Best Cheap Laptops for Video Editing: Top Picks for Budget-Friendly Creators
Video editing can be a demanding task that requires a powerful computer with high-end specifications. However, not everyone can afford a top-of-the-line laptop for video editing. Fortunately, there are affordable laptops that can handle video editing tasks without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore the best cheap laptops for video editing.
What’s the best cheap laptop for video editing?
While high-end models excel, budget-friendly options like Acer Aspire 5, Lenovo IdeaPad 3, and HP Pavilion x360 are pretty good, affordable laptops for video editing. These laptops, equipped with strong processors, ample RAM, and dedicated graphics, provide an affordable solution for video editors without compromising on essential features.
When it comes to video editing, there are several key components that you need to consider. These include the processor, RAM, storage, graphics card, and display quality. A laptop with a powerful processor, plenty of RAM, dedicated graphics card, and high-resolution display is ideal for video editing. However, finding a laptop with all these features at an affordable price can be challenging.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing a laptop for video editing based on your budget. We will also provide you with a list of the top laptops for video editing that offer the best value for money. Additionally, we will cover the importance of display quality, port selection, connectivity, and software compatibility when choosing a laptop for video editing.
Understanding Key Components for Video Editing
When it comes to video editing, having a powerful laptop with the right components is essential. In this section, we will discuss the key components that you need to consider when looking for the best cheap laptops for video editing.
Processor
The processor is the heart of your laptop and one of the most important components for video editing. A powerful processor will allow you to work on complex projects and render videos quickly.
When it comes to processors, two brands dominate the market: AMD Ryzen and Intel Core i9-12900H. Both offer excellent performance, but the Intel Core i9-12900H is generally considered to be the best for video editing due to its high clock speed and advanced features.
RAM
RAM is another crucial component for video editing. It allows your laptop to handle multiple tasks at once, which is essential when working on complex projects.
For video editing, we recommend a minimum of 16GB of RAM. However, if you plan on working on larger projects or using more demanding software, you may want to consider 32GB or more.
GPU
The GPU, or graphics processing unit, is responsible for rendering graphics and video. A powerful GPU is essential for video editing, as it can significantly reduce the time it takes to render videos. Nvidia and AMD are the two main GPU manufacturers, and both offer excellent options for video editing.
Storage
When it comes to storage, you have two main options: HDD and SSD. HDDs are slower than SSDs but offer more storage space for less money.
SSDs are faster and more reliable but tend to be more expensive. For video editing, we recommend using an SSD as it will significantly reduce the time it takes to load and save projects.
Battery Life
Finally, battery life is an essential consideration when looking for a laptop for video editing. Video editing is a power-intensive task that can quickly drain your laptop’s battery. Look for a laptop with a battery life of at least 8 hours, so you can work on your projects without being tethered to a power outlet.
When looking for the best cheap laptops for video editing, you need to consider the processor, RAM, GPU, storage, and battery life. By choosing a laptop with the right components, you can significantly improve your video editing workflow and produce high-quality videos.
Importance of Display Quality
When it comes to video editing, having a high-quality display is crucial. The quality of the display can impact the accuracy of color reproduction, the level of detail visible, and the overall viewing experience. In this section, we will discuss the importance of display quality and the different factors to consider when choosing a laptop for video editing.
Full HD vs 4K Resolution
One of the primary factors to consider when choosing a laptop for video editing is the resolution of the display. Full HD (1920 x 1080) displays are common and provide a good level of detail for most tasks.
However, for video editing, a 4K (3840 x 2160) display is recommended. A 4K display provides four times the resolution of a Full HD display, resulting in sharper images and more precise detail. This is particularly important when working with high-resolution video footage.
LED-Backlit vs Mini LED Display
Another factor to consider when choosing a laptop for video editing is the type of display technology used. LED-backlit displays are common and provide good color accuracy and brightness.
However, Mini LED displays are becoming more popular and offer even better color accuracy and contrast. Mini LED displays use thousands of tiny LEDs to provide more precise control over backlighting, resulting in deeper blacks and more vibrant colors. This makes them an excellent choice for video editing.
When it comes to display quality, it’s also important to consider the color gamut and accuracy. DCI-P3 is a color gamut commonly used in the film industry and provides a wider range of colors than sRGB. If you plan to work with film footage, a laptop with a DCI-P3 display is recommended.
The quality of the display is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a laptop for video editing. A 4K resolution display and Mini LED technology can provide sharper images, more precise detail, and better color accuracy. Additionally, a DCI-P3 color gamut can provide a wider range of colors and is recommended for film editing.
Choosing a Laptop Based on Your Budget
When it comes to video editing, having a powerful laptop is crucial. However, not everyone can afford a high-end laptop with top-of-the-line specifications. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best budget laptops for video editing, mid-range laptops, and high-end laptops to help you choose the right laptop based on your budget.
