Electronic music is a thing nowadays. Artists, instead of using traditional music instruments, are shifting to digital audio workstations. This is where pro tools come into play. It is one of the most popular DAWs that is available and to run that efficiently you would need the best laptop for pro tools.
In this article, we would outline some of the best laptops for pro tools. We would try to cover every aspect and make the list as comprehensive as possible. This list should have a piece for everyone. High-end devices, budget-friendly devices, and those that sit in between. This list has it all.
However, before going into the details of the best laptop for pro tools, let’s take a bird’s eye view of what these devices are offering.
10 Best Laptop for Pro Tools
| PRODUCT | PROCESSOR | RAM | PRICE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lenovo IdeaPad Y700 | Intel i7 6th Gen | 16GB | Check Price |
| Microsoft Surface Pro 4 | Intel core i5 | 8GB | Check Price |
| Razer Blade 15 | Intel 9th Gen i7 | 16GB | Check Price |
| Huawei Matebook Pro X | Intel 8th Gen i7 | 16GB | Check Price |
| ASUS ZenBook Pro | Intel i7, 7th Gen | 16GB | Check Price |
| Dell XPS 15 | Intel i7, 8th Gen | 16GB | Check Price |
| ROG G703GI | Intel 8th Gen i7 | 16GB | Check Price |
| Asus ROG Strix G | Intel i7, 9th Gen | 64GB | Check Price |
| 2020 Newest Acer | AMD Ryzen 3 | 8GB | Check Price |
| MSI P65 | Intel i7, 8th Gen | 16GB | Check Price |
1. Lenovo IdeaPad Y700
- Unique, durable, and good-looking device
- Powerful RAM and processor
- Decent enough GPU
- Massive storage capacity
- Practical design
Lenovo IdeaPad is, design-wise, one of the most unique devices you would ever come across in the market. The bottom edges of the screen have diagonal cuts that lift it from the edges and give it a sort of hexagonal shape. The cuts do not just make the laptop fancy but also have a practical angle to them.
The speakers of the device are located at the uppermost part of the lower unit. So, these cuts make sure that the screen does not block or alter any sound. Therefore, you would be able to listen to the music and your compositions with clarity in high definition audio quality. This is what makes it the best laptop for pro tools.
The device is loaded with powerful pieces of hardware which makes the device a little bulky. It weighs around eight pounds which is a lot if you compare it with other workstations. However, for the performance that this device provides, one would be happy to work around the weight issue.
Moving on, the processor featured in this device is Intel’s 6th Gen i7 which is one of the fastest processors you can get your hands-on. I know it is not as fast as 8th and 9th Gen that are pretty common these days. However, this processor that is available would get the job done seamlessly. You would not encounter any issues like lags, glitches, or whatsoever in this device.
RAM plays a key role in workstations because it provides short-term memory when you are working on applications like Pro Tools. The higher the RAM the faster you would be able to switch between tabs and move things around. Fortunately, this provides a big RAM, 16GB to be more precise, which would make your experience on pro tools a delight.
For storage, the laptops use two drives, one is an HDD of 1TB and the other one is a 128GB SSD. The idea is to use HDD for the storage of stuff like music, videos, etc., and use the SSD for windows and other demanding applications. Windows and other applications when installed on SSD make the device really fast and boot and reboot in matter of seconds.
The GPU, GTX 966M, on this device is a decent one. You would be able to use Illustrator, Photoshop, and some other photo and video editing applications. Plus, you can install a few games and use them as an escape from work-related stress if you want.
All in all, it is the best laptop for pro tools that are loaded with powerful hardware. The design is a bit heavy but it is durable and cool looking. So, if you want the best laptop for pro tools, this can be a good option.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel i7 6th Gen |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 1TB HDD, 128GB SSD |
| GPU | GTX 960M |
2. Microsoft Surface Pro 4
- Comes at an affordable cost
- Versatile design
- Decent specifications
- S pen makes the working easier
- Easy mounting and dismounting mechanism
Microsoft Surface Pro 4 is a convertible device that comes at a really affordable price making it the budget laptop for pro tools. This is the design Microsoft has been working around the clock to improve and they have almost perfected it. These designs are practical, convenient to use, and most importantly durable.
The device is essentially a tablet that can be mounted with the laptop when needed. All the hardware like RAM, processor, and hard drive are present within the screen unit. The screen unit is essentially the CPU of this device, which is why all the operating keys are also located there.
The keyboard attaches to the screen magnetically, which makes it easy to mount and dismount. Therefore, you can go in tablet mode to laptop mood and vice versa in no time. In tablet mode, you do not always have to carry in one hand and use it with the other. The back support is available which can be used to stand the tablet on any given surface.
