Isn’t it just too frustrating when you spend hours on an art project, and your laptop stops functioning all of a sudden? Do you want to shift your artwork from hand-drawn to digital but cannot find the best laptop for an artist?
To choose the best laptop, one must know their requirements and the kind of software they will run on their laptops. For some people, storage might be their number one need. For others, high performance, bright screens, a variety of ports, good quality video, audio devices, etc. might be called for. Laptops are one of the most important assets a person can own. While purchasing any digital gadget, one must first complete their research to be sure of what they plan to buy.
Every laptop has a unique blend of substance and style. It varies from other laptops for its level of function and performance, as well as design and specs. The following are some of the recommendations for the best laptops for artists.
1. Hp Spectre x360
Known for its visual pleasure and incredible performance, HP spectre x360 is one of the best laptops ever made for artists. Starting with its design, the HP Spectre x360 is the thinnest touch screen laptop with a vivid, bright display and one of the best ultra-portable two-in-ones available in the market. Running the 10th generation Intel Core i7 processor, the HP spectre x360 has a 13.3 inch 1920×1080 touch display and huge storage space of 512 GB SSD plus 32GB optane; this laptop is the perfect match for anyone who is looking for a fast performance laptop and a bright display.
This device stands out from other premium ultraportables for its gem-cut edges and sleek design, as well as improved and better performance. These symmetrically sloped edges help in a strong grip so that no matter how light and thin the laptop maybe, you can always have a good grasp of it. The HP spectre x360 also includes Intel Iris Plus graphics to ensure smooth performance and crisp quality of visuals at 1080P or 4K depending on the variant. This model of the laptop also comprises Bluetooth 5.0, 802.11ax WiFi 6, and Windows ten pro, which is known for its high security of the operating system.
The HP spectre x360 has a convertible build-up meaning it can be converted from a laptop to a tablet and vice versa. It is light-weight and has an amazing design which is no less than extra value-added with the laptop itself. Its long battery life is just a cherry on top and makes this laptop one of the best of its time and proves to be good not only on the outside but on the inside too. Due to its extraordinary features and sleek design, we have also listed this laptop in our article best laptops for streaming.
PROS
- Secure system
- Convertible (laptop/tablet)
- Ultra-light
- Sleek design
- Long battery life
- Fast performance
- Expensive
- Unrequired hp software
HP Spectre x360 is the thinnest touch screen laptop with a vivid, bright display and one of the best ultra-portable two-in-ones available in the market. This device stands out from other premium ultraportables for its gem-cut edges and sleek design, as well as improved and better performance. It is light-weight and has an amazing design which is no less than extra value-added with the laptop itself.
2. Hp Envy13
Pinching fantastic features from competitors, the HP Envy 13 has dominance in its performance and keyboard as well as design that makes it a great option for artists, students, and even casual users. While there are many other options in the market, this model of laptop is a good choice for people who want a system for professional as well as casual use. It consists of 8th gen Intel Core i7-8565U processor, 8GB of RAM, an integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 core.
Additionally, it also has a 13 inch HD display with its super slim and smart design and a 4K bright display, a comfortable keyboard, and an incredible quad-core. There is an SD card reader and a fingerprint reader for swift and secure access. The prices are very reasonable for the value it provides because there are more features included that make this laptop stand out from its competitors, such as its 512GB storage and discrete Nvidia GeForce MX250 GPU.
The 4K touchscreen provides crisp and sharp visuals and has an ultra-portable design that helps in carrying the laptop anywhere easily. The bright display and long battery life is like a cherry on top and can be a great consideration while surfing the internet for laptops.
PROS
- Fast performance
- Bright display
- Long battery life
- Ultra-portable design
- Privacy features
- Less powerful as compared to others
- No thunderbolt 3
The HP Envy 13 has dominance in its performance and keyboard as well as design that makes it a great option for artists, students, and even casual users. The prices are very reasonable for the value it provides because there are more features included that make this laptop stand out from its competitors, such as its 512GB storage and discrete Nvidia GeForce MX250 GPU. The 4K touchscreen provides crisp and sharp visuals and has an ultra-portable design that helps in carrying the laptop anywhere easily.
