You're in the right place!
We've compiled a list of the best photo editing laptops that are affordable. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a professional, we have the perfect computer for you.
Editing photos can be time-consuming and frustrating if your computer isn't up to the task. That's why we've made it easy for you by finding the best cheap laptops for photo editing.
You'll be able to edit videos and photos like a pro in no time.
Check out our list of the best photo editing laptops with value for money and find the perfect computer for your needs!
Which Budget Laptop Is Best for Photo Editing?
Here are our team's top picks for the best laptops for photo editing on a budget:
- Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $800: Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16
- Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $1,500: Apple MacBook Pro M1
- Best Mac Laptop for Photo Editing: Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022)
- Best Photo Editing Laptop for Fast Speeds: Acer Nitro 5
- Best Budget Laptop for Video Editing: Lenovo Legion 5
- Best Laptop for Photographers and Gamers: HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop
- Best Cheap Photo Editing Laptop with Bigger Screen: ASUS TUF Gaming F17
- Best Affordable Photo Editing Laptop: Acer Aspire 5
- Best Pick If You Are Okay without Windows: HP Chromebook 14 FHD
- Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $600: Lenovo Ideapad 3
- Best Inexpensive Laptop for Photo Editing: Lenovo Ideapad 3i
- Best Powerful & Stylish Laptop for Photo Editing: ASUS VivoBook S15
- A Decently Priced Laptop with Powerful Features: ASUS ZenBook Flip 13
Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $800
1. Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16
- 16-inch screen size.
- HD resolution (720p).
- 8GB of RAM.
- 512GB SSD hard drive.
- 6th Generation AMD Ryzen 5 Processor.
- Windows 10 Home operating system.
Overview:
Looking for a powerful computer and the best photo editing laptop that is perfect for work and entertainment?
The Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16 has everything you need. It comes with a large screen, 8GB of RAM, and a fast processor so you can multitask with ease.
It also has an SSD hard drive so your computer will start up quickly and run smoothly.
You'll love the sleek design of this computer and the fact that it comes with Windows 10 Home already installed.
And don't forget the HD Audio – perfect for listening to music or watching movies.
User Experience:
The Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16 is a slim, sleek, and solidly well-built photo editing laptop.
The quality feel you get from it is evident the moment you hold it in your hands. It has a metallic lid that feels great to the touch, likely made of aluminum.
Despite its oversized 16-inch screen, the laptop remains thin and its keyboard layout still feels like a 14-inch laptop. This is not at the expense of cramped keys though, as they are well spaced out.
The key response is good but the key travel is shallow and short which may detract from prolonged work sessions.
It comes with Windows 11, however, you must have an internet connection to complete the initial setup.
The only issue with this laptop is the SD card slot. It's designed for full-size SD cards (or micro SD with an adapter) and sticks out about an inch from the laptop body, which can be inconvenient.
There is no space saving since it would have been much more practical to design the laptop to accept micro SD cards only.
Pros:
- Slim and sleek build.
- Well-spaced keyboard.
- Decent key response.
- Windows 11 pre-installed.
Cons:
- Shallow key travel may be a problem for some people over long periods of use.
- The SD card slot sticks out.
Overall Thoughts:
The Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16 is an excellent choice for those looking for a slim and lightweight laptop that doesn't skimp on features. It is one of the best laptops for photo editing.
It strikes a perfect balance between being slim and light, yet still packing some punch with its processing power, ample RAM, and storage space.
Its 16-inch screen has a high resolution, so you can enjoy all your photos and videos in full HD.
Furthermore, Windows 10 Home is already installed and ready to go – giving you an instant head start on photo editing.
So, if you're looking for a powerful laptop that won't break the bank, the Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16 is one of the best laptops for photo editing.
Get started with Lenovo Ideapad 5 Pro 16.
Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $1,500
2. Apple MacBook Pro M1
- The 13.3-inch LED display has a native resolution of 2560×1600 at 227 pixels per inch with support for millions of colors and a 16:10 aspect ratio.
- The SoC Apple M1 chip contains an 8-core CPU with 4 high-performance cores and 4 efficiency cores; in addition, it has a 16-core Neural Engine.
- Apple 8-core GPU.
- 8 GB RAM.
- 256 GB/512 GB.
- With this purchase, you receive DisplayPort Thunderbolt 3 (up to 40 Gbps) and USB 3.1 Gen 2 (up to 10 Gbps), two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports that support charging.
- Wi-Fi 802.11ax Wi‑Fi and Bluetooth 5.0 wireless compatibility enable easy networking.
Overview:
The new Apple MacBook Pro M1 is out now and it's amazing!
This Apple laptop has an 8-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores.
There's also a 16-core Neural Engine.
It has a 13.3-inch LED-backlit display with IPS technology.
You'll never have to worry about your battery life again because the MacBook Pro M1 comes with a 61W USB-C Power Adapter.
And you can use your finger to quickly swipe between photo editing applications or zoom into photos, so everything feels fluid and natural on this larger display.
User Experience:
We had been researching laptops for weeks before finally deciding on the new MacBook Pro M1.
After spending hours upon hours scouring the internet for reviews, we were confident this laptop would offer the performance, battery life, and design we wanted.
Just like many other users, we were not disappointed when we received this laptop.
