Best Laptop For Video Editing 2020

So, you're ready to dive into the world of video editing! Fantastic. But before you start stitching together your masterpiece, you need the right tools. And in 2020, that meant finding a laptop powerful enough to handle demanding software and large video files. This guide is designed for first-time buyers overwhelmed by tech specs and industry jargon.

We'll cut through the noise and focus on what *really* matters when choosing a laptop for video editing. Why does your laptop matter? Simple: a slow, underpowered machine will choke your workflow and turn creativity into frustration.

Model	Price (USD)	Processor	RAM	Storage	Graphics	Warranty
Apple MacBook Pro 16"	$2,399+	Intel Core i7/i9	16GB - 64GB	512GB - 8TB SSD	AMD Radeon Pro 5300M/5500M	1 Year Limited
Dell XPS 15	$1,299+	Intel Core i5/i7/i9	8GB - 64GB	256GB - 2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti	1 Year Limited
HP Spectre x360 15	$1,349+	Intel Core i7	16GB	512GB - 2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce MX330	1 Year Limited
Razer Blade 15	$1,799+	Intel Core i7	16GB	256GB - 1TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060/2070	1 Year Limited
Microsoft Surface Book 3 15"	$1,999+	Intel Core i7	16GB - 32GB	256GB - 1TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti	1 Year Limited

Detailed Reviews: Diving Deeper

Apple MacBook Pro 16" (2019)

The MacBook Pro 16" was a powerhouse for video editors. Its stunning display, powerful processors, and dedicated graphics cards made it a top choice. It handled demanding software like Final Cut Pro with ease.

The improved keyboard was a welcome change from previous models. The price point, however, remained a significant barrier for some.

Dell XPS 15 (2020)

The Dell XPS 15 offered a great balance of power and portability. Its sleek design and vibrant display made it a pleasure to use. It was a strong contender for those who needed a capable machine without breaking the bank.

While not as powerful as the MacBook Pro, it was still a capable video editing laptop. It was particularly well-suited for editors using Adobe Premiere Pro.

HP Spectre x360 15 (2020)

The HP Spectre x360 15 was a versatile 2-in-1 laptop. Its touchscreen and convertible design offered unique advantages. It was a good choice for editors who valued flexibility.

However, its graphics card wasn't as powerful as some other options. This meant it was better suited for lighter video editing tasks.

Razer Blade 15 (2020)

The Razer Blade 15 was known for its sleek design and gaming prowess. It translated well to video editing. Its powerful processor and graphics card delivered excellent performance.

It was ideal for editors who also enjoyed gaming. Battery life, however, could be a concern for some.

Microsoft Surface Book 3 15" (2020)

The Surface Book 3 offered a unique detachable design. This allowed it to be used as a laptop or a tablet. It was a great choice for editors who valued portability and versatility.

The detachable screen made it easy to review footage on the go. It was well-suited for editors who needed a flexible workflow.

Used vs. New: Weighing Your Options

Buying used can save you money, but it comes with risks. You might get a lower price on a similar model. You'll also get a shorter lifespan and potential hidden problems.

Pros of Buying Used: Lower cost, faster depreciation. Cons of Buying Used: No warranty, potential for hidden issues, shorter lifespan.

Buying new offers peace of mind with a warranty. However, you'll pay a premium. You can be confident that you're getting a machine in perfect working order.

Pros of Buying New: Warranty protection, guaranteed condition, latest technology. Cons of Buying New: Higher cost, slower depreciation.

Reliability Ratings by Brand (Based on 2020 Data)

Reliability is a key factor in any laptop purchase. Here's a general overview of brand reliability based on data available in 2020. These are based on user reports, repair data, and industry analysis.

Apple: Generally considered reliable with good build quality.
Dell: Offers a mix of reliable and less reliable models; XPS line typically scores well.
HP: Mixed reputation; some lines are more prone to issues than others.
Razer: Known for performance but can have reliability issues, particularly with battery life.
Microsoft: Surface devices can be prone to hardware issues, according to some reports.

Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying

Processor: Aim for at least an Intel Core i7 or equivalent AMD Ryzen processor.
RAM: 16GB is the minimum; 32GB is recommended for smoother performance.
Storage: Opt for a fast SSD with at least 512GB of storage.
Graphics Card: A dedicated graphics card from NVIDIA or AMD is essential.
Display: Look for a display with good color accuracy and resolution.

Key Takeaways: Making the Right Choice

Choosing the right laptop for video editing is a personal decision. Consider your budget, the type of editing you'll be doing, and your portability needs. Don't skimp on RAM or storage; these are crucial for performance.

Research the reliability of different brands. Read reviews and consider both new and used options.

Remember the checklist. Processors, RAM, storage, graphics, and display all play key roles in your video editing experience.

Ready to Edit? Take Action Now!

Now that you're armed with knowledge, it's time to start your search. Visit online retailers, read customer reviews, and compare prices. Consider your budget and your specific needs. Find the laptop that best suits your video editing workflow. Then, start creating!