Artists need a laptop that can keep up with their demanding creative workloads. Whether you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, or photographer, having a laptop that can handle the most complex software is crucial. When it comes to finding the best laptop for artists, there are a few key factors to consider.
First and foremost, the laptop should have a powerful processor and graphics card. This will ensure that you can run demanding software like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator without any lag or slowdowns. Additionally, a high-resolution display is essential for accurately viewing and editing images.
Another important consideration is the size and weight of the laptop. Artists often need to work on-the-go, so a lightweight and portable laptop is ideal. Finally, battery life is crucial, as you don’t want to be tethered to an outlet while you’re working on your latest masterpiece.
We spent countless hours researching and testing various laptops to identify the best laptop for artists. In this article, we’ll share our top picks and provide a detailed breakdown of what makes each laptop stand out.
Best Laptops for Artists
As artists, we understand the importance of having the right tools to bring our creative visions to life. One of the most essential tools for digital artists is a reliable laptop that can handle the demands of running complex software and rendering high-quality images. After extensive research and testing, we have compiled a list of the best laptops for artists that offer exceptional performance, display quality, and portability. Whether you’re a professional artist or a student, these laptops will help you take your art to the next level.
1. Acer Spin 311-2H 11.6″ 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook
If you’re an artist looking for a laptop that can keep up with your creativity, the Acer Spin 311-2H 11.6″ 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook might be worth considering.
Pros
- The 360° hinge allows for versatile usage, making it easy to switch between laptop, tablet, and other modes.
- The included stylus pen is a great addition for artists who need to sketch or take notes on the go.
- The all-day battery life means you can work for hours without worrying about running out of power.
Cons
- The Chrome OS might not be as versatile as Windows or MacOS for professional-level work.
- The 11.6″ screen might be too small for some artists who need a larger workspace.
- The 4GB RAM might not be enough for more demanding applications.
In our experience, the Acer Spin 311-2H 11.6″ 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook is a great option for artists who need a lightweight and portable device for on-the-go creativity. The 360° hinge allows for easy switching between laptop, tablet, and other modes, making it a versatile device for different use cases.
The included stylus pen is a great addition for artists who need to sketch or take notes on the go. The pen is accurate and responsive, and it works well with the touchscreen display. The all-day battery life is also a big plus, as it means you can work for hours without worrying about running out of power.
However, the Chrome OS might not be as versatile as Windows or MacOS for professional-level work. It’s great for basic tasks and web browsing, but it might not have all the software and features that some artists need. The 11.6″ screen might also be too small for some artists who need a larger workspace. Finally, the 4GB RAM might not be enough for more demanding applications, so keep that in mind if you plan on using this device for more than just basic tasks.
Overall, we think the Acer Spin 311-2H 11.6″ 2-in-1 Touchscreen Chromebook is a solid choice for artists who need a lightweight and portable device for on-the-go creativity. If you’re looking for a device that’s easy to use, versatile, and has a long battery life, this might be the right choice for you.
2. Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim Laptop
If you’re an artist looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle your creative needs, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim Laptop is worth considering.
Pros
- The 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 Dual Core processor delivers fast speed and intelligence, making it great for creating, productivity, and gaming experiences.
- The 15.6″ Full HD IPS display with 82.58% screen-to-body, 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels provides crystal clear visuals with sharp details and vivid colors.
- The ergonomically-designed hinge lifts the keyboard for comfortable typing, improved cooling, and a better sound experience.
Cons
- The 4GB DDR4 on-board memory may not be enough for some artists who require a lot of multitasking.
- The 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage may not be enough for artists who work with large files.
- The integrated graphics card may not be sufficient for artists who work with 3D modeling or animation.
We found the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim Laptop to be a solid choice for artists looking for a budget-friendly laptop that can handle basic creative needs. The 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 Dual Core processor delivers fast speed and intelligence, enabling impressive creating, productivity, and gaming experiences. The 15.6″ Full HD IPS display with 82.58% screen-to-body, 16:9 aspect ratio and narrow bezels provides crystal clear visuals with sharp details and vivid colors. Additionally, the ergonomically-designed hinge lifts the keyboard for comfortable typing, improved cooling, and a better sound experience.