3. Samsung Notebook 9 Pen 15
Made from Samsung’s proprietary magnesium alloy called metal 12, Samsung Notebook 9 Pen 15 is known for its light-weight yet powerful build-up. The metal goes through a process called the “microarc oxidation process,” in which hundreds of oxide coatings are generated on the metal to make it stronger and durable. Samsung Notebook 9 pen 15 might look like some $400 Chromebook but has an amazing performance.
With a 15 inch LED touch display, a resolution of 1080P, 512GB SSD storage, and 16GB RAM. Armed with an Intel Core i7-8550U CPU, this Samsung’s device has various useful software and hardware features, which helps smooth performance and is pretty good for a multitasker. There is also an S pen that does not need a battery and comes with software that supports it. It can easily take screenshots, write notes, record audio, and even has the ability to record GIFS.
It is portable and gives a vivid and realistic display. Therefore, brighter and lighter than many other competitors nowadays, Samsung’s notebook 9 is an amazing outdoor workmate and a perfect match for travelers or people who need lighter systems to carry around easily.
PROS
- Long battery life
- Useful software and hardware features
- Portable
- Light-weight
- Vivid display
- Good stylus S-pen
- No heat up
- Less storage
- Bloatware
Samsung Notebook 9 Pen 15 is known for its light-weight yet powerful build-up. With a 15 inch LED touch display, a resolution of 1080P, 512GB SSD storage, and 16GB RAM. Armed with an Intel Core i7-8550U CPU, this Samsung’s device has various useful software and hardware features, which helps smooth performance and is pretty good for a multitasker. This brighter and lighter than many other competitors nowadays, Samsung’s notebook 9 is an amazing outdoor workmate and a perfect match for travelers or people who need lighter systems to carry around easily.
4. Asus Zen Book 14
If you’re someone who is looking for a little bit of everything on your laptop, this is your to-go option. Armed with an 8th generation Intel Core i7-8565U processor, this super light-weight laptop has a 14-inch FHD display, which gives a sharper, more defined, and more detailed display than HD displays. It also includes 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD, and an amazing battery that works up to 8 hours.
The RAM makes this laptop very efficient as it allows an artist to open multiple tabs at the same time while running multiple software without any issues. Asus ZenBook 14 also offers features like an infrared camera with support for Windows Hello Face unlock that can save an artist’s time by signing in without needing a password. The built-in Intel UHD 620 GPU is capable of supporting an external 4k monitor.
The Asus ZenBook 14 is an excellent and smart choice for graduating art students who would want a light-weight laptop without compromising on the performance. The various features and great storage and good color display add up to the perks of this specific Asus laptop model. It is a good value for money as it provides a lot of features that an artist would seek in a laptop.
PROS
- Light-weight
- Portable
- Solid performance
- Good color display
- Useful digital Numpad
- Gritty design
- No fingerprint sensor
Armed with an 8th generation Intel Core i7-8565U processor, this super light-weight laptop has a 14-inch FHD display, which gives a sharper, more defined, and more detailed display than HD displays. The RAM makes this laptop very efficient as it allows an artist to open multiple tabs at the same time while running multiple software without any issues. Asus ZenBook 14 also offers features like an infrared camera with support for Windows Hello Face unlock that can save an artist’s time by signing in without needing a password. The Asus ZenBook 14 is an excellent and smart choice for graduating art students who would want a light-weight laptop without compromising on the performance.
5. Acer Spin 3 Convertible
The Acer Spin 3 is an ultra-portable, stylish 2-in-1 laptop in a very affordable price range. Full of powerful specs such as Intel Core i5-1035G1 processor and an 8GB RAM, 256GB storage, and a battery life of up to 8 hours, this amazing laptop is a top choice of many artists. It is integrated with UHD graphics and a 1920 x 1080 display, making the display aesthetically slick. Not only this, but there is a fingerprint reader too that ensures the safety of data and various ports such as Thunderbolt 3, HDMI 2.0 port, etc.
The Acer spin 3 is a budget-friendly convertible laptop with interesting features such as a built-in pen, WiFi 6, and amazing speakers. Its adaptable design and island-style backlit keyboard are an extra value added to the features; the keys feel good while typing, and a single tap gets the character out without any struggle. Bustling with power specs, this laptop is a snatch for all the artists out there.