Moving on, the device comes in multiple variants. Some of these variants have higher RAM, others have better processors and some have better storage. However, the variant that I have mentioned is the cheapest of them. Plus, the specifications that it has been more than enough for making the best laptop for pro tools.
The processor featured in it is Intel’s Core i5 which should be able to allow you to run pro tools without any problems. The RAM and storage are also good enough, standing at 8GB and 256GB. However, in case you run out of storage, the option to use an SD card is always available.
The stand-out feature of this device is the S pen that comes with it. This accessory comes in handy especially when you want to change the little changes in compositions. You would be able to pinpoint the compositions and change them exactly the way you intended to without interfering with adjacent tones.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel core i5 |
| Ram | 8GB |
| Storage | 256GB |
| GPU | Intel Iris |
3. Razer Blade 15 Gaming Laptop
- Slimmer and sleek design
- Weighs light
- Comes with powerful RAM and Processor
- Efficient GPU
- Durable
Razer Blade 15 is one of the high-end devices that have made it to our list of the best laptop for pro tools. It is a really simple, sleek, and slim-looking device that weighs very light. Plus, the dimensions are also very compact. The point is, you can carry it in your bare hands all day long without getting even slightly tired.
The laptop comes in black color apart from the green logo that is printed on the back of the screen. Those who have a taste for black would find this device an absolute treat. It is elegant and charming, something that would definitely catch the eyes from around.
The contrast between the specifications and the dimensions of the laptop is astonishing. It is simply amazing how the company has packed such powerful hardware in a design slimmer than a notebook.
The processor featured in this device is arguably one of the fastest processors you would come across in the market. It is the current flagship of Intel which means Intel has made sure it never disappoints. The glitches, lags, and any other error related to processing are practically non-existent. No matter how demanding the application is, this processor makes sure it runs seamlessly.
The RAM, also a decent one, compliments the processor and they make a powerful and efficient unit together. The RAM provides massive short-term memory, which allows you to switch between tabs and work continuously on demanding applications without encountering the lag.
The storage is a bit of a bummer for a device that has earlier mentioned RAM and Processor. It comes with 256GB of SSD storage which is not a lot especially for a powerful laptop like this. However, storage is something one can always work around using external hard drives and SD cards. The point is, it should not be treated as a deal-breaker.
GPU is where the device shines the most. It is equipped with one of the most powerful graphic processing units that are available on the market. I know pro tools do not require a high-end graphics card but one should never limit one’s perspective. The availability of such powerful GPUs pushes you to explore other options besides electronic music and additional skills never hurt.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel 9th Gen i7 |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| GPU | RTX 2070 |
4. Huawei MateBook X Pro Signature
- Slim, light, and good-looking design
- Remarkable screen-to-body ratio
- Clear and HD display
- Powerful processor
Huawei is known for taking a step further from the rest of the brands. In this device, they have done the same and put together a design that no other company has managed to, to date. At first glance, you would be left stunned by how thin the device is. However, it is when you open the device the real beast appears.
The screen-to-body ratio is 91%, which makes it almost bezel-less. Combine it with a 3K LTPS display and 178 degrees viewing angle, you have a device that has an unmatchable class. The delicately crafted keyboard and touchpad improve the aesthetics even further. The point is, if you are looking for something that makes your jaw drop the moment you open it, this one is it.
Moving on, it is not just the design of this device that stands out. The hardware incorporated in it is just as good. The processor featured in it is Intel’s 8th Gen i7 which is one of the fastest processing chips available in the market. It should have no problem running the most demanding programs let alone pro tools.
The RAM, again like a processor, is pretty powerful and provides decent short-term memory. It provides 16GB storage which should be more than enough to take care of short-term functions. The point is, when you switch between tabs of demanding applications, you usually encounter a lag. However, with this RAM, the lags would be practically non-existent.
The storage is also pretty decent and provides a capacity of 512GB. Plus, it is an SSD drive which has a good impact on the overall performance of devices as well. Your device would load up in a matter of seconds and the applications would pop up in no time.
The fingerprint scanner of the device is right at the power button. If your fingers are scanned you would not have to enter the secondary security password. However, if someone else accesses it, one would have to pass the secondary security checkpoint. The point is, security-wise, the device is sorted.
The GPU available on this device is MX 150 which is not a very powerful gaming card. However, it is still four times faster than the integrated GPUs that are usually available on laptops. So, you might not be able to play high-end games but you would be able to play online games like DOTA, Global Offensive, and World of Tanks at high graphics.
