performance even further. It also comes with 32GB RAM (expandable to a whopping 96GB!), ideal for demanding tasks.

The base model starts at $1,599 (M3 8-core CPU, 10-core GPU, 8GB of RAM, 512GB SSD) while the M3 Max configuration sets you back $3,199. Though lacking a flashy design revamp, pure performance sets this MacBook Pro apart.

Whether you go with the base model or the pimped-out Max M3,  you can't go wrong with the MacBook Pro M3 14-inch as it combines portability and performance like few others. 

See our full Apple MacBook Pro (14-inch, M3, 2023) review.

MSI Creator Z16P

MSI Creator Z16P

MSI’s Creator Z16P is close to being the perfect content creating laptop. With a potent Intel Core i9 CPU, an Nvidia RTX 3080Ti GPU, and a combination of style and class-leading performance that makes it a winning choice for content creators. (Image credit: Future)
Best 16-inch Windows video editing laptop under $1,600

Specifications

Display:
CPU: Intel Core i9-12900H
GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080Ti
RAM: 32GB
Storage: 2TB SSD
Weight: 5.3 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent build quality
+
Powerful performance+
+
Massive bright colorful crisp display+
+
Solid audio performance
+
Good webcam

Reasons to avoid

-
Bottom can get hot
-
Middling battery life

Content creators, rejoice! The MSI Creator Z16P is a content-gobbling beast, packing a 12th Gen Intel CPU, an RTX 3080 Ti GPU, and a stunning 16:10, 165Hz touch display. This machine screams creativity, especially with its unique touchscreen advantage over MacBooks.

Unleash Your Inner DaVinci: Adobe Suite? Easy. Color grading in Resolve? A breeze. The Z16P devours creative tasks, letting you sculpt your vision without a hitch. Plus, it doubles as a decent gaming rig!

While easily portable for a workstation, the sleek Z16P comes with a hefty price tag. Be prepared to invest – literally, as this might require a loan!

The star of the show is the immersive, vibrant touch display. This unique feature unlocks creative possibilities unavailable on MacBooks, making it a tempting choice for certain workflows.

For creators seeking unrivaled power, a beautiful touch display, and portability (with deep pockets), the Z16P is a dream come true. But for the price-conscious, other options might be more wallet-friendly.

See our full MSI Creator Z16P review.

HP ZBook Studio G8

HP ZBook Studio G8 review best video editing laptops

(Image credit: Future)
Best 15-inch laptop for editing video

Specifications

Display: 15.6-inch, OLED 4K (3840 x 2160)
CPU: Intel Core i9-11950H
GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070 6GB vRAM
RAM: 32GB
Storage: 2TB SSD
Battery Life: 4:56
Weight: 3.3 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Stunning 4K OLED display
+
Powerful overall and gaming performance
+
Comfortable keyboard
+
Good audio

Reasons to avoid

-
Almost $5K for top configurations

The HP ZBook Studio G8 isn't just a laptop; it's a content creator's statement piece. This $4,727 beauty retains the G7's award-winning style but packs a serious punch with an 11th Gen Intel Core i9, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD, and an RTX 3070 GPU.

It's a Creative powerhouse that will allow you to conquer any project, from Adobe Suite to video editing, with seamless performance. This machine is built to handle even the most demanding tasks.

Stunning visuals will have you Immerse yourself in your work with the breathtaking OLED 4K touchscreen. Vivid colors and brightness bring your creations to life.

This MIL-SPEC tough laptop can handle the bumps and bruises of creative life on the go. The Price of Beauty: Be prepared to splurge. At $4,727, the ZBook Studio G8 is an investment, not just a purchase.

If you demand peak performance, stunning visuals, and rugged durability, the ZBook Studio G8 is a dream come true. But its hefty price tag might make you think twice.

See our full HP ZBook Studio G8 review.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 1

Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 1

(Image credit: Future)
The best workstation for video editing

Specifications

CPU: Intel Core i9-12950HX vPro
GPU: Nvidia RTX A5500 16GB
RAM: 64GB
Storage: 2TB SSD
Display: 16-inch, 3840 x 2400
Size: 14.3 x 10.5 x 1.2 inches
Weight: 6.6 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Gorgeous 16-inch display
+
Clicky keyboard
+
Great audio
+
Strong performance

Reasons to avoid

-
Short battery life

The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 1 isn't for the faint of wallet – we're talking $4,663 for a workstation. So, unless you're a high-roller professional or a Fortune 500 baller, look away now.

