As you explore the best laptops for video editing in 2025, you’ll notice a significant leap in power and performance that can enhance your workflow. From the lightweight Microsoft Surface Laptop to the robust Apple MacBook Pro, each option offers unique advantages tailored for creators like you. But with so many choices available, how do you determine which laptop suits your editing needs best? Let’s break down the top contenders and what sets them apart.
Microsoft Surface Laptop (2025)
If you’re a video editor on the go, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (2025) is designed for you. With its razor-thin, lightweight build and vibrant 13” PixelSense touchscreen, it delivers stunning visuals at 1920 x 1280 resolution. Powered by the Snapdragon X Plus processor and 16 GB of RAM, it smoothly handles demanding tasks, while the built-in AI tools in Windows 11 Copilot+ enhance your productivity. Enjoy up to 23 hours of battery life, ensuring you’re always ready to work. Plus, with two USB 3.0 ports and robust wireless connectivity, you can easily stay connected wherever you are.
Best For: The Microsoft Surface Laptop (2025) is best for video editors and professionals who require powerful performance and portability on the go.
Pros:
- Lightweight Design: At just 5.08 pounds, it’s easy to carry around for mobile editing.
- Extended Battery Life: With up to 23 hours of use, it minimizes interruptions during long editing sessions.
- AI-Enhanced Productivity: Built-in AI tools in Windows 11 Copilot+ streamline tasks like writing and summarizing.
Cons:
- Integrated Graphics: The graphics performance may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or intensive graphic design.
- Limited Storage Options: The 256 GB SSD may be insufficient for large video files and projects.
- No HDMI Port: The absence of an HDMI port may require additional adapters for connecting to external displays.
Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024)
The Microsoft Surface Laptop (2024) stands out as a top choice for video editors seeking portability without sacrificing power. Weighing just 2.96 pounds, it boasts a stunning 13.8” touchscreen with a 2304 x 1536 resolution, perfect for precise editing. Powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor and 16GB of RAM, it outperforms the MacBook Air M3. With up to 20 hours of battery life, you can work uninterrupted. Its Copilot+ PC feature enhances productivity with AI tools, while the sustainable design reflects a commitment to the environment. This laptop truly combines efficiency with a premium user experience.
Best For: Video editors and professionals seeking a portable, powerful laptop with extended battery life and advanced AI features.
Pros:
- Lightweight design at 2.96 pounds for easy portability.
- Impressive battery life of up to 20 hours, ideal for extended editing sessions.
- Enhanced AI capabilities with Copilot+ PC for improved productivity and workflow.
Cons:
- Some ARM architecture applications may not be fully supported, limiting software options.
- Notable exceptions for compatibility include VMWare and VirtualBox.
- Premium pricing may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
HP 17.3 Business Laptop Computer with 64GB RAM and 2.2TB Storage
For video editors seeking a powerful and portable workstation, the HP 17.3 Business Laptop stands out with its impressive 64GB RAM and 2.2TB storage capacity. Its 10-core Intel Core i5 processor, with a boost clock of up to 4.6GHz, guarantees smooth multitasking for demanding applications. The 17.3-inch display delivers sharp visuals, making it easier to edit videos accurately. With multiple connectivity options, including USB-C and HDMI, you can easily connect to peripherals. Its ultra-thin design enhances portability, perfect for on-the-go editors. Plus, you’ll appreciate the included Microsoft Office license for all your productivity needs.
Best For: Video editors and professionals who require a powerful, portable workstation for multitasking and multimedia workflows.
Pros:
- Exceptional performance with a 10-core Intel Core i5 processor and 64GB RAM for seamless multitasking.
- Ample storage capacity of 2.2TB (2TB SSD + 256GB Docking Station) for large video files and applications.
- Sharp 17.3-inch display enhances visibility and accuracy for video editing tasks.
Cons:
- The 1600 x 900 resolution may not meet the demands of high-end graphic designers or photographers.
- The ultra-thin design may compromise durability compared to bulkier laptops.
- Limited battery life may require frequent charging during intensive use.
Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop
Weighing just 3.92 pounds, the Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop is an excellent choice for students and professionals on the go who need reliable performance for video editing tasks. Featuring a 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display and an AMD Ryzen 3 7320U Quad-Core processor, it delivers smooth multitasking. With 8GB of LPDDR5 memory and a 128GB NVMe SSD, you’ll enjoy quick boot times and ample storage for your projects. Plus, its impressive 11-hour battery life keeps you productive throughout the day. While audio quality could be better, it remains a solid, affordable option for your video editing needs.
Best For: The Acer Aspire 3 A315-24P Slim Laptop is best for students and professionals seeking a portable and budget-friendly device for video editing and everyday tasks.
Pros:
- Lightweight design makes it easy to carry for on-the-go productivity.
- Impressive 11-hour battery life allows for extended use without frequent recharging.
- Smooth multitasking performance with AMD Ryzen 3 processor and 8GB of memory.
Cons:
- Average audio quality may not meet expectations for multimedia tasks.
- Trackpad responsiveness could be improved for better user experience.
- Battery life may not be sufficient for all-day use without charging.
HP 255 G10 Laptop (16GB RAM, 1TB SSD, Ryzen 3 7330U)
Ideal for budding video editors and content creators, the HP 255 G10 Laptop packs a powerful AMD Ryzen 3 7330U processor and 16GB of RAM, ensuring smooth multitasking and efficient editing workflows. With a 1TB SSD, you’ve got ample storage for your projects, while the 15.6-inch Full HD display delivers crisp visuals. Weighing just 8 pounds, its thin design makes it easy to transport. Windows 11 Pro enhances your experience with multi-monitor support and Android app compatibility. Plus, connectivity options like HDMI and USB-C keep your peripherals connected. Just be cautious when buying from third-party sellers to avoid warranty issues.
Best For: Budding video editors and content creators seeking a powerful yet portable laptop for multitasking and efficient editing.
Pros:
- High-performance Ryzen 3 7330U processor outperforms Intel i5-1135G7, ensuring smooth operation.
- Ample 1TB SSD storage provides plenty of space for projects and files.
- Lightweight and thin design makes it easy to carry around for on-the-go productivity.
Cons:
- Some users report trackpad responsiveness issues, which may affect user experience.
- Keyboard comfort has been criticized by certain users, impacting typing efficiency.
- Caution is advised when purchasing from third-party sellers due to potential warranty complications.
Lenovo V-Series V15 Business Laptop
The Lenovo V-Series V15 Business Laptop stands out as a powerful choice for video editors who demand both performance and reliability. With its 15.6-inch FHD display and AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor, it handles multitasking effortlessly. You’ll appreciate the 40GB of RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD, ensuring fast bootup and data transfers. Connectivity options are plentiful, featuring USB Type-C, HDMI, and RJ45 ports, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Running on Windows 11 Pro, it enhances productivity with intuitive navigation. Plus, the numeric keypad and webcam add to its functionality, making it an excellent tool for your editing needs.
Best For: The Lenovo V-Series V15 Business Laptop is best for video editors and professionals seeking high performance and multitasking capabilities.
Pros:
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 7730U processor with 8 cores and 16 threads for efficient multitasking.
- Generous 40GB RAM and a 1TB PCIe NVMe SSD for fast bootup and ample storage.
- Variety of connectivity options, including USB Type-C, HDMI, and RJ45, along with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for versatile usage.
Cons:
- Limited graphics performance compared to dedicated graphics cards, which may affect high-end video rendering.
- Weight may be slightly heavier than ultra-portable laptops, making it less ideal for frequent travel.
- Integrated webcam quality may not meet the standards of professional video conferencing setups.
Apple 2024 MacBook Pro Laptop with M4 Chip (14.2-inch, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD)
For creative professionals seeking a powerful yet portable solution for video editing, the Apple 2024 MacBook Pro with the M4 chip stands out with its impressive Liquid Retina XDR display. This 14.2-inch laptop boasts a stunning 3024 x 1964 resolution and 1600 nits peak brightness, perfect for precise color grading. With a 10-core CPU and GPU, 16GB of unified memory, and 512GB SSD, you’ll tackle 4K video edits seamlessly. Thanks to its all-day battery life and lightweight design, you can work anywhere without compromise. Plus, the high-quality audio and webcam enhance your overall video production experience.