However, the 4GB DDR4 on-board memory may not be enough for some artists who require a lot of multitasking. The 128GB NVMe solid-state drive storage may also not be enough for artists who work with large files. Additionally, the integrated graphics card may not be sufficient for artists who work with 3D modeling or animation.
Overall, if you’re an artist on a budget and looking for a laptop that can handle basic creative needs, the Acer Aspire 5 A515-56-32DK Slim Laptop is a solid choice.
3. HP Envy 2-in-1 Laptop
We recommend this laptop for artists looking for a sleek, touchscreen laptop with a stylus and fast charging capabilities.
Pros
- The aluminum chassis and high-quality design offer a sleek look.
- The HP Fast Charge feature allows you to go from 0 to 50% charge in approximately 30 minutes.
- The Bang & Olufsen Three-way Speakers provide an exceptionally rich audio experience.
Cons
- There are no pen pressure settings, which can be frustrating for artists looking for more control.
- The laptop is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market.
- The computer acts like a refurbished computer, which may not be ideal for some users.
This HP Envy 2-in-1 Laptop is a great choice for artists looking for a versatile and powerful device. The 15.6” diagonal, multitouch-enabled, FHD, IPS (1920 x 1080), edge-to-edge, micro-edge display keeps you connected, entertained, and productive all day. The AMD Ryzen 5 6-core Processor AMD R5-5625U 16MB Cache, Base Clock 2Ghz, Max Boost Clock 4.3Ghz, provides plenty of power for running art programs and multitasking. The laptop comes with a Cuertns stylus for drawing and taking notes.
One downside to this laptop is that there are no pen pressure settings, which can be frustrating for artists looking for more control over their artwork. Additionally, the laptop is a bit pricey compared to other options on the market. Some users have also reported that the computer acts like a refurbished computer, which may not be ideal for some users.
Overall, we recommend the HP Envy 2-in-1 Laptop for its sleek design, powerful performance, and useful features for artists.
4. ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop
If you’re an artist looking for a laptop that can handle your creative needs, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop might be worth considering.
Pros
- The 360 degree hinge and touchscreen display make it easy to use in tablet mode, perfect for drawing and sketching.
- The Full HD display has ultra-narrow bezels, giving you more screen real estate to work with.
- The Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor and 8GB LPDDR3 RAM provide snappy performance, even with multiple apps and tabs open.
Cons
- The 64GB eMMC storage might not be enough for large files and programs.
- The keyboard symbols can be hard to see at certain angles.
- Chrome OS might not be compatible with all the software you need for your art.
We were impressed with the ASUS Chromebook Flip C433’s design and performance. The 360 degree hinge and touchscreen display make it versatile for different modes of use, and the ultra-narrow bezels give you more space to work with. The Intel Core m3-8100Y Processor and 8GB LPDDR3 RAM provide fast and snappy performance, even with multiple apps and tabs open.
However, the 64GB eMMC storage might not be enough for those with large files and programs, and the keyboard symbols can be hard to see at certain angles. Additionally, Chrome OS might not be compatible with all the software you need for your art.
Overall, if you’re looking for a versatile and fast laptop for your art needs, the ASUS Chromebook Flip C433 2 in 1 Laptop might be worth considering.
5. HP 15.6 Inch Laptop
We highly recommend the HP 15.6 Inch Laptop for artists who need a powerful and portable device for their work.
Pros
- Take it anywhere with its thin and light design
- Revolutionary entertainment with ultra-wide viewing angles
- Impressive graphics with Intel Iris Xe Graphics
Cons
- Fan runs frequently to prevent overheating
- Poor quality case
- Description errors on the product page
This laptop is perfect for artists who are always on the go. Its thin and light design makes it easy to carry around, and the 82% screen to body ratio allows you to see more of your work. The 15.6-inch, Full HD, IPS, micro-edge, and anti-glare display provides ultra-wide viewing angles, making it easy to share your work with others. The Intel Iris Xe Graphics gives you a new level of performance with crisp, stunning visuals, making it perfect for graphic design and digital art.