Best Budget Laptops
If you’re on a tight budget, you don’t have to sacrifice performance. There are plenty of budget laptops that can handle video editing tasks without breaking the bank. Here are some of the best budget laptops for video editing:
| Laptop | Processor | RAM | Graphics Card | Storage | Price |
| Acer Aspire 5 | Intel Core i5-1035G1 | 8GB | NVIDIA GeForce MX350 | 512GB SSD | $599 |
| Lenovo IdeaPad 3 | AMD Ryzen 5 3500U | 8GB | AMD Radeon Vega 8 | 256GB SSD | $479 |
| HP Pavilion x360 | Intel Core i5-1135G7 | 8GB | Intel Iris Xe Graphics | 256GB SSD | $599 |
Mid-Range Laptops
If you have a bit more to spend, mid-range laptops offer better performance and more features. These laptops are perfect for those who need a laptop that can handle more demanding video editing tasks. Here are some of the best mid-range laptops for video editing:
| Laptop | Processor | RAM | Graphics Card | Storage | Price |
| Dell G5 15 | Intel Core i7-10750H | 16GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti | 512GB SSD | $899 |
| ASUS ZenBook 14 | AMD Ryzen 7 4700U | 16GB | NVIDIA GeForce MX350 | 512GB SSD | $899 |
| Lenovo Legion 5 | AMD Ryzen 7 4800H | 16GB | NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti | 512GB SSD | $1,049 |
High-End Laptops
If you’re a professional video editor or need a laptop that can handle the most demanding video editing tasks, high-end laptops are the way to go. These laptops offer the best performance, graphics cards, and storage options. Here are some of the best high-end laptops for video editing:
| Laptop | Processor | RAM | Graphics Card | Storage | Price |
| MacBook Pro 16-inch | Intel Core i7 or i9 | 16GB or 32GB | AMD Radeon Pro 5300M or 5500M | 512GB to 8TB SSD | $2,399 to $6,099 |
| Razer Blade 15 | Intel Core i7-10875H | 16GB | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Max-Q | 512GB to 1TB SSD | $1,799 to $2,999 |
| ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 | AMD Ryzen 9 5900HS | 16GB | NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 | 1TB SSD | $1,799 |
When choosing a laptop for video editing, it’s important to consider your budget and the specifications you need. By choosing one of the laptops on this list, you can be confident that you’re getting a high-quality laptop that can handle your video editing needs. Keep an eye out for laptop deals to get the best possible price on your new laptop.
Top Laptops for Video Editing
When it comes to video editing, having a reliable laptop is crucial. Video editing requires a lot of processing power, so it’s important to choose a laptop that can handle the task without breaking the bank. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the best cheap laptops for video editing on the market.
MacBooks
MacBooks are a popular choice for video editing due to their powerful hardware and user-friendly software. The MacBook Air is a great option for those on a budget, as it offers a lightweight design and decent performance.
However, if you’re looking for more power, the MacBook Pro is the way to go. The MacBook Pro 16-inch is a top-of-the-line option that offers excellent performance and a stunning display.
HP Laptops
HP laptops are a great choice for those who want a powerful laptop without breaking the bank. The HP Envy 16 is a great option for video editing, as it offers a powerful processor and a large display. It also has a sleek design that makes it easy to take on the go.
Dell Laptops
Dell laptops are known for their reliability and performance, making them a great choice for video editing.
The Dell XPS 17 is a top-of-the-line option that offers excellent performance and a stunning display. The Dell XPS 15 is also a great option for those on a budget, as it offers decent performance at a lower price point.
Lenovo Laptops
Lenovo laptops are a popular choice for those who want a reliable laptop without breaking the bank. The Lenovo IdeaPad 5 is a great option for video editing, as it offers a powerful processor and a large display. It also has a sleek design that makes it easy to take on the go.
Gaming Laptops
Gaming laptops are a great choice for video editing, as they offer powerful hardware and excellent performance.
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is a great option for those on a budget, as it offers excellent performance at a lower price point. The MSI GS65 Stealth Thin is a top-of-the-line option that offers excellent performance and a stunning display.
Understanding Port Selection and Connectivity
When it comes to video editing, having the right ports and connectivity options on your laptop is crucial. In this section, we’ll cover the most important ports and connectivity options to consider when looking for the best cheap laptop for video editing.
USB-C Ports
USB-C ports have become increasingly popular in recent years, and for good reason. These ports are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including charging your laptop, transferring data, and connecting to external displays. When it comes to video editing, USB-C ports are especially useful for connecting to external hard drives or SSDs, which can help speed up your workflow.
When selecting a laptop for video editing, it’s important to consider how many USB-C ports are available. Ideally, you’ll want at least two USB-C ports, so you can connect to multiple devices at once.