Pros:
- Speed: The Apple MacBook Pro M1 is incredibly fast due to its new M1 chip. Anything from basic operations to intensive tasks can be done quickly and efficiently without having to wait for the laptop to catch up. This makes the laptop perfect for both work and entertainment purposes.
- Battery Life: Perhaps one of the greatest aspects of the MacBook Pro M1 is its extremely long battery life. With up to 20 hours of battery life, you can use your laptop for long periods of time without having to worry about charging it too often.
- Price: Despite being packed with powerful features and impressive specs, Apple's MacBook Pro M1 is surprisingly affordable. Starting at over $1,000, you get a ton of value for your money without breaking the bank.
- Design: The MacBook Pro M1 is one sleek and stylish machine. Its lightweight design allows for easy portability and its body is made from sturdy aluminum. It also comes with a 13-inch Retina display, so you can enjoy your favorite movies and shows in crystal clear resolution.
- Security: The security features of the MacBook Pro M1 are top-notch. It comes with enhanced Touch ID technology and secure boot capabilities that make it much more difficult for malicious software to compromise the machine's data.
Cons:
The price may be prohibitive for some potential buyers as it starts at over $1,000 and can go up depending on the configuration chosen.
It's also worth noting that Apple's software ecosystem is limited to macOS and its associated applications, which may not be suitable for everyone. Those who need Windows-based software or hardware compatibility should look elsewhere; such as getting Windows laptops.
Overall Thoughts:
Overall, the Apple MacBook Pro M1 is a great laptop for anyone looking for power, performance, and style. Its fast processor, longer battery life, competitive price tag, and security features make it one of the best laptops on the market. Its sleek design also makes it an excellent choice for those who need to do some photo editing work or play while on the go.
Get started with the Apple MacBook Pro M1.
Best Mac Laptop for Photo Editing
3. Apple MacBook Air M2 (2022)
Key Features:
- The 13.6-inch LED-backlit display has IPS technology, a native resolution of 2560×1664, and 224 pixels per inch.
- The system-on-chip (SoC) is the Apple M2 chip with an 8-core CPU with 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores.
- There is up to a 10-core GPU and 16-core neural engine.
- It has 256GB or 512GB of SSD storage.
- 8 GB RAM.
Overview:
The all-new MacBook Air is thin, light, and powerful.
It features a 13.6-inch Retina display, Touch ID, the latest 8th-generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors, and up to 16GB of memory.
It’s designed for people who want an incredibly portable laptop with all the power they need.
User Experience:
The user experience with the M2 Air is nothing short of astounding. The device is so light and thin that upon taking it out of the box, one can almost feel as if they're holding a composition notebook in their hands rather than a laptop.
To turn it on, all one needs to do is open it up and press the power button. It's that simple!
Setting it up takes only a fraction of the time setting up other laptops; thanks to Apple's intuitive user interface.
Additionally, the M2 Air is incredibly quiet – no fans or hard drive noise at all – and its battery life is remarkable; We've managed to get two hours of use out of it before needing to recharge.
The M2 Air's hardware is also top-notch. The 8GB RAM ensures that multitasking and browsing are quick and efficient, while the stunning Retina display offers a crisp, clear image for watching movies or playing games.
Furthermore, its MagSafe charger makes charging easy and intuitive – no more worrying about plugging in the wrong cable or damaging your device.
Ultimately, if you're in the market for a lightweight laptop that packs a punch, then you may want to consider buying the Apple MacBook Air M2. Its sleek design and powerful hardware make it an excellent choice for those who need a reliable machine on the go.
Plus, with its estimated six to eight years of life expectancy, you can rest assured knowing that it will be able to keep up with your needs for the foreseeable future.
Pros:
- Really small.
- Easily the best laptop out right now.
- 4K sound is crispier than HD movies.
- Will last for 6 to 8 years.
Cons:
- The typing on the keyboard is about the only noise you'll pick up.
Overall Thoughts:
The Apple MacBook Air M2 is a small, yet powerful laptop that packs quite a punch. It's lightweight, making it easy to transport, and is relatively quiet too.
With 8GB of RAM, you don't have to worry about lagging or slow processing speeds.
The Mac OS is user-friendly and intuitive, so you can quickly learn the basics and even dive into some advanced tips and tricks.
Setting up was a breeze, as everything was already installed on the laptop; all we had to do was choose a password.
The video/audio quality is impressive too – switching from an HD movie to a 4K version gave us a clear, crisp sound that felt immersive.
Get started with the Apple MacBook Air M2.
The Best Photo Editing Laptop for Fast Speeds
4. Acer Nitro 5
- 8GB computer memory size.
- Wi-Fi connectivity.
- Intel Core i5 CPU speed of 4.1GHz.
- 1920×1080 maximum display resolution.
- 15.6 inch LED screen size.
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card with dedicated graphics memory.
- 256GB Solid State Drive hard drive.
- Windows 10 Home operating system.
Overview:
Acer Nitro 5 is a powerful computer that can be used for many purposes.
It has a large display and comes with 8GB of RAM. You can also choose between Windows 10 or macOS Mojave.
The graphics card is very good and it has an SSD hard drive. This makes the computer run faster and smoother than other laptops in its price range.
User Experience:
The Acer Nitro 5 is a great laptop for gamers and photo editors who want good performance on a budget.