PROS
- Adaptable design
- Thunderbolt 3
- Excellent audio and webcam
- Stylus and carrying sleeve included
- Affordable
- Below-average battery life
- Lacks USB Type-C
The Acer Spin 3 is an ultra-portable, stylish 2-in-1 laptop in a very affordable price range. It is integrated with UHD graphics and a 1920 x 1080 display, making the display aesthetically slick. Its adaptable design and island-style backlit keyboard are an extra value added to the features making it a great package for the artists.
Take a look at our latest reviews: Best Laptops for CAD
6. Lenovo Flex 14
This mid-range priced laptop offers insane value for money. It is a convertible laptop that comes with an 8th generation Intel Core i3-8145U processor. The Lenovo Flex 14 is super light-weight, and while other expensive models of the Lenovo laptops can be purchased in different colors, this specific model of laptop can only be owned in onyx black color.
Being a 2-in-1 convertible laptop, it possesses a pair of 300-degree hinges. It allows the user to use the laptop in clamshell mode, tablet mode, or tent mode. Lenovo Flex 14 comes with the Intel Ultra HD Graphics 620, which can render heavier graphics with ease without any issues or heat up. The strongest areas of this laptop lie in its battery life and storage speed.
The Lenovo Flex 14 is an expensive laptop that is known to be the jack of all trades. With excellent touchpad and keyboard designs, it is not shocking to know that the company has put a lot of research into keyspace and spacing, minimizing error. There are other features such as a webcam shutter and a durable chassis that makes the Lenovo flex 14 different and better than others. It is a good deal of value for the price point of this laptop. Artists can consider buying this for their work if they are willing to give up on its outer display look.
PROS
- Inexpensive
- Good battery life
- Durable chassis
- Thin and light-wight
- Good performance
- 300-degree hinges
- Underwhelming display
- No Thunderbolt 3 port
- available in one color only
This mid-range priced laptop offers insane value for money. Being a 2-in-1 convertible laptop, the Lenovo Flex 14 possesses a pair of 300-degree hinges. It allows the user to use the laptop in clamshell mode, tablet mode, or tent mode. It is a good deal for the price point of this laptop. Artists can consider buying this for their work if they are willing to give up on its outer display look.
7. Microsoft Surface Pro 7
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the most versatile and best-selling laptops in the world. Arguably one of the best Windows tablets, the Microsoft surface pro 7, is famous for its form, design, microSSD, incredible kickstand, and solid build-up. For drawing, the laptop is compatible with the Surface Pen, which can go up to 4.096 levels of sensitivity.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is compact and easy to carry device that can be easily carried and used. The Surface Pro 7 is powered by Intel Core i5 processor and 8GB of RAM, up to 1TB of SSD, which makes it stand out in the division of powerful convertibles. Moreover, it also contains 12.3 inches PixelSense display, which gives a realistic feel to the colors and visuals and a battery life of up to 10 hours.
Other important features of this laptop include a well-implemented kickstand, stylish design, an overall solid build-up, and integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics. Microsoft Surface Pro is the ultimate choice of artists for the value this laptop offers and how it fulfills the needs of artists and other professionals.
PROS
- Good battery life
- Stylish design
- Easy to carry
- Solid build-up
- Includes USB-C
- Well-implemented kickstand
- No thunderbolt 3
- Keyboard sold separately
Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is one of the most versatile and best-selling laptops in the world. For drawing, the laptop is compatible with the Surface Pen, which can go up to 4.096 levels of sensitivity. The Microsoft Surface Pro 7 is compact and easy to carry a device that can be easily carried and used. Other important features include a well-implemented kickstand, stylish design, an overall solid build-up, and integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics.
8. Apple MacBook Air
For its great features and popularity, the MacBook Air is one of the most important products for Apple. Not only has Apple come up with upgraded hardware, but it is also super affordable. The MacBook Air comes with a 13.3 inch LCD 2560 x 1600 display screen and 720P facetime HD camera.
Other features include four Thunderbolt 3 ports, WiFi AC, Bluetooth 5 MacOS Catalina operating system. The RAM, processor and storage for this laptop have three different types depending on their preferences and needs. If you’re someone who works around the clock and needs something powerful but quiet, this is the perfect option for you because the Apple MacBook Air runs super cool even when editing software are run on it. This laptop is compact and easy to carry yet still has a big enough screen to work with.
Professionals and art enthusiasts can buy this for its good graphics, surprisingly long battery life, and Retina display. It also has a super-fast processor that would ensure smooth performance when running heavy software on it. Apple MacBook Air is one of the top favorites in the list of best laptops for artists and has proved to be a system that is worth every penny. This laptop has proved to be multifunctional in multi categories. This is the reason that this laptop is also listed in best laptops for developers.