HDMI 2.1
HDMI 2.1 is the latest version of the HDMI standard, and it offers a number of benefits for video editing. This version of HDMI supports higher resolutions and refresh rates, which can help improve the quality of your video output. It also supports features like variable refresh rate (VRR) and auto low latency mode (ALLM), which can help reduce lag and improve the overall performance of your laptop.
When selecting a laptop for video editing, look for one that has at least one HDMI 2.1 port. This will allow you to connect to external displays and take advantage of the latest HDMI features.
SD Card Slot
An SD card slot is another important feature to consider when selecting a laptop for video editing. This allows you to easily transfer footage from your camera to your laptop, without the need for an external card reader. SD card slots are also useful for storing and transferring large files, like video files.
When selecting a laptop for video editing, look for one that has a built-in SD card slot. This will save you time and hassle, and allow you to easily transfer footage from your camera to your laptop.
Ethernet
While Wi-Fi is convenient for most tasks, when it comes to video editing, a wired Ethernet connection is often the better choice. Ethernet provides a more stable and reliable connection, which is important when transferring large video files. It also helps reduce latency and lag, which can be especially important when working with high-resolution video.
When selecting a laptop for video editing, look for one that has a built-in Ethernet port. This will allow you to connect directly to your network and take advantage of the benefits of a wired connection.
Bluetooth
While not essential for video editing, Bluetooth can be a useful feature to have on your laptop. Bluetooth allows you to connect to a variety of devices, including wireless headphones, speakers, and keyboards. This can help reduce clutter on your desk and make it easier to work.
When selecting a laptop for video editing, look for one that has built-in Bluetooth. This will allow you to easily connect to a variety of devices and improve your overall workflow.
Software Compatibility
When it comes to video editing, the software you choose is just as important as the hardware. Not all laptops are compatible with all video editing software, which is why it’s essential to choose a laptop that can handle the software you prefer to use. In this section, we’ll discuss the software compatibility of two of the most popular video editing software: Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.
Adobe Premiere Pro
Adobe Premiere Pro is a widely used video editing software that is known for its advanced features and user-friendly interface. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac, making it a great choice for users of both operating systems. However, Adobe Premiere Pro requires a powerful processor, a dedicated graphics card, and a minimum of 8GB of RAM to run smoothly.
To ensure that your laptop is compatible with Adobe Premiere Pro, you should make sure that it meets the following system requirements:
- Processor: Intel 6th Gen CPU or newer
- RAM: 8GB or more
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA or AMD GPU with 4GB VRAM or more
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit) or macOS 10.13 or later
DaVinci Resolve
DaVinci Resolve is another popular video editing software that is known for its advanced color grading tools. It is compatible with both Windows and Mac, and it comes in both free and paid versions. However, like Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve requires a powerful processor, a dedicated graphics card, and a minimum of 8GB of RAM to run smoothly.
To ensure that your laptop is compatible with DaVinci Resolve, you should make sure that it meets the following system requirements:
- Processor: Intel Core i7 or AMD Ryzen 7 or better
- RAM: 16GB or more
- Graphics Card: NVIDIA or AMD GPU with 4GB VRAM or more
- Operating System: Windows 10 (64-bit) or macOS 10.14.6 or later
When choosing a laptop for video editing, it’s crucial to consider the software you plan to use. Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve are both excellent choices for video editing, but they require powerful hardware to run smoothly. By ensuring that your laptop meets the system requirements of your preferred software, you can ensure a smooth and efficient video editing experience.
Final Buying Advice
When it comes to purchasing a laptop for video editing, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some final buying advice to help you make the best decision:
Consider your Budget
First and foremost, consider your budget. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive laptop with all the bells and whistles, it’s important to remember that there are plenty of affordable options that can still get the job done. Look for laptops that are within your budget and have the necessary features for video editing.
Check Reviews
Before making a purchase, be sure to check out reviews from other users. This can give you a good idea of the laptop’s performance and any potential issues you may encounter. Sites like Amazon are great for finding reviews from verified buyers.
Look for a Dedicated Graphics Card
Video editing requires a lot of graphics processing power, so it’s important to look for a laptop with a dedicated graphics card. This will ensure that you can handle even the most demanding video editing tasks without any lag or performance issues.
Consider Portability
If you plan on taking your laptop on the go, consider its portability. Look for laptops that are lightweight and easy to carry, with a long battery life. This will ensure that you can work on your video editing projects no matter where you are.
Trust Your Opinion
Ultimately, the best laptop for video editing is the one that fits your needs and preferences. Trust your own opinion and choose a laptop that you feel comfortable working with. Don’t be swayed by marketing hype or exaggerated claims – choose a laptop that you know will get the job done.