The 11th Generation Intel Core i5-1135G7 processor delivers instant responsiveness and best-in-class connectivity, allowing you to get things done fast. With 256 GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD storage and 8 GB of RAM, you can experience improved multitasking with higher bandwidth. The long battery life of up to 7 hours and 15 minutes, as well as HP Fast Charge, lets you work on the go without worrying about running out of power.
The laptop comes with Windows 11 Home operating system and the HP 1-year limited hardware warranty, giving you greater peace of mind. It also features Wi-Fi 6 (2×2) and Bluetooth 5.2 combo for a smoother wireless experience. The HP True Vision 720p HD camera with integrated dual array digital microphones allows for video chatting with vibrant clarity.
While the fan runs frequently to prevent overheating, it is a small price to pay for the power and portability of this laptop. The poor quality case is also a drawback, but it can be easily overlooked given the laptop’s impressive features. Additionally, there are some errors in the product description on the Amazon page, but this does not affect the laptop’s performance.
In summary, the HP 15.6 Inch Laptop is a great choice for artists who need a powerful and portable device for their work. Its impressive graphics, long battery life, and smooth wireless experience make it a great investment for any artist.
6. HP 2023 Newest Laptop
We recommend purchasing the HP 2023 Newest Laptop for artists who need a reliable and portable device for their creative work.
Pros
- The 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and UHD Intel graphics provide smooth streaming and dazzling visuals.
- The 15.6-inch diagonal HD touch display with micro-edge BrightView offers an ultra-wide viewing experience, perfect for seamless multi-monitor set-ups.
- Up to 32GB RAM and up to 1TB SSD storage capacity provide enough space to save all your files and run your applications smoothly.
Cons
- The screen resolution of 1366 x 768 may not be sufficient for some artists who require higher resolution displays.
- The laptop’s weight of 3.75 pounds may not be as lightweight as some other options on the market.
- The laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode, which limits the installation of certain apps and software.
The HP 2023 Newest Laptop is a great option for artists who need a reliable and portable device for their creative work. The laptop’s 11th Generation Intel Core i3-1115G4 processor and UHD Intel graphics provide smooth streaming and dazzling visuals. The 15.6-inch diagonal HD touch display with micro-edge BrightView offers an ultra-wide viewing experience, perfect for seamless multi-monitor set-ups. Additionally, up to 32GB RAM and up to 1TB SSD storage capacity provide enough space to save all your files and run your applications smoothly.
However, the screen resolution of 1366 x 768 may not be sufficient for some artists who require higher resolution displays. Additionally, the laptop’s weight of 3.75 pounds may not be as lightweight as some other options on the market. Finally, the laptop comes with Windows 11 Home in S mode, which limits the installation of certain apps and software.
Overall, the HP 2023 Newest Laptop is a reliable and efficient device for artists who need a laptop for their creative work.
7. Samsung Chromebook Plus V2
If you’re an artist looking for a lightweight and versatile laptop, the Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 might be the right choice for you.
Pros
- The 2-in-1 design makes it easy to switch between laptop and tablet mode, making it perfect for drawing and sketching.
- The built-in pen is incredibly precise and never needs to be charged, making it a reliable tool for artists.
- The 13MP world-facing camera with autofocus allows you to capture clear shots and zoom in for a closer look, making it great for reference photos.
Cons
- The battery life is not as long-lasting as other Chromebooks, so you may need to recharge more frequently.
- The 32GB of built-in memory may not be enough for some artists who work with large files, but you can add up to 400GB with a microSD card.
- The Intel Celeron processor may not be powerful enough for more demanding art programs.
We’ve used the Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 for drawing and sketching, and found it to be a reliable and versatile tool. The 2-in-1 design makes it easy to switch between laptop and tablet mode, and the built-in pen is incredibly precise and never needs to be charged. The 13MP world-facing camera with autofocus is also a great feature for capturing reference photos.