For over $600, it offers an excellent gaming experience, able to run popular games like Rainbow Six Siege and Assassin's Creed Odyssey with smooth frame rates even on higher settings.
It also has easily upgradeable RAM and storage space, so you can customize it to your needs.
However, be aware of the loud fan noise when running games and the short battery life when gaming on battery power.
For those looking for a great gaming and photo editing laptop at an affordable price, the Acer Nitro 5 is an excellent choice.
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Good performance for the price
- Storage and RAM can be upgraded
Cons:
- Decent battery life
Overall Thoughts:
Acer Nitro 5 is an awesome photo editing laptop that provides great gaming performance at an affordable price.
The laptop is capable of running modern AAA games like AC: Odyssey on high settings and for older games like Rainbow Six Siege you can expect to get over 100 FPS on ultra settings.
What's more, it only costs over $600 – a steal for a gaming and photo editing laptop.
If you're looking for an affordable gaming and photo editing laptop, the Acer Nitro 5 is definitely worth considering.
Get started with the Acer Nitro 5.
Best Budget Laptop for Video Editing
5. Lenovo Legion 5
Key Features:
- 15.6″ standing screen display size.
- 1920 x 1080 max resolution.
- 3.2 ryzen_7 Processor.
- 16 DDR4 Memory Speed.
- 512 GB SSD Hard Drive.
- 16 GB RAM.
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti Graphics Coprocessor.
- AMD Processor Count – 1.
Overview:
Are you looking for a powerful and great-looking photo editing laptop that can also handle video editing software?
Lenovo Legion 5 is a high-performance photo editing laptop that will let you take your game and photo editing to the next level.
With up to 8 cores in the AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor, 16GB of DDR4 RAM, and 512GB of NVMe SSD storage, this machine has the power you need to play the latest games at its highest settings.
But it's not just about power – this laptop also looks great.
The 15.6″ FHD IPS display delivers speed and color clarity for full-fidelity gaming, while the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3050 Ti graphics card provides all the power you need for smooth gameplay.
And with 4-zone RGB backlighting on the Legion TrueStrike keyboard, you can customize your gaming experience to match your style.
User Experience:
The Lenovo Legion 5 has been a great laptop for the price of about $1000.
Not only does it have a slick design that doesn't scream “gamer”, but it also comes with a nice and vibrant screen and an excellent keyboard.
The 3050ti GPU is a great pick but the 4 GB of VRAM might prove to be a bottleneck if you're trying to render super heavy scenes or choose very high textures.
The Ryzen 5800h is also great and runs cool even while gaming, with some tweaks like raising the laptop and playing on balanced mode instead of performance you can bring down temps by up to 10 degrees.
On the downside, the unit has quite loud fans, but that isn't always the case.
The battery life is decent at 4.5 to 5 hours.
With all of these features combined, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a good photo editing machine in this price range.
All in all, users have been satisfied with purchases and would definitely recommend it to someone else.
Pros:
- Slick design that doesn't scream “gamer”.
- A nice and vibrant screen and a nice keyboard.
- The hardware easily handles any type of game you throw at it (@1080p 60fps on God of War. 120+ fps apex legends. 90+ fps divinity original sin. 90+ fps monster hunter rise).
- Runs cool; the CPU and GPU don't exceed 75c in most demanding games.
- Decent 4.5 to 5 hours battery life.
Cons:
- The 3050ti is actually great but the 4 GB of VRAM might prevent you from choosing very high textures in games or could be an issue if you try to render super heavy scenes in 3d software.
- The unit has high-pitched fans so it's loud under load.
Overall Thoughts:
The Lenovo Legion 5 is a great laptop for the price.
It looks sleek and offers good performance for gaming, with it being able to handle most of today's games at 1080p 60fps (and more demanding titles still running well at high graphics settings).
The 3050ti is a decent GPU, but 4GB of VRAM might hold you back a bit in some titles.
The laptop runs cool and battery life is decent, though the fans are quite loud under load.
However, following some settings, you can reduce temperatures while sacrificing minimal performance.
All in all, it's an excellent photo editing laptop for the price!
Get started with Lenovo Legion 5.
Best Laptop for Photographers and Gamers
6. HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop
Key Features:
- 6th Generation AMD A-Series Processor.
- Windows 10 Home.
- 15.6″ diagonal FHD IPS anti-glare micro-edge WLED-backlit (1920 x 1080).
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 with 4GB GDDR5 dedicated graphics memory.
- 8GB DDR4 SDRAM Memory, 256GB SSD storage.
- Battery life of up to 11 hours and 45 minutes.
Overview:
HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop is a powerful device that can handle all your photography and gaming needs.
The AMD Ryzen 5 4600H Processor ensures that you will have no lag time while playing the most graphic-intensive games. You will also be able to multitask with ease while using other programs.
Not only does this laptop come with an amazing processor, but it also has an NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Graphics card which will give you the best graphics possible for a laptop.
This means that you can also use it for work, school, and, of course, gaming.
User Experience:
The HP Pavilion 15 Gaming Laptop is a great choice if you're looking for an affordable laptop that can edit photos and videos and handle most games.
We've been able to play Cyberpunk 2077, Resident Evil 2, and Resident Evil Village pretty well on this machine, although we do have to lower the graphics settings in some of the more graphically intense games.
