Introduction:
Shopping for a new laptop can be overwhelming, especially when you need one for video editing. Making the wrong choice could lead to a laptop that doesn’t meet your needs and puts a strain on your finances. To help us navigate the world of video editing laptops, we spoke with Denver McQuaid, a creative marketing strategist and experienced VFX artist and video editor. McQuaid shared his insights on what makes a good video editing laptop, the necessary specs to consider, and the best laptops for video editing.
What makes a video editing laptop “good”?
According to McQuaid, there are three essential qualities that a good video editing laptop should have: speed, solid battery life, and a good display size. Processing tasks quickly and efficiently is crucial for video editing, and this can be achieved through factors such as RAM, processor clock speed, and graphics rendering. Additionally, having a laptop with long battery life allows for uninterrupted work sessions. As for display size, McQuaid recommends opting for a larger screen to have more screen space when editing.
What specs do I need in a laptop for video editing?
McQuaid advises paying close attention to your laptop’s processor, RAM, and storage space when shopping for a video editing machine. More RAM is essential for faster video playback, multitasking, and file caching. When it comes to processors, McQuaid suggests considering the number of cores rather than clock speeds. However, it’s important to consider the specific programs you’ll be using as they may have varying requirements. In terms of storage, McQuaid emphasizes not skimping on it due to the increasing size of video files. Opting for at least 1TB of SSD storage is recommended for faster and more reliable performance.
Don’t sleep on the display:
The display of a laptop is crucial in video editing, not just in terms of size but also color accuracy. Different displays can affect the final look of videos, so it’s important to choose a laptop that can produce an accurate range of colors. While most laptop displays today meet this requirement, it becomes more crucial when shopping for an external monitor.
Are cheap laptops worth it for video editing?
McQuaid advises against going too cheap when purchasing a laptop for video editing. Cheap laptops may not be able to handle the demands of video editing software, resulting in a shorter lifespan. Investing as much as possible within your budget ensures that your laptop will last longer and won’t become outdated quickly.
What are the best laptops for video editing?
The MacBook Pro, particularly the latest model with the M3 chip, is McQuaid’s top recommendation for video editing laptops. However, he mentions that even older MacBook Pro models can still be effective for video editing. The MacBook Pro is praised for its power, quality, and convenience. For those who prefer alternatives to Apple, there are other recommendations based on hands-on testing and expert recommendations.
Conclusion:
When shopping for a video editing laptop, it’s important to prioritize speed, battery life, display size, processor, RAM, and storage space. Investing in a high-quality laptop upfront will save you from having to upgrade sooner due to outdated specs. While the MacBook Pro is the top choice for many video editors, there are other options available depending on personal preferences and needs. By considering the necessary specs and making an informed decision, you can find the best laptop for your video editing endeavors.
