5 Best Laptops for YouTube [Updated 2023 Review]

Hey there, future YouTubers!

Are you ready to take your YouTube channel to the next level? You’re going to need the right gear to make that happen. And when it comes to creating cool content, your laptop can be your best friend or worst enemy.

But with so many options out there, finding the best laptop for YouTube can be a tad tricky. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered.

In this list review, we’re going to dive into the world of laptops and find the top picks that will give your YouTube game the boost it needs. From spectacular screen resolution that makes your videos pop to powerful processors for smooth editing, we are here to help you find your perfect match. So, let’s get started with the best laptops for YouTubers.

YouTube Video-Editing Laptop Buying Guide

When buying a laptop for editing YouTube channel videos, there are several factors to consider. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and the type of content you plan to create. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision:

1. Screen Size and Resolution

The screen size will impact your editing experience. A larger screen (15 inches or more) can provide a better view of the editing software interface.

As for resolution, a full HD screen (1920 x 1080 pixels) is the minimum you should consider.

However, a 4K resolution will offer a clearer, more detailed image, which is beneficial for precision editing.

2. Processor (CPU)

The processor is the heart of your laptop and will determine how smoothly your editing software runs.

For basic editing tasks, an Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5 should suffice. For more complex tasks or 4K editing, consider a laptop with an i7, i9, AMD Ryzen 7, 9, or the Apple M2 processor.

Budget Option: Intel i5 or AMD Ryzen 5

Premium Option: Intel i7, i9 or AMD Ryzen 7, 9, or Apple M2 Pro, Max

3. Random Access Memory (RAM)

RAM is essential for multitasking and running demanding applications like video editing software. A minimum of 8GB RAM is necessary for basic video editing, but 16GB or more is recommended for editing high-resolution videos.

Budget Option: 8GB RAM

Premium Option: 16GB RAM or more

4. Storage Capacity

SSD (Solid State Drive) storage is faster and more reliable than HDD (Hard Disk Drive). For video editing, opt for at least 256GB SSD. If you’re working with large 4K files, consider 1TB or more.

Budget Option: 256GB SSD

Premium Option: 1TB SSD or more

5. Graphics Card (GPU)

A dedicated GPU accelerates the rendering and previewing of videos. NVIDIA GeForce or AMD Radeon cards are good choices. Integrated graphics (like Intel’s Iris Xe) can work for light editing but will struggle with heavier tasks.

Budget Option: Integrated Graphics

Premium Option: NVIDIA GeForce, AMD Radeon, or Apple M2 Pro/Max

6. Software Compatibility

Check whether your preferred video editing software (like Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, or DaVinci Resolve) is compatible with the laptop you are considering.

7. Battery Life, Weight, and Portability

If you plan to edit on the go, these factors become crucial. Look for a balance between performance and portability.

8. Connectivity

Ensure the laptop has enough ports for your needs, including USB-C/Thunderbolt for fast data transfer, HDMI for connecting to an external monitor, and an SD card slot if you’re frequently importing footage from a camera.

When choosing a laptop for YouTube video editing, prioritize the processor, RAM, and storage capacity. Investing in a good-quality laptop can save you time and frustration in the long run. And remember, technology advances quickly, so consider your future needs as well.

Best Laptops for YouTubers

1. 2023 MacBook Pro 16-inch M2 Pro

Best Overall Laptop for YouTubers

Storage: 512GB to 8TB | CPU:  M2 Pro 12-Core| GPU: 19-Core| RAM: 16GB to 96GB | Display: 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display

If you’re into creating video content for YouTube, then you know how much of a difference a good laptop can make.

Video editing requires a lot of power and a fast machine, without which you could find yourself struggling with endless buffering and long render times.

Fortunately, the 2023 MacBook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip is here, and it has been specifically designed to meet the needs of YouTubers and content creators.

We’ll go over why we think the Macbook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip is the best overall laptop for YouTube video editing.

The Apple M2 Pro Chip

The Apple M2 Pro chip is a powerhouse. With its 12-core CPU, 19-core GPU, and 16-core Neural Engine, this chip has the ability to power through even the most complex video editing tasks with ease.

You’ll be able to quickly render your video projects and preview changes in real time without any lag or stuttering.

16GB Unified Memory

You cannot compromise on memory when it comes to high-performance tasks such as video editing. The MacBook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip comes with 16GB of unified memory, which ensures that you can run multiple applications simultaneously without slowing down your machine.

1TB SSD Storage

You need a fast and reliable hard drive that can accommodate your large video files without slowing you down.