Best For: Creative professionals who require a powerful and portable laptop for video editing and multimedia work.
Pros:
- Exceptional Liquid Retina XDR display with high resolution and peak brightness for accurate color grading.
- Powerful M4 chip with 10-core CPU and GPU for seamless multitasking and 4K video editing.
- Long battery life and lightweight design enable productivity on the go without compromise.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to some Windows alternatives, which may not suit all budgets.
- Potential software compatibility issues with certain applications compared to Windows operating systems.
- Limited upgradability options for RAM and storage after purchase.
HP 17.3 inch Laptop (17-cp2199nr)
With its impressive 17.3-inch HD+ display and powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor, the HP 17.3 inch Laptop (17-cp2199nr) stands out as an excellent choice for video editors seeking a reliable machine in 2025. You’ll appreciate the anti-glare screen that reduces reflections, making it easier to work outdoors. The 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM and 512 GB SSD guarantee smooth multitasking and speedy file access. Plus, with AMD Radeon Graphics, your video editing tasks will run seamlessly. Weighing just 4.58 pounds, it’s portable enough for on-the-go editing, while the fast charging feature keeps you powered up quickly.
Best For: Video editors and creative professionals seeking a reliable and portable laptop for efficient multitasking and seamless editing.
Pros:
- High-quality 17.3-inch anti-glare display for comfortable outdoor work and enhanced visual clarity.
- Powerful AMD Ryzen 5 processor and 16 GB RAM ensure smooth multitasking and high performance for demanding applications.
- Fast charging capability allows for quick power-ups, making it ideal for on-the-go use.
Cons:
- Integrated graphics may not meet the needs of high-end gaming or very demanding graphic design tasks.
- Average battery life of 7.15 hours may require frequent charging during long sessions away from power sources.
- Weight of 4.58 pounds may be considered heavy by some users looking for ultra-portable options.
HP 15.6 Business & Student Laptop with 16GB RAM and 640GB Storage
Looking for a reliable laptop that balances performance and portability? The HP 15.6 Business & Student Laptop might be just what you need. With 16GB of RAM and a total of 640GB storage, it handles multitasking smoothly while providing ample space for your projects. The quad-core Intel Pentium N200 processor guarantees fast performance, and the 15.6-inch LED display delivers decent visuals. Plus, with up to 11 hours of battery life and quick charging, you can work on the go. Featuring Windows 11 S and Microsoft Office 365, it’s designed for students and professionals alike.
Best For: Students and professionals looking for a reliable, portable laptop with solid performance for multitasking and everyday tasks.
Pros:
- Ample Memory: 16GB of RAM allows for smooth multitasking and handling of multiple applications.
- Long Battery Life: Up to 11 hours of video playback, making it ideal for all-day use without frequent charging.
- Quick Charging: HP Fast Charge feature can recharge the battery to 50% in just 45 minutes.
Cons:
- Limited Graphics Performance: Intel UHD Graphics may not be suitable for intensive gaming or graphic design tasks.
- Display Resolution: The 1366 x 768 resolution may not satisfy users looking for sharper visuals.
- Windows 11 S Limitation: The operating system restricts the installation of applications outside the Microsoft Store, which may limit software options.
HP 15.6 Touchscreen Laptop with 64GB RAM and 2.5TB Storage
The HP 15.6 Touchscreen Laptop stands out as an excellent choice for video editors seeking a powerful yet portable option in 2025. With 64GB of RAM, it guarantees smooth operation during demanding tasks like editing videos or running multiple applications. Its 2.5TB storage—including a speedy 2TB SSD—offers ample space for your projects and quick data transfers. The 15.6-inch touchscreen display delivers vivid images, enhancing your editing experience. Equipped with a 6-core Intel Core i3 processor and various connectivity options, this laptop combines performance with practicality, making it ideal for creative professionals on the go.
Best For: The HP 15.6 Touchscreen Laptop is best for video editors and creative professionals seeking a powerful, portable solution for demanding tasks.