PROS
- Long battery life
- Four Thunderbolt 3 ports
- Good graphics
- Great performance
- Fast processor
- Excellent retina display
- Pricey
- No other ports
The MacBook Air is one of the most important products for Apple. The MacBook Air comes with a 13.3 inch LCD 2560 x 1600 display screen and 720P facetime HD camera and other features including four Thunderbolt 3 ports, WiFi AC, Bluetooth 5 MacOS Catalina operating system. Apple MacBook Air is one of the top favorites in the list of best laptops for artists and has proved to be a system that is worth every penny. Professionals and art enthusiasts can buy this for its good graphics, surprisingly long battery life, and Retina display.
9. Dell XPS 13
Dell has been improving its laptops for years, and now with the XPS 13, they made the best laptop you can buy as an artist. These are the first edition to use infinity edge display with micro bezels, It comes with a powerful Intel’s latest 10th gen processor, which makes it faster than ever for multitasking and running various software at a time, browsing the web and simultaneously working smoothly on programs such as photoshop and after-effects. It comes with two variants of i5 1035G1(36GHz) or Intel i7 1065G7 (3.9Ghz).
Dell XPS 13’s jaw-dropping design, with an improved keyboard and superior performance, makes this laptop very appealing. XPS 13 has been completely redesigned to meet the needs of the growing industry of artists. The all-new Dell XPS 13 is equipped with an astonishing 13.4UHD 3840×2400 infinity edge touch reflective 500 NIT display. It also offers adaptive performance based on the latest dynamic turning technology that makes it extremely efficient and powerful.
The new Dell XPS 13 9300 is a complete redesign of the previous version, including the refreshed XPS 13. It also has a dual fan setup that makes this system incredibly quiet even when running several software and functions. It has various power settings, including a quiet and cool ultra-performance using Dell power management, making it optimized for all tasks. This laptop can even handle office work software with extremely efficient power consumption.
PROS
- Infinity display
- Incredible design
- Good keyboard
- Adaptive performance
- Dual-fan setup
- The palm rest can smudge after use
- Under the display front camera
Being the first edition to use infinity edge display with micro bezels, the Dell XPS 13 comes with a powerful Intel’s latest 10th gen processor, which makes it faster than ever for multitasking and running various software at a time, browsing the web and simultaneously working smoothly on programs such as photoshop and after-effects. This laptop can handle office work software with extremely efficient power consumption. Dell XPS 13’s jaw-dropping design, with an improved keyboard and superior performance, makes this laptop very appealing. XPS 13 has been completely redesigned to meet the needs of the growing industry of artists.
FAQs
Does a laptop for art students should have a high-end CPU?
Yes, High-end CPUs offer better performance, and art students who run software such as Adobe Photoshop or after-effects need to have a good CPU because most of the photo editing tools depend on CPU performance.
Are 2-in-1 laptops relevant for professional artists and drawing enthusiasts?
Convertible laptops are a good option for professional artists and drawing enthusiasts because such laptops can work well in tent mode as well as in tablet mode and can be perfect for drawing or other art-related activities by fulfilling minimum configuration requirements.
Which processor is good for drawing laptops?
An artist must choose a laptop with Intel Core i5 or i7 CPU configuration to maximize productivity and smooth working on drawing projects. A good processor will result in the best drawing output on the device.
Which MacBook is best for artists?
Apple MacBook Pro is the best choice for artists. Apple is known for its excellent products for creative professionals and enthusiasts and offers the best laptops for graphic design.
Conclusion
There are so many laptops out there that fall perfectly to the needs of the artists but then again, what does an artist really want? That’s where the difference comes in. Every artist has different requirements and hence can only be satisfied when they find their perfect laptop. While all the laptops mentioned are amazingly good, there are a few I would recommend. They are as follows:
- HP SPECTRE X360 for its high performance, sleek design, light-weight, and secure system.
- ASUS ZEN BOOK 14 for its good color display, solid performance, light-weight structure, and portability.
- APPLE MACBOOK PRO for its long battery life, good graphics, fast processor, and retina display.
I hope these recommendations help you choose the laptop you have been looking for without much struggle or confusion. Until next time, let your inner artist shine through!
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