Laptops For Video Editing 2020

So, you're ready to dive into the world of video editing! Exciting times! But choosing the right laptop can feel overwhelming, especially if you're just starting out.

This guide is designed for first-time buyers, breaking down the jargon and providing clear, practical advice to help you find the perfect laptop for your video editing needs in 2020.

Let's find a laptop that won't break the bank or bottleneck your creative flow.

Why a Dedicated Laptop for Video Editing Matters

Video editing demands power. Forget sluggish rendering times and constant crashes. A laptop built for video editing streamlines your workflow, allowing you to focus on what truly matters: bringing your creative vision to life.

A good laptop will allow you to edit smoothly, handle complex projects, and spend less time waiting.

Model	Price (USD)	Processor	RAM	Storage	Graphics Card	Warranty
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch	$2,399+	Intel Core i7/i9	16GB - 64GB	512GB - 8TB SSD	AMD Radeon Pro 5300M/5500M	1 Year
Dell XPS 15	$1,299+	Intel Core i5/i7/i9	8GB - 64GB	256GB - 2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti	1 Year
HP Spectre x360 15	$1,349+	Intel Core i7	16GB	512GB - 2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce MX330	1 Year
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14	$1,049+	AMD Ryzen 7/9	8GB - 32GB	512GB - 1TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060	1 Year
Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 15-inch	$1,199+	AMD Ryzen 5/7 Surface Edition	8GB - 16GB	256GB - 1TB SSD	AMD Radeon Vega 9/11 Graphics	1 Year

Detailed Reviews

Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch

The MacBook Pro 16-inch remains a powerhouse. Its brilliant display, powerful processors, and excellent software integration make it a top choice for professionals.

However, the price point is high, and the reliance on dongles for connectivity can be frustrating.

Dell XPS 15

The Dell XPS 15 offers a great balance of power and portability. It features a stunning display, solid performance, and a sleek design.

While the battery life could be better, it’s a strong contender for video editing on the go.

HP Spectre x360 15

The HP Spectre x360 15 is a versatile 2-in-1 laptop. Its touchscreen and convertible design offer unique flexibility.

Though not as powerful as other options, it's a good choice for lighter video editing tasks and creative work.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a surprisingly powerful gaming laptop. Its AMD Ryzen processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card deliver excellent performance for video editing.

The compact design and long battery life make it a great option for on-the-go editing.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 15-inch

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 3 15-inch offers a clean design and a beautiful display. It provides a smooth user experience and decent performance for basic video editing.

However, the graphics card isn't as powerful as other options, limiting its capabilities for more demanding projects.

Used vs. New: Weighing the Pros and Cons

Used Laptops: Pros

Lower price point. You can get more powerful hardware for less money.

Depreciation has already occurred. The biggest price drop happens when the laptop is first sold.

Used Laptops: Cons

Risk of hidden issues. You might inherit someone else's problems.

Shorter lifespan. Components may be nearing the end of their usable life.

No warranty. You're on your own if something goes wrong.

New Laptops: Pros

Warranty. You're protected against defects and malfunctions.

Latest technology. You get the newest processors, graphics cards, and features.

Peace of mind. You know you're getting a machine that's in perfect working order.

New Laptops: Cons

Higher price. You pay a premium for the latest technology and warranty.

Faster depreciation. The value drops significantly as soon as you buy it.

Buying used can be a gamble, while buying new offers security at a higher cost.

Reliability Ratings by Brand

Apple: Generally considered highly reliable, especially with proper care.

Dell: Known for solid build quality and reliable components.

HP: Reliability can vary depending on the model, but generally good.

ASUS: Increasingly reliable, with a focus on gaming and performance laptops.

Microsoft: Surface laptops are stylish but can sometimes have reliability issues.

These are general trends, and individual experiences may vary.

Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying

Processor (CPU): Look for at least an Intel Core i5 or AMD Ryzen 5. i7 or Ryzen 7 (or higher) are recommended for more demanding tasks.
RAM: Aim for at least 16GB of RAM. 32GB is ideal for larger projects.
Storage (SSD): Choose an SSD (Solid State Drive) for fast boot times and quick access to files. 512GB or more is recommended.
Graphics Card (GPU): A dedicated graphics card (NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon) is essential for smooth playback and rendering.
Display: Look for a screen with good color accuracy and resolution (1920x1080 or higher).

Key Takeaways

Choosing a video editing laptop in 2020 is about balancing power, portability, and price. The MacBook Pro 16-inch remains a top performer, but the Dell XPS 15 and ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 offer strong alternatives.

Consider whether a used or new laptop is right for you, and always prioritize the processor, RAM, storage, and graphics card.

Remember to check the display quality and warranty before making your final decision.

Ready to Make a Decision?

Finding the perfect video editing laptop takes time and research. Consider your budget, editing needs, and desired level of portability.

Read reviews, compare specs, and don't be afraid to ask questions.

Now go forth and create something amazing! Explore the recommended laptops, compare prices, and choose the one that aligns with your needs. Start editing!