The MacBook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip comes with a 1TB SSD storage, which is not only lightning-fast but also provides ample space for storing your footage, editing software, and other necessary files.

16-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display

The MacBook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip boasts a beautiful 16-inch Liquid Retina XDR display. This display provides excellent colors, contrast, and brightness, allowing you to see your footage in stunning detail.

Whether you’re color-grading your videos or checking your editing timeline, this display makes it easy to work on your video projects for long periods of time without straining your eyes.

Multiple Ports

Connectivity is key when working on video projects. With three Thunderbolt 4 ports, HDMI port, SDXC card slot, headphone jack, and MagSafe 3 port, you won’t have to worry about running out of ports when you need to connect your external devices.

Overall, the MacBook Pro 16-inch with the M2 Pro chip is the best overall laptop for YouTube video editing, thanks to its powerful M2 Pro chip, ample storage, impressive memory, beautiful display, and multiple ports. 

It is specifically designed to make video editing more efficient and enjoyable, and it’s an investment that every YouTuber and content creator should seriously consider.

2. Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 15-inch

Best Lightweight Laptop for YoutTubers: 3.05 pounds

Storage: 512GB to 1TB| CPU: Intel i7| GPU: integrated| RAM: 16GB to 32GB | Display: 15” PixelSense touchscreen

You want a laptop that can handle video editing, live streaming, and multitasking without slowing down. Additionally, you want a laptop that isn’t too bulky or heavy, making it easy to transport and use on the go. The 15-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is the perfect laptop for YouTubers who want a lightweight laptop with powerful specs.

Powerful Performance

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is equipped with an Intel Core i7 10-Core (12th Gen) processor, which means you can expect lightning-fast processing speeds when editing your videos.

This processor is paired with 16GB LPDDR5X memory and a 512GB SSD, which provides ample storage space for all your large video files. This combination of specs makes the Surface Laptop 5 a perfect laptop for YouTubers.

High-Resolution Display

The 15-inch PixelSense touchscreen display on the Surface Laptop 5 has a resolution of 2496 x 1664. This high-resolution display gives you the clarity and detail you need when editing and reviewing your videos.

The touchscreen feature makes it easy to navigate and use the laptop, especially when you’re in a rush and don’t have time to use a mouse.

Integrated Graphics

The Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 comes with integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, which is suitable for video editing purposes. The graphics card can easily handle video rendering in most popular video editing software without hiccups or slowdowns.

Although the laptop does not come with a dedicated graphics card, the integrated graphics are enough power for most YouTube content creators.

Lightweight and Stylish

Weighing in at only 3.05 pounds, the Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is one of the lightest laptops on the market. The lightweight and stylish design make it perfect for YouTubers who are always on the move. You can easily transport it in your backpack or briefcase without any inconvenience.

Long Battery Life

The Surface Laptop 5 has an impressive battery life of up to 18 hours. This means that you can work on your content creation or stream your favorite shows without worrying about the battery life running out. You can be productive all day, wherever you are, with the Surface Laptop 5’s battery life.

If you’re looking for a laptop that can meet your demands as a YouTuber but want to maintain portability, then the 15-inch Microsoft Surface Laptop 5 is the perfect laptop for you.

3. Lenovo IdeaPad 3i 14-inch

Best Budget Laptop for YouTube Video Editing

Storage: 256GB to 2TB| CPU: Intel i7| GPU: integrated| RAM: 8GB to 20GB | Display: 14″ FHD (1920 x 1080)

After a lot of research, we’ve found the perfect match for YouTubers on a tight budget — the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i.

Impressive Performance with 20GB RAM

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i’s 20GB high-bandwidth RAM is one of its most impressive features. As a YouTuber, you need a laptop that can smoothly run multiple applications and browser tabs all at once. With its 20GB RAM, the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i has got you covered.

You can edit your videos, stream music, and navigate your browser tabs all at the same time without any lag.

Fast Data Transfer with 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive

Another feature that is essential for YouTubers is data storage and transfer speed. With the 2TB PCIe NVMe M.2 Solid State Drive, Lenovo IdeaPad 3i allows you to enjoy fast bootup and data transfer.

This feature is vital for YouTubers who need to transfer large video files between their devices. You can edit your videos, save your changes, and transfer them to your other device, all in record time.

Intel Core i3 Processor with Intel UHD Graphics

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is powered by an Intel Core i3-1115G4 Processor with Intel UHD Graphics. With this processor, you can expect a seamless experience while performing your tasks.

You can edit your videos, upload them, and stream online without lag. The Intel UHD Graphics also ensures that your videos and images have great color and sharpness. You might have a little trouble with 4K video.

