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Music production is no child’s play, and if you are looking for the best laptop for music production, then you may be flooded with a lot of options. It requires serious work to ensure that you produce something worthwhile. This means that you need the right device and appropriate software to help you create the right music for your listeners. This can give way to several factors like the right operating system, the kind of software you use, what abilities you need in the laptop, whether a touchscreen will be helpful, and what devices it may be hooked up to. All these things can make a huge difference in your selection. And in the end, your budget will inevitably steer your choices too.
If you have a home studio and are looking for a laptop to produce the best tracks, check out this list of laptops to make an informed purchase. Some of them are low budget, while others are priced high.
You might have to keep several tabs open and several programs running during music production. Such usage requires a higher RAM and graphics power, so it is better to select laptops with at least 16 GB of RAM. The CPU should also be fast enough to allow you to file mixes and process them quickly. Intel i7 chipsets are excellent, and so are the Intel i5 processors. You may also have to select the right operating system based on your recording software. Mac and Windows OS are suitable for audio processing, but some software like Logic Pro only works on Apple computers. Check out laptops that meet the minimum requirements for music production.
See also - Top Best Laptops Under $200 Of 2024
Buying Guide
The best laptops for music production provide the hardware and software required for the seamless creation of music of any genre. The introductory paragraphs have broadly touched upon many of these hardware and software aspects. There may be a need to delve deeper and understand the details of the specifications and some features unique to laptops for music production.
The processor and RAM have already been dealt with. The rest are detailed below.
- Display Size: The laptop for music production should preferably have a larger display than regular machines. There may be more than one individual involved in music production at a time, and a large screen helps. Similarly, there may be a need to play two videos side by side on the same screen. Look for a 17-inch display or at least a 15.6-inch one.
- Audio Output: You must look for laptops that have an additional focus on the audio reproduction function. Extra speakers and Dolby audio support can be useful. You may add external speakers to enhance the sound delivery as well.
- Graphics Support: For better music production with the video, you will need solid graphics support as well. The best ones in the market are from NVIDIA. Check if the laptop you are choosing has the latest NVIDIA range fitted to it.
- Storage: You must have sufficient onboard storage to save all the music files you have created on the laptop. The minimum you should look for is 1TB. Anything higher will be a bonus.
- Connectivity: The laptop for music production should have the best connectivity options regarding the ports and the software. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options are the general standards. You may be connected to other devices during music production. Satisfy yourself while buying so that all those are enabled on the machine.
- Software Compatibility: You may find some laptops have a wider scope for downloading the special software you require for music production than other laptops. Spend some time studying these and pick the best machine.
- Battery: Music production may require you to carry a laptop and play videos outside your studio. Check the battery life before ordering the laptop for music production.
- Price: Price will be a consideration, particularly if you are starting your career to become a maestro. Interestingly, you have laptops for music production in a wide price range. Choose the one that suits your pocket.
Best Laptops For Music Production
17.3-inch Display Screen with High-Resolution Webcam
HP AMD Ryzen 5 5500U Hexa-Core Processor Laptop
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This HP laptop boasts a highly sophisticated and stylish design. This laptop comes with several features that prove to be highly useful to music producers. The 17.3-inch display screen produces a resolution of 1600 x 900 pixels and is suitable for watching movies and web browsing. The 16 GB RAM ensures you do not face lagging issues while using multimedia software or playing games.
When you charge the device optimally, it will last you for 7 hours. The laptop features a 720p webcam that works well for anybody who regularly engages in virtual conferences or video calls. Though there is no optical drive, you get many other connectivity options, including a headphone jack and a microSD card reader.
- Ideal for music producers who are looking for a medium-budgeted laptop with good multimedia features.
- It is also recommended for those who prefer a laptop device with a large display screen.
- Attractive design
- Large display screen
- Efficient performance
- High-definition webcam
- No optical drive
- Moderate battery support
Well-Designed Laptop with Strong Audio Output
HP 14-inch Touch-Enabled Screen Laptop
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This laptop by HP features a stylish design and is available in four different color options, including black, blue, white, and rose gold. The 14-inch wide display screen is touch-enabled and produces a resolution of 1366 x 768 pixels. The device comes with multiple connectivity ports, including a 3.5mm headphone jack.
The dual-core CPU runs at an operating speed of 1.2 GHz and ensures you get to complete all your tasks on time. When you look for a laptop for music production, you are very particular about the quality of audio output produced by it. This device comes with dual-stereo speakers that produce high-quality sound.
- Suitable for music producers looking for a laptop that produces crystal clear audio and enables one to carry out several multimedia tasks.
- It is also recommended for individuals who wish to invest in a laptop device featuring a display screen that supports touch functionality.
- Dual-stereo speakers
- High-resolution webcam
- Strong connectivity features
- Available in multiple color options
- Not durable enough
- It does not support high-end gaming
15.5-inch Display Screen Laptop with Backlit Keyboard
Asus Flagship TUF Dash Slim-Structured Laptop
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The all-black design of this Asus laptop is very edgy. One look at it, and you know it has been designed for serious gamers. Its high-definition screen and built-in dual speakers produce excellent audio output, it is also a suitable device for music producers. It comes equipped with an Intel 8-core i7-11370H processor that makes the device run efficiently.
The laptop comes with a hard disk with 1 TB of storage space. The 32 GB high-bandwidth RAM ensures you don’t face any issues while multitasking or playing high-end games. The backlit keyboard produces vibrant lighting effects and is very comfortable to use. The device does not feature an optical drive, but several other connectivity options include a headphone jack and a microSD card reader.