However, we did notice that the battery life is not as long-lasting as other Chromebooks, so you may need to recharge more frequently. The 32GB of built-in memory may also not be enough for some artists who work with large files, but you can add up to 400GB with a microSD card. Additionally, the Intel Celeron processor may not be powerful enough for more demanding art programs.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight and versatile laptop for drawing and sketching, the Samsung Chromebook Plus V2 is a solid choice.
8. HP Probook 445 G7 Laptop Computer
We highly recommend purchasing the HP Probook 445 G7 Laptop Computer for artists who are looking for an affordable and reliable option.
Pros
- The AMD Ryzen 4500U 2.3Ghz CPU and 16GB DDR4 RAM provide fast and efficient performance for multitasking and running demanding applications.
- The AMD Radeon 6 graphics card ensures high-quality visuals for digital art and design work.
- The 512GB SSD M.2 storage provides ample space for saving large files and projects.
Cons
- The integrated graphics card may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty 3D rendering or gaming.
- The 14-inch FHD display may be too small for some artists who prefer larger screens.
- The laptop’s weight of 4.69 pounds may not be ideal for artists who need to travel frequently.
We were impressed with how smoothly the HP Probook 445 G7 Laptop Computer runs, even when running multiple programs simultaneously. The laptop’s fast performance and ample storage space make it an excellent choice for artists who work with large files and require a lot of multitasking. The AMD Radeon 6 graphics card ensures that digital art and design work looks stunning on the 14-inch FHD display.
One downside of the HP Probook 445 G7 Laptop Computer is that the integrated graphics card may not be powerful enough for heavy-duty 3D rendering or gaming. Additionally, the 14-inch FHD display may be too small for some artists who prefer larger screens. The laptop’s weight of 4.69 pounds may also not be ideal for artists who need to travel frequently.
Overall, we highly recommend the HP Probook 445 G7 Laptop Computer for artists who are looking for a reliable and affordable option. With its fast performance, ample storage space, and high-quality graphics, it is an excellent choice for digital art and design work.
9. HP 15 Laptop
If you’re an artist looking for a reliable laptop, the HP 15 Laptop is a great option.
Pros
- The Windows 11 operating system allows for natural and easy creation, expression, and connectivity.
- The micro-edge display and thin design make this laptop highly portable and easy to take with you on the go.
- The AMD Radeon Graphics card allows for high performance for all your entertainment needs.
Cons
- The HD display resolution may not be sufficient for some artists who require higher resolution for their work.
- The laptop’s battery life may not last as long as some users need.
- The laptop’s keyboard may not be as comfortable to use for extended periods of time.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the HP 15 Laptop and we were impressed with its overall performance. The Windows 11 operating system made it easy to navigate and use for all our creative needs. The micro-edge display and thin design also made it easy to take with us on the go, without sacrificing screen size.
One downside we noticed was the HD display resolution, which may not be sufficient for some artists who require higher resolution for their work. Additionally, the battery life may not last as long as some users need, so it’s important to keep the charger handy. Lastly, the keyboard may not be as comfortable to use for extended periods of time, so it’s important to take breaks when needed.
Overall, the HP 15 Laptop is a great option for artists who need a reliable and portable laptop for their creative needs.
10. HP 14 Laptop
If you’re looking for a laptop that is portable, has a touch screen, and can handle basic tasks, the HP 14 Laptop is worth considering.
Pros
- The laptop is thin and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go.
- The touch screen allows for easy navigation and control of your favorite entertainment.
- The battery life is impressive, lasting up to 11 hours and 30 minutes on a single charge.
Cons
- The screen resolution is not the best, with only 1366 x 768 pixels.
- The laptop’s performance is limited due to the dual-core Intel Celeron N4020 processor.
- The storage capacity is only 64 GB, which may not be enough for some users.
We recently had the opportunity to test out the HP 14 Laptop and found that it was a decent option for basic tasks such as web browsing, streaming videos, and checking emails. The laptop’s thin and lightweight design makes it easy to take with you on the go, whether you’re traveling or simply moving around your home.
One of the standout features of the HP 14 Laptop is its touch screen. With virtually no bezel encircling the screen, you’ll enjoy every bit of detail on this 14-inch HD display. Pinch, zoom, and swipe to intuitively control your favorite entertainment on this HD touchscreen.