Windows 11 Home Operating System

One of the best features of the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is its operating system. It comes with Windows 11 Home, which offers advanced performance, security, and speed. This operating system is perfect for YouTubers as it has many features that can help improve your workflow.

You can easily switch between applications, multitask, and customize your desktop to suit your preferences.

1080p Full HD Display

One downside of the Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is that its screen resolution is only FHD. However, this is not necessarily a deal-breaker. The 1080p Full HD Display is still vibrant, and the colors are accurate.

This display can provide you with a great visual experience whether you are editing or watching videos.

The 14-inch Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is the best budget laptop for YouTubers. Its impressive performance, fast data transfer, Intel Core i3 Processor, Windows 11 Home operating system, and 1080p Full HD Display all make it the perfect choice for YouTubers on a tight budget.

4. 2023 MacBook Pro 14-inch M2 Pro

Best YouTube Laptop for Digital Nomads

Storage: 512GB to 8TB | CPU: M2 Pro 10-Core| GPU: 16-Core| RAM: 16GB to 96GB | Display: 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display

Being a digital nomad YouTuber requires a laptop to keep up with your on-the-go lifestyle. You need a device that’s powerful, lightweight, and easy to carry around.

With the release of the 14-inch 2023 MacBook Pro with the M2 Pro chip, Apple has made it clear that they’re catering to the needs of digital nomads.

Supercharge Your Productivity

As a digital nomad YouTuber, you need a laptop that can handle multiple tasks at once. The 16-core Neural Engine in the MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip is perfect for this. It can handle CPU-intensive tasks like video editing while also managing background processes like email and web browsing.

With this kind of processing power, you can easily edit your YouTube videos at cafes with small tables, airports, and train stations on Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

Stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR Display

When you’re editing videos, having a high-quality display is crucial. The MacBook Pro 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display offers an incredible 3024 x 1964 resolution with support for HDR and P3 wide color gamut.

This means you’ll be able to see your videos in all their glory, with true-to-life colors and stunning visuals. With this display, you can edit your videos with precision and accuracy, even when you’re on the move.

A Range of Ports to Connect All Your Devices

As a digital nomad, you’re likely to be traveling with a range of devices and accessories. The MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip has got you covered with three Thunderbolt 4 ports, an HDMI port, an SDXC card slot, a headphone jack, and a MagSafe 3 port.

This means you can easily connect all your devices to your laptop, including external hard drives, cameras, and microphones.

Magic Keyboard with Touch ID and Force Touch Trackpad

Working on a small laptop keyboard can be a painful experience. The Magic Keyboard with Touch ID is comfortable to type on and provides accurate feedback.

It also has a Touch ID, which allows you to log in to your laptop and make purchases with just a touch of your finger. The Force Touch trackpad is also an essential feature for digital nomad YouTubers, as it allows you to navigate your laptop with gestures easily. This saves you time and makes your workflow much smoother.

Lightweight and Portable Design

Finally, the MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip is incredibly lightweight and portable, perfect for digital nomads.

At just 3.5 pounds, it’s easy to carry around with you wherever you go. You can work on your YouTube videos from cafes, airports, or even on the train.

The battery life is also impressive, lasting up to 18 hours on a single charge.

The 14-inch MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip is easily the best laptop for digital nomad YouTubers. With its powerful 16-core Neural Engine, stunning 14-inch Liquid Retina XDR display, and range of ports, it can handle all your video editing needs on the go.

5. ASUS Chromebook C424 14-inch

Best Laptop for Watching Netflix and YouTube

Storage: 128GB | CPU: Intel Celeron N4020 | ‎Intel Integrated UHD Graphics 600| GPU: 16-Core| RAM: 4GB | Display: 14-inch FHD 1920×1080 Anti-Glare NanoEdge

Netflix and YouTube have revolutionized the way we watch our favorite shows and movies. Streaming has become the norm, and the importance of having a laptop that can handle your binge-watching needs cannot be overstated.

Among the many laptops available on the market today, the 14-inch ASUS Chromebook C424 stands out as one of the best for watching Netflix and YouTube.

FHD 1920 x 1080 pixels display

One of the standout features of the ASUS Chromebook C424 is its 14-inch FHD (Full High Definition) display screen.

With a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, the display screen on the ASUS Chromebook C424 offers sharp and clear image quality, making it perfect for watching your favorite Netflix shows and YouTube videos.

Whether you’re chilling on the couch or sitting at your desk, the ASUS Chromebook C424 provides you with an immersive viewing experience.