It's also great for everyday work and browsing with a ton of Chrome tabs open, there are no performance issues.
The screen is bright enough for most indoor situations and the audio is plenty loud, although we have found ourselves having to use Chrome extensions to boost it up in some cases.
As far as ports go, it's got the essentials. Two USB A ports (one on each side), an HDMI port, an ethernet port, one USB C port, a headphone jack, and an SD card reader.
The only real downside is battery life. It's not great and on power saving mode, we could only get a few hours of light work done on Chrome.
If you're looking for a laptop to carry around with you all day, this probably isn't the best choice.
Generally, people are satisfied with purchases and think it's great value for what they get. It's powerful enough to run most games at medium settings and more than enough for photo editing and everyday tasks.
Pros:
- Runs most games with good graphics performance.
- Quick everyday use.
- Nice screen.
- Good IO array.
- Decent speakers.
Cons:
- Battery Life is not ideal for people who need a laptop that can last an entire day.
Overall Thoughts:
The HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop is a great budget laptop for photo editing and for those who don't need to run heavy games in the highest settings.
With its great performance and features, it's definitely worth considering if you're looking for a powerful gaming and photo editing laptop on a budget.
The laptop comes with an impressive array of I/O ports, a bright and sharp display, decent speakers, and great performance.
The only real downside is the subpar battery life. If you're ok with being plugged in most of the time to get the full use out of it, then this laptop is a great choice.
However, if you need something portable with long battery life, this might not be the one for you.
All in all, the HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop is a great choice if you're looking for a powerful machine on a budget without sacrificing too much power or features.
With that said, make sure to consider your needs carefully before making a purchase.
Get started with the HP Pavillion 15 Gaming Laptop.
Best Cheap Photo Editing Laptop with Bigger Screen
7. Asus TUF Gaming F17
Key Features:
- 17.3-inch full HD display with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
- 8GB DDR4 RAM and 512GB SSD.
- NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti Graphics card.
- Windows 10 Home operating system.
Overview:
Are you looking for a durable and powerful gaming and photo editing laptop?
The Asus TUF Gaming F17 is a durable and powerful gaming and photo editing laptop that features the latest NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1650 Ti graphics card. It also has a quad-core Intel Core i5-10300H Processor and 8GB of DDR4 RAM.
You can enjoy fast, smooth gameplay with this laptop.
It also comes with a 512GB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD and Windows 10 Home pre-installed.
It has a FREE upgrade to Windows 11 (when available).
User Experience:
This laptop works fine for casual gaming and is performing quite well overall.
The laptop has decent specs and is upgradeable with RAM cards, but SSDs are, unfortunately, not upgradeable. But people have been able to get around this issue by buying an external SSD which worked fine.
In terms of size and feel, we like how bulky the laptop is but it could still get damaged easily if you drop it even though it is claimed to be military-grade.
For gaming, this laptop runs games like GTA, GOW, Apex, and other popular titles quite well. It is also VR-ready which we find to be quite useful.
We would recommend this laptop if you are looking for a casual gaming device that can run most of the latest games. However, if you are doing more technical, creative work, we would suggest you look elsewhere.
We are pleased with the Asus TUF Gaming F17 and wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it as a decent gaming and photo editing laptop with great specs and performance.
Just be careful not to drop it!
Pros:
- Decent specs for the price.
- RAM card is upgradable.
- SSD is not upgradeable, but an external one can be used.
- Good at gaming and VR Ready.
- Bulky and feels sturdy.
- Gorgeous display.
Cons:
- It can get damaged if it drops.
Overall Thoughts:
The Asus TUF Gaming F17 is an impressive laptop for casual gaming and other activities that require some degree of computing power. Its specs are decent and it boasts a RAM card that is upgradeable; although, unfortunately, not the SSD.
It also looks great with its bulky design, but you have to be careful if you drop it as it might not stand the impact.
All in all, we recommend this laptop for casual gamers and people who need some computing power. We, slightly, prefer the Intel processor version.
Get started with the ASUS TUF Gaming F17.
Best Affordable Photo Editing Laptop
8. Acer Aspire 5
Key Features:
- Ryzen 3 3200U Processor: With a powerful AMD processor, you can work on multiple tasks at once without any lag time.
- Radeon Vega Graphics: Enjoy beautiful graphics and gaming capabilities with this integrated graphics card.
- SSD Storage: Store all your important files on this 128GB solid-state drive for quick and easy access.
- Windows 10 Home: Keep your laptop up to date with the latest software from Microsoft.
Overview:
Are you looking for a new laptop?
Acer Aspire 5 is a great choice for anyone looking for a powerful and affordable photo editing laptop.
It features an AMD Ryzen 3 3200U Dual Core Processor that can reach up to 3.5GHz, 4GB DDR4 Memory, and 128GB PCIe NVMe SSD.
With a 15.6-inch full HD widescreen LED-backlit IPS display, you can enjoy AMD Radeon Vega 3 Mobile Graphics.
Plus, it has 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 port, 2 USB 2.0 ports & 1 HDMI port with HDCP support. And don't forget about the 802.11ac Wi-Fi and backlit keyboard!
You'll be able to work on all your video and photo projects with ease thanks to the Windows 10 in S mode operating system.
