Top Video Editing Laptops 2020

So, you're ready to dive into the exciting world of video editing? That's fantastic! But before you can unleash your creative vision, you need the right tools, and in this digital age, that often means a powerful laptop. This guide is for you, the first-time buyer, overwhelmed by specs and marketing jargon, looking for clear, unbiased advice on the best video editing laptops of 2020.

Why a Dedicated Laptop Matters for Video Editing

Video editing isn't just about cutting and pasting clips. It demands serious processing power. A dedicated laptop ensures smooth playback, faster rendering times, and the ability to handle complex effects without frustrating lags.

Think of it as the difference between jogging and running a marathon. Your everyday laptop might be able to "jog" through simple edits, but for professional-quality work, you need a machine built for the "marathon" of video processing.

Model	Price (USD)	Processor	RAM	Storage	Graphics Card	Warranty
Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch	$2,399+	Intel Core i7/i9	16GB/32GB/64GB	512GB-8TB SSD	AMD Radeon Pro 5300M/5500M	1 Year
Dell XPS 15	$1,299+	Intel Core i5/i7/i9	8GB/16GB/32GB/64GB	256GB-2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti	1 Year
HP Spectre x360 (15-inch)	$1,349+	Intel Core i7	16GB	512GB-2TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce MX330	1 Year
Razer Blade 15	$1,599+	Intel Core i7	16GB	256GB-1TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060/2070/2080	1 Year
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14	$1,049+	AMD Ryzen 7/9	8GB/16GB/32GB	512GB-1TB SSD	NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060	1 Year

Detailed Reviews: Digging Deeper

Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch: The Creative Professional's Choice

The MacBook Pro 16-inch remains a top contender for video editors, especially those already integrated into the Apple ecosystem. Its stunning display, powerful processors, and seamless integration with Final Cut Pro make it a smooth and efficient editing machine.

However, it comes with a premium price tag. Consider if you are willing to pay for the Apple experience and ecosystem.

Dell XPS 15: The Balanced All-Rounder

The Dell XPS 15 offers a compelling blend of power and portability. Its sleek design, vibrant display, and robust performance make it a great option for video editors on the go.

While it may not match the raw power of the MacBook Pro or Razer Blade, it provides excellent value for its price.

HP Spectre x360 (15-inch): The Versatile 2-in-1

The HP Spectre x360 stands out with its 2-in-1 design, offering versatility for creative tasks beyond video editing. The touchscreen and pen support can be useful for storyboarding and sketching.

Keep in mind its graphics card is not as powerful as others. This machine is best for light to medium duty video editing tasks.

Razer Blade 15: Power and Gaming Aesthetics

The Razer Blade 15 packs serious power into a slim and stylish chassis. Its high-end graphics cards make it ideal for demanding video editing tasks and gaming alike.

However, its battery life may not be the best, and it can get quite hot under heavy load.

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14: The AMD Powerhouse

The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 boasts impressive performance thanks to its AMD Ryzen processor. It offers excellent value for its price, making it a great option for budget-conscious video editors.

Its compact size and long battery life make it a very portable option.

Used vs. New: Weighing the Options

Used:

Pros: Lower price, potential for higher specs at a lower cost.
Cons: Unknown history, potential for hidden issues, limited or no warranty.

New:

Pros: Guaranteed condition, full warranty, latest technology.
Cons: Higher price.

Reliability Ratings by Brand

Generally, Apple and Dell are known for their reliability. ASUS and HP have solid reputations as well. Razer, while known for performance, can sometimes have more variable reliability.

Always check user reviews and consider extended warranties for added peace of mind.

Checklist: 5 Must-Check Features Before Buying

Processor: Aim for at least an Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7.
RAM: 16GB is a minimum; 32GB is ideal for complex projects.
Storage: SSD is essential for speed; 512GB is a good starting point.
Graphics Card: A dedicated NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon card is crucial.
Display: Look for a screen with good color accuracy and resolution.

Key Takeaways: Making an Informed Decision

Choosing the right video editing laptop depends on your specific needs and budget. Consider the type of videos you'll be editing, your portability requirements, and your preferred operating system.

Don't just focus on the specs; read reviews and consider the overall user experience. Also, remember to future-proof your purchase by opting for upgradeable RAM and storage if possible.

Ready to Create?

Armed with this knowledge, you're now well-equipped to choose the perfect video editing laptop for your needs. Take your time, do your research, and happy editing!