All in all, it is the best laptop for pro tools because it is not just slim and good-looking but powerful as well. Plus, you can explore other options as well apart from electronic music.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel 8th Gen i7 |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 512GB SSD |
| GPU | MX150 |
5. ASUS ZenBook Pro
- Slim, sleek and good-looking design
- Durable
- Massive storage capacity
- Two thunderbolt ports
- Weight is very light
From the looks of it, ASUS Zenbook appears to be an ordinary device with mediocre specifications. However, it is when you take a deeper detailed look into it to realize that it is a complete beast with highly powerful specifications.
The design is simple and has a glossy finish that makes it attractive. The dimensions are compact and thin and it weighs just about four pounds which is nothing considering the hardware that is present in it. You can carry it pretty much everywhere in your bare hands with ease.
Moving on, the processor featured in Intel’s 7th Gen i7 is a powerful chip. No matter how demanding the applications are, you would not encounter lag or glitches with them. All the applications that have been developed to date should run seamlessly on this device.
The RAM provides decent short-term memory which allows you to switch between tabs without encountering a lag. It also provides an excellent speed while reading, writing, and transferring the data. You can transfer data of GBs in magnitude in a very short space of time.
For storage, the laptop comes with 1TB of SSD which is massive. You would hardly ever run out of such a big storage capacity. Since it is an SSD, it would make the laptop even faster. You would have all your applications installed on it and we know how quickly SSD loads up those programs.
The GPU installed on it is GTX 1050Ti which is a very efficient and powerful chip. The chip is decent enough to run pretty much all the modern games on medium graphics and provide 60+ frame rates. Even if you are not into games, this unit would come in handy because of its ability to improve the running of video and photo editing applications.
Two Thunderbolt 3.0 type USB ports are available and these are the fastest ones to date. These ports come in handy when you have to attach powerful accessories to the device. This is why it is the best pc for pro tools.
The bottom line is, it is the best laptop for a pro tool that checks all the right boxes. So, if you want to make an investment that has a great return this device should be one of your options.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel i7, 7th Gen |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| GPU | GTX 1050Ti |
6. Dell XPS 15
- Slim and lightweight design
- Comes with an anti-glare screen
- High-resolution HD display
- Powerful specifications
- The fingerprint reader on the power key
XPS is the most popular and successful series of laptops that Dell has ever designed. The key behind this series’s success is its versatility in it. Be it the students, freelancers, or other professionals this series has a piece for everyone. The device we have at hand is part of the same series and it is intended for people that are looking for a workstation for their music.
The device features a traditional Dell design and has no bells or whistles attached to it. It is a two-tone design with an interior colored in black and an exterior in a greyish color. Individuals who are into simple devices would find it quite elegant and classy.
Moving on, the specifications on this device are powerful and make sure that it provides a seamless performance. It is why it is often regarded as one of the best pro tools for computers.
The device comes in multiple variants but the most powerful of them is what we have at hand. It features Intel’s 8th Gen i7 processor which ranks itself amongst the fastest chips that are available. It should be able to run every application that has been developed to date. Another plus point of this processor, it does not make a lot of sounds. You can run all the demanding software that exists and still not hear a thing.
The 16GB of RAM is available for short-term memory that provides excellent reading, writing, and transferring speed. Even if you are using two different DAWs and run them simultaneously, the lags would be non-existent. This is why it is the best computer for pro tools.
The storage is where it disappoints a bit. A device that comes with a hefty price tag like this should have a minimum of 512GB of storage. However, to our disappointment, it only provides 256GB. But since there are plenty of options to work around, it should not be a deal-breaker.
The unique selling point of this device is its 15.6” Ultra HD display. Besides the resolution, what I find the most appealing is the fact it has an anti-glare screen. While working on laptops one often forgets to keep track of time and can spend the entire day on it. This can be unhealthy for the eyes and this is where anti-glare screens come into play. It protects your eyes from the radiation emitting from the screen and keeps your eyes healthy.
Specifications:
| Processor | 8th Gen Intel i7 |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| GPU | GTX 1050Ti |
7. ROG G703GI
- Excellent audio unit
- Overclocked powerful processor
- Thunderbolt ports are available
- Durable design
- Fans with Anti-dust technology
Before going into detail about this device let me just tell you that this device is a desktop replacement. It is not an ordinary laptop that you can carry around from one place to another. The device is bulky, it is heavy, which is why you would have to keep it in just one place.
However, with that being said, do not think that it does not have an edge over traditional desktops. You would find it pretty easy to move it from one place to another compared to the typical desktop unit. Just like laptops, it does not have a wire coming out from it and you do not have to carry the CPU and the display unit separately. Simply put, this is a laptop but a really heavy and bulky one.
Moving on, the hardware on this thing is amazing just like it should be for a device of this size. It comes with Intel’s 8th Gen i7 which is a really powerful chip. It runs all the demanding applications without presenting any glitch or whatsoever. Plus, the processor is already overclocked which means it would run much faster than an ordinary i7 chip.
The RAM on this thing is 16GB, which is more than enough for digital audio workstation-like pro tools. This RAM would provide you with excellent reading and writing speed. Plus, it would provide a really fast speed when you have to transfer the data from one place to another.
The storage is where it shines the most. It comes with two drives, one is a 256GB SSD and the other is a 2TB HDD drive. The idea is to store all the applications and windows on the SSD as it is much faster than an ordinary HDD drive. And store the remaining stuff like music, videos, documents, and basically everything else on an HDD drive.
The 2TB of capacity is massive, to put that in simple words, you would not need an external drive anytime soon. This is why it is the best laptop for pro tools.
The GPU on this unit is the GTX 1080, which is a decent graphic card. However, it becomes even better because of the fact that the processor is already overclocked. If this card provides an FPS of 50 at certain games, because of the powered processor it would go on to provide an FPS of 60+ on the same graphics settings.
The device with such power generates a lot of heat which is why the company has installed two 12V fans. Plus, these fans have something called “Anti-dust technology” which does not let the dust accumulate inside it. This in turn improves the overall life of the device and makes it more durable.
What would make the DAW users even more interested in it is the fact that it has incredible onboard speakers. The Two 2W tweeters project the high-frequency audio waves directly at you and the large woofers in the body generate a superb base. So, if you do not have a quality headset, this unit would ensure that the sound quality you are getting is really great. It is what makes it one of the best computers for pro tools and also the best pc for pro tools.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel 8th Gen i7 |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD, 2TB HDD |
| GPU | GTX 1080 |
8. ASUS ROG Strix G 2020
- Comes at an affordable price
- Massive storage capacity and RAM
- Latest processing unit
- Powerful GPU
- Cool-looking design
It is almost impossible to ignore AUSUS while looking for the devices that run demanding applications. This company has been good at just delivering the devices with good-looking designs but also at delivering powerful devices. The device we have at hand is one example of it.
From a design point of view, it is a very compact device and the screen has a slightly lifted up design. This not only makes it a cool-looking device but also prevents the dust from collecting into the hinges. So, it is not just a good-looking device but a practical one-two.
If we talk about hardware, the device is packed with some of the most powerful pieces of electronics. For starters, the processor featured in it is Intel’s 9th Gen i7 which is arguably the most powerful processor. All the games or other applications that have been developed to date require much less power than what it delivers. This means you would encounter no issues with the processing of the device no matter how demanding the application is. It does not make a lot of noise as well, which is a plus point.
The RAM is where this device beats pretty much every device that has been mentioned in this list. It comes with 64GB of RAM which is massive and as a result the overall performance of the device increases by ten folds. This is why it is one of the best laptops for pro tools.
The GPU present in it is also a decent one. It should be able to run all the modern games on high graphics and provide 60+ FPS. Those games that this GPU does not run on high graphics in some other devices would run in this device. It is because GPU is not the only factor that comes into play in cases of games. The processor and RAM also play a vital role. Since, in those areas, the device outshines pretty much every device, it would be able to run those games too.
The storage capacity on this thing is also massive as it comes with 1TB of SSD. Not only does this drive provide huge storage space but also increases the overall speed of the device.
The feature that would blow your mind is the price tag. A device with specifications like this easily costs well above two grand. However, this device comes at just above one grand which is simply astonishing. It is why I call it the cheap laptop for pro tools.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel’s i7 9th Gen |
| Ram | 64GB |
| Storage | 1TB SSD |
| GPU | GTX 1650 RGB |
9. 2020 Newest Acer Aspire
- Comes at a cheap price
- The powerful processor that does not take much power
- Quality display
- Excellent storage capacity
- Good enough RAM
Acer’s Newest Aspire is the device for individuals who are running really tight on budget but do not want to compromise on quality and performance. Newest Acer provides a device that gets the job done and comes at a price that is affordable for everyone.
Design-wise, it is one of the most elegant devices you would ever come across. It comes in a two-tone design. Most of the body has been coated in grey color while some parts feature black finishing. These two colors make a contrast that gives the device a really elegant and attractive look.
If we talk about hardware, this device has everything that a laptop needs to run a DAW like pro tools. The processor featured in it is AMD Ryzen 3 which is equivalent to Intel’s i5 4th to 5th generation processing chips. Plus, this chip has much less power than its Intel counterpart which increases the battery timing of the device.
The RAM of 8GB is available which provides a decent short-term memory to the device. This RAM should allow you to switch between tabs without presenting much of a delay. Yes, if you have used higher RAM before, you might feel a little delayed. However, one must look at the price tag on the device as well. In this price tag, you would hardly find a device with higher RAM than this.
Storage is where this device stands out. It comes with two storage units, one is 128GB of SSD and the other one is 500GB HDD. I know 128GB is not a lot but one must realize the fact that the device in this price tag does not even have an SSD at all. Although the SSD does not provide much storage capacity despite that, it has a synergistic effect on overall performance. Your system would boot and reboot in a matter of seconds. The programs installed on SSD would also run smoothly and seamlessly.
All in all, this is a really light and compact device that you would find very convenient to carry around. And it is packed with hardware that should get the job done as a pro tools laptop. The point is it is one the most affordable best laptops for pro tools you would find in the market.
Specifications:
| Processor | AMD Ryzen 3 |
| Ram | 8GB |
| Storage | 128GB SSD, 500GB HDD |
| GPU | Integrated |
10. MSI P65 Creator
- Glossy and shiny design
- Powerful specifications
- Equipped with a powerful GPU
- Does not make much of a noise
MSI P65 is a really slim and good-looking design. It comes in silver color and has a glossy finish which is a treat for the eyes of many. However, it is not just the design where it shines, the specifications are also quite remarkable. See what I did there?
The processor featured in this device is Intel i7 8th Generation which is also present in pro tools MacBook pro. This is a really fast processing chip that ensures the user never encounters a lag between command and execution.
The RAM features in it are 16GB which provides enough short-term storage capacity to run multiple demanding applications simultaneously. The people who use multiple DAW would be able to get maximum advantage from such high RAM.
When it comes to storage, one can say it is neither too short nor too large. If the sole purpose of buying the laptop is to compose music then it would be more than enough at 256GB. However, if you want to store other stuff like movies and games then you would have to upgrade the storage.
The GPU that is available is a decent one. It is powerful enough to run pretty much all the modern games on excellent graphic quality and still provide a decent frame rate. I know it is not the requirement for DAWs like pro tools but these GPUs have made a good impact on the overall performance of the device. Plus, one can always use a laptop to play games and escape work-related stress.
All in all, it is the best laptop for pro tools that comes at an affordable cost. So, if you want something to run your DAW efficiently, this device would make a good bet.
Specifications:
| Processor | Intel i7 8th Gen |
| Ram | 16GB |
| Storage | 256GB SSD |
| GPU | GTX 1050Ti |
Ultimate Buyer Guide For The Best Laptop for Pro Tools
Laptops are often one-time investments which is why while looking for a laptop with pro tools you must look for certain features. In this section, we will try to enlist those features so do not end up regretting the purchase later.
1. Specifications of the device
Specifications are the feature that needs to be looked at in detail because it is what define the performance of the laptop. When you are purchasing a laptop, you should go with the higher specifications as you could depending on the budget. It is because if you get a laptop with specifications that fit only one or two applications you would limit your use.
Therefore, the key to getting the best laptop for pro tools is to get as high specifications as you can. I know the DAW does not demand high-end specifications but having a laptop that does have higher specifications does not hurt.
2. Speakers of the device
The second major feature to look for in the best laptop for pro tools is the audio unit of the device. A device that has a better sound system would eliminate the need for expensive headsets.
You would find plenty of laptops that have advanced degree sound cards installed in them. So, if your budget allows, try to purchase those devices instead of those that have ordinary sound units.
3. Size of the device
Some artists lock themselves in the room and try to compose as much as they can because this is what is best for them. However, there is another category of artists as well that needs inspiration to compose the music. For the latter group, the size of the device is really important.
If a device has heavyweight you would not be able to carry it around. Therefore, it is best that you find yourself a device that can be carried around with ease.
4. Budget
Budget is the key feature that defines the type of device you are going to buy. So, the key is to find the feature that can compromise on and those features that are non-negotiable. In general, never settle with a low-power processor because it cannot be upgraded. RAM and Storage on the other hand can be upgraded anytime later in the future.
Conclusion- Best Laptop For Pro Tools
Well! This is all folks. Everything we had on the best laptop for pro tools. We have tried to compile as comprehensive a list as possible. I hope this list has everything you needed to find the best laptop for pro tools. In case, we have left anything or you want to add anything, feel free to let us know in the given section.
You can also check out or other Laptop related posts below.