This laptop also has a long battery life of up to 7.5 hours!
User Experience:
The user experience of the Acer Aspire 5 is one of value and convenience.
For the price, you get a solid 15.6” laptop that is well-equipped to handle everyday computing tasks like word processing, web browsing, streaming videos, and so on.
The computer comes with a selection of bloatware that can be easily uninstalled and replaced with more useful software.
There are also stickers on the laptop that can be removed without leaving any residue, should you prefer a cleaner look.
The laptop also features traditional function keys as well as toggles for keyboard backlight and Airplane mode, which are both conveniently located on the keyboard itself.
Generally, this is an attractive option for those who need a powerful and reliable laptop at an affordable price. Enjoy the extra space left on the “C” drive!
Update: The laptop also comes with plenty of storage to store pictures, documents, videos, and more – up to 256GB of SSD storage and 1TB of HDD storage depending on which model you choose.
So, there's plenty of room for all your files, no matter how many you have! That way, you can free up some extra storage to install additional useful applications.
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility that comes with the Acer Aspire 5!
Pros:
- Attractive design with no residue stickers.
- Traditional function keys and toggles.
- Well-equipped for everyday computing tasks.
Cons:
- Bloatware pre-installed.
Overall Thoughts:
The Acer Aspire 5 is a great laptop for the everyday user. It’s fast, it’s reliable, and it looks good doing it – all at an affordable price point.
The Ryzen 3 processor offers plenty of power for average tasks, while the Radeon graphics are capable enough to handle some light gaming if you want.
The 8GB of RAM is plenty for multitasking and the 1TB hard drive offers ample storage space.
Get started with the Acer Aspire 5.
Best Pick If You Are Okay without Windows
9. HP Chromebook 14 FHD
Key Features:
- 14-inch screen.
- 1366 x 768 max resolution.
- Intel UHD Graphics 600 graphics coprocessor.
- 4GB LPDDR4 memory speed of 2.6 GHz.
- 32GB embedded multimedia card (Hard Disk Size).
- Battery-powered with up to 13.5 hours of battery life.
Overview:
HP Chromebook 14 FHD is a sleek, responsive design that keeps you going comfortably with the backlit keyboard and multi-touch touchpad that supports four finger gestures.
It's equipped with an Intel(R) processor, a 14″ display, stereo speakers tuned by audio experts at B&O, and long battery life to get more done while having fun.
You can use your finger to quickly swipe between apps or zoom into photos, so everything feels fluid and natural on this larger display.
The content on the screen is easy to reach with just one hand, so you don't have to adjust your grip or switch hands.
User Experience:
The HP Chromebook 14 FHD was received and was up and running in no time! We just had to enter our SSID and Password – be sure to pay attention to the capitalization of letters.
If this is your first-ever Chromebook device, you may need to learn some shortcuts.
One main reason why people choose the Chromebook is because of its cloud functions and the long battery life of up to 13 hours. We are now a whole year into using this device and it has been well worth our investment.
The Chromebook is great for saving battery when you close the lid as everything will be saved with minimal battery drainage until you open it up again.
It also allows you to log into any wifi connection, but we do recommend having a good VPN for extra security when traveling.
We are very pleased with our choice of the HP Chromebook 14 FHD and would, highly, recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable, long-lasting device.
Pros:
- Lightweight, compact laptop and good battery life.
- Comes with Google Suite pre-installed.
- Auto updates and virus protection built-in.
Cons:
- Limited storage.
Overall Thoughts:
In a nutshell, the HP Chromebook 14 FHD is a great investment that pays off in the long run.
It has all of the features you need to stay productive and efficient while giving you the convenience of portability and long battery life.
The Chromebook 14 FHD boots up quickly, offers excellent WiFi stability with added security from a good VPN, and it's easy to manage your work with its cloud-based storage system for photos and other files and documents.
It's perfect for those who want a powerful, lightweight device that will give them the freedom to do their work on the go without fear of draining their battery.
Highly recommended!
Get started with the HP Chromebook 14 FHD.
Best Laptop for Photo Editing under $600
10. Lenovo Ideapad 3
Key Features:
- 15.6 Inch standing screen display size.
- 1366 x 768 Screen Resolution.
- AMD Radeon Vega 3 Graphics Coprocessor.
- Windows 10 Operating System.
- 4 GB DDR4 Memory Speed.
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive.
Overview:
Are you looking for a powerful laptop that can handle all your photo editing needs?
The Lenovo Ideapad 3‘s performance is boosted by the newest AMD Ryzen 3 3250U processor, which comes with Radeon Vega 3 graphics. This means you'll get incredible bandwidth for getting more done faster, in several applications at once.
You'll also appreciate the 15.6″ HD (1366 x 768) screen with narrow side bezels and Dopoundsy Audio, which deliver great visuals and crystal-clear sound for your entertainment.
Plus, there's 256 GB SSD M.2 NVMe storage and 4 GB DDR4 memory so you can store all your files and programs.
User Experience:
This Lenovo Ideapad 3 is an amazing laptop for the price.
It has a surprisingly comfortable keyboard, even though it isn't too loud. Each key provides enough feedback with a good tactile response, so typing on it is quite enjoyable.
The laptop also comes with four USB ports and an HDMI hookup, making it easier to connect to other devices.