- It comes equipped with all the features that gamers and media professionals would find highly useful.
- It is also recommended for those planning to invest in a premium-quality laptop that is convenient to travel around.
- Backlit keyboard
- High bandwidth RAM
- Adequate storage support
- Fast-performing processor
- No optical drive
- Slightly expensive
Lightweight Laptop with Good Storage Support
Dell XPS 9310 13.4-inch Touch-Enabled Screen Laptop
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The Dell XPS 9310 comes at quite a high price. However, when you use this laptop for music production and other multimedia tasks, you realize it justifies its price well. The 13.4-inch display screen offers a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The 32 GB high-bandwidth RAM ensures that the device operates at a high speed.
The laptop features a dual-stereo speaker setup that produces excellent audio output. Though the device lacks an optical drive, it comes with multiple connectivity features, including a microSD card reader and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The device offers fast-charging support. The built-in hard disk provides the user with a storage space of 1 TB.
Why You Should Buy This?
- A good option for music producers looking for a compact laptop with strong multimedia features.
- It is also recommended for those particularly interested in a laptop device that offers high-speed performance.
Pros
- Portable structure
- Good audio output
- High bandwidth RAM
- Features a headphone jack
Cons
- Expensive
- Average thermal management
15.6-inch Display Screen Laptop with 512 GB Hard Drive
Dell Inspiron 15 5510 Intel Core i7-11390H Processor Laptop
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The Dell Inspiron 15 5510 features a 15.6-inch display screen with 1920 x 1080 pixels resolution. The 512 GB storage space offered by the hard disk should be enough for music producers who have just started in this profession and do not store too much data or files on their devices. If you need to get some music files from a CD, you will require an external CD drive as the device doesn’t feature an optical drive.
The 0.92 webcam is decent enough to make video calls. The stereo speakers produce good audio output. You can safely rely on the internal speakers if you need to edit some music files and do not have headphones around. The keyboard is sturdy and features a numeric keypad. The device offers many wireless connectivity features, including Bluetooth 5.2.
- An ideal option for music producers looking for a laptop device that offers high-quality audio output.
- It is also recommended for those who wish to procure a laptop with versatile features.
- Sharp display screen
- Strong audio output
- Comfortable keyboard
- Fast-performing processor
- No optical drive
- The screen is not touch-enabled
15.6-inch Display Screen Laptop with 32 GB RAM
HP 15 AMD Ryzen 3 3250U Processor
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The HP 15 boasts a natural silver design that makes it look sleek and stylish. It features a 15.6-inch display screen that is not touch-enabled but produces high-quality images. The screen offers touch functionality and can be controlled with the help of the Stylus pen that is provided with the device. The Stylus pen is highly responsive and very comfortable to hold.
The 32 GB high-bandwidth RAM ensures that the device does not have lagging issues. The device comes with a hard disk with 2 TB of storage space. Because of the high storage space provided by the laptop, you will not have to invest in any additional storage equipment. You get a 720p webcam and dual-array digital microphones for making video calls.
Why You Should Buy This?
- Recommended for music producers looking for a laptop with a highly efficient processor and powerful audio output.
- It is also a good option for those who prefer using a laptop with a touch-enabled screen and a digital pen.
Pros
- Sophisticated design
- Touch-enabled screen
- Responsive Stylus pen
- Adequate storage support
Cons
- Moderate battery life
- Keyboard quality could have been better
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a touchscreen necessary on a laptop for music production?
The touchscreen feature can be useful on a laptop for music production. When you are making a choice, if all other specs are in conformity and you are also getting the touchscreen, don’t think twice, order that model. However, you may not choose the laptop on the touchscreen aspect alone.
Is it possible to have all the specs suitable for music production in a laptop and the price also within the affordable range?
Laptops with the specs and features you want for music production are always available in the market. The price could also be in the affordable range. However, you may have to do an extensive search for it. On many occasions, you may find one but not near you from where you can buy it. In such cases, you can order your laptop online.
What is the role of security in a laptop for music production?
Security is required on every laptop, including the one used for music production. If you are trying to create original tracks, the last thing you want is someone stealing your creativity. Invest in a secure laptop for music production to prevent this crime.
What if I purchased a gaming laptop and used it for all other activities?
Nothing is stopping you from doing that. You have to figure out what you do for the maximum time on your laptop and ensure the laptop's specifications support the task. Gaming laptops do have some impressive specifications but are priced high as well. You have to make a prudent choice.
Are there any additional costs involved or are the prices for laptops quoted on the websites the final ones?
Ecommerce sites usually quote the final price on their platforms, including taxes etc. Some may have delivery charges added separately depending on where you are located or the shipment policy of individual sellers. Check that part.
Summary
There were days when it was impossible to get a laptop specifically suitable for music production or recording, as it had to be done on a powerful PC. Today, many laptops can give PCs a run for their money.
These are some of the great options for laptops suitable for music production and podcasts. Avoid cheap options such as Chromebooks as you will face some serious limitations. Prices tend to go above the $1000 mark. Buy the best one on the list that suits your budget. Some budget-friendly ones are certainly up to the mark, and it is important to have certain specifications in your laptop for running music software.
These are some of the best laptops for music production. While some of these devices are 2-in-1s, making portability easy, others are laptops only. If you are looking for something that offers higher flexibility in working with the device at different times of the day and in different places, then the 2-in-1s can be a great option. The price of these laptops can also determine your choice. But remember that high-performing laptops may usually cost you more. Keeping music production in mind, we have found these laptops to be some of the best at this time.