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Discover the 8 best laptops for music production in 2024 based on performance, portability and price for running digital audio workstations and plugins.
Music production places heavy demands on laptop performance, requiring significant processing power, RAM, and storage. With so many options on the market, choosing the right laptop for your home studio can be a challenge. In this article, we dive into the key factors to consider and provide our picks for the 8 best laptops for music production in 2024.
What to Look for in a Music Production Laptop
Processing Power
The CPU is arguably the most important component in a music production laptop. Intel Core i5 or i7 processors are recommended at a minimum, with quad-core (4 cores) ideal for complex projects. More cores allow for more simultaneous processing threads.
RAM
At least 16GB of RAM is recommended, with 32GB preferred for running multiple virtual instruments, and effects, and recording multiple tracks simultaneously. Upgradable RAM provides future flexibility.
Storage
A fast SSD with at least 512GB storage is required. 1TB or more is ideal for managing large sample libraries and projects. External storage can supplement internal drives.
Graphics
Discrete graphics chips are not essential but will aid with 3D animations and some visual effects. Shared graphics utilize RAM so dedicated GPUs are preferred.
Connectivity
Look for Thunderbolt 3 ports for connecting audio interfaces, as well as USB 3.0. An SD card reader is useful for transferring files from external recorders. HDMI allows connection to external displays.
Battery Life
Aim for at least 7 hours of battery for mobility. Power supplies may be needed for music production.
Operating System
Windows and macOS are both suitable. Some users prefer macOS for Audio Unit support, but Windows is just as capable with ASIO drivers.
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The 8 Best Laptops for Music Production
Apple MacBook Pro 16″
With an 8-core Intel i9 processor, AMD Radeon Pro graphics, and up to 64GB RAM, the MacBook Pro 16-inch is a powerhouse for running intensive music production software. The retina display provides amazing visuals, while the redesigned keyboard improves usability. At 4.3 pounds, it’s fairly portable, and battery life reaches 11 hours. Overall, it’s the best Mac available for music production.
Dell XPS 15
The Dell XPS 15 packs excellent performance into a slim, lightweight chassis making it a great Windows-based music production laptop. Configuration options include 10th gen 6 or 8-core Intel processors, up to 64GB RAM, NVMe SSD storage up to 2TB, and NVIDIA GTX 1650 graphics. The virtually borderless 15.6” 4K touch display is stunning. You get over 8 hours of battery life despite the performance.
Microsoft Surface Book 3
With a detachable touchscreen display, the Surface Book 3 offers unmatched versatility. The top configuration includes an Intel 10th gen 8-core i7 CPU, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD, and NVIDIA Quadro RTX 3000 graphics making it suitable for intensive music projects. The steep price is this machine’s main drawback.
Acer ConceptD 7
Designed for creators, the elegant white Acer ConceptD 7 packs workstation-level specs into a 0.7” thick chassis weighing just 4.6 pounds. Performance configuration options include a 9th gen 6-core i7, 32GB RAM, 2TB SSD storage, and NVIDIA Quadro RTX 5000 graphics. The 15.6” 4K display is PANTONE-validated for color accuracy.
Gigabyte AERO 15
With an ultra-slim 0.7” bezel, the Gigabyte AERO 15 provides an immersive viewing experience. Music production configurations include a 9th gen Intel Core i7 6-core processor, 16GB RAM, M.2 PCIe SSD storage, and dedicated NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti graphics. At just 4.4 pounds, this is a lightweight powerhouse.
HP ZBook Studio x360 G5
Boasting notebook-class electricity, the HP ZBook Studio x360 G5 convertible has a unique layout with a 15.6″ 4K touch show that swivels for use as a pill. Up to 32GB RAM, 2TB garage, and NVIDIA Quadro P1000 snapshots provide incredible track manufacturing performance. Security features like facial recognition and fingerprint scanning are included.
Lenovo ThinkPad P1 Gen 2
With configurations up to an Intel Xeon 8-core CPU, Quadro T2000 graphics, 64GB RAM, and 4TB storage, the ThinkPad P1 Gen 2 handles demanding music projects. The 15.6” 4K HDR400 display provides accurate color representation and it weighs just 3.7 pounds. Mil-spec tested durability gives you peace of mind when on the move.
Razer Blade 15 Studio
For a premium narrow gaming computer, the Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition is prepared for tune manufacturing with its 8-core i7 processor, Quadro RTX 5000 images, as much as 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD storage. The 15.6” 4K OLED contact display is best for dealing with initiatives. With over 6 hours of battery existence, it’s reasonably portable at four.7 kilos.
Choosing the Best Laptop for Your Music Production Needs
Your specific needs will determine which of these best laptops for music production is right for you. Key considerations include your budget, performance requirements, software needs, portability, and screen size. Focus on processor, RAM, storage, and OS support. With the ongoing advancements in laptop capabilities, there are more high-performance options than ever suitable for music production.
People Also Ask
What laptops are recommended for music production?
Laptops with at least an Intel i5 or i7 quad-core processor, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD storage, and Thunderbolt 3 connectivity are recommended for handling music production software and plugins.
Is an HP laptop good for music production?
HP laptops like the HP ZBook Studio and HP ENVY 15 are good affordable options for music production, offering fast performance with quad-core processors, and plenty of RAM and SSD storage.
Which laptop has the best audio?
The Dell XPS 15 is considered one of the best laptops for audio quality thanks to its Waves MaxxAudio Pro and Studio Quality Sound software. MacBook Pro models also offer excellent audio capabilities.
How do I choose a computer for music production?
When choosing a laptop for music production, prioritize processor speed and multi-core performance, RAM capacity, fast SSD storage, and connectivity options like Thunderbolt 3. Weight and battery life are also worth considering for portability.