The sound quality is a bit meh, but with some external speakers or headphones paired with a microphone set, it produces crystal-clear audio.
It's also lightweight and easy to carry around in a backpack, though the cord may be too short for your needs so you might need an extension cord.
All in all, this laptop is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable laptop.
The performance it offers at its price point definitely makes it worth considering.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Good for online schooling, music, and Netflix.
- The keyboard is not too loud.
- Has an HDMI hookup.
- Comes with four USB ports.
Cons:
- The sound quality is a little meh.
- Screen brightness may require some tweaking.
Overall Thoughts:
The Lenovo Ideapad 3 is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable laptop.
It comes with four USB ports, an HDMI hookup, decent sound quality, and a wireless mouse.
The keyboard is great as it isn't too loud but silent enough for use in quiet environments.
The screen brightness may need tweaking, and the cord may need an extension, but these are minor inconveniences when compared to the great user experience this laptop provides.
Whether it be for photo editing, school work, streaming content, or gaming, you can't go wrong with the Lenovo Ideapad 3.
Get started with the Lenovo Ideapad 3.
Best Inexpensive Laptop for Photo Editing
11. Lenovo Ideapad 3i
Key Features:
- 15.6-inch screen size.
- 1920 x 1080 max resolution.
- 1.3GHz Intel Core i5 processor.
- 8GB DDR4 RAM memory speed.
- 512GB SSD storage capacity.
- Intel Iris xe RAM/Graphics Coprocessor.
- Windows 10 operating system.
Overview:
Looking for a powerful and slim laptop?
The Lenovo Ideapad 3i is the perfect laptop for anyone looking for a powerful device that is also slim and easy to carry.
With 12th-generation Intel Core i5 processors and Iris Xe graphics, this device is perfect for anyone who wants to do more with his or her laptop.
The 15.6″ FHD IPS display is beautiful, with colors that are accurate and with great contrast.
The 4-sided narrow bezels on this device give you more screen to see so that you can work or play efficiently.
User Experience:
The user experience of the Lenovo Ideapad 3i is one that is surprisingly fast despite having only 8 GB of memory soldered in.
This laptop can accept up to another 8 GB of memory, which makes it a great machine for everyday use.
Even with such a small amount of RAM, downloads, apps, and streaming movies were no problem.
The laptop boots up in a speedy 20 seconds, making it even more reliable.
On the downside, the touchpad and keyboard are off-center which can be annoying when trying to click on items or move your hand to another position on the keyboard.
Considering that this laptop was bought for around $500, it is an incredible bargain. It is much cheaper than the Dell and HP laptops at this price point, and yet it offers a lot more features.
Even without upgrading, the laptop performs really well but if you do decide to upgrade, you'll get even better performance with an increased RAM size or bigger SSD.
If you’re looking for a great laptop at a very affordable price, then the Lenovo Ideapad 3i is definitely worth considering.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Fast startup
- Wifi connectivity is good.
- No flex in the base or screen.
- The memory could be better.
Cons:
- The touchpad and keyboard are off-center.
Overall Thoughts:
The Lenovo Ideapad 3i is a great laptop for the price. It offers 8GB of RAM soldered in and can accept an additional 8GB, making it a surprisingly fast machine for the price.
The laptop boots up relatively quickly and its fast WiFi connection allows for smooth streaming and downloads.
The touchpad can be a bit tricky, especially if you're used to being exact with clicks, but the keyboard is offset slightly to make way for a number pad.
All in all, this laptop is an excellent value that comes with Windows 11 Pro pre-installed and can be upgraded with additional RAM and storage space.
Whether you're new to laptops or just looking for an affordable option, the Ideapad 3i is an excellent choice.
You won't be disappointed.
Get started with Lenovo Ideapad 3i.
Best Powerful & Stylish Laptop for Photo Editing
12. ASUS VivoBook S15
Key Features:
- A laptop with a standing screen display size of 15.6 inches and a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels.
- Comes with a processor of 4.7 GHz apple_ci7, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, and 512 GB SSD.
- The Graphics processor is Intel Iris Xe Graphics with a RAM size of 16GB.
- Has Bluetooth and 802.11ac wireless type and 1 Lithium Ion battery.
Overview:
ASUS VivoBook S15 is the perfect device for anyone who wants a powerful and beautiful laptop.
The ASUS VivoBook S15 has a 15.6 inch Full HD display with a stunning 86% screen-to-body ratio.
It's also packed with the latest 11th generation Intel Core i7-1165G7 Quad Core Processor and 16GB DDR4 RAM.
Plus, it comes with a 512GB PCIe SSD and Windows 10 Home.
You'll love the metal chassis and 16mm z-height of this device, as well as the ergonomic backlit keyboard along with a fingerprint sensor activated via Windows Hello. It's perfect for on-the-go use or at home.
User Experience:
The user experience of the ASUS VivoBook S15 is quite impressive.
The laptop is solid and well-built, with a sleek design that looks great.
The keyboard is backlit and has a nice click to it when typing. The keys have good travel and feedback, making it comfortable to type for long periods of time.
The touchpad is responsive and easy to use.
The display is vibrant, with wide viewing angles.
The sound quality of the speakers is good for everyday listening.