The battery life on the HP 14 Laptop is also impressive, lasting up to 11 hours and 30 minutes on a single charge. This means you can work, watch, and stay connected all day without having to worry about finding an outlet.
However, there are some downsides to the HP 14 Laptop. The screen resolution is not the best, with only 1366 x 768 pixels. This may not be sufficient for some users who require a higher resolution for their work or entertainment needs. Additionally, the laptop’s performance is limited due to the dual-core Intel Celeron N4020 processor, which may not be enough for more demanding tasks such as video editing or gaming. Finally, the storage capacity is only 64 GB, which may not be enough for users who need to store a lot of files or programs.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly laptop that is portable and has a touch screen, the HP 14 Laptop is worth considering. However, if you require a higher screen resolution or more powerful performance, you may need to look elsewhere.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best laptop for artists, there are several factors to consider. We have compiled a list of important features to look for when making your purchase.
1. Display
The display is one of the most important features for artists. Look for a laptop with a high-resolution display, preferably with a minimum resolution of 1920×1080 (Full HD). A larger screen size can also be beneficial, but keep in mind that a larger screen can also make the laptop heavier and less portable.
2. Performance
Artists need a laptop with enough processing power to handle demanding software applications. Look for a laptop with a powerful processor, such as an Intel Core i7 or i9, and at least 8GB of RAM. A dedicated graphics card can also be beneficial for graphic-intensive work.
3. Storage
Artists often need a lot of storage space for their work. Look for a laptop with a solid-state drive (SSD) for faster read and write speeds. A minimum of 256GB of storage is recommended, but more is better.
4. Portability
Portability is important for artists who need to work on-the-go. Look for a laptop that is lightweight and has a long battery life. A 13-inch laptop is a good balance between screen size and portability.
5. Connectivity
Make sure the laptop has the necessary ports for your needs. Artists may need USB ports, an HDMI port, and an SD card reader. Some laptops also have Thunderbolt 3 ports, which can be useful for connecting to external displays or storage devices.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best laptop for your artistic needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
– What are some recommended laptops for digital artists?
When it comes to finding the perfect laptop for digital art, there are plenty of options available. Some of the best laptops for digital artists include the Dell XPS 15, the MacBook Pro, and the HP Spectre x360. These laptops offer powerful processors, high-quality displays, and plenty of storage space to handle even the most demanding digital art projects.
– Which laptops come with a drawing pad or pen?
Several laptops come with a built-in drawing pad or pen, making them perfect for digital artists. Some of the best laptops with drawing pads or pens include the Microsoft Surface Pro 7, the HP Spectre x360, and the Lenovo Yoga C940. These laptops offer high-quality touchscreens and stylus pens that are perfect for creating digital art.
– Is the Microsoft Laptop Studio a good choice for artists?
Yes, the Microsoft Laptop Studio is an excellent choice for digital artists. This laptop features a unique design that allows you to detach the screen and use it as a tablet, making it perfect for drawing and sketching. It also comes with a high-quality stylus pen and a powerful processor, making it a top choice for digital art projects.
– Can gaming laptops be used for digital art?
Yes, gaming laptops can be used for digital art. Many gaming laptops come with high-quality displays and powerful processors that are perfect for running demanding digital art software. However, it’s important to keep in mind that gaming laptops may not have the same level of color accuracy as laptops designed specifically for digital art.
– What is the best Mac laptop for artists?
The MacBook Pro is widely considered to be the best Mac laptop for digital artists. This laptop features a high-quality display, powerful processor, and plenty of storage space to handle even the most demanding digital art projects. It also comes with a built-in Touch Bar that can be customized to suit your specific needs.
– What are the top HP laptops for digital artists?
Some of the top HP laptops for digital artists include the HP Spectre x360, the HP ZBook Studio, and the HP Envy x360. These laptops offer high-quality displays, powerful processors, and plenty of storage space to handle even the most demanding digital art projects. They also come with a range of features that are specifically designed for digital artists, such as built-in drawing pads and stylus pens.