Pros:
- High Performance: With 64GB of RAM and a 6-core Intel Core i3 processor, it handles multiple applications and intensive tasks seamlessly.
- Ample Storage: The 2.5TB total storage, including a fast 2TB SSD, provides plenty of space for large projects and quick data transfers.
- Vivid Display: The 15.6-inch touchscreen display enhances the editing experience with clear and vibrant images.
Cons:
- Resolution Limitations: The display resolution of 1366 x 768 may not meet the high standards of some professionals in terms of detail.
- Intel UHD Graphics: Limited graphics capabilities may not be suitable for more advanced graphic design or gaming needs.
- Weight and Portability: While portable, the laptop may be heavier than some ultra-light alternatives, making it less ideal for frequent travel.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Laptops for Video Editing
When choosing a laptop for video editing, you need to weigh several key factors. Processing power, graphics performance, and display quality all play essential roles in your editing experience. Additionally, consider storage speed and battery life to guarantee your laptop meets your editing demands.
Processing Power Importance
Choosing the right laptop for video editing hinges on understanding the importance of processing power. It directly affects rendering times, allowing you to work more efficiently and meet tight deadlines. Opt for a multi-core processor with 8 or more cores to greatly enhance performance, particularly for complex tasks like effects rendering and color grading. Higher clock speeds, especially those above 4 GHz, are vital for demanding video workflows. While integrated graphics can handle basic editing, a dedicated graphics card is necessary for real-time playback and high-resolution rendering. Finally, pairing a powerful CPU with at least 16GB of RAM guarantees smooth operation across multiple applications, preventing lag during your editing sessions.
Graphics Performance Necessity
Graphics performance plays an essential role in your video editing experience, especially as projects grow in complexity and resolution. A dedicated GPU is vital, as it offloads tasks from the CPU, ensuring smoother shifts and effects during your editing sessions. Relying on integrated graphics may lead to frustrating lag, particularly when handling 4K or higher resolution footage. This can slow down your workflow and increase rendering times, making it harder to meet deadlines. Many video editing applications utilize hardware acceleration, which means a powerful graphics card directly enhances software performance. By selecting a laptop with a top-tier GPU, you’ll greatly reduce export times and boost overall productivity, making your editing process more efficient and enjoyable.
Display Quality Considerations
A high-quality display is essential for video editing, as it directly affects your ability to see details and colors accurately. Look for a higher resolution, like 1920 x 1080 pixels or more, to guarantee sharp images and precise editing. Color accuracy is critical; choose laptops that cover color spaces like sRGB and Adobe RGB to match onscreen colors with your final output. A larger screen size, ideally 15 inches or more, provides ample workspace for your editing tools. Ascertain brightness levels reach at least 300 nits for better visibility in varying lighting conditions. Finally, opt for an IPS panel over a TN panel for wider viewing angles and better color consistency, especially during collaborative editing sessions.
Storage Speed Requirements
When it comes to video editing, storage speed is a key factor that can make or break your workflow. You’ll want to prioritize SSDs over traditional hard drives, as they offer considerably faster data transfer rates. For ideal performance, aim for a storage solution with read/write speeds of at least 500 MB/s, especially when handling 4K footage. Consider NVMe SSDs, which can exceed speeds of 3000 MB/s, minimizing buffering during playback and rendering. Additionally, a minimum of 1TB of storage is recommended to manage multiple projects and large files efficiently. Fast storage not only boosts editing efficiency but also enhances the responsiveness of your software, making real-time editing and smooth playback a reality.
Battery Life Expectations
Battery life is a crucial consideration for video editors who need to work on the go. Since video editing tasks are power-intensive, you’ll want a laptop that lasts over 10 hours to guarantee smooth, uninterrupted workflows. High-performance models with advanced processors and dedicated graphics often drain battery life more quickly, especially during demanding tasks. Some laptops boast impressive battery longevity of up to 23 hours, allowing for extended editing sessions without frequent recharges. Also, look for fast charging capabilities, as these can save you time during breaks. Remember, it’s important to check real-world battery performance, as manufacturers’ claims may not always match actual usage, particularly under heavy workloads. Choose wisely to maintain your productivity.