Chrome OS

The ASUS Chromebook C424 comes with the Chrome operating system, which is known for its fast boot-up time and quick access to applications. With Chrome OS, streaming your favorite shows and movies on Netflix and YouTube is a seamless experience.

The operating system also provides access to apps like Google Chrome, which is perfect for browsing the internet and accessing more streaming services.

CPU Intel Celeron N4020

The ASUS Chromebook C424 is powered by a fast and efficient CPU Intel Celeron N4020 processor, which provides above-average performance while streaming your favorite content.

Whether you’re watching on Netflix or YouTube, the ASUS Chromebook C424 can handle all your streaming needs with ease.

4GB RAM, 128GB SSD

The ASUS Chromebook C424 comes equipped with 4GB of RAM and 128GB of SSD storage. This storage capacity allows you to download your favorite shows, making it convenient to watch them offline when you’re on the go.

Furthermore, the ASUS Chromebook C424 provides you with enough space to store other files, such as pictures, documents, and music.

Download Netflix movies or YouTube shows with YouTube Premium

Another great feature of the ASUS Chromebook C424 is that you can download Netflix movies or YouTube shows with YouTube Premium.

With a YouTube Premium subscription, you can download the shows and movies you love to watch offline, and the ASUS Chromebook C424 provides you with ample storage to store them.

This feature is useful, especially when traveling, as you won’t need an internet connection to binge-watch your favorite shows.

Weighs only 3.33 pounds

The ASUS Chromebook C424 is lightweight, weighing only 3.33 pounds, making it highly portable. This lightweight design means you can carry it around easily, whether you’re going to the coffee shop or to a friend’s house. Furthermore, it has a sleek and stylish design, making it visually appealing wherever you go.

Video Editing Software Review for YouTubers

Let’s explore the top video editing software choices for YouTubers.

1. Adobe Premiere Pro

Adobe Premiere Pro continues to be a top choice for advanced YouTubers. Its comprehensive features are perfect for those requiring more sophisticated tools.

Pros:

• Advanced editing tools
• Supports 4K, 8K, and VR formats
• Excellent integration with other Adobe products

Cons:

• Steep learning curve
• Expensive subscription-based pricing

Best for: Experienced YouTubers, filmmakers, and professional video editors

2. Final Cut Pro

Final Cut Pro is a powerful tool for Mac users, offering a fluid, user-friendly interface and high-quality output.

Pros:

• Optimized for Mac
• Multi-cam editing
• Advanced color grading

Cons:

• Only available for Mac users
• One-time purchase can be costly

Best for: Advanced Mac users, professional editors

3. NCH VideoPad

NCH VideoPad remains a great option for beginners, especially on Windows. It provides a straightforward interface and sufficient features for novice editors.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Variety of transitions and effects
• Direct upload to YouTube

Cons:

• Limited features compared to more advanced software
• Not suitable for high-resolution editing

Best for: Beginner YouTubers and hobbyists

4. Apple iMovie

Apple iMovie, free for macOS users, offers a simple drag-and-drop interface and a variety of effects.

Pros:

• Easy to use
• Integration with iTunes and GarageBand
• Supports 4K editing

Cons:

• Only available to Apple users
• Lacks advanced features

Best for: Mac users, beginners, and casual YouTubers

5. Nova AI

Nova AI is an affordable and easy-to-use video editor, perfect for YouTubers who are just starting out.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• AI-driven editing tools
• Affordable pricing

Cons:

• Limited advanced editing tools
• May lack features for more complex projects

Best for: New YouTubers, content creators on a budget

6. Filmora YouTube Video Editor

Filmora is a great option for beginners, offering all the basic tools needed to create a well-rounded video.

Pros:

• User-friendly interface
• Wide range of effects and transitions
• Supports 4K editing

Cons:

• Limited advanced features
• Subscription-based pricing

Best for: Beginner YouTubers, casual content creators

Conclusion:

The best video editing software for you will depend on your expertise, budget, and the type of content you create. Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro are excellent for professionals, while NCH VideoPad, Apple iMovie, and Filmora are more beginner-friendly. Nova AI offers a unique, AI-driven editing experience.

Always take advantage of trial versions before committing to a purchase. 

Conclusion

So, there you have it, our roundup of the best laptops for YouTubers in 2023. Whether you’re just getting started in content creation or an established YouTuber looking for an upgrade, there’s a laptop on this list to meet your needs.

But if we had to pick one that stands out, it would be the 2023 16-inch MacBook Pro with the M2 Pro chip. It offers a brilliant blend of performance, durability, and somewhat portability, making it a worthy investment for any serious YouTuber.