Speaking of connectivity, the Thunderbolt 4 port allows for quick data transfer speeds and supports fast charging of devices such as smartphones.
Additionally, this laptop features an 11th Gen Intel® Core™ i7 processor, Iris Xe graphics, and a powerful battery that will keep you powered for up to 16 hours on a single charge.
All in all, the ASUS VivoBook S15 is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a laptop that offers great performance with style.
Pros:
- 11th Gen i7 Processor.
- Thunderbolt 4 USB C Port.
- 3 USB Ports (2 at 2.0 A and 1 at 3.2 A).
- SD and MSD card reader slot.
- Backlit Keyboard.
- Numeric Pad.
- Iris Integrated Graphics.
Cons:
- Silver Keyboard with Backlighting may be tough to See Letters/Numbers/Symbols in normal daylight.
- This model has no RJ45 port for wired network connectivity.
Overall Thoughts:
The ASUS VivoBook S15 is an impressive laptop that offers a great combination of features, graphics performance, and value.
It's powered by an 11th Gen Intel Core i7 processor and has a 15.6″ display, making it one of the few laptops with this size and powerful specs.
It also has a Thunderbolt 4 USB-C port for speedy charging, data transfer, and display connections.
With 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD storage, it has enough power to handle everyday tasks with ease.
It's also lightweight and stylish, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a laptop that looks good while providing excellent performance.
The HP Pavilion 15 is a comparable option but doesn't have the same performance specs or Thunderbolt 4 port.
Overall, the ASUS VivoBook S15 is a great choice for anyone who needs an all-around laptop that won't break the bank.
Get started with the ASUS VivoBook S15.
A Decently Priced Laptop with Powerful Features
13. ASUS ZenBook Flip 13
Key Features:
- 13.3-inch screen with 1920 x 1080 resolution.
- 4.7GHz Core i7 Processor.
- 16GB RAM.
- 1TB Hard Drive.
- Intel Iris Graphics Xe.
- Windows 10 Pro.
- OLED screen.
- Touch Screen.
Overview:
Looking for a powerful and lightweight Windows laptop to edit photos and videos?
The ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 is the perfect device for anyone who wants a powerful and lightweight laptop for photography.
It features a 13.3-inch OLED screen with 1920 x 1080 resolution, 4.7GHz Core i7 Processor, 16GB RAM, 1TB Hard Drive, Intel Iris Graphics Xe, Windows 10 Pro, and more.
You'll love the sleek and lightweight aluminum body that's only 2.87 lbs and 0.55 inches thick.
Plus, it comes with a fast-charging, long-lasting battery so you can stay productive all day long.
User Experience:
The user experience with the ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 is nothing short of outstanding.
With its lightweight and thin form factor, it's perfect for those on the go who want to take their laptop wherever they go without feeling weighed down.
It's also great for people who don't want to feel like their laptop is overheating after a few minutes of use – it gets warm, but not too hot.
Furthermore, the price is a fraction of what you'd pay for a top-end MacBook Pro.
If you're looking for an amazing laptop that won't break the bank, ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 is definitely worth a look.
Pros:
- Lightweight and thin.
- Good battery life.
- Has essential accessories.
Cons:
- Build quality can be improved.
Overall Thoughts:
ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 is an incredible laptop/tablet combination that offers great portability, performance, and value for money – no wonder it has become a popular choice among many users.
Its combination of lightweight design, long-lasting battery life, and powerful specs make it an excellent choice for those who need to stay productive on the go.
It, definitely, beats the heat from MacBook Pro, with its cool running and much lighter design.
So, if you are looking for something that's reliable and cost-effective, ASUS ZenBook Flip 13 is a great option – no wonder it has become one of the top choices in laptops.
Get started with the ASUS ZenBook Flip 13.
What Should I Look for in a Laptop for Photography?
When it comes to choosing a laptop that is suitable for photography, there are important factors to consider.
Most importantly, you will want to make sure the laptop is powerful enough for photo editing software such as Lightroom or Photoshop.
You should also look at how much RAM the laptop has available, as this affects how quickly your images can be edited.
Additionally, storage space is key; you'll need plenty of room to store your photos in the highest resolution possible and best image quality.
Finally, battery life and weight are important factors too; if you plan on taking your laptop out in the field with you, a lightweight model with good battery performance will be essential.
No matter what laptop you choose for photography, make sure it has all the features you need.
With these tips in mind, you can confidently find a laptop that is perfect for your photography needs.
How Much RAM Is Needed for Photo Editing?
When it comes to the question of how much RAM is needed for photo editing, the answer depends on the type of tasks you want to perform.
For basic tasks such as cropping and resizing images, a minimum of 4GB RAM is enough.
On the other hand, complex tasks such as adjusting exposure and sharpness require 8GB RAM or more.
And if you want to do a lot of editing at once, 16GB RAM can make your work even smoother.
Photo Editing Accessories for Your Laptop
Photo Editing Accessories for Your Laptop are crucial components for creating professional-looking photos. Not only does it enable photographers to quickly and efficiently edit their images, but it also increases the quality of the final product.
Backup Software
Backup Software is an essential tool for photographers, allowing them to protect their photos from any potential risks.
Whether you're using a digital camera, smartphone, or laptop to take photographs, backing up your images is the best way to ensure that your pictures can be recovered in the event of a disaster.
It also helps free up space on your device, while providing an easy way to access your photos from anywhere.
Backup Software comes in many different forms, including cloud services, external hard drives, and even USB flash drives.
Some solutions offer automated backups, while others require manual input. Whichever system you choose, make sure that it's secure and reliable so that your memories are safe for years to come.
A Gaming Mouse
A gaming mouse is a great choice when shopping for photo editing accessories. It has many extra buttons, which can be used to quickly select the tools you need. The mouse also has an ergonomic design, which makes it comfortable for long editing sessions.
A Laptop Stand
A laptop stand is another must-have for photo editors. Laptop stands help reduce strain on your neck and shoulders by bringing the laptop up to eye level. This way, you can sit comfortably while editing images and avoid any strain.
A Laptop Sleeve
Finally, a laptop sleeve is an essential item for photographers who travel often. Not only does it protect the laptop from bumps and scratches, but it also prevents dust and dirt from getting into the ports and other sensitive parts of your computer.
With this accessory, you can be sure your laptop will last longer.
Related – Best Video Editing Desks & Gaming Accessories
FAQ
Is a Laptop or Desktop better for Photoshop?
The debate of a laptop or desktop for Photoshop is a personal one, depending on your needs and budget.
Desktops offer greater computing power, allowing for faster processing speeds which can be very useful in photo editing.
Desktops also tend to have larger screens, making it easier to view photos and focus on detail. This might be especially beneficial for those editing photos for large-scale projects.
On the other hand, laptops might be a better option if you need to take your computer on the go or have limited desk space.
Since laptop screens tend to be smaller, it could make editing a bit more challenging, but with some practice and experience, you should be able to adjust.
Ultimately, the choice between a laptop and a desktop for Photoshop really depends on your needs and preferences.
If you have the budget to afford a high-end desktop, it might be the better option. Otherwise, a laptop could get the job done just as well.
Is It Better to Use a Tablet or Laptop for Photo Editing?
The answer to the question of which device is best for photo editing comes down to personal preference.
Laptops provide the advantage of having larger screens and more powerful hardware, which allows for faster processing and more features when using professional-level software. However, laptops are bulkier and far less portable than tablets.
Tablets are much lighter and more portable, which makes them a great option for on-the-go photo editing.
If you prefer to edit photos at home or in the studio, then a laptop will probably be your best bet. But if you need something small and lightweight that won't weigh you down when traveling, then tablets are a great option for photo editing.
It really comes down to your individual needs and preferences. So make sure to consider your workflow and lifestyle before making a purchase.
In the end, there isn't one clear answer as to whether a tablet or laptop is better for photo editing.
Ultimately, it depends on what type of photos you want to edit, how much power you need, and how much portability you require.
So take some time to think about your specific requirements, and then pick the device that best suits your needs.
Can You Use Any Laptop for Photoshop?
Adobe Photoshop is a powerful photo editing software used by many creative professionals and hobbyists alike, but not all laptops have the capability to run this photo editor at its full capacity.
Different versions of Adobe Photoshop have different photo editing specifications and system requirements that must be met in order for it to run smoothly and without issue.
For basic use, any laptop will do, however, if you're looking to create intricate artwork or animations, then you may want to invest in a laptop with a powerful processor, enough RAM, and an integrated graphics card.
This way you'll be able to take on bigger projects with confidence knowing that your laptop has the capabilities to handle the load.
Does Photoshop Need a Powerful Computer?
Photoshop is one of the most popular and powerful image editing applications on the market, used by professional photographers, graphic designers, and casual users alike. The capabilities of the software are immense, but so too are the hardware requirements to run it properly.
Photoshop requires a powerful computer with plenty of RAM and disk space in order to process images quickly and efficiently.
You'll also need a good video card to handle the 3D and image processing capabilities of Photoshop.
So, if you're serious about taking your digital art to the next level with Photoshop, then make sure you have the right Laptop.
While it's not necessary to have an expensive or powerful computer for basic Photoshop operations, the more powerful your machine is, the faster you’ll be able to work with large files and complex projects.
Related: Best Resin 3D Printers
Which Laptop Is Best for Photoshop and Lightroom?
The MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) is the best option for Photoshop and Lightroom. It has a powerful processor and plenty of storage to handle large files. Plus, its Retina display offers stunning image quality.
Which Laptops Are Best for Photoshop?
Best Computers for Photoshop
The MacBook Pro (14-inch, 2021) and the MacBook Pro (16-inch, 2021) are the best laptops for Photoshop. They come with a Retina display, Force Touch trackpad, and a T2 security chip. They are also equipped with an 8th-generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor, 512GB of storage, and up to 16GB of memory.
What Is the Best Laptop for Beginner Photographers?
Lenovo Flex 5 is the best laptop for beginner photographers because it has a powerful processor and a large amount of storage. It also has a vivid display that makes reviewing photos easy.
Additionally, the Lenovo Flex 5 is durable and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on photo shoots.
Conclusion
If you're a photographer on a budget, finding the best laptop for photo editing can be tough. But don't worry, we've got you covered!
We've shown you some of the best laptops for photo editing that are affordable and powerful.
So, whether you're just starting out or you're looking to upgrade your current setup, our top recommendations will help you find the best laptop for photo editing on a budget.