Sure, it boasts a gorgeous 16-inch 4K display, a keyboard that sings to your fingers, and enough grunt (Core i9 processor, RTX A5500 GPU) to tackle any project, from editing Godzilla movies to building virtual spaceships. But here's the rub: Is the design as exciting as a beige office wall, and is the battery life? Let's say you'll be tethered to your desk more often than not.

Don't get me wrong, this is a powerhouse machine, one of the best workstations and video editing laptops I've tested. But the price tag and lackluster battery life leave a bit of a bitter taste. So, is it worth the splurge? If you're rolling in dough and need the absolute best, maybe. But for everyone else, there are plenty of other fish in the (more affordable) sea.

See our full Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 1 review.

MacBook Air M2

MacBook Air M2

(Image credit: Future)
Best entry-level budget ultralight for video editing

Specifications

Display:
CPU: M2
GPU: M2
Storage: 256GB - 2TB
Weight: 2.7 pounds

Reasons to buy

+
Elegant redesign
+
Good performance
+
Bright, colorful screen
+
Comfortable keyboard
+
Excellent battery life

Reasons to avoid

-
Only two ports
-
SSD somewhat slower than M1 Air

Apple makes a surprising appearance in the budget-friendly content creation category with the MacBook Air M2. Starting at $1,199 for the M2 chip with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, it presents a compelling option for creators on a tight budget. Its lightweight design and efficient M2 processor enable fast rendering times and all-day battery life, making it ideal for basic editing tasks. For users requiring more RAM, a 16GB upgrade is available for $200.

Additionally, the previous generation MacBook Air M1 remains a strong contender at an even more attractive price point, often found new and on sale for around $800. This incredibly portable machine (weighing just 2.8 pounds) boasts impressive all-day battery life, allowing for seamless editing on the go.

Overall, both the MacBook Air M2 and M1 offer excellent value and performance for entry-level content creators. Their respective price points cater to varying budgets, making them worthy considerations for those starting their creative journey.

See our full review of the MacBook Air M2 or M1

How to choose the best video editing laptop

Choosing the best video editing laptop for you depends on a couple of things. One is your budget -- how much are you willing to spend? And another is what you’ll be using it for -- of course you’re video editing, but are you simply trimming small clips in 720p? Or are you editing massive projects in 4K? Your answer will determine what kind of system you need.

If you want to get into video editing as a hobby, we recommend starting out with a cheap gaming laptop. It’ll offer you a decent amount of power and you’ll get a feel if you want to stick with video editing for the future. If you’re a professional that needs a top-of-the-line video editing laptop, you’re going to need a sharper and brighter display to get your work done, which will cost a pretty penny. So when you’re buying a video editing laptop, ask yourself -- how much do you actually need it?

How we test video editing laptops

There’s a number of tests that we run on video editing laptops to make sure they’re up to par with our standards, such as Geekbench, which measures the overall performance of the CPU, and the HandBrake video editing test, which determines how long a laptop takes to transcode a video from 4K to 1080p. To test the GPU, we use synthetic benchmarks like 3DMark Ice Storm Unlimited and 3DMark Fire Strike.

Performance isn’t the only thing you have to worry about when you’re looking to buy a video editing laptop. We also take into account the display, specifically the resolution, the sRGB color gamut coverage and average number of nits that its panel can produce. Considering that content is frequently consumed on phones with OLED screens or giant colorful TVs, you need to make sure you’re able to see what your users will be seeing when you’re editing videos.

Mark Anthony Ramirez

Mark has spent 20 years headlining comedy shows around the country and made appearances on ABC, MTV, Comedy Central, Howard Stern, Food Network, and Sirius XM Radio. He has written about every topic imaginable, from dating, family, politics, social issues, and tech. He wrote his first tech articles for the now-defunct Dads On Tech 10 years ago, and his passion for combining humor and tech has grown under the tutelage of the Laptop Mag team. His penchant for tearing things down and rebuilding them did not make Mark popular at home, however, when he got his hands on the legendary Commodore 64, his passion for all things tech deepened. These days, when he is not filming, editing footage, tinkering with cameras and laptops, or on stage, he can be found at his desk snacking, writing about everything tech, new jokes, or scripts he dreams of filming. 

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