Finding the Best Laptop for Graphic Design in 2025

As a creative worker, you need the right tools, and choosing the best laptop for graphic design can greatly affect your work. If you’re a graphic designer, illustrator, or video editor, you need a computer that can run Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and Blender, which are all very demanding programs.

This article examines the top 10 best laptops for designers in 2025 by testing speed, screen quality, portability, and price. We can help you find the best computer for graphic design, the best gaming laptop for graphics work, or an affordable laptop for art and design.

What to Look for in a Graphic Design Laptop

Before diving into our list, here are key factors to consider when choosing a good laptop for graphic design:

• Processor (CPU): A powerful CPU is essential for the efficient operation of design software. Find an AMD Ryzen 7 or 9 or an Intel Core i7 or i9 processor.
• GPU: A dedicated GPU like NVIDIA RTX or AMD Radeon generates better rendering and 3D modeling.
• Memory: You should have at least 16GB of RAM, but 32GB or more is best for multitasking.
• Storage: SSD storage (512GB or more) ensures you can access and load files quickly.
• Display: Designers need a color-accurate display (100% sRGB or Adobe RGB) with a high resolution (4K is best).
• Portability: Lightweight and durable designs make it easier for creatives on the go.
• Battery Life: Professionals who work from home or travel a lot need batteries that last a long time.

Top 10 Best Laptops for Designers in 2025

1. Apple MacBook Pro 16″ (M3 Max) – $3,499

• Best for: Graphic artists, video editors, and creative professionals.
• Why it’s great: The best MacBook for designers, including a powerful M3 Max CPU and a beautiful Liquid Retina XDR display.
• Pros: Exceptional battery life, macOS optimization, high-quality build.
• Cons: Expensive.

2. Dell XPS 17 (2025 Model) – $2,999

• Why it’s great: It has a large 17-inch 4K display with 100% Adobe RGB and a powerful Intel i9 processor.
• Best for: Designers needing extra screen space.
• Pros: Excellent display, great performance, premium build.
• Cons: Slightly heavy.

3. Asus ROG Zephyrus G16 – $2,499

• Why it’s great: A balance of gaming and creative performance with an NVIDIA RTX 4090.
• Best for: Designers who also game or do 3D work.
• Pros: High refresh rate display, powerful GPU.
• Cons: Gaming aesthetics may not appeal to everyone.

4. Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2 – $2,199

• Ideal for: digital artists and illustrators.
• Why it’s great: 2-in-1 versatility with touchscreen and stylus support.
• Pros: Flexible form factor, great for sketching.
• Cons: Not as powerful as some competitors.

5. HP ZBook Studio G9 – $3,200

• Optimal for: Professionals specializing in video editing, animation, or CAD. 
• Why it’s great: A workstation-grade laptop for graphic design and 3D modeling.
• Pros: Certified professional software with excellent color accuracy.
• Cons: Premium price.

6. Razer Blade 16 – $3,000

• Perfect for: Designers who need portability and performance. 
• Why it’s great: A sleek yet powerful laptop for graphics work and gaming.
• Pros: Stunning OLED display, powerful hardware.
• Cons: Pricey.

7. Acer ConceptD 7 Ezel – $2,800

• Best for: Creators who need precise color accuracy. 
• Why it’s great: Convertible design with a color-accurate display.
• Pros: Stylus support, professional-grade display.
• Cons: Limited availability.

8. Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Extreme Gen 6 – $2,500

• Best for: Professionals who need reliability.
• Why it’s great: A solid build with workstation performance.
• Pros: Great keyboard, excellent performance.
• Cons: Not the thinnest laptop.

9. Apple MacBook Air 15″ (M3) – $1,499

• Best for: Students and freelancers.
• Why it’s great: A budget-friendly MacBook option for designers.
• Pros: Lightweight, great battery life.
• Cons: Less powerful than the MacBook Pro.

10. Gigabyte Aero 16 OLED – $2,700

• Best for: Video editors and graphic designers.
• Why it’s great: A gaming laptop optimized for creative work with a stunning OLED display.
• Pros: High refresh rate, vivid display.
• Cons: Not the best battery life.

Affordable Laptops for Art and Design

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider:

• Asus Vivobook Pro 15 – $1,200 – Good balance of power and price.
• Acer Swift X – $1,000 – Decent performance with a dedicated GPU.
• HP Pavilion x360 – $900 – A 2-in-1 laptop for versatile use.

Best Accessories for Graphic Designers

To enhance your experience, consider:

• Best Laptop Backpack: Peak Design Everyday Backpack.
• Best Laptop Bag: The Nomatic Messenger Bag.
• The Best 2-in-1 Laptop for Design: Microsoft Surface Laptop Studio 2. 

FAQs

What laptop to buy in 2025?

The best laptop to buy in 2025 depends on your requirements. If you’re a designer, the MacBook Pro 16″ (M3 Max) and Dell XPS 17 are great options. Consider the MacBook Air 15″ or Asus Vivobook Pro 15 as a more affordable choice.

Which laptop is the best for designers?

Designers should choose a laptop based on their needs and how much work they have. For Mac users, the MacBook Pro 16″ (M3 Max) is the best choice. For Windows users, the Dell XPS 17 and Razer Blade 16 are also great choices.

Which laptop is best for graphic design in the USA?

The Apple MacBook Pro 16″ (M3 Max) and the Dell XPS 17 are the best laptops for designers in US because they are powerful, have great screens, and are reliable. 

Which is the No. 1 laptop brand?

Apple, Dell, and Lenovo are all regularly ranked as some of the best laptop brands. Apple makes the best high-end devices for creative work, Dell makes the best performance laptops, and Lenovo is known for being reliable.

Which Laptop is Right for You?

Choosing the best laptop for graphic design depends on your needs. The MacBook Pro 16” or Dell XPS 17 is the best choice if you want raw power. The MacBook Air 15” or the Acer Swift X are great options to save money. 

Regardless of your choice, investing money into a high-performance laptop will increase productivity and creativity.

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Check out the best deals for the best laptops for graphic design, the best laptop for graphics work, or the Best Laptops for Designers; it is time to elevate your